An early dumping of snow has seen the authorities shut down several iconic High Country tracks ahead of schedule. Severe weather and safety concerns mean the winter lockout is officially live on major routes.
High Country Locks Up Early
We all love a bit of crisp alpine air, but Mother Nature just turned the thermostat right down. A massive cold snap has dumped serious powder across the Victorian peaks, forcing Forest Fire Management Victoria and Parks Victoria to pull the trigger on seasonal closures early. It’s all about keeping folks out of trouble when the weather turns nasty, meaning some of our absolute favourite playgrounds are out of bounds until late October.
The big names on the hit list include the Dargo High Plains Road between Dargo and Hotham Heights. If you were planning to tackle the iconic Blue Rag Range Track for those top-of-the-world views, you will have to wait. Basalt North, Twins Track, Twins Jeep Track, Mount Murray Track North, and Gunns Track are also done for the season. Trying to push through these gates now is not just a massive safety risk, it is a quick way to land a heavy fine from the Conservation Regulator.
Navigating The Winter Shutdown
Every year we see public lands close up from June to November to protect the tracks from getting absolutely shredded and to stop travelers getting stranded. This year the weather forced their hand early, and the gear is locked away until 29 October 2026. If you’re still heading to the hills, you need to be smart about where you point the bonnet.
Before you load up the fridge and hit the bitumen, check the Public Access Map on the DEECA website. Unplanned closures happen fast when trees start falling and snow packs down, so don’t just rely on old trip reports. Fire operations and public safety zones are also active across places like the Wombat State Forest, so keeping an eye on local alerts is your best bet for a stress-free weekend away.
Smart Prep For Alpine Touring
Tackling the alpine region during the colder months demands proper respect for the conditions. When the ground gets soaked and soft, big timber can come down without warning. River crossings can also rise in a flash, so if you come across a flooded track, urn around and find another way through.
Make sure you download the VicEmergency app to your phone and jump on the VicTraffic site to map out your detours. Keep an eye on the Bureau of Meteorology reports, and pack plenty of warm gear, recovery tracks, and extra food just in case. If you need to double-check local track openings before you lose mobile service, give the DEECA customer call centre a buzz on 136 186. Stay safe out there, look after the tracks, and let the high country rest up for the next few months.
