Mt Beauty: Kiewa River trails and regional history

Mt Beauty combines experiences on the Kiewa River with insights into the history of the Kiewa Valley. A riverside loop, a trail to a suspension bridge, and a combined walking and mountain biking track each offer something different. There is also the Kiewa Valley Historical Society Museum at the Mount Beauty Visitor Information Centre. This gives you a choice when planning your trip: time by the water, activity on the trails, and regional history.

Riverside trails, gorge and cycling route

The four-kilometre Kiewa River Trail runs from Mount Beauty as a loop along the eastern bank of the Kiewa River. Along the way, it reaches Pebble Beach, a quieter stretch of river where swimming is possible. The loop combines a walk with the chance to spend time by the water. However, river conditions can change, so plan to swim according to the conditions at the time.

The Mount Beauty Gorge Walk offers a different focus. Following the Aqueduct Track, it runs for one kilometre to a suspension bridge over the West Kiewa River. In summer, when the riverbed is dry, you can walk 400 metres upstream to a gorge, wade and swim. Water levels and river conditions can change quickly. Check conditions before planning to wade or swim. The suspension bridge is the destination of the described one-kilometre route; the gorge is a conditional summer option farther upstream.

The Survey Track adds a shared walking and mountain biking route to this selection. Its starting point is opposite the Mount Beauty Golf Course Club House on Tawonga Crescent; along the way, the track offers views of the eastern arm of the Kiewa River. You can choose a route based on whether you want a trail shared by walkers and cyclists, a riverside loop, or a walk to a suspension bridge to be the focus of your plans.

History and local information

The Kiewa Valley Historical Society Museum is located at the Mount Beauty Visitor Information Centre. Its permanent and changing exhibitions span a historical period from the First Peoples to the present day. The museum offers another way to experience the region, focusing on the history of the Kiewa Valley. Its time span, from the First Peoples to the present day, provides a distinct focus alongside outdoor activities.

The Visitor Information Centre provides information and advice on things to do in and around Mount Beauty. Resources include a Cycle Guide, a Walks & Trails Guide, and walking guides for the Alpine National Park; they help you find your way around Mount Beauty. Guide availability can change. If you are still weighing up walking and cycling routes or other activities, the centre's information and advice can help you make your choice.

Discover more destinations: Moondarra, Cocamba, Numurkah, Dalyston, Irymple, Mandurang, Newhaven, Kingower

For the broader travel overview: Victoria.