Steep climbs, sweeping views and a couple of nights in the Victorian High Country made the Seven Mile Flat to Bluff Hut circuit an unforgettable challenge for seven YHA Bushwalkers in mid-April. David Louwerens recounts the trip.
After overnight camping beside the Howqua River at Seven Mile Flat, to the south-east of Mansfield, our group set out with full packs and plenty of anticipation. Over the course of the weekend, we would complete a demanding 28 km circuit through some of Victoria’s most rugged alpine country, and involving an elevation gain of almost 1,700 m.
The start of the climb begins on Eight Mile Spur, well known for its steep and relentless ascent. The track is in generally good condition and is easy to follow through the forested slopes. It rapidly gains height as it rises through the forest before becoming even steeper higher up. The burden of our heavy backpacks added to the challenge, with everyone finding their own steady rhythm for the long climb. Near the top of the ridgeline, there are breaks in the trees that provide views of Mt Buller to the north and the imposing Bluff escarpment to the east.
The final approach to The Bluff required some scrambling over rocky slabs, where balance and care were needed. Our walk leader, Bill, sensibly advised anyone using walking poles to pack them away for this section. In a moment that later provided plenty of laughs, Bill promptly ignored his own advice and took a nasty tumble. Thankfully, apart from muddied clothes and wounded pride, he survived the fall unscathed.
Aching limbs and tiredness were soon forgotten when we reached the plateau of The Bluff. Panoramic alpine views stretch in every direction, with Mt Buller and Mt Stirling forming prominent nearby peaks. This is the kind of scenery that makes every hard-earned step worthwhile and we were soon taking lots of photographs.
From The Bluff (1,745 m) the undulating trail continues along the southern edge of a ridgeline toward Bluff Hut. Compared with the climb, this section was much easier and gave everyone the chance to enjoy the scenery at a more relaxed pace. Bluff Hut, originally built in the 1950s, remains one of the iconic huts of the Victorian High Country and a special place to spend the night. We slept in tents but dined and socialised inside the hut, enjoying the warmth of a fire. Our tents began frosting over during the evening and, with clear skies, we were in for an icy night. Sure enough, the next morning we awoke to heavy frost and ice-crusted pools around the hut.
Day two involved a comparatively easy return journey. The first part of the trail is downhill, along a spur that terminates at Ritchies Hut next to the Howqua River. While there were still a few climbs along the way, the walking was easier overall. From Ritchies Hut, the track continues along the southern bank of the Howqua River. Views from the trail included the winding Howqua River, in places up to 50 m or more below the track. Eventually, we returned to the Seven Mile Flat campsite, a tired but thoroughly satisfied group.
This is a hard-rated walk that is best suited to fit and experienced overnight hikers. For those prepared for the challenge, it offers everything a great bushwalk should, including stunning scenery, rewarding climbs and classic High Country huts.