Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing

This is a point-to-point walk, so you’ll need transport to the start of the walk and a way to get home at the end. The drive between trailheads takes approximately 2½ hours.

Car Shuffle:

Using two vehicles in a car shuffle is a popular option. Drive in convoy to the end of the walk, drop off one vehicle, then return to the start of the walk in the other vehicle. Vehicles can be left at the Heathy Spur or Mt Loch car parks at either end.

Transport Providers:

Using a transport provider is a highly convenient way to compelte this hike, helping hikers avoid the need to shuttle vehicles between trailheads, making your trip hassle-free. 

Snow Dog Transport:

Snow Dog offers a daily shuttle service between Falls Creek and Mt Hotham from 1 November to 30 April.

Mt Beauty Transfers:

Private transfers to the hike's trailhead, with pick-up available from various locations and drop-off at The Alpine Gateway (Loch Carpark).

North East Coachlines:

Pickup and drop-off anywhere in the resort(s) available, with an approximate transfer time of 2hrs. 

There are two campsites on the Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing: Cope Hut Campsite, amongst the snowgums on the Bogong High Plains, is 14km from the Falls Creek trailhead; and Dibbins Hut Campsite, on a snowgrass plain near the headwaters of the Cobungra River. Enjoy platform camping at the beautiful Cope Hut and Dibbins Hut sites or opt for wild camping in the national park.

A permit is required to camp at the five camping platforms at each of the two campsites on the Falls to Hotham Alpine

Each campsite has five sites on tent platforms. There are four 3m x 3.7m platforms and one larger platform that is 4.5m x 3m. The platforms are designed to fit a 2-3 person hiking tent.

The tent platforms are designed for you to pitch your tent directly on the platform. Each platform has eyelets around the edge to hook tent peg loops or guy ropes over. As well as these there are movable pegs that slot into the mesh, allowing tents of all shapes to be set up.

Wildlife: The park is home to diverse wildlife, including some protected species. Maintain a safe distance from animals, store food securely, and be mindful of minimising environmental impact. If you encounter a snake, remain calm, back away slowly, and give it space to move away. Snakes will generally not attack unless they feel threatened.

Navigation: While the trail is marked and well-worn, parts of the route are remote. Carry a detailed map, compass, GPS device or a free app that doesn’t need service such as Maps.Me for navigation.

Emergency contacts and Plan: Inform someone of your hiking plans, estimated return time, and key contact information. Mobile coverage is unreliable in many areas, so carrying a personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite phone is highly recommended for emergency situations.

Weather: Weather in the Alpine National Park can change rapidly. Be prepared for sudden temperature drops, high winds, and precipitation, even in summer. Check forecasts regularly and pack layers, including waterproof and thermal clothing.

First aid: Bring a basic first aid kit, including blister care, pain relief, and any personal medications. Knowledge of basic first aid, such as treating sprains or injuries, is helpful in remote areas.

Water sources: Reliable drinking sources are limited, with no guarantees of the campsite water sources being full. Make sure you carry enough water for your travels and ensure you use a filter or treatment for natural water sources to avoid illness.

Essential Gear:

• Backpack: 40-60L with rain cover for added protection
• Tent: lightweight (under 2kg), suitable for alpine conditions
• Sleeping bag: rated for below-freezing temperatures
• Sleeping mat: for comfort and insulation
• Maps and compass (or GPS device and an offline app backup like Maps.Me)

Clothing:

• Base layers: moisture-wicking tops and bottoms
• Insulating layers: fleece or down jacket
• Waterproof and windproof jacket
• Hiking pants/shorts
• Hiking socks
• Warm hat and gloves
• Sun hat
• Sunglasses
• Sturdy hiking boots
• Gaiters (optional, but helpful for keeping out debris and protecting from snake bites)

Food and Water:

• Water filter or purification tablets: reliable sources can be scarce
• Food: Energy-dense and lightweight options like freeze-dried meals, energy bars, and trail mix for the three-day trip.
• Reduce packaging as much as possible – you must carry all rubbish with you

Health and Safety:

• First aid kit
• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Power bank/portable charger

Camping essentials:

• Torch/headlamp
• Toilet paper in a ziplock bag

Optional extras:

• Camera
• Small, lightweight towel
• Notebook

• Respect the Environment: Alpine ecosystems are delicate. Stick to marked trails, avoid picking plants, and take all your rubbish with you to preserve the beauty of the landscape for others and future generations.
• Be Mindful of Wildlife: Give animals space and avoid feeding them. Secure food properly to avoid attracting wildlife to campsites.
• Respect Others: Many hikers share the trails, so keep noise levels low, especially in camping areas. Respect the peaceful environment and leave spaces as you found them.
• Book Camping Spots Early: Campsites can book out quickly, especially Cope Hut and Dibbins Hut due to their popularity. Have a back-up plan for alternative dates or campgrounds.  
• Camp Responsibly: Use designated camping platforms where available, and if wild camping, follow Leave No Trace principles. Minimise impact by camping away from water sources and keeping campsites tidy.
• Mind Water Sources: Avoid contaminating water sources by washing and cleaning up well away from streams and lakes. Use biodegradable soap only when necessary.
• Fires: Fires are not permitted in alpine regions to protect the environment. Use a portable stove if cooking and follow all fire safety regulations.