If you love hiking, nature, rock scrambling and a challenge then get yourself onto our Cathedral Ranges Southern Loop hike.

This walk is said by many to be the best day walk near Melbourne and although reasonably short at 11kms it pack a punch.

The Cathedral Range is a spectacular seven km ridge of sharply upturned sedimentary rock. This offers a place where an element of rock scrambling or climbing is incorporated into the walks.

We begin at the Cook’s Mill campground and make our way south, gently climbing the Tweed Spur to Sugarloaf Saddle.

From Sugarloaf Saddle our challenge and the fun begins. With Mount SugarLoaf looming above us the ascent of the Wells Cave Track will be one to remember. More rock scramble and climb than walk, our fear of heights will be challenged, but the sense of achievement when we arrive at the summit will be compounded by the glorious 360 degree views. A fantastic spot for us to sit and chat whilst having a well earnt lunch.

Our “track” from here really just follows the ridge line north along the range treating us to more 360 degree views rock hopping and scrambling.

Further north on the range the trail smooths out and we will visit the Farmyard and take a side trip up the South Jawbone before descending a better made track to our start and finish point.

Walking notes:

Duration: 11kms

Time: 6hrs

Grading: 5

Start: Cooks Mill Campsite

Bring: Adequate water (minimum 2 litres) and snacks we will be providing lunch. A good level of fitness is required for this hike.