The best walks and hikes in Mount Porepunkah Scenic Reserve

At the summit of the Apex Lookout Track sits Apex Lookout, where it's hard to miss the large clearing with huge communications towers and sweeping panoramic views. The view unveils the town of Bright and the Ovens Valley below. On clear days, the viewpoint offers distant view toward some of the region's highest alpine giants, including Mount Feathertop at 1922 metres, Mount Fainter at 1833 metres, and Mount Bogong at 1986 metres, which stands as the highest peak in Victoria.

The Apex Lookout Track is a dirt track that climbs into steeper, rockier sections before reaching the Apex Lookout Track. The track passes through shaded alpine vegetation, with birdwatching opportunities, and a rewarding lookout at the end.

Mount Porepunkah Road is a gateway for exploring the alpine landscape around the town of Bright. It rises from the heart of the Ovens Valley, with the Ovens River flowing at its southern side. Mount Porepunkah Road branches outward from near the river, transitioning from a paved town street into an incline that leads up toward forests and ridge lines. Have navigation ready to where there is a point at which 7 trails converge at one junction point.

A footbridge here passes over the Ovens River, with a scenic swimming hole sitting beneath the bridge. It's a popular recreation spot epically on hot summer days.

The Ovens River flows through Bright as a clear, fast-moving alpine river, running for about 191 kilometres from the Victorian Alps to the Murray River. In this section, it moves over rocks and through small drops, forming pools and a short canyon carved into the riverbank. It’s a central feature of the town, with easy access to the water along walking tracks and parks. Conditions can change after rain, so take care near the river’s edge.

Centenary Park sits along the Ovens River in Bright, acting as a main access point for several local walks, including the Canyon Walk. It’s a well-used riverside park with open grassy areas, shaded trees, and space to relax by the water. You’ll find picnic and swimming spots, a playground, and easy access down to the riverbank. Parking is available nearby, there’s no entry fee, and facilities including toilets are located within the park.

Canyon Walk follows a well-signposted track along both banks of the river, passing a small canyon carved by the Ovens River and historic water races from early mining days. The southern bank from Howitt Park is sealed and wheelchair accessible, while the northern side includes steps and short, steeper sections. Suspension bridges allow you to create short or longer loops. It’s an easy to moderate walk overall, with birdlife and wildflowers common in spring.