I’d like to visit the Viking wilderness, accessing the area from the east for a change, without going in via Crosscut Saw/Howitt Plains. I’ve done the Viking Circuit before, but didn’t explore the Viking summits due to wet weather.
The idea is to do a 3-day circuit from the end of East Riley Rd via the Barry Mountains, the Viking (with a possible side-trip to the Razor), then the Blue Hills and returning north along Sambar Spur Track and avoiding the slog along Wannangatta Track.
Planning to do the trip in March, though I’m concerned about water availability and getting my 2WD to the start!
Is anyone able to advise on the following:
2WD access and road condition. The access route I’ve been given is from Myrtleford and Lake Buffalo, via Abbeyards Rd, East Buffalo Rd, East Riley Track. Seems like a very long way…
Water. Can anyone advise regarding reliable water sources? I believe there are some tanks along the AAWT, and I know that the source in Viking Saddle has been known to dry out. I would expect Riley Creek to have water given the size of its catchment. Is there a known route to descend from Blue Hills to Wonnangatta River to get water if necessary?
The Blue Hills section is marked as an undefined track on my map. Is there a pad, or should I be ready for overgrowth and bush bashing?
Recommendations for scenic camping spots would be a bonus.