2866 Northern Grampians Road,
Wartook, Victoria
Ph: 03 5383 6200
Walks of the Grampians
Our region of the Grampians has a number of wonderful walks, which enables the visitor to experience the bush, wildflowers, rock formations and contemplate spectacular views. The finest panoramas, and especially the smaller, more secluded scenes are best appreciated from the numerous walking tracks. We will give you detailed maps and information, on what to see and how to get there.
PLEASE NOTE: Due to the fires which occurred in the Grampians in January 2006, a number of walks remain closed. Royce & Jeanne will be able to provide you with an update upon arrival.
Northern Grampians - A great opportunity to investigate the Northern section of the Grampians. You can take a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike to experience the wonderful colours of the Northern area. Take in aboriginal culture and study the wonderful flora. Magnificent views.
Wartook Valley - The main walks in this area are either associated with the MacKenzie River, or the tops of the ranges surrounding the Valley. Follow wonderful riverine habitat to MacKenzie Falls or experience magnificent views and dramatic vistas over large sections of the Park.
Wonderland - A very popular walking area where some of the best and most accessible rock formations may be experienced. Home of the ever popular Pinnacle Walk.
Southern Grampians - A number of dramatic and strenuous walks which reward one with stunning views in all directions. The Major Mitchell Plateau is the best Alpine community walk in the Grampians and the views from the summit of Mt William, are spectacular. On these two walks be prepared for possible weather changes.
Instructions:
- Hover mouse over each blue dot to identify each location
- Click mouse over each blue dot to jump to the Walk information
- After hovering, click the blue link generated below
OR
Mt Zero
| Start: Mt Zero Picnic Area | Time: Approx. 1 hr return | |
| Distance: 2.8km return | Grade: Medium (elevation: 150 m) |
From the carpark cross some heathland and proceed to the top of Mt Zero for wonderful panoramic views of the Wimmera plains and the northern end of the Mount Difficult Range. Interesting rock formations. See great wildflowers in early spring to early summer.
Gulgurn Manja Shelter
| Start: Hollow Mountain Carpark | Time: Approx. 30 mins return | |
| Distance: 1 km return | Grade: Easy (elevation: 30m) |
An easy 1 km return leads to Gulgurn Manja Shelter meaning "Hands of Young People". Interpretive signs tell some of the stories and legends.
Image: Gulgurn Manja Shelter
Hollow Mountain
| Start: Hollow Mountain Carpark | Time: Approx. 1½hr return | |
| Distance: 2.2km return | Grade: Medium (elevation: 150 m) |
Follow the track through great wildflower areas to cliff-face. A short rock scramble to wind scoured caverns from which you get a magnificent view of the Mount Stapylton Range, and the surrounding Wimmera Plains. Return by the same route.
Image: Hollow Mountain
Mt Stapylton
| Start: Mt Zero Picnic Area | Time: Approx. 3 hrs return | |
| Distance: 4.6km return | Grade: Medium / Hard (elevation: 200 m) |
From the picnic area, climb up over Flat Rock and pass through the Amphitheatre. At the base of Mt Stapylton there is a steep climb to the summit. If you do not feel inclined to do the whole of the walk, we recommend that you go to the top of Flat Rock for some awesome views. Interesting rock formations & great views Near Roses Gap.
Image: Flat Rock on the way to Mt Stapylton
Golton Gorge Loop
| Start: Golton Gorge Picnic Area | Time: Approx. 1 hr return | |
| Distance: 2.3 km return | Grade: Medium / Hard (elevation: 130m) |
From the picnic area the track climbs past rocky outcrops to the top of the range and then through grassy forest to the old copper mining area. The track then drops into the wonderful Golton Gorge with water cascades in the wetter months. Follow the creek back to the picnic area.
Ngamadjidj Shelter
| Start: Stapylton Campground | Time: Approx. 10 mins | |
| Distance: 300m return | Grade: Easy (elevation: 1m) |
An aboriginal camping place. This short walk gives an insight into the culture and heritage of the local aboriginal people.
Image: Ngamadjidj Shelter
Beehive Falls
| Start: Beehive Falls Carpark | Time: Approx. 1 hr return | |
| Distance: 2.8km return | Grade: Easy (elevation: 110m) |
From the Roadside carpark at Roses Gap, this easy walk follows the creek to the base of the waterfall. Best in winter or after rain. An excellent walk for wildflowers in the spring and early summer and the chance to see some wildlife.
Briggs Bluff
| Start: Beehive Falls Carpark | Time: Approx. 4-5 hr return | |
| Distance: 10.6km return | Grade: Hard (elevation: 420m) |
From Beehive Falls a 4-5 hour walk takes you up a steep scramble to a plateau with splendid views. Proceed to the base of a cliff-line where signs and markers take you through massive boulders and windswept terraces to the summit and its magnificent view. Rich diversity of flora. Return by same route.
Image: Briggs Bluff
Mt Difficult
| Start: Troopers Creek Campground | Time: Approx. 4-5 hrs return | |
| Distance: 8.8 km return | Grade: Hard (elevation: 470m) |
Troopers Creek Campground is located along Roses Gap Road. A hard climb. Continue beyond Tilwinda Falls to the base of cliff overhangs and then weaves through weathered rock formations and boulders to the summit - the highest point in the Northern Grampians. Return via the same route.
Wartook Historical Site
| Start: Wartook Pottery Car Park | Time: Approx. 1 hr return | |
| Distance: 2km return | Grade: Easy (flat) |
From the pottery, take a leisurely stroll to the MacKenzie River, cross the bridge to the old Wartook School site from where you can see the dilapidated remains of the Rosebrook woolshed. In the other direction from the Pottery have a look at a small patch of Grampians thryptomene – a widely grown plantation flower that is exported to many parts of the world. Across the road and along the fence-line in the spring is a great spot to see greenhood orchids. The Wartook State forest is a typical red-gum forest. The larger red-gums in the past were cut for railway sleepers.
Tilwinda Falls Loop
| Start: Troopers Creek Campground | Time: Approx. 45 mins return | |
| Distance: 1.6 km return | Grade: Medium (elevation: 100m) |
From Troopers Creek, a pleasant walk to a seasonal waterfall. After a gentle climb, the track becomes steeper zig-zagging to the falls which are at their best after rain. Pass a large wind sculptured cave on the way back to the carpark.
Heatherlie Quarry
| Start: Heatherlie Quarry Car Park | Time: Approx. 1 hr return | |
| Distance: 2.4 km return | Grade: Easy (elevation: 40m) |
Nestled at the foot of the Mt Difficult Range great place to explore. A gentle uphill stroll leads to the quarry's rockface, abandoned huts and old machinery. Great for wildflowers in the spring.
Many great Victorian buildings have been built of Heatherlie Sandstone.
Zumstein Historic Walk
| Start: Zumsteins Picnic Area | Time: Approx. ½-1 hr return | |
| Distance: 250m return | Grade: Easy (elevation: 10m) |
An historic picnic area. Take the time to look around the historic walk, and pise' cottages. Signs tell the story of Walter Zumstein and the area he developed. The Walter & Jean Zumstein Memorial Water Garden is developing and it is interesting to see the manner in which the rocks have been made and the way the water flows over them. The aim is to show a labelled display of Grampians flora.
MacKenzie River Walk
| Start: Zumsteins Picnic Area | Time: Approx. 3 hrs return | |
| Distance: 7 km return | Grade: Medium (elevation: 80m) |
Start at Zumsteins - less than 10 minutes by car from Wartook Gardens. A very pleasant walk in a riverine habitat. The track meanders up the MacKenzie River Gorge to the terraced Fish Falls (Almost ¾ of the distance to MacKenzie Falls). The track from Fish Falls to MacKenzie Falls is a little rough, but MacKenzie Falls is the largest falls in the Grampians and well worth the walk. There is always a good flow of water, whatever the season, as the River forms Horsham's Water Supply.
Image: MacKenzie River Walk
MacKenzie Falls
| Start: MacKenzie Falls Carpark | Time: Approx. 1 hr return | |
| Distance: 2 km return | Grade: Medium (Easy to Broken Falls) (elevation: 110m) |
One of the most popular spots in the Grampians and Victoria's largest Waterfall. As the River is Horsham's Water supply, there is always a good flow of water over the falls. There is actually a series of waterfalls, with MacKenzie Falls being the largest.
A gentle stroll takes you to a viewing platform overlooking Broken Falls. A recently completed track enables you to more easily descend to the base of the spectacular MacKenzie Falls, where you can enjoy the cool atmosphere. A great photographic opportunity. On the way down Cranages Lookout enables you appreciate the Mackenzie River Gorge. The return walk is quite strenuous - take it easy.
Image: MacKenzie Falls from the bottom
MacKenzie Falls Lookout
| Start: MacKenzie Falls Carpark | Time: Approx. 40 mins return | |
| Distance: 1.9 km return | Grade: Easy (elevation: 10m) |
If you do not wish to descend to the base of the falls you may wish to take the Bluff Walk (suitable for wheelchairs and those with limited mobility) to get a wonderful view of the MacKenzie River Gorge and a bird's eye view of the MacKenzie Falls. Follow the signs from the track junction beyond the kiosk.
Don't forget to take the short drive for a look at nearby Lake Wartook.
Image: Broken Falls above MacKenzie Falls
Boroka Lookout
| Start: Boroka Lookout Carpark | Time: 15-30 minutes viewing | |
| Distance: 50m return | Grade: Easy (flat) |
One of the best lookouts in the Grampians. From the carpark a very short walk to the lookout platform offers spectacular 180 degree views out over the countryside to the north and east and over Halls Gap and Lake Bellfield to the south. Pick out Lake Lonsdale, Lake Fyans and see Stawell in the distance. A great bird's eye view of Halls Gap and the Elephant Hide. Picnic tables and toilets are available.
Image: Boroka Lookout looking at Halls Gap / Lake Bellfield
Burrong Falls
| Start: Carpark Rose Creek Rd | Time: Approx. 20 mins return | |
| Distance: 650m return | Grade: Easy (elevation: 30m) |
The carpark along Rose Creek Rd is 8.8km from Northern Grampians Rd (Mt Victory Rd). A picturesque waterfall off the Rose Creek Road, is at its best in late winter and spring when the water cascades over several tiers. In addition there is a great wildflower display at the Falls area in winter, spring and also along the Rose Creek Road.
Reed Lookout / The Balconies
| Start: Reed Lookout Carpark | Time: Approx. 45 mins return | |
| Distance: 2 km return | Grade: Easy (elevation: 50m) |
Relatively easy walk to the Balconies, another great photographic opportunity. Exceptional views of the Victoria Range and valley to the south, and Lake Wartook and the Mount Difficult Range to the north. A magnificent location for taking early misty morning, and romantic sunset evening photographs.
Image: Balconies
Venus Baths Loop
| Start: Halls Gap | Time: Approx. 45 mins return | |
| Distance: 2.3 km return | Grade: Easy (elevation: 50m) |
From the carpark opposite the shops in Halls Gap, walk past the swimming pool, cross the road, over the suspension bridge to the Botanic Gardens. The track winds along the creek past towering cliffs. The delightful rockpools are just beyond a footbridge. Return via same route.
Grand Canyon Loop
| Start: Wonderland Carpark | Time: Approx. 30 mins return | |
| Distance: 900m return | Grade: Medium (elevation: 60m) |
If you don't want to go all of the way to the Pinnacle (Wonderland Car Park to The Pinnacle walk), take this walk.
From the Wonderland Carpark, cross the Stony Creek and travel via the impressive Grand Canyon. As you leave the Canyon, turn right and return to the Wonderland carpark via rocky terraces.
Image: Grand Canyon
Wonderland Car Park to The Pinnacle
| Start: Wonderland Carpark | Time: Approx. 2-2½ hrs return | |
| Distance: 4.2 km return | Grade: Medium / Hard (elevation: 280m) |
From the Wonderland Carpark, cross the Stony Creek and travel via the impressive Grand Canyon and wonderful rock formations of Silent Street to the awe inspiring views from the Pinnacle.
Image: The Pinnacle
Sundial Carpark to The Pinnacle
| Start: Sundial Carpark | Time: Approx. 1½-2 hrs return | |
| Distance: 4.2 km return | Grade: Medium (elevation: 110m) |
From the Sundial Carpark follow the track to the Pinnacle via Devil's Gap - the easiest route to the Pinnacle.
Image: Escarpment near The Pinnacle
Boronia Peak
| Start: Tandara Road Carpark | Time: Approx. 2-3 hrs return | |
| Distance: 6.6 km return | Grade: Medium (elevation: 300m) |
From the carpark, cross Fyans Creek and walk through tall messmate and native pine, before a rocky scramble to the summit. Superb views over the Fyans Valley.
Turret Falls
| Start: Wonderland Carpark | Time: Approx. 45 mins return | |
| Distance: 2.2 km return | Grade: Medium (elevation: 110m) |
From the Wonderland Carpark the track climbs to Stony Creek and then follows it to a rocky terrace above Turret Falls (Best after rain). Return via same route.
Lakeview Lookout Loop
| Start: Sundial Carpark | Time: Approx. 45 mins return | |
| Distance: 1.8 km return | Grade: Easy (elevation: 20m) |
Take the Sundial Peak track from the carpark and follow Lakeview track at the intersection. After taking in the views across to the Mt William Range, go back to the intersection and return to Sundial carpark via Devil's Gap.
Delleys Dell
| Start: Delleys Dell Carpark | Time: Approx. 30 mins return | |
| Distance: 800m return | Grade: Easy (elevation: 20m) |
The track beside Dairy Creek is shaded by a canopy of treeferns with mosses and epiphytes on the trunks. One of the few places in the Grampians where there is a wet sclerophyll forest. A great place on a hot day and even more beautiful after rain.
Silverband Falls
| Start: Silverband Falls Carpark | Time: Approx. 40 mins return | |
| Distance: 1.4 km return | Grade: Easy |
The track beside Dairy Creek is shaded by a canopy of treeferns. Cool in Summer. Silverband Falls is a picturesque waterfall, best June to November.
Mt Rosea Loop
| Start: Rosea Campground, Silverband Road | Time: Approx. 4-5 hrs return | |
| Distance: 12 km loop | Grade: Medium (elevation: 430m) |
From Rosea Campground cross Stony Creek Road for a climb through messmate forest to the plateau. Follow markers through sandstone outcrops, Eagle Rock and cross bridge over the Gate of the East Wind. Continue the ascent up terraces to the intersection, turning left to the summit. View is one of the most spectacular in the Park. Returning to the intersection veer left and continue until it widens into an old 4WD track. Follow this to Burma Track and continue along Burma track to reach Silverband Road. Turn right down the road for 200m and take the Delley's Dell walking track through Soft Tree Ferns to the Silverband Road and back to the campground.
Paddy Castle
| Start: Glenelg River Road | Time: Approx. 25 mins return | |
| Distance: 600m return | Grade: Medium (elevation: 30m) |
A short steep walk (25 minutes) to a lookout with great views of the Victoria Valley and the surrounding ranges.
From the carpark, west of Boreang Campground, walk through shrubby heathland to the edge of Paddy Castle. Follow the track and a short rock scramble takes you to the top.
Image: Paddy's Castle
Red Gum Loop
| Start: Henham Track off Glenelg River Road | Time: Approx. 45 mins / 20 mins return | |
| Distance: 2 km / 500m return | Grade: Easy (elevation: 1m) |
Suitable for those with limited mobility.
A leisurely stroll through a forest of large redgums. Signs provide interesting information on the local environment.
Moora Moora
| Start: Moora Moora Reservoir | Time: Approx. 30-180 mins | |
| Distance: 0-3km return | Grade: Easy (flat) |
Moora Moora is one of the Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water Scheme reservoirs and because of its sheltered nature is ideal for canoeing. It also a historic site and there are informative panels giving the history of the original homestead and the area. Great birdlife and a chance to enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the Victoria Valley.
Image:
Billimina Shelter Loop
| Start: Buandik Picnic Area | Time: Approx. 45 mins return | |
| Distance: 1.7 km loop | Grade: Medium (elevation: 100m) |
Follow the creek upstream to Buandik Falls (best after rain). A short uphill walk leads to Billimina shelter in a massive rock overhang.
Manja Shelter
| Start: Carpark Harrop Track | Time: Approx. 1 hr return | |
| Distance: 2.6 km loop | Grade: Easy (elevation: 100m) |
An easy uphill walk across boardwalks and some steps to the shelter. The boardwalks protect the moist heathland areas. An aboriginal cultural site.
Image: Manja Shelter
Mt Thackeray
| Start: Victoria Range Road (4WD & seasonally closed) | Time: Approx. 1 hr return | |
| Distance: 2.5 km return | Grade: Medium / Hard (elevation: 100m) |
Covers a range of surfaces, through open forest, mint bush and tea-tree to the base of Mt Thackeray. The track rises over rocks to the summit. 360 degree views of the ranges and surrounding plains.
Mt William Carpark to Summit
| Start: Mt William Carpark | Time: Approx. 1 hr return | |
| Distance: 3.6 km return | Grade: Medium (elevation: 247m) |
A steep 1 to 1½ hours walk up a sealed road closed to public vehicles. At 1167m Mt William is the highest point in the Grampians. Fantastic views. Be prepared for cold and windy conditions on the summit.
Kalymna Falls
| Start: Picnic Ground Road | Time: 1hr return | |
| Distance: 1.5 km | Grade: Medium (elevation: 100m) |
Follow the 4WD track uphill through open stringybark forest to the signposted Kalymna Falls turn off. The track descends through tea tree to the base of the Falls. The 15m falls cascade over the sandstone cliffs A delightful spot, with a wide variety of fern species clinging to the rocks. Return via the same route.
Image:
Brownings Loop Walk Mafeking
| Start: Mafeking Carpark | Time: Approx. 45 mins return | |
| Distance: 2 km return | Grade: Easy (elevation: 250m) |
Shortly after 1900, Mafeking catered for 10,000 miners. Today a self guided walk takes you to remaining historic features. There are many exposed mineshafts in the area - keep to the track.
The Chimney Pots
| Start: Chimney Pots carpark, Glenelg River Road | Time: Approx. 3 hrs return | |
| Distance: 2.8 km loop | Grade: Hard (elevation: 320m) |
A great walk for those who want to get away from people. The walk takes you up a unique rock stack. The summit offers great panoramic views.
Mt Abrupt
| Start: Mt Abrupt Carpark, Grampians Tourist Road | Time: Approx. 3 hrs return | |
| Distance: 6.5 km return | Grade: Hard (elevation: 460m) |
The initial climb is quite difficult as you zig-zag up the mountain. A strenuous hike over varying surfaces to spectacular views.
The Piccaninny
| Start: Piccaninny Carpark, Grampians Tourist Road | Time: Approx. 1 hr return | |
| Distance: 2.4 km return | Grade: Easy / Medium (elevation: 130m) |
A gradual climb through open forest with an understorey of wildflowers. Great views of Mt Abrupt and Dunkeld and to the plains beyond.
Mt Sturgeon
| Start: Intersection of Grampians Tourist Road and Victoria Valley Road | Time: Approx. 3 hrs return | |
| Distance: 7 km return | Grade: Hard (elevation: 340m) |
A walk that can cross a variety of surfaces. Steep sections pass through rocky terrain and stunted vegetation. Panoramic views of the surrounding ranges, Dunkeld and the plains.