Hiking the Razorback Trail to the peak of Mount Feathertop is definitely one of my top 10 favorite hikes in Australia! It’s an unforgettable adventure, with Mount Feathertop being the second-highest mountain in Victoria. This trail isn’t exactly a walk in the park, it’s a challenging 22.7-kilometer return hike starting at the Diamantina Hut, which has a small carpark.

I tackled this hike in March, and let me tell you, it was zero degrees at the summit! If you’re hiking in colder months, you’ll need to navigate some pretty treacherous conditions, including narrow paths around snow cornices and icy slopes. The steep inclines and high altitude add to the challenge, but the reward is a massive sense of achievement and some of the most stunning views Victoria has to offer. (The last picture in my collection shows what this area looks like in winter.)

The trail follows a dramatic ridge line, giving you breathtaking perspectives of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Every step is worth it, especially when you’re treated to unique rock formations and alpine flora along the way. The panoramic views from the summit are nothing short of magical, creating a memory I’ll cherish forever.

In my excitement, I decided to start the hike at around 4:00 am to catch the sunrise at the summit, I'm not sure what gave me the confidence to do but good for me ahah. Hiking in pitch dark for three hours was wild, I could only see a few meters in front of me! I also underestimated the final stretch, so I didn’t quite reach the peak when the sun rose, but the experience was still incredibly special. Despite usually beating average trail times, this hike took me 7 hours at a brisk pace, so be ready for a long journey and make sure to pack all the essentials.

Keep in mind, that the conditions can be hazardous and have caused accidents before, so proper gear and preparation are key. Overall, the Razorback Trail to Mount Feathertop is a spectacular adventure, blending challenging hiking with some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in Victoria.