At 1805 metres above sea level, Mt Buller’s summit quite literally has its head in the clouds.
It’s here, on the western face of the mountain, that RockWire traces a line across the rock using steel cables, ladders and a healthy sense of curiosity.
Although it may sound intimidating, many climbers quickly discover it is far more achievable than it looks.
The people who are climbing the route may surprise you.
RockWire attracts plenty of first timers, from curious hikers to travellers simply looking for something different to try in the High Country.
Many arrive unsure what they’ve signed up for, only to find the experience is less about technical climbing and more about steady movement, fresh mountain air and taking things one step at a time.
As one climber described it, the route is “exposed enough to feel exciting and adventurous, but still very achievable with a good level of fitness”, while another admitted she arrived unsure what to expect but left “hooked”.
Guides are always close by, not just to offer encouragement, but to share stories of the mountain itself.
Climbers often leave with more than just the view, learning about Taungurung Country, the resilient alpine flora that clings to the rock and the fauna that moves through the mountain as the seasons shift from summer into autumn.
This season also saw the introduction of a Route 2.
The extended climb adds a few new challenges, including a suspension bridge where climbers can pause and look straight down the mountain.
Many take the chance to clip in, lean back hands free and hang over the western face, grinning like kids who’ve discovered a new playground.
But we’re not done yet.
Construction of Route 3 is already underway.
Via ferrata climbing is beginning to gain traction in Australia, with new routes emerging across the country.
Yet Mt Buller remains home to Australia’s only alpine via ferrata, where climbers move across the summit cliffs with sweeping views of the Victorian High Country.
Perhaps that’s the appeal.
A chance to try something unexpected, challenge yourself just a little and walk away with a story you didn’t quite expect to tell.