Best Time for Bushwalking in Western Victoria | Monthly Breakdown

Stretching along the stunning coastline of western Victoria, the Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most iconic destinations, offering breathtaking views, pristine beaches, and incredible bushwalking opportunities. This 243-kilometre stretch of road, built by returned soldiers between 1919 and 1932, serves as a living memorial to those who fought in World War I while connecting travellers to some of the most spectacular natural landscapes in the country. Whether you’re planning a day trip from Melbourne or a week-long adventure, knowing the best time to explore this region on foot can make all the difference to your experience.

Understanding Western Victoria’s Walking Seasons

Western Victoria’s climate is characterised by four distinct seasons, each offering unique advantages for bushwalking enthusiasts. The region’s temperate climate means you can walk year-round, but different months present vastly different conditions and experiences along the Great Ocean Road and its surrounding trails.

Summer (December – February)

Summer brings warm temperatures and longer daylight hours to western Victoria, making it a popular time for coastal walks. However, this season also coincides with peak tourist season and bushfire risk, requiring careful planning.

• Temperature: Typically ranges from 15-25°C along the coast, though inland areas can exceed 30°C
• Daylight: Up to 14.5 hours of daylight in December
• Crowds: Peak tourist season, especially around Christmas and January
• Pros: Warm weather for swimming, wildflowers in full bloom, vibrant atmosphere
• Cons: Crowded trails, high fire danger, limited accommodation availability

Local Tip: Start your walks early in the morning (before 9am) to avoid both the heat and the crowds. The golden hour light also makes for spectacular photography along the coastline.

Autumn (March – May)

Many locals consider autumn the perfect season for bushwalking in western Victoria. The weather stabilises, summer crowds dissipate, and the landscape takes on rich, warm colours.

• Temperature: Mild days of 12-20°C with cool nights
• Rainfall: Moderate, but usually in short showers rather than persistent drizzle
• Special Features: Autumn colours in the Otways, migrating whales begin to appear
• Pros: Comfortable walking temperatures, fewer visitors, dramatic skies
• Cons: Shorter days, some tracks may be muddy after rain

Winter (June – August)

Winter transforms western Victoria into a moody, dramatic landscape perfect for photographers and those seeking solitude. While cooler, the season offers its own unique rewards for prepared walkers.

• Temperature: Cool days of 8-15°C, with overnight lows sometimes dropping to 4°C
• Rainfall: Highest rainfall months, particularly July and August
• Special Features: Waterfalls at their most powerful, winter whale migration, misty forests
• Pros: Dramatic scenery, minimal crowds, powerful waterfalls, excellent whale watching
• Cons: Cold, wet conditions, some tracks may close, limited daylight (10 hours)

Spring (September – November)

Spring breathes new life into western Victoria’s landscapes. As temperatures rise and rainfall decreases, the region bursts with colour and wildlife activity.

• Temperature: Gradually warming from 11-19°C in September to 13-22°C in November
• Special Features: Wildflower displays, newborn wildlife, birds nesting
• Pros: Pleasant temperatures, blooming wildflowers, active wildlife
• Cons: Unpredictable weather, some tracks may still be wet from winter rains

Monthly Breakdown: What to Expect When

For those planning specific dates, here’s a month-by-month guide to help you choose the perfect time for your Great Ocean Road walking adventure:

January – Peak Summer

January is the busiest month along the Great Ocean Road. School holidays and perfect beach weather draw crowds to popular spots like Lorne and Apollo Bay. For walkers seeking solitude, head to lesser-known tracks in the Otway Ranges or start your coastal walks very early in the morning.

February – Still Summer, Slightly Quieter

As school holidays end, February offers slightly fewer crowds while maintaining summer conditions. This is an excellent month for combining coastal walks with swimming at beaches like Johanna or Wreck Beach. The Great Ocean Walk is particularly popular during this time.

March – The Beginning of Autumn Magic

March marks the transition to autumn, with comfortable walking temperatures and decreasing visitor numbers. The Easter long weekend can be busy, but the rest of the month offers peaceful walking conditions. This is an ideal time for multi-day hikes like the Great Ocean Walk.

April – Autumn’s Prime Time

Many locals consider April the perfect month for walking in western Victoria. Mild temperatures, stable weather patterns, and beautiful autumn colours create ideal conditions. The Port Campbell National Park walks are particularly stunning this month, with fewer crowds at the Twelve Apostles.

May – Quiet Before Winter

May sees visitor numbers drop significantly as winter approaches. The weather remains pleasant for walking, though you’ll need warm layers for early mornings and late afternoons. This is an excellent month for photography, with dramatic skies and golden light.

June – Winter Arrives

June brings the first proper winter conditions to western Victoria. Rain becomes more frequent, and temperatures drop, but the landscape takes on a moody beauty. This is the beginning of the whale watching season, with southern right whales starting to appear in Warrnambool’s Logans Beach.

July – The Heart of Winter

July is typically the coldest and wettest month, but also offers some of the most spectacular walking experiences. Waterfalls in the Otways are at their most powerful, and the winter whale migration is in full swing. Proper gear is essential, but the rewards are immense for prepared walkers.

August – Winter’s Grand Finale

August continues winter’s themes but with signs of spring emerging. The days gradually lengthen, and while still cool and wet, there’s a promise of warmer weather to come. This is an excellent month for forest walks in the Otways, with misty mornings creating magical atmospheres.

September – Spring Awakens

September marks the true beginning of spring in western Victoria. Wildflowers start to appear, particularly in heathland areas, and temperatures begin to rise. Weather can still be unpredictable, so come prepared for both sunshine and showers.

October – Spring in Full Swing

October is perhaps the most vibrant month for walking in western Victoria. Wildflower displays peak across the region, and temperatures become consistently pleasant. The Great Otway National Park is particularly stunning this month, with diverse orchid species in bloom.

November – Pre-Summer Sweet Spot

November offers a perfect balance of spring’s mild temperatures and summer’s longer days. The landscape is lush and green after winter rains, but the summer crowds haven’t yet arrived. This is an ideal month for tackling longer walks and multi-day hikes before the heat of summer sets in.

December – Summer’s Beginning

December brings the start of summer and the beginning of the peak tourist season. The first half of the month can be excellent for walking before the Christmas rush, but book accommodation well in advance if planning a visit during this period.

Practical Tips for Year-Round Walking

Regardless of when you choose to visit, these practical tips will help you make the most of your Great Ocean Road walking experience:

Essential Gear

• All seasons: Sturdy walking shoes, sun protection, water bottle, first aid kit
• Summer: Lightweight clothing, hat, extra water, insect repellent
• Autumn/Spring: Layered clothing, rain jacket, warm layers for early mornings
• Winter: Waterproof jacket and pants, warm layers, gloves, beanie, torch/headlamp

Track Selection

Western Victoria offers walks for all fitness levels, from short strolls to multi-day adventures:

• Easy walks: Maits Rest Rainforest Walk (30 minutes), Sheoak Falls Walk (1 hour)
• Moderate walks: The Gable Lookout Walk (2 hours return), Melba Gully Walk (1 hour)
• Challenging walks: Great Ocean Walk (8 days, 104km), Lorne to Erskine Falls (4 hours)

Planning Considerations

• Always check track conditions before heading out, especially after rain
• Let someone know your walking plans and expected return time
• Carry enough water – at least 2 litres per person for longer walks
• Download offline maps as mobile reception can be unreliable in remote areas
• Check tide times for coastal walks – some sections become impassable at high tide

Conclusion

Western Victoria’s Great Ocean Road region offers exceptional bushwalking opportunities throughout the year, each season presenting its own unique charm and challenges. While autumn (March-May) arguably provides the most comfortable conditions for walking, winter’s dramatic landscapes and spring’s vibrant wildflowers offer equally compelling reasons to visit during these months.

The key to a successful walking adventure lies in matching your expectations with the seasonal conditions. If you prefer warm weather and don’t mind crowds, summer might be your season. For solitude and dramatic scenery, winter delivers in spades. Spring offers the reward of blooming landscapes, while autumn provides that perfect balance of pleasant weather and beautiful colours.

Regardless of when you choose to explore, the Great Ocean Road’s combination of coastal cliffs, ancient rainforests, and stunning rock formations ensures an unforgettable walking experience. By planning according to the seasons and coming prepared for the conditions, you’ll discover why this region remains one of Australia’s most cherished walking destinations, no matter the time of year.