Gariwerd, the Grampians, is known for rocky summits and cliff-edge lookouts in western Victoria. Here are six walks from gentle rockpools to strenuous peaks, plus what to bring.
Rocky climbs and exposed summits call for grip, water and sun protection.
Boots and shoes with grip for rockier, steeper ground.
Bottles and insulated flasks to carry enough water.
Sun hats, caps and beanies for every season.
Packs from small day bags to trekking sizes.
Waterproof jackets and ponchos for sudden showers.
Fleece layers for cool mornings and windy summits.
Gentle lookouts, classic climbs and a long-distance trail through Gariwerd.
A 4.2 km return walk from Sundial Carpark via Devils Gap to the Pinnacle lookout. Parks Victoria calls it the best route for young children or less confident walkers.
Good to knowExpect water crossings and rock-hopping, so sturdy shoes are essential. Fitter walkers can take the more challenging route from Wonderland Carpark through the Grand Canyon and Silent Street.
A gentle walk suitable for walkers of all abilities, leading to viewing platforms perched on the edge of overhanging cliffs. The views stretch over Victoria Valley and the Victoria Range.
Good to knowVisit Grampians puts it at about 2 km return from the Reed Lookout car park, starting with the lookout itself. Stay behind the barriers, as the cliffs are unstable.
A 2.3 km loop from the centre of Halls Gap that crosses Stony Creek near the Botanic Gardens and follows the creek to naturally formed rockpools. Visit Grampians describes the track as flat with no obstacles.
Good to knowThe pools are a popular spot to cool off on warm days, but rocks can be slippery and the cliffs unstable, so watch your footing. Dogs are not allowed.
A 2.2 km return walk from the Hollow Mountain car park that starts in a gully, then climbs steeply past an iron-stained cliff and fallen boulders. Wind-scoured caverns near the top are as striking as the views of Mount Stapylton and the Wimmera Plains.
Good to knowExpect rock hopping, scrambling and slippery surfaces on this adventurous climb. Save it for dry weather and wear shoes with strong grip.
A strenuous walk near Dunkeld that winds through heathy woodland and over rock slabs and stunted montane vegetation to the summit. Parks Victoria calls it one of the finest lookouts in the national park, with views of the Serra Range and Dunkeld.
Good to knowThe track is steep, with slippery rocks and unstable cliffs near the top. Allow plenty of time and carry enough water for a hard climb.
A long-distance trail of about 160 km from Mt Zero in the north to Dunkeld in the south, passing through Halls Gap, usually walked over 13 days with hike-in campgrounds along the way. Shorter overnight hikes and day walks let you sample sections.
Good to knowHike-in campgrounds must be booked before you start and camping fees apply. Water tanks on the trail are untreated, so carry a way to treat water, and check for closures before you set out.
Many Grampians walks involve rock-hopping, rock slabs and steep steps that are slippery when wet. Sturdy shoes or boots with strong grip are essential, as Parks Victoria notes for the Pinnacle.
Climbs such as Mt Abrupt and Hollow Mountain are hard work, especially on warm days. Carry enough water for the whole walk, and treat any water from tanks on the Grampians Peaks Trail.
Rocky summits offer little shade, so pack a hat and sunscreen. Weather in the ranges can change during the day, so a light rain jacket and a warm layer are worth carrying too.
Some sites, including the Mackenzie Falls precinct, close on days of extreme fire danger, and tracks can close after fires, storms or for works. Check Parks Victoria alerts and the fire danger rating before you go.
Venus Baths and Chatauqua Peak start from town, and Brambuk, the National Park and Cultural Centre, can help with current conditions.
Start with the Balconies or the Pinnacle from Sundial Carpark before tackling Hollow Mountain or Mt Abrupt.
The park is part of the Gariwerd Aboriginal cultural landscape. Stay on marked tracks and take all your rubbish home.
| Item | Why | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Hiking boots | Grip on rock slabs and scrambles | Check the tread before a rocky walk |
| Water bottle | Hard climbs and little shade | Carry more than you think you'll need |
| Hat | Exposed summits and lookouts | A wide brim covers your neck and ears |
| Backpack | Room for water, food and layers | Use the hip belt to steady it on scrambles |
| Rain jacket | Weather can change in the ranges | Pack it even when the day starts clear |
| Fleece | Cooler mornings and windy summits | Keep it handy for the top |
The Venus Baths Loop is a flat 2.3 km walk from the centre of Halls Gap to natural rockpools, and the Balconies is a gentle walk to cliff-edge viewing platforms that suits walkers of all abilities. For a little more effort, the Pinnacle from Sundial Carpark is about 4.2 km return and is Parks Victoria's suggested route for young children or less confident walkers. All three make a good first taste of Gariwerd.
Mackenzie Falls is one of the best-known sights in the park, with a 2 km return walk of about 260 steps down to the base and a demanding climb back up. Swimming is not permitted, and the steps and rocks can be very slippery. The precinct can close for works and on days of extreme fire danger, so check Parks Victoria for current access before you go.
Day walks don't need a booking. If you plan to walk the Grampians Peaks Trail over several days, hike-in campgrounds must be booked before you start and camping fees apply. Some campgrounds also need bookings, so check Parks Victoria for current details and any closures before you travel.
Dogs are not permitted on Grampians walks such as Hollow Mountain, Venus Baths and the Boroka Lookout, and national parks in Victoria are usually dog prohibited. Assistance dogs are welcome, with entry requirements. If you're travelling with a dog, plan to walk outside the national park and check local rules.
Many are, as long as you choose walks that suit your fitness and prepare well. Parks Victoria describes the Pinnacle as a walk for fit walkers, though the Sundial route is the easiest way up, and walks like Hollow Mountain and Mt Abrupt involve steep, rocky climbs. Wear sturdy shoes, carry water and layers, keep back from cliff edges and tell someone your plans.
Choose your first walk, check the conditions and pack for rock and sun. We have the kit to help you enjoy the climb.
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