Hiking to Mount Nicoll Lookout - A wonderful Find

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If you haven’t yet had the chance to visit the Mount Nicoll Lookout, you are in for a real treat. This scenic experience takes in not one, but two “blow your socks off’ panoramic views of the South Gippsland countryside.

Living in the Gippsland region, I couldn’t believe I hadn’t had a chance to visit sooner. So when I finally ascended that short summit on a perfect summers day, I knew I had found something amazing. Knowing I could come back again and again if I chose, priceless!

Summiting Mount Nicoll Lookout

Distance: 200 mts one way – 400 mts return

Expected walk time: 15 minutes return

Difficulty: moderate

Located on the Fish Creek – Foster Rd mid way between the townships of Fish Creek and Foster, the trail starts at an already high altitude, so you don’t really have far to go.

Turn onto the Mount Nicoll Road and head for a couple of kilometres to the parking area. The road is gravel going up and enters some steep sections. For this reason caravans are not suitable.

The trail

As mentioned the trail is 200 metres in length (one way) and is signposted at the start of the Mount Nicoll track.

The first thing I notice is how narrow the trail is, with room for one person at a time to navigate. But the bush on the mountain is not thick so visibility is good.

The first part of the trail is relatively easy as it winds its way through a vegetation of native trees, shrubs and bracken ferns. The ground is littered in dry leaf with a clear path carved out for guidance. There are several exposed tree roots so take care when heading up.

As the trail moves upward, the shrubs enclose in and there are sections where I had to step over some of the branches and bracken. My anticipation is far exceeding any momentary discomfort that this is not the most well accessed path. Besides I know I’ll be there in no time.

The First Lookout – Bass Straight & Wilsons Prom

Once you see the clearing, you know you’re almost there.

I’m dazzled by the dizzying heights and can’t believe it took me less than 10 minutes to reach.

The view is insane and looks out across the waters of Bass Straight. I can see farmland directly below and cows look like ants from where I’m standing.

Further out in the distance is the iconic Wilsons Promontory National Park, an absolute superstar of the South Gippsland region. With so much to see and do in Wilsons Prom, be sure to schedule a visit, especially if you are planning a Gippsland road trip.

sitting on a seat at Mount Nicoll lookout with sea views and farm land

The Second Lookout – Gippsland Countryside

Once you have had the chance to take it all in, head directly behind you. Just a few metres away behind the trees is a second and equally impressive view.

The entire South Gippsland countryside is on show, with endless rolling hills extending for miles and miles. Hopefully you’ll get a day of good visibility because when it is clear, it is stunning.

Farmland and forest covered hills are completely unobstructed. I’m literally on top of the world, with no one in sight. The feeling of solitude against the vast outlook is incredible.

I’m super excited to have discovered such an incredible place in my own backyard.

viewing the rolling hills of SOuth Gippsland at Mount Nicolls Lookout near Fish Creek

More things to know about Mount Nicoll Lookout

In order to plan tour visit, here are some simply things to know before you go.

Where is Mount Nicoll Lookout?

If coming from Melbourne, (177 km) you’ll pass through the towns of Leongatha and Meeniyan. You are best to turn off toward Fish Creek where you can stop for coffee, fuel and a bite to eat. There are plenty of great things to do in Fish Creek including several art galleries and the Waratah Hills Winery.

Alternately, you can take the road to Foster and turn off from there. It is a bit longer but you’ll pass the Gurneys Cidery, a worthwhile stop with its own impressive views.

Are dogs allowed on the trail?

Yes, dog are allowed on the Mount Nicoll Lookout track but must be kept on leash at all times.

When is the best time to visit?

Any time of year is suitable to do this walk.

The only thing I would consider is the weather. A rare day of extreme heat may be less comfortable so go early or later in the day. Maybe a sunset or sunrise visit? Wouldn’t that be a stunning time to go.

Also when visibility is low due to rain or fog. You might not get the best views during this time. Also, the trail can get slippery so be aware.