This fantastic route passes iconic high country huts, climbs one of Victoria’s most challenging ascents, and traverses The Razorback, one of the alpine region’s most spectacular ridges. Its 29 kilometre length includes tough descents and ascents, as well as the opportunity to stride out some quick kilometres on relatively easy terrain. And with easy access on the Great Alpine Road near Mount Hotham, this one is well worth checking out.

then north for three and a half kilometres, passing Red Robin Battery en route to Blairs Hut. You can either take the side trail to visit Blairs Hut, or stay on the more direct vehicle track which passes Blairs Hut on the other side of the West Kiewa River. Continuing north from Blairs Hut involves fording the river to get to the vehicle track. Alternatively, return the way you came. About two kilometres from Blairs Hut you reach the Diamantina Spur trail head.

Often regarded as the most difficult ascent in the Victorian Alps, Diamantina Spur gains almost 800 metres over its four and a half kilometre length (as measured by GPS). The first section is particularly steep, and even involves some moderate rock scrambling in places. Once you break out of the trees you are rewarded with great views of the south face of Mount Feathertop, and the gradient also eases off a little.

It’s hard to not be fooled by the false crests, and false sense of hope, that this spur continues to dish out. My advice is to take a Zen approach, pace yourself, and assume that you’ll be continuing to climb until such time that you are standing next to the sign that marks the departure of the spur from The Razorback!

Once you do reach The Razorback it’s around eight kilometres along a well formed track over undulating terrain to return to the start of this circuit at Diamantina Hut. This is a great time to lengthen the stride and pick up the pace, but make sure you also stop and take your eyes off the trail long enough to absorb the sweeping views as you travel along this spectacular ridge. You’ll see Mount Feathertop to the north, the Jaithmathangs to the north-east, Mount Hotham to the south, and Mount Buffalo and the ranges beyond to the north-west.

This is a fabulous circuit for getting out and enjoying the high country whilst taking on some demanding terrain without getting too far off the beaten path. Access is easy and involves a beautiful drive up the Great Alpine Road. The trail itself takes in some spectacular Victorian scenery including historic high country huts and stunning alpine vistas.