Your Essential Travel

Intrepid Vacations: Walk the Grampians Peaks Trail

Day 1 Melbourne / Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park
Your adventure begins in Melbourne (Narrm in the language of the Wurundjeri people, who are the traditional owners of the land on which Melbourne is now located). You'll meet your group early this morning at 8 am and head straight for the spectacular Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park, which spans the ancestral lands of the Djab Wurrung and Jadawadjali peoples. On the way, stop for morning tea and get to know your fellow hikers, then stop in Halls Gap for lunch. This afternoon, you’ll head out on a walk to MacKenzie Falls – the most iconic waterfall in the Grampians. The walk back may get a bit challenging, but the views are all worth it! Next, you’ll walk through The Balconies to see the interesting rock formations and sweeping views of the Victorian plains. After checking in at your accommodation, refresh and mingle with your fellow walkers over dinner.
(D)

Day 2 Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park
Today, you’ll head off to Mt Zero Trailhead – the most northern section of the Grampian Peaks Trail. Heading south, you’ll hike mainly along the ridgeline, passing over rocky slabs with views of Staplyton Amphitheatre and the orange wave of Taipan Wall. Then, venture through low forest and dense scrub to Golton Creek. Ascend again toward the Mt Difficult Range to reach Barigar (mountain stream) passing small creeks and seasonal rockpools along the way. Finally, you’ll trek through grassy woodlands before the ridgeline takes you to Roses Gap. After the hike, return to Halls Gap for the evening.
(B, L, D)

Day 3 Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park
Drive north to continue the hike back to Halls Gap along the Peaks Trail. You’ll start from Werdug with a climb up to the Lake Wartook Lookout. Trek the escarpment through rocky gardens before descending into the wetter eastern slopes. Walk through forest sense with ferns, wattles and tea trees to Chautauqua Peak, the final ascent before town. Here, you might see Clematis Falls (depending on recent rains), before end at the Botanic Gardens. Tonight, tuck into a group dinner.
(B, L, D)

Day 4 Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park
Today’s walk will begin at Halls Gap, with a climb up and out of the township. Walk past the Venus Baths, Elephant Hide and the spectacular Grand Canyon (not to be mistaken for its big brother in the US!) before making your way to the top of The Pinnacle. From this popular lookout, you can enjoy superb views over Halls Gap and its surroundings. You’ll want your camera ready today!
(B, L, D)

Day 5 Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park
Drive south for today’s hike. Start with a climb through stunted forest onto the Serra Range – this is one of the most remote parts of the Grampians Peaks Trail, so take a deep breath and let yourself be inspired by all the natural beauty around you! Head to the western Victoria Range towards Djardji-Djawara (sister). In Spring, there’s an abundance of wildflowers here, including a range of heath, orchid, grevillea, bush pea and blue tinsel-lily. Later, head back to your accommodation for dinner and maybe celebrate your last night with a drink.
(B, L, D)

Day 6 Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park / Melbourne
It's time to say goodbye to Halls Gap as you slowly make your way back to Melbourne. First, you’ll head over to the southern end of the Grampians for an end to end walk to a viewpoint over the summit of Mt Sturgeon. Look out over the ranges, then drive to Dunkeld, where you’ll have some time for lunch and a wander through the town. Finally, head back into Melbourne, arriving in the city in the late afternoon. Here, your trip comes to an end. If you’d like to extend your stay, just get in touch with your booking agent.
(B, L)