"Take nothing but pictures. Leave nothing but footprints. Kill nothing but time."
Visiting a new region can be overwhelming. Ronny and Rosa have been hard at work to categorise the Grampians walks and hikes according to age category and ability. After all you can't beat local knowledge! Enjoy the Grampians, also known as Victoria's largest nature playground.
Questions or seeking more detailed information? Please visit the local Visitor Information Centre or Parks Victoria office located at Brambuk Cultural Centre.
For a visual representation of all activities in the Grampians National Park we have created this Grampians National Park Map
Walks/Hikes Pre-Schoolers
Holidaying with little people can be a challenge and yet so rewarding. Planning is the key! Ronny and Rosa have been hard at work exploring the Grampians to be able to guide you and your family around the Grampians. They kept three age categories in mind (preschool, primary school and teens & up). Below the walks and hikes ideal for families with young children. Enjoy!
Balconies
The Balconies allows for panoramic views of Victoria Valley and the surrounding ranges. The Balconies are a great spot for sunset. Just bring a torch for the walk back to…
Beehive Falls
Nice and flat walk with a few gentle inclines. When the falls are flowing (TIP: much better after rain!) the surrounds are lush and green. These falls have a beautiful…
Boroka Lookout
Boroka Lookout is an easy short walk from the carpark with spectacular views of Halls Gap, Fyans Valley and the Grampians mountain ranges. Weather allowed you can see all the…
Botanical Gardens
The little ones will absolutely love the tiny little sculptures which are dotted all over the place. A project done with so much love by the local community. And just…
Broken Falls
Two for the price of one! Whilst you are at the Mackenzie falls carpark, why not make the most of it. Visit both the Mackenzie Falls Lookout and the Broken…
Bunjil Shelter
Bunjil is referred to as “The Creator” and this shelter is known as one of the most significant cultural sites in South Eastern Australia. Brambuk Cultural Centre used to show…
Sunset & Sunrise
There are several amazing sunset and sunrise spots spread throughout the Grampians. We have listed the three most popular locations but if you have your own spot you are willing to share please let us know!
Boroka Lookout
Boroka Lookout is an easy short walk from the carpark with spectacular views of Halls Gap, Fyans Valley and the Grampians mountain ranges. Weather allowed…
Mt William
A sealed road, closed to public vehicles, climbs steeply from the carpark to the summit. At 1167 metres Mt Williams is the highest point in…
Reed Lookout
Good for smaller kids or people enjoying easier short walks. This lookout gives you an almost 360 degree view over the Central Grampians. Looking North…
©2020 Michael Bollein - Sunrise Boroka Lookout
Walks/Hikes Primary School Kids
The Grampians walks and hikes below are carefully curated by Ronny and Rosa with the aim to guide families with primary school age kids around the Grampians region. They only function as a guide and by all means explore any of the other ages categories as well.
The Pinnacle
This walk should be on everybodies bucket list! The walk itself is super rewarding and the views from the top mind blowing. Introduce the younger kids by starting at the Sundial Carpark, which is a little easier, whilst the teenagers will love the extra addition of the Grand Canyon along the way. Lots of a…
Turret Falls
If you want to tick off all the falls in the Grampians, you definitely need to visit the Turret Falls. Seasonal and best after heavy rains.
Venus Baths
If you are looking for an easy walk along a path shaded by gumtrees and beautiful yellow wattle trees, then why not head out to Venus Baths. Follow the track which winds along the small creek and through some towering sandstone cliffs. The Venus Baths rockpools are a wonderful place to sit down and relax,…
Zumsteins Historic Walk
Enjoy a picnic or BBQ in the peaceful setting of Zumstein Picnic Area on the Mackenzie River, once a thriving tourist resort. Explore the historic ruins where beekeeper Walter Zumstein played host to hundreds of holidaymakers in the 1930’s.
Public Toilets within the Grampians National Park
What to do when it rains in the Grampians?
Rain whilst on holidays is never fun. Good news is, it is rare that it rains in the Grampians days on end, yet be prepared for 4 seasons in one day! Therefore make sure to pack suitable rain proof clothes and sturdy walking shoes with a good grip any time of the year.
Whilst you wait for the rain to pass so you can explore the waterfalls, enjoy a board game or one of these activities? Did you know Halls Gap Lakeside Tourist Park made it onto the Caravan & Camping Monopoly board? You can purchase one at reception or Halls Gap Lakeside!
Bridal Veil Falls
This waterfall is on the track to the Pinnacle starting at the Wonderland carpark. A great spot to fill up your water bottles. It only runs after heavy rainfall!
Broken Falls
Two for the price of one! Whilst you are at the Mackenzie falls carpark, why not make the most of it. Visit both the Mackenzie Falls Lookout and the Broken falls Lookout! This short, accessible walk offers rewarding views, without the hard work of climbing steps! Super easy, just a little uphill on the way…
©2020 Michael Bollein - Mount William in rain
Walks/Hikes Teens & Up
When Ronny and Rosa were busy exploring the Grampians and deciding which walks and hikes were suitable for families with teenagers they kept a few things in mind.
- Required fitness level: Teens are more likely to have developed a level of fitness required for some of the walks and hikes as listed below.
- Level of danger: Some of the walks/hikes as described below have areas were extra care needs to be taken due to cliffs which are not all fenced off.
Of course teenagers are able to do ALL the walks & hikes in the Grampians, below just some highlights. Pop back to the other categories to get an overview.
Boronia Peak
A scramble up the rocky summit rewards you with superb views towards Lake Fyans and over the Fyans valley. And if you don’t see 360 degree views, keep climbing!
Chautauqua Peak Loop
This is a triple treat! Start at Halls Gap Oval; first stop the Clematis Falls, then continue onto Chataqua Peak and down the other side of the ridge through Bullaces Glen. Cross the road over Mt Victory Rd (CAREFULL!) and back into town via The Botanical Gardens. Maybe an ice cream before heading back to…
Mount Rosea
It’s a long way up but the views are so worth it! Mount Rosea is one of the longer walks in the central Grampians, leading your through dense forest at the start following a sandy track up between rock formations and for the last section before you reach the peak, beautiful steep cliffs and a…
Mt Abrupt
This walk, suitable for the fit and energetic walker, can involve water crossings, slippery track surfaces, rock hopping and rock scrambling. Follow the ridge over rock slabs to the summit, for one of the most spectacular views of the Grampians National Park.
Mt Sturgeon
The summit of Mt Sturgeon is considered one of the best viewpoints in the Grampians. This hike is suitable for fit and energetic walkers that want to experience a true bushwalking workout. Water crossings, slippery track surfaces, and rock hopping are just some of the challenges that you will face as you make your way…
Mt William
A sealed road, closed to public vehicles, climbs steeply from the carpark to the summit. At 1167 metres Mt Williams is the highest point in the Grampians National Park with fantastic views of mountain ranges and open plains. Be prepared for a cold condition. In winter the locals keep an eye out for snow on…
Discover the stars
Halls Gap and the Grampians have some of the best dark skies in Victoria! Whilst sitting around the campfire don't forget to look at the night skies and enjoy views of the milky way whilst enjoying those marshmallows!
©2020 Michael Bollein - Lake Bellfield Supermoon
Pram and Wheelchair Friendly
The Grampians is a spectacular place to visit for all ages with all abilities. Below some of the pram and wheelchair friendly walks in the Grampians.
Balconies
The Balconies allows for panoramic views of Victoria Valley and the surrounding ranges. The Balconies are a great spot for sunset. Just bring a torch for the walk back to the car!
Broken Falls
Two for the price of one! Whilst you are at the Mackenzie falls carpark, why not make the most of it. Visit both the Mackenzie Falls Lookout and the Broken falls Lookout! This short, accessible walk offers rewarding views, without the hard work of climbing steps! Super easy, just a little uphill on the way…
Gulgurn Manja Shelter
This one is ideal if you have a family with very little ones and some older kids. Starting at Hollow Mountain carpark you could split the group in two. Gulgurn Manja shelter for the little ones and the much more challenging Hollow Mountain for the big kids. Just be careful as Hollow Mountain has steep…
Halls Gap Bike/Walking Path
Start pretty much wherever you like, the bike path itself runs all the way from Lake Bellfield to the popular Halls Gap Hotel Wander through the forest, meet kangaroos and emus and an echidna if you are lucky, visit Lake Bellfield, stop at the local playground and make sure to eat an ice cream on…
Lake Bellfield Wall
Such a peaceful, stunning lake! A very easy walk, yet super rewarding! Just keep the little ones from the edge of the wall!
Mackenzie Falls Lookout
Enjoy this stunning all year around waterfall, without having to descent and climb all those stairs!!!
Ngamadjidj Shelter
One of the three publicly accessible rock-art sites in the Grampians. Easy short walk to the Ngamadjigj Shelter, which means “white person” due to the white clay what was used to draw the white painted figures.
Reed Lookout
Good for smaller kids or people enjoying easier short walks. This lookout gives you an almost 360 degree view over the Central Grampians. Looking North you see Lake Wartook, looking South you look into the Victoria Valley. Fun fact: This is where the fire tower is located which is manned 24/7 in on high bushfire…
Summer Fun!
Don't be mistaken! The Grampians National Park is an ideal holiday destination whole year around, with every season shining a whole new perspective on the beauty the Grampians National Park has to offer. Below Ronny and Rosa guide you and your family to the local water holes, to keep you and your family cool whilst holidaying in the Grampians during the summer months!
Did you know that ALL lakes in the Grampians are man made? Not only do they supply water to the wider region but also are great for fishing, canoeing, swimming, paddle boarding, sailing and/or water skiing!
TIP: Whilst man made lakes initially appear shallow they instantly drop to deep waters. Make sure to bring floaties and/or life jackets to keep your family safe!
Fish Falls
When you are looking for some family fun in summer, make your way to the Fish Falls! Lake Wartook feeds Mackenzie Falls all year around and Mackenzie Falls feeds Fish Falls. This means that even on dry hot summer days, Fish Falls will still have water flowing. To get to the Fish Falls you can…
Halls Gap Swimming Pool
A seasonal outdoor facility running from 1 Nov until after Easter each year. Located in the heart of Halls Gap, conveniently close the the local playground and not far from Coola’s Ice Creamery and the Gelato Guys! Family season passes are available and something to consider if your are spending your summer holiday in the…
Kelleys Beach – Lake Fyans
Only a short drive from Halls Gap, Lake Fyans is a fabulous spot for all ages to enjoy swimming, water skiing & paddle boarding. Well any kind of water fun, really! Did you know there is another beach at Lake Fyans? You can get access to this beach by purchasing a day pass at reception…
Lake Bellfield
Such a lovely lake to spend the day on a hot summers day in the Grampians. The Lake is in the warmer months often used for recreational activities such as fishing, canoeing and swimming. Much more peaceful then Lake Fyans, as jet skies and any other powerboats are not permitted on the lake. There is…
Before You Go
Exploring nature is just so much fun. A day out with the family in the Grampians can be exactly that, or can turn pear shape in an instant! The secret is: Preparation!
"I am hungry!"
Below some hints and tips to make your time in the Grampians National Park the best experience ever!
Prepare
Having some idea about the walk you like to do, tailored to abilities of those joining you, is a fabulous start. On this website you will find lots of information so you can choose the right walk for you and your family. Keep in mind the weather conditions for the day you will be walking. Making your way to the Pinnacle to be disappointed because there are low clouds is in most cases preventable by checking the weather before you start. Damp weather, rain and in winter snowfall, can make the rocks harder to navigate and slippery, so better to stick to the valley. I am sure you get the gist.
Gear
- Proper footwear for the walk you are planning
- Baby carrier
- Sun hat
- Layers (it cools down quickly in the mountains)
- Water
- Snacks
- Medical kit (especially for longer walks), snake bite kit and sunscreen
- Torch
Make sure you are prepared and plan for the worst. Throw an extra bottle of water in your backpack during the summer months in case you sprain your ankle and it takes you a lot longer to get back to the car. An jumper or rain jacket is smart to carry with you any time of year.
First Aid
A band aid with "magic" crème can do wonders when young children have a little scratch. For the more serious hikers, a hiking first aid kit can be bought in pretty much any outdoors shop and have most essentials in there. Try Absolute Outdoors in the main street of Halls Gap. In case you put together your own kit or want to add to the bought kit make sure you have at least some of the below in your kit:
- Medical tape/leukoplast (for blisters or wrapping larger dressings) and band aids
- Antiseptic creme and alcoholic wipes
- Dressing/gauze/compression bandage
- Safety pins and/or splinter probe
- Antihistamine tablets (just in case you get stung or bitten)
- Snakebite kit
- Energy bar/sugary sweets
Snakes
Yes, the Grampians does have snakes. If a little quiet on the track, we suggest you walk with a walking stick to make some noise and movement as you go. Snakes will not attack if not feeling threatened so it will give them an opportunity to move away. In the rare occasion of a snake bite
- Make sure to remain calm!
- Apply a pressure bandage. Wrap a bandage from below, upwards and over the bite site. Extend it as high as possible (e.g., all the way to the groin).
- DO NOT CLEAN the wound as medical staff might need a swab to identify the venom if no picture of the snake could be taken.
- Immobilise the bitten area. Apply a splint if possible.
- Call for help. Dial 000
Emergency App
Do the emergency services a favour and before you go just download the app "Emergency+" It allows the emergencies to find your location in an instant, in case of that ankle which gave in somewhere on top of a rock! Oh and don't forget to charge your phone!
Some other useful links to check before you go: