Alpine bush tracks to close ahead of long weekend

Many roads and tracks across north-east and eastern Victoria will close tomorrow, 6 June, including tracks across the Alpine National Park, Baw Baw National Park, Snowy River National Park and Mt Buffalo National Park.

Due to early winter storms and snow, some roads and tracks in parks across the east and north–east of Victoria will be temporarily closed from this Thursday 6 June, ahead of the Queen’s Birthday Long Weekend.

Seasonal road closures occur annually across the track networks in National Parks and State Forests, as part of driver safety and road damage prevention programs. Closures usually occur later in June.

The early start to winter with cold fronts bringing in heavy snow and rain has meant some of these tracks in the High Country and Gippsland are already impassable.

“With the long weekend fast approaching we understand that many people may already have plans to visit these high country areas and will need to rethink their holiday. We urge those people to check which roads are still open,” Parks Victoria Regional Director, Graeme Baxter said.

Following further inclement weather and several rescues of people stranded in vehicles in the alpine areas, seasonal road closures across the Alps have been brought forward to take affect from Thursday 6^th June, with some closures already in place since early May.

“We are focussed on protecting and conserving Victoria’s natural environment and ensuring visitors to our parks have a safe and enjoyable experience,” Baxter said.

Seasonal Road Closures apply every year for the safety of park and forest visitors and help limit the damage done to roads and tracks softened by rain and snow during the wetter months. It also helps maintain water quality in rivers, creeks and reservoirs by reducing the amount of erosion and silt washed away from roads and tracks.

Forest Fire Management Victoria and Parks Victoria consult with a range of stakeholders, including Four Wheel Drive Victoria, to identify sections of the road and track network which require closures.

Most of the roads and tracks are re-opened in time for the Melbourne Cup Weekend, but the closure period can be extended if the conditions demand it.

To plan a trip and check road closures visit https://www.ffm.vic.gov.au/visiting-state-forests/forest-and-road-closures

For informational on seasonal closures in parks, including opening and closing dates, visit

You can also contact your local DELWP or Parks Victoria office by calling 136 186, or Parks Victoria on 13 19 63.

“Areas still open for those looking to explore and camp this long weekend include:

• Grant Historic Area
• Talbotville Camping Area
• the Wellington River Campsites
• Eagleville Camping Area
• Bennies 6,7 &8 miles camp sites
• Campsites within Howqua Hills Historic Area
• Powers Lookout Scenic Reserve
• Mt Samaria State Park
• Taylors Crossing
• Ferny Flat
• Anglers Rest
• Suggan Buggan
• McKillops Bridge
• Balley Hooley Campground 
• Mount Wills Historic Area”