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Everything you need to know about Grampians National Park
Located just a three-and-a-half-hour road trip away from Melbourne, Grampians National Park is a gateway to rich cultural heritage, diverse ecosystems, and breathtaking landscapes. It's no wonder that this magnificent park is such a popular Melbourne holiday destination and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Melbourne’s vicinity. Best of all, the park's ancient Aboriginal rock art sites and significant cultural landmarks are the perfect way to immerse yourself in the time-honoured stories and sacred traditions of the local indigenous people.
But the Grampians isn't just about history. It's also a vibrant testament to nature's artistry. With rugged sandstone mountains, cascading waterfalls, colourful wildflowers, and diverse animal species, this park is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike. Before venturing into this wild, rugged landscape, it’s important to familiarise yourself with the park's regulations, safety guidelines, and conservation efforts. This knowledge ensures you'll not only have a fun and safe Grampians walk but also contribute to the preservation of this priceless natural gem.
Image: Visit Victoria
How to choose the right walking trail
When it comes to hiking in the Grampians, the biggest challenge might be deciding which trail to take. Whether you're looking for a short scenic stroll or a challenging multi-day trek, there's a Grampians walk that's just right for you. To choose the right trail, consider your fitness level, the amount of time you have, and what you'd like to see. Still not sure? Here's a breakdown of some of the top Grampians trails by grading to help you choose the right trails for your Grampians adventure:
Easy Hikes in the Grampians
These walks are ideal for those who prefer leisurely strolls with little to no steep inclines. They're perfect for families, older adults, or those who simply want to enjoy a tranquil walk amidst nature.
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Venus Baths Loop: An easy 2.3km loop, suitable for all ages and fitness levels, a short distance from Halls Gap. With beautiful rock pools and woodland settings, this is an enjoyable, laid-back walk.
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The Balconies/Reed Lookout: The Reed Lookout is flat and accessible lookout on the edge of a convenient parking lot. It boasts some of the most stunning views in the park, and it is the starting point for the 2km return trail to see the iconic ‘Jaws of Death’ (now known simply as the Balconies) without breaking a sweat!
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Silverband Falls Walk: A relatively easy 1.4km return walk, the trail leads you to one of the most distinctive waterfalls in the park, Silverband Falls, where the water flows down the rock face, disappearing into a sandy bed.
Medium-level hikes in the Grampians
These trails are great for those with a moderate fitness level who love a bit of a challenge and don't mind getting their heart rate up.
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Boronia Peak Walk: This is a moderately challenging walk that takes you through beautiful woodlands to the summit of Boronia Peak. At 6.6km return and with an estimated completion time of 2.5 hours, it's great for beginners who want to try a slightly longer walk.
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The Pinnacle Walk & Lookout: Starting from the Wonderland Car Park, this trail is 4.2km return or 9.6 km if you begin in Halls Gap. Either way, it requires a fair amount of endurance and strength as it involves steep inclines and rocky sections. But the breathtaking views at the top are worth every step.
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Chatauqua Peak Walk: This 6km return walk is a beautiful journey that takes you through fern gullies and stringybark forests to the summit of Chautauqua Peak. The trail offers panoramic views of Halls Gap Valley and the Wonderland Range.
Challenging hikes in the Grampians
These hikes are for experienced hikers or those looking for a real challenge. They require good fitness levels, preparation, and proper hiking gear.
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Mount William (Duwul): This 3.6km return trail is a relatively short but steep climb to the highest peak in the Grampians. You'll need to push yourself, but the views from the summit are simply unforgettable.
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Mount Rosea (Bugiga Mirgani) Loop Walk: A challenging 10km loop, this track takes you through diverse landscapes and up to a stunning viewpoint of the Serra and Mount William Ranges. This anticipated return journey takes around five hours, so requires stamina, a sense of adventure, and adequate preparation.
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The Grampians Peak Trail: For a multi-day hiking experience, try the Grampians Peak Trail. This trail extends over 160km and takes 13 days to complete if you decide to do the entire stretch. The trail showcases the beauty and diversity of the Grampians landscape, and you can choose to do shorter sections of the trail if you're not up for the full 13-day trek.
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Major Mitchell Plateau: Want a multiday weekend adventure? This challenging 40km hike is the perfect 3-day hike for a long weekend. Starting at Sheep Hills car park, the trail winds way through an open forest, a swampy depression, and a stringybark woodland before reaching the plateau. Be prepared for a steep, rocky climb in sections with elevation changes of up to 850 metres.
Remember, no matter your fitness level or hiking experience, there's a trail on the Grampians map that's perfect for you. Listen to your body, respect your limits, and, most importantly, enjoy the incredible beauty the park has to offer.
Image: Visit Victoria
How to prepare for hiking in Grampians National Park
Preparation is key for any hike, and in the Grampians, it's no different. Ensure you have the essentials, including:
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Sturdy footwear
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Weather-appropriate clothing
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Sunscreen
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Insect repellent
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Headlamp (it can be a lifesaver if your hike takes longer than planned and you find yourself out after sunset!)
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A good old-fashioned map and compass (they're your best friends when navigating the trails)
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Plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated and energised
A few other top things to consider before setting off:
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Let someone know your hiking plans
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Check weather forecasts and trail conditions (including sunset times)
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Check for park alerts to avoid any unwanted surprises
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Stock up your campervan kitchen so you can cook up a gourmet meal in your campervan after your hike (insiders tip!)
Remember, your Melbourne holiday adventure should be about fun, not stress!
What to expect when hiking in Grampians National Park
Ready for an unforgettable travel itinerary? Hiking in the Grampians means being surrounded by an amazing variety of flora and fauna. Don't be surprised if you run into a kangaroo or an emu, and look up to see wedge-tailed eagles soaring above. The park also boasts a wide array of native plants and wildflowers that are especially stunning in the springtime.
As for the geological wonders, you're in for a real treat. Rugged sandstone peaks, deep gorges, and sparkling waterfalls are just a taste of what the Grampians has to offer. While you’re out there, remember – this isn't a race! Take your time, soak in the natural beauty, and most importantly, leave no trace behind to help preserve this magical place for future generations.
Safety tips for hiking in Grampians National Park
Staying safe while enjoying your hike is crucial. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
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Stay on designated trails
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Respect wildlife from a distance
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Admire cultural sites without touching
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Carry a first-aid kit
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Watch out for snakes
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Be aware of potential hazards like cliffs and slippery rocks
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Follow park regulations, including fire restrictions or closures
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Avoid overexertion and know your limits (especially in the warmer summer months)
Top 5 hiking trails in Grampians National Park
With so many trails to choose from, we've narrowed it down to the top five trails that you simply can't miss on your Australia road trip to the Grampians.
Image: Visit Victoria
The Pinnacle Walk & Lookout
A trip to the Grampians wouldn't be complete without conquering the popular Pinnacle Walk. It's a moderate to difficult track, well-suited to hikers who enjoy a little challenge and a lot of panoramic views. Start your journey to the Pinnacle Walk & Lookout at the Wonderland Carpark. This 3.9 km walk takes approximately 2 hours. It's a steep trek with some rocky sections, making it a perfect choice for adventurers seeking a challenging trail.
As you ascend, you'll pass through the Grand Canyon, a spectacular natural formation with its magnificent sandstone walls. Near the top, Silent Street, a narrow alleyway between two towering cliffs, adds to the grandeur of the hike. Once you reach the Pinnacle, be prepared for panoramic views of Halls Gap and the Grampians' rugged western escarpment. This hike is a great way to immerse yourself in the Grampians' impressive geological features.
Length: 3.9 km
Duration: 2 hours
Difficulty: Easy to Medium
Venus Baths Loop
The Venus Baths Loop is a relatively short and easy walk, perfect for families or those looking for a leisurely stroll. This short, easy 2.3km loop trail leads you through a botanical garden to a rock pool area known as Venus Baths and takes about an hour to complete. Starting from the Halls Gap Botanic Gardens, the trail meanders alongside Stony Creek, leading to a beautiful rock pool area. These natural rock pools are perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot day. The surrounding woodland, rich with birdlife and native flora, makes for a relaxing and peaceful hike. Dip your toes in the water or just enjoy the serene surroundings, this walk is a perfect chill-out spot or destination for a summer picnic.
Length: 2.3 km
Duration: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
The Balconies/Reed lookout
The Balconies and Reed Lookout offer one of the best views in the park without requiring much effort. Reed Lookout provides an accessible and stunning vista of the Victoria Valley, Victoria Range, Serra Range, and Lake Wartook. Just a short walk away, the Balconies offer a spectacular view of the Grampians' landscape. The jutting rocks below, often referred to as the 'Jaws of Death', make for a great photo opportunity. The 2km return trail from the Reed Lookout car park is relatively flat and easy, making it accessible to nearly everyone.
Length: 2 km
Duration: 30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Mount William (Duwul)
For fit hikers looking for a challenge, Mount William, or Duwul as it's known traditionally, provides the perfect hiking experience. The steep trail might test your endurance, but the panoramic views from the top are worth every step. This challenging 3.6km return trek can take up to 1.5 hours. The trail starts at the Mt William car park, located halfway up the mountain. As you ascend, keep an eye out for native wildlife and unique alpine vegetation that inhabit these high-altitude areas. The path is steep and relentless, but your efforts are rewarded with the most extraordinary 360-degree views across the entire park and surrounding plains.
Length: 3.5 km
Duration: 1.5 hours
Difficulty: Medium to Advanced
Mount Rosea (Bugiga Mirgani) Loop Walk
Last but certainly not least, Mount Rosea Loop Walk should be on your Grampians walk list. This 10km loop track is classified as a medium hike with some challenging sections. Expect to spend about 5 to 6 hours on this trail while soaking up panoramas and wandering past gigantic moss-covered boulders and dense eucalyptus forests. As you reach the summit, you'll be greeted with breathtaking views of the Serra and Mt William ranges. This moderate to difficult trail promises an adventurous journey to the heart of the Grampians. Remember to take plenty of water and snacks, and ensure you have enough time to complete the walk before sunset. This hike is the perfect way to experience the Grampians' unique and rugged beauty.
Length: 8.6 km
Duration: 6 hours
Difficulty: Medium to Advanced
Ready to explore Grampians National Park with maui?
Well, there you have it! A comprehensive guide to hiking in Grampians National Park. From planning and preparation to safety tips and top trails, we've got you covered. There are so many great reasons to travel Australia by motorhome, so why wait? Book your maui camper today online or from your local motorhome hire branch, pack your adventure gear, and get ready for one of the best road trips from Melbourne.
For more tips on planning your first driving holiday, other top Victoria road trip destinations, and other motorhome tips, check out the maui blog for more inspiration.