Parks Victoria recently released the masterplan for the expansion and development of the Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing trail.

Identified as one of four walks in Walk Victoria’s Icons portfolio (along with the Great Ocean Walk, Grampians Peaks Trail and the Coastal Wilderness Walk), the Falls to Hotham trail will offer a five-day, four-night hiking experience that connects outstanding landscapes, wildlife and culture.

The masterplan outlines the proposed development for the 57 km trail, which will include:

• New and environmentally friendly hiker camps
• Updates and improvements to existing trails
• Low-impact huts tailored for walkers who prefer a roof over their head
• Educational experiences through guided tours and interpretive signage
• World-class trail infrastructure constructed with environmentally sustainable materials and design

Responding to the release of the masterplan, State Minister for Tourism & Major Events John Eren said nature-based tourism was one of the fastest growing tourism sectors with both domestic and international visitors, and the Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing proposal was about creating more sustainable walking experiences to support this growing demand.

"Sustainable tourism will ensure that our regional labor markets are resilient and capable of servicing the increase in visitation across the state" he said.

The plan follows two years of consultation, in partnership with Tourism North East, Regional Development Victoria, Visit Victoria and the Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources.

Further information from Parks Victoria