Mount Buffalo National Park
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Mount Buffalo is a mountain plateau in Victoria (Australia), 200 km northeast of Melbourne. The park was established in 1898 and it has been popular ever since.
Originally the national park area covered only the area around the Buffalo Gorge, but it has been expanded several times, and now covers the entire plateau and the slopes around it.
Mount Buffalo is a moderately tall mountain plateau (elev 1723 metres) on the west side of the Victoria Alpine region. The top of the mountain has striking granite boulders and rock formations. From a distance, the mountain is quite remarkable, with the highest accessible point being a prominent peak called "The Horn". A walking track leads to The Horn and visitors can climb a metal ladder to enjoy the 360 degree view from the top.
Visitor accommodation is available at the small family-friendly ski resort on the top (Mt Buffalo Lodge), at the historic guest house, the Mount Buffalo Chalet, built in 1910. The view from the chalet overlooks large sheets of granite and spectacular views of the Ovens Valley below. This is a popular hang-gliding site. There is also a camping ground at Lake Catani which is open from November to April. During the winter season, Mount Buffalo is a popular destination for beginner skiers. There is a small gently sloping ski area near the Lodge which is ideal for beginners ski lessons, and many cross-country ski trails for more experienced skiers. Visitors can also stay at the nearby town of Bright.
Fact sheet
- Area: 310.00 km²
- Coordinates: Template:Coor dms
- Date of establishment: 1898
- Managing authorities: Parks Victoria
- IUCN category: II
See also: Protected areas of Victoria (Australia)
External links
- Mt Buffalo Chalet (http://www.mtbuffalochalet.com.au/index.asp)
- Parks Victoria - Mt Buffalo (http://www.parkweb.vic.gov.au/1park_display.cfm)