| Cost | Free (picnic area) |
|---|---|
| Location | Between Mansfield and Whitfield, Victoria |
| Facilities | Picnic area, toilets, wheelchair access at Lookout 2 |
| Vehicle Access | 4km rough and narrow access road, room to park with van |
| In Camps App | Yes |
Powers Lookout isn’t a camp, but a very cool and short walk for speccy views and notorious tales about the bushranger who trained Ned Kelly!
Despite my knee and all the steps, I was impressed – wow, those views to Hotham! Plus bushranger history galore.
Our tips are to do Lookout 2 first. Do not miss Lookout 1. To reach Lookout 1, however, is a real climb – up staircases like ladders and squeezing past huge rocks.
If you have mobility issues, you can still see the fantastic views over the Alpine National Park – including Mt Feathertop and Mt Hotham from Lookout 2.
Once the hideout of Bushranger Harry Powers, who I read, mentored Ned Kelly – you have a birdseye view of the valley! The waterholes were used by Harry – one further down was where he kept his horses.
As a teen, Ned was his apprentice on a few hold-ups, learning bush survival and escaping police. One of Harry’s bush camps was here, and where he was captured in 1870. The story of his life, transported from Ireland as a 21 year old convict and with almost half of his life spent in jail – is a doozy.
Also interesting is the link to Kelly’s family and the King Valley, and why he was considered a gentleman bushranger.
There is an extra walk, too – bring your togs for Powers Waterhole. We’ll have to come back for it! So allocate some time for all three.
Facilities include wheelchair access at the closest lookout, and picnic and toilet facilities are available. There is a turn around – we towed our van in and there was room to park when we visited. The 4 km access road is rough and narrow (not 3km as it states) and it takes you straight to the picnic area and Lookout 2. Turn off 45 km Mansfield or 12 km to Whitfield.
Make sure you read the tips for other things to see and do in the area. Find this picnic area in the CAMPS AUSTRALIA WIDE App!
Download the Camps App for iPhone/iPad or Android
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Powers Lookout suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, Lookout 2 offers wheelchair access and fantastic views over the Alpine National Park including Mt Feathertop and Mt Hotham. Lookout 1 requires climbing staircases and squeezing past huge rocks, so it’s not suitable for those with mobility challenges.
Can I tow a caravan to Powers Lookout?
Yes, there is a turnaround area and room to park with a van. The 4km access road is rough and narrow, so drive carefully.
What is the bushranger connection at Powers Lookout?
Powers Lookout was once the hideout of Bushranger Harry Powers, who mentored a young Ned Kelly. Harry taught Ned bush survival and escaping police techniques. Harry was captured at this bush camp in 1870.
Which lookout should I visit first?
It’s recommended to do Lookout 2 first, but don’t miss Lookout 1 if you’re able to climb the steep staircases and navigate past large rocks.
Are there swimming opportunities at Powers Lookout?
Yes, there’s an extra walk to Powers Waterhole where you can swim. Bring your togs and allocate extra time to visit all three attractions.
How do I get to Powers Lookout?
The turnoff is 45km from Mansfield or 12km from Whitfield. A 4km rough and narrow access road takes you straight to the picnic area and Lookout 2.
What facilities are available at Powers Lookout?
Facilities include wheelchair access at Lookout 2, picnic facilities, and toilets at the picnic area.
How long should I allow for visiting Powers Lookout?
Allocate enough time to visit both lookouts and Powers Waterhole. The walks are relatively short but Lookout 1 requires extra time due to the challenging climb.
