Trail Fast Facts
Ryan's Den to Devil's Kitchen is a 13km, grade 4 hike in Great Otway National Park, Victoria. This hike typically takes 5 hours to complete.
Warning
There is no vehicle access to the start of this hike at Ryan's Den Campsite or the end of this hike at Devil's Kitchen Campsite. These are both hike-in campsites along the Great Ocean Walk. This description is intended for those completing multiple sections of the Great Ocean Walk.
Hike Overview
The hike traverses stage 10 of the Great Ocean Walk, from Ryan's Den to Devil's Kitchen.
A moderate level of fitness is recommended for this final stage, as some sections can be challenging. The track winds through coastal scrub, eventually reaching the evocatively named Moonlight Head. From there, the trail dips down before joining a newer section that leads to Gables Lookout. This dramatic viewpoint boasts some of the highest cliffs in Australia, making it a prime location for whale watching, particularly Southern Right Whales migrating to Warrnambool during winter.
Your next stop is Wreck Beach. During low tide, take a detour down a few hundred steps to explore the beach and search for the anchors of shipwrecks that litter the seabed. From there, continue on to Devil's Kitchen. Be sure to check the tide beforehand, though, as you might need to take the designated high-tide route if the water level is high.
Ryan's Den Hike-in Campsite
Camp in the remote Otway hinterland amongst tall eucalypt trees and marvel at the spectacular Ocean views to Cape Otway and Submarine Rock to the West as you enjoy a well-earned break on your Walking adventure. Be sure to book your Great Ocean Walk campsites well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Devil's Kitchen Hike-in Campsite
The final Camp along the Walk is nestled amongst coastal woodland with stunning views out to sea to the wild Southern Ocean. Keep an eye out for Whales in winter as you reflect on your achievements. Be sure to book your Great Ocean Walk campsites well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Track Grade
Grade 4 (Hard) - Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 173 m
Min elevation: 42 m
Total climbing: 651 m
Total descent: -638 m
Trailhead
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Getting there
There is no vehicle access to the start of this hike at Ryan's Den Campsite or the end of this hike at Devil's Kitchen Campsite. These are both hike-in campsites along the Great Ocean Walk. This description is intended for those completing multiple sections of the Great Ocean Walk.
Photo gallery
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
About the region
The Great Otway National Park stretches from Torquay, along the world-famous Great Ocean Road and up through the Otways hinterland. Discover windswept coastlines and breathtaking waterfalls in tall mountain forests, walk the iconic Great Ocean Walk, immerse yourself in the Otway Lightstation's history, or surf some of the best breaks in Australia. Enjoy the great outdoors and explore the wonders of the Great Otway National Park.
The Great Otway National Park is in southern Victoria, Australia. It covers rugged coastland, beaches and the mountains of the Otway Ranges. Waterfalls dot the park, including the 3 cascades of Triplet Falls. Boardwalks lead through temperate rainforest at Maits Rest. The 1848 Cape Otway Lightstation perches on cliffs overlooking Bass Strait. Great Ocean Walk leads through the park to the Twelve Apostles rock formations.
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Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in Great Otway National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
Let someone know
Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Weather
Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.
1 Review on “Ryan's Den to Devil's Kitchen Hike (13km)”
13km of stunning coastal scenery with a good workout – definitely a grade 4.
The trail threw some challenges our way, but the ever-changing views kept me motivated. Moonlight Head was a highlight – incredible cliffs and apparently a great spot for whale watching in winter (next time!).
Loved the detour down to Wreck Beach at low tide. The shipwreck anchors were an eerie sight. Be warned though, those steps back up are no joke!
Finally reaching Devil’s Kitchen was a great feeling. The campsite looks perfect for a relaxing night with epic ocean views. Highly recommend this hike for anyone with a moderate fitness level looking for stunning coastal scenery!