Before British colonisation, Mount Buffalo was visited by the Mitambuta and Taungurung people who visited to feast on Bogong moths (Agrotis infusa). The Taungurung name for the mountain was Tubbalunganer.[3]
Hamilton Hume and William Hovell were the first Europeans to visit the area and they named the mountain during their 1824 expedition, noting the mountain's resemblance to a giant, sleeping buffalo.[4]
There are extensive walking tracks across the Plateau that is studded with large granitetors. The Mount Buffalo Gorge has sheer granite cliffs that provide good views down to the Ovens Valley. The cliffs are popular for rock climbing. There is a launch ramp for hang gliders at the cliffs.
There are waterfalls on the edge of escarpment.
The Mount Buffalo Chalet provided accommodation on the mountain but is not currently operating.
During winter Mount Buffalo offers snow play and cross-country skiing.
Lake Catani on the plateau is used for canoeing, fishing and swimming.[5]
Climate
Climate data are sourced from Mount Buffalo Chalet, situated at an altitude of 1,350 metres (4,430 ft). An extreme winter rainfall peak is noted, with a large quantity falling as heavy snow.
Climate data for Mount Buffalo Chalet (1910–1980, rainfall to 2021); 1,350 m AMSL; 36.72° S, 146.82° E
^Robinson, George Augustus; Clark, Ian (2014). The Travels of George Augustus Robinson, Chief Protector, Port Phillip Aboriginal Protectorate. CreateSpace. ISBN9781499662078.
