The Horn is a distinctive rock formation that rises to an elevation of 1,723 metres above sea level in the Mount Buffalo National Park in Victoria, Australia. It is the highest point in the park and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and valleys.
The Horn is a popular destination for hikers, with a short but steep track leading to the summit. The track starts at the Horn Picnic Area, which is about a 20-minute drive from the Mount Buffalo Chalet. The hike takes about 45 minutes to an hour to reach the summit, and the views from the top are truly breathtaking.
On a clear day, you can see all the way to Melbourne, which is about 150 kilometres away. You can also see Mount Bogong, Mount Feathertop, and the Australian Alps.
In addition to the stunning views, The Horn is also home to a variety of wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, and possums. You may also be lucky enough to see some of the park’s native birds, such as eagles, hawks, and owls.
It is also a great place to go stargazing, as the park is far from urban light pollution.
The Horn is a geological wonder, formed by a series of events that took place millions of years ago. The rock that now forms the Horn was originally molten magma that rose from deep within the Earth’s crust. As the magma cooled, it formed large crystals of granite.
Over time, the Earth’s crust was uplifted and eroded, exposing the granite peaks of the Horn. The Horn’s distinctive shape is due to the fact that it is made up of a single large granite pluton, which has been eroded away from all sides except the top.
In addition to hiking, there are a number of other activities that can be enjoyed at The Horn, including:
- Rock climbing. The Horn is a popular spot for rock climbers, with a variety of routes to choose from.
- Stargazing. The Horn is a great place to stargaze, as the skies are generally clear and dark.
- Photography. There are many features and landscapes to photograph.
Getting to The Horn
The Horn is located in the Mount Buffalo National Park, which is about 325 kilometres northeast of Melbourne. The park is accessible by car via the Hume Highway or the Great Alpine Road. The road to the Horn is seasonally closed in the colder months. Most of the road to the Horn is sealed apart from the last section of approximately 5 kilometres.
Tips for visiting The Horn
- The best time to visit The Horn is during autumn or spring, when the weather is mild.
- Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the hike to the summit is steep.
- Walking Poles are advised due to the steep rocky nature of the hiking trail.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities at the summit.
- If you are planning on rock climbing, be sure to check the weather conditions and bring the appropriate gear.
Conclusion
The Horn is a truly unique and beautiful place that offers stunning views, challenging hikes, and a variety of other activities. If you are looking for a memorable outdoor experience in the Victorian High Country, be sure to add The Horn to your list.
Directions