The Great Ocean Walk stretches 104 kilometers along Victoria’s spectacular coastline from Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles.
Quick Facts:
- Length: 104 km
- Duration: 6-8 days
- Start: Apollo Bay
- End: Twelve Apostles
- Difficulty: Moderate
A self-guided walk allows you to move at your own pace while enjoying the dramatic coastline, native forests, and abundant wildlife.
Recommended Itinerary
| Day | Section | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Apollo Bay to Elliot Ridge | 10 km |
| 2 | Elliot Ridge to Blanket Bay | 12 km |
| 3 | Blanket Bay to Cape Otway | 11 km |
| 4 | Cape Otway to Aire River | 10 km |
| 5 | Aire River to Johanna Beach | 14 km |
| 6 | Johanna Beach to Twelve Apostles | 47 km |
Essential Planning Tips
- Book campsites through Parks Victoria: parks.vic.gov.au
- Carry a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) for safety
- Check tide times for beach sections
- Pack lightweight, waterproof gear
- Arrange transport back from the Twelve Apostles
Best Time to Walk
September to May offers the most stable weather conditions for walking.
Water Sources
- Tank water available at campsites
- Treat all water before drinking
- Carry minimum 2L per person
Transport Options
V/Line buses run between Melbourne and Apollo Bay (vline.com.au).
Local shuttle services include:
- Walk 91: (03) 5237 1189
- Great Ocean Road Shuttle: 0428 379 097
Emergency Contacts
- Emergency: 000
- Parks Victoria: 13 19 63
- Apollo Bay Police: (03) 5237 6750
Pack a basic first aid kit and familiarize yourself with snake bite procedures before starting the walk.
Download official maps through the Parks Victoria website or purchase detailed topographic maps from local visitor centers.
Additional Trail Information
Trail Highlights
- Cape Otway Lighthouse – Australia’s oldest surviving lighthouse
- Koala spotting in manna gum forests
- Remote beaches and rugged clifftops
- Ancient Aboriginal middens and cultural sites
- Diverse wildlife including wallabies and echidnas
Camping Facilities
- 7 designated hike-in campsites
- Tent platforms at most sites
- Composting toilets
- Food storage lockers
- Basic shelters for cooking
Trail Grade
The trail varies from easy walking on wide tracks to challenging sections with steep climbs and descents. Some beach walking requires timing with tides.
Conclusion
The Great Ocean Walk offers a world-class hiking experience along one of Australia’s most dramatic coastlines. With proper planning and preparation, hikers can enjoy a safe and memorable journey through diverse landscapes and ecosystems.
Whether completed in sections or as a full end-to-end trek, the trail provides opportunities for all experience levels while showcasing Victoria’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Additional Resources
- Visitor Information Centers in Apollo Bay and Port Campbell
- Great Ocean Walk Official Guide Book
- Local tour operators for guided options
- Weather forecasts: bom.gov.au
FAQs
1. How long is the Great Ocean Walk and how many days does it take to complete?
The Great Ocean Walk is 104km long, stretching from Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles. Most hikers typically complete it in 6-8 days.
2. Do I need to book accommodation along the Great Ocean Walk in advance?
Yes, camping sites and hiker accommodation must be booked in advance through Parks Victoria. There are 7 designated hiker campsites along the trail.
3. What is the best time of year to do the Great Ocean Walk?
The best time is during spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May), when temperatures are mild and rainfall is moderate. Summer can be very hot, and winter brings wet, cold conditions.
4. Is it possible to do only sections of the walk?
Yes, there are multiple access points along the trail, allowing hikers to complete shorter sections. Popular day walks include Marengo to Shelly Beach and Wreck Beach to the Twelve Apostles.
5. What level of fitness is required for the Great Ocean Walk?
A moderate level of fitness is required as the trail includes various terrains including beach walking, forest trails, and some steep sections. Some days involve walking 12-15km with a pack.
6. What wildlife might I encounter on the Great Ocean Walk?
Common wildlife sightings include koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, and various bird species including wedge-tailed eagles. During winter and spring, whales can often be spotted from the coastal sections.
7. What essential gear do I need to pack?
Essential items include sturdy hiking boots, weatherproof clothing, camping gear if camping, first aid kit, sufficient water capacity, navigation tools, and emergency communication device.
8. Is there mobile phone coverage along the Great Ocean Walk?
Mobile coverage is patchy along the trail. There are reliable signals near towns, but many remote sections have little to no coverage, making a personal locator beacon advisable.
9. Are there water sources along the trail?
Tank water is available at designated campsites, but it must be treated before drinking. Hikers should carry sufficient water between refill points, especially during summer.
10. Can I walk the trail in either direction?
While the trail can be walked in either direction, it is designed and marked to be walked from east to west, starting at Apollo Bay and ending at the Twelve Apostles.
