7 Peaks Epic Road Cycling Challenge

ByVince Masci

PostedJuly 18, 2024

7 Peaks used to be a thing and then there was COVID and now not a thing.

LET'S BRING BACK THE THING!

Instead of a jersey I should be able to arrange a pair of socks with a 7 peaks logo of sorts that you can wear to commemorate your legendary effort (work in progress). I'll even get a leaderboard going, so bare with me while all the fun things come together.

Master the alpine heights of Victoria's High Country!
Riding season: October to April every year!!
Complete all 7 peaks in one season, celebrate with socks!!!

Scroll down for more pictures and information on the rides.

Lake Mountain
→20.5km +1124, 4.5% Ave
Hard

The ride begins in the quaint town of Marysville around a two and a half hours drive North East of Melbourne.

As you leave Marysville, the climb starts almost immediately. The gradient is gentle at first, allowing you to find your rhythm and get comfortable on your bike.

As you ascend, you’ll enter the dense, cool forests of the Yarra Ranges. The road is lined with towering mountain ash trees and lush undergrowth. The air is crisp, and the sounds of nature provide a soothing backdrop to your ride.

The gradient gradually increases, with some sections reaching up to 10%. These steeper parts require steady effort and good pacing. The road winds through hairpin turns, offering periodic glimpses of the valley below and the peaks above.

Along the way, you’ll pass several lookouts, including Jocks and Robleys. These spots are perfect for a short break, where you can take in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

The last few kilometers are the toughest, with sustained gradients that test your endurance. However, the cooler temperatures and the anticipation of reaching the summit keep you motivated.

Overall, the climb up Lake Mountain is about 20 kilometers long with an average gradient of around 4-5%, but with steeper sections that can be quite challenging.

"Aside from the pinchy bits at the start of the climb, I really like The Lake Mountain climb as it's very mellow in the mid section meaning you can appreciate the views. Marysville is also a gorgeous little town."

Mt Baw Baw
→6.5km +748, 11.4% Ave
Very Hard

Climbing Mount Baw Baw by bicycle is considered one of the most challenging climbs in Australia, known for its steep gradients and relentless ascent.

The climb typically starts from the small town of Tanjil Bren (2.5 - 3hrs by car), however, the official segment is really only 6.5km long.

The initial section of the climb is immediately tough, with steep gradients that demand low gearing and a steady pace. As you leave Tanjil Bren, the road starts to climb sharply through dense forest.

As you continue on, the gradient becomes increasingly severe. The climb features numerous hairpin bends and unrelenting slopes. The steepest sections can reach up to 20%

The road winds through the lush, temperate rainforest of the Baw Baw National Park. The dense canopy provides some shade, but the steep gradients continue unabated.

After several kilometers of grueling ascent, the road begins to level out slightly as you approach the Mount Baw Baw Alpine Resort. This section provides a slight reprieve, but the overall gradient remains challenging.

The last few hundred meters to the summit are less steep but still require effort. The road opens up, and you begin to see signs of the resort.

Once at the summit, you reach the Mount Baw Baw Alpine Resort. Here, you can take a well-deserved break, enjoy the alpine views, and reflect on the accomplishment of conquering one of the toughest climbs in Australia.

"To be blunt, Baw Baw is a prick of a climb. It says 11% average but it feels more like you are holding 20% for 6.5km. The way back down isn't much fun either"

Mt Hotham
→28.7km +1488, 4.7% Ave
Very Hard
The climb begins in the small town of Harrietville (4hr drive from Melbourne), situated at an elevation of about 500 meters. This is a popular spot for cyclists to gather and prepare before tackling the ascent.

The initial winding stretches of the climb start off fairly reasonably before facing the iconic steep stretch around 5km in, known as "The Meg".

The gradient eases slightly after The Meg, allowing you to find some rhythm, finding your way through dense forest, offering some shade and beautiful scenery.

The road flattens out slightly in what is known as the "False Flat". This section allows for some recovery as you continue to climb. The scenery opens up, providing panoramic views of the surrounding alpine landscape.

CRB Hill is one of the most challenging parts of the climb with steep gradients and tight switchbacks.

Nearing the summit, you'll tackle the Diamantina Spur - this section includes gradients up to 11%. It is exposed to strong winds, adding another layer of difficulty.

"Hotham is probably my favourite climb of them all. I feel that the views whist riding up Hotham are among some of the most sweeping and iconic that you'll find in Australia. Although certainly one of the toughest on the list."

Dinner Plain
→42.8km +943, 2.2% Ave
Hard

The first part of the ride takes you through rolling hills and pastoral landscapes. This section is relatively gentle, allowing you to find a good rhythm before the steeper sections.

The climb slowly begins to ramp up into some sustained climbing before things really ramp up into higher gradients before passing the Mt. Kosciuszko lookout.

From there the road is more undulating, with a mix of short climbs and descents before the gradient increases again and the road starts to climb more consistently. The scenery transitions to more alpine landscapes, with tall eucalyptus trees and open plains.

The next section features several challenging climbs, with gradients reaching up to 8%. The road winds through beautiful alpine terrain, providing stunning views and a sense of isolation.

The final kilometers to Dinner Plain involve sustained climbing, but the gradients are less severe compared to earlier sections. The approach to Dinner Plain is marked by beautiful open plains and alpine meadows.

"Dinner Plain is certainly the most mentally challenging of all the climbs given it's length and variability in climbing. It's also quite exposed and remote adding to the challenge."

*I can't find the profile on Velo Viewer, however you can view the segment on Strava here.

Falls Creek
→29.6km +1308, 3.9% Ave)
Hard

The climb begins in the small town of Mount Beauty (4.5hr drive from Melbourne), known for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities. The route takes you through the lush Kiewa Valley before the serious climbing begins.

The climb starts as you leave Mount Beauty, with a relatively gentle gradient allowing you to find a steady rhythm. This initial section provides a good warm-up for the more challenging parts of the climb.

About 12 kilometers into the climb, you reach Bogong Village. The road here winds through picturesque forested areas, offering some shade and beautiful views.

After Bogong Village, the gradient increases significantly, with some sections reaching up to 10%. The road becomes more winding, with tight hairpin bends. The scenery is breathtaking, with dense forest giving way to more open alpine areas as you gain elevation.

The last 10 kilometers are the most challenging, with sustained steep gradients. The road is exposed to the elements, so you might encounter strong winds or varying weather conditions. The effort is rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the Alpine National Park and the surrounding valleys.

Reaching the summit at Falls Creek Alpine Resort is a significant accomplishment. The resort offers various amenities where you can rest, refuel, and enjoy the magnificent alpine environment.

"I really enjoy the Falls Creek climb, it's certainly more relaxed than some of the others despite its length. There's normally some shops open up top also which makes for a really good coffee stop."

Mount Buffalo
→18km +1014, 5.6% Ave
Hard

The ride begins in the picturesque town of Bright (4hrs from Melbourne), providing a gentle warm-up as you head out along the Great Alpine Road.

The climb starts at the park entrance with a moderate gradient, allowing you to find a comfortable rhythm. The road winds through lush, green forests, offering shade and a serene atmosphere.

The climb becomes steeper and more demanding, with sections reaching gradients up to 10%. The road continues to wind through dense alpine forests, and the views become increasingly spectacular as you gain elevation.

"Certainly up there with one of my favourite climbs as the gradient is very managable through the entire climb, not to mention the views and the coffee van on top"

Mount Buller
→15.2km +1318m, 6% Ave
Hard

The climb begins at the base of the mountain in Mirimbah, with a gentle warm-up before the gradient increases.

Mirimbah to Chain Bay provides a steady climb through lush forests, with gentle switchbacks.

Approaching Hell Corner the gradient increases, and the road winds more sharply. The forest begins to thin, offering glimpses of the surrounding mountains.

Up to Horse Hill, the climb becomes more demanding, with steeper gradients and tighter turns. The views open up, showcasing the alpine landscape.

The final push to the village is tough but rewarding. The road continues to wind upward, and the air becomes cooler and crisper.

"Mount Buller is the climb that I am least familiar with having only completed it the once. I do remember it being fairly relaxed in comparison to the more extreme climbs with wonderful views at the top."