WARBY - OVENS NATIONAL PARK

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Mount Killawarra

This lesser known walk can be accessed from the Wangaratta-Yarrawonga Road to the Boweya Road turn-off, and then taking Tower Road off to the left (this is about 6.5km from the main road). On the way to Tower Road there are many pleasing views of the rural aspects of the Ranges to enjoy, as well as some good views of the high country to the left.

Swinging left onto the unsealed Tower Road, it is a little over a kilometre to the first of two picnic areas, this one being accessible via a right turn. This picnic area is set amongst the greenery, and does not have the views of the second picnic area; however it does have nice ambience.

The second picnic area is about another kilometre up Tower Road, and is on the left. This is the best of the crop, having amazing views of the floodplain to the north of the Ranges, nicely framed by a large granitic outcrop under your feet. There is a table and seating adjoining the car parking area, and this is another great place for morning tea or lunch.

Diagonally opposite the entry to this picnic area, there is an unsignposted, gated track [AWTGS-3] that leads to Mount Killawarra. The summit of this noted peak is about 1.5km away, and presents a nice opportunity for some leg stretching, and landscape photography.

Note that the surface of this track is mostly clay, and is quite slippery in moist conditions; trekking poles are a useful asset in these circumstances.

Stepping around the locked gate, it is a short stroll to a cleared area where there is a water supply infrastructure for emergency usage. Continue past this area, and a reassuring signpost reads ’Mt Killawarra Track.

The track now starts to get more interesting, and winds around several hillslopes, with a gradual ascent to the rocky summit area of Mount Killawarra. On the way there are many different vegetation communities to take note of, as well as some excellent views of the surrounding floodplain.

Once at the summit, there is a survey trig to stand near, and some granite slabs to stand on and enjoy the expansive views. As Mount Killawarra is on the northern side of the Warby’s, the views extend out towards Mount Meg, Thoona and Yarrawonga.

Return to your vehicle by the same route, having spent about an hour on foot.

COPYRIGHT © 1995-2020, Chris McLaughlin.