Trail Fast Facts

Wilsons Promontory Refuge Cove is a 34.5km, grade 4 hike in Wilsons Promontory National Park, Victoria. This hike typically takes 2-3 days to complete.

Length: 34.5km

Duration: 2-3 days

Grade 4 (Hard)

Style: Return

Start: Telegraph Saddle

End: Telegraph Saddle

Location: Wilsons Promontory National Park

State: Victoria

Nearby town: Yanakie

From state capital: 225km

Latitude: -39.03261942

Longitude: 146.35566830635074

Overview

Map and GPX file

Directions

Photos

Similar Trails

Weather

Reviews

Hike Overview

This Wilsons Promontory Refuge Cove hike visits a stunning, secluded beach situated on the eastern side of the Prom accessible via walking track from Sealers Cove to the north or Little Waterloo Bay to the south. The track between Sealers Cove and Refuge Cove offers many great views. Refuge Cove campsite, located at the southern end of the cove, is surrounded by lush vegetation and is within close proximity to the water.

The Refuge Cove hike in Wilsons Promontory is a stunning hike that takes you through diverse landscapes, from dry eucalypt forest to wet gullies and coastal cliffs. The hike offers breathtaking views of the coastline, including Five Mile Beach and Norman Island, and ends at a secluded beach with crystal-clear waters and white sand.

The hike is rated as a Grade 4 hike, which means it is moderately challenging and requires a good level of fitness. There are some steep rocky sections and uneven surfaces, so you will need to be sure-footed.

If you are planning to camp overnight, you will need to book a campsite in advance. There are also basic camping facilities available at Sealers Cove and Refuge Cove, including water supply and toilets.

With a little planning and preparation, the Refuge Cove hike is a great way to experience the stunning beauty of Wilsons Promontory National Park.

Tips

Advanced booking is required for hikers and recreational boat users staying in camping areas.
The Cove is a safe anchorage for vessels.
Help protect this unique place by not tying stern lines to vegetation.
Untreated creek water is available, please treat before consuming.
Toilets are provided in the camping area.

Map and GPX file

Wilsons Prom: Refuge Cove Hike (34.5km)

Total distance: 34453 m
Max elevation: 340 m
Min elevation: 6 m
Total climbing: 2082 m
Total descent: -2082 m

Download

Trailhead

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.

Getting there

Wilsons Prom: Refuge Cove Hike (34.5km)

Wilsons Promontory National Park is about a three-hour drive from Melbourne. To reach the park, take the Monash Freeway (M1), then continue on the South Gippsland Freeway (M420/A440) to Meeniyan. From there, follow the Meeniyan-Promontory Road (C444) to the park entrance. Once inside the park, it's a 30-minute drive to Tidal River. Be mindful of wildlife while driving, especially between dusk and dawn. The nearest fuel and electric vehicle charging station is located at Yanakie.

Get directions

Access conditions

2WD Access
4WD Access
Campfire Pit

Photo gallery

About the region

Discover the walking trails of Wilsons Promontory National Park. Wilsons Promontory National Park, located at the southernmost tip of mainland Australia, offers a variety of walks, bushwalks, and hikes that showcase the area's stunning landscapes. Situated near the town of Foster in Victoria, Wilsons Prom is approximately three hours' drive from Melbourne, the state's capital city.

Visitors can explore remote coastal bushland trails and relax on pristine beaches, all while being surrounded by the park's signature granite tors. Whether you choose to camp at the family-friendly Tidal River or hike to a more secluded campsite, encounters with the local wildlife, including wombats, kangaroos, and emus, are common.

Norman Beach, just a short walk from the Tidal River Campground, is perfect for swimming or snorkelling, offering a unique view of Victoria's largest marine national park. Families can enjoy a comfortable stay at Tidal River, with options ranging from powered or unpowered campsites to roofed accommodation.

For those seeking more challenging hikes, the granite peaks of Mount Oberon provide breathtaking panoramic views over the sea, especially at sunset. Mount Bishop offers an excellent alternative, with a summit accessible from the Lilly Pilly car park or via the Lilly Pilly Circuit walk. The summit rewards hikers with views of the Prom's western coastline and offshore islands. For a broader perspective of the National Park, consider the lesser-known Vereker Outlook.

Adventure seekers can take on an overnight hike through The Prom, exploring the remote and rugged northern regions or heading south to visit the historic Wilsons Promontory Lightstation and Sealers Cove. For a more tranquil experience, enjoy the secluded beaches of Wilsons Prom, such as Cotters Beach, Whisky Bay, and Fairy Cove. Accessible options, including all-terrain wheelchairs, TrailRiders, and beach wheelchairs, are available to ensure everyone can enjoy the park's natural beauty.

When visiting the beaches and coastal areas, it's important to be aware of natural hazards. To ensure a safe and enjoyable day at Wilsons Promontory National Park, please follow the recommended water safety guidelines.

Want to find the best trails in Wilsons Promontory National Park for an adventurous hike, casual walk, or a family trip? Trail Hiking Australia has the best trails for walking, hiking, running, and more.

Suggest an edit

Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.

Similar trails nearby

Looking for things to do in Wilsons Promontory 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.

Reviews

Wilsons Prom: Refuge Cove Hike (34.5km)

3 Reviews on “Wilsons Prom: Refuge Cove Hike (34.5km)”

Overall rating

Bernadine Mynott

Refuge Cove is indeed a fantastic and beautiful place to camp. B

24/03/2022, 05:17

Like
Log in to Reply
Paula Trood

One of my favourite hikes! We were there just this week. Refuge Cove was gorgeous last (hot) Monday. The water tho was freezing!!

24/03/2022, 05:17

Like
Log in to Reply
Luke Ognibene

Matthew Cooper

24/03/2022, 05:17

Like
Log in to Reply
Darren Edwards

This is such a beautiful hike. I’d highly recommend hiking in, staying two nights and hiking out.

24/03/2022, 05:17

Like
Log in to Reply
Haydn Thomas

Keely Hannagan

09/10/2019, 03:22

Like
Log in to Reply
Rachel Dickman

Paul Dickman second time lucky? ?

09/09/2019, 08:30

Like
Log in to Reply

Leave a Review. Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

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.

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.

Trail Fast Facts

Hike Overview

Tips

Map and GPX file

Wilsons Prom: Refuge Cove Hike (34.5km)