The southern Grampians takes in the remote Victoria Range and the park's highest point, Mt William. Close to Dunkeld, Mt Sturgeon, the Piccaninny and spectacular Mt Abrupt are waiting to be conquered. This expansive area far from the crowds offers rugged hikes and short walks.
The southern Grampians is often overlooked by visitors who flock to the famous sights around Halls Gap further north. But if you prefer to experience epic landscapes away from the crowds and scenic drives along lonely mountain roads, then this is the place to come.
Dunkeld is the gateway to the southern Grampians and many visitors stay here. The town is close to three fantastic summit walks: Mount Abrupt, Mt Sturgeon and The Piccaninny.
Mt William, the highest point in the Grampians, is a short and scenic drive from Halls Gap - or a longer and even more scenic drive from Dunkeld.
If you’re an experienced walker you’ll enjoy the unique challenge of the southern Grampians' overnight hikes. Tackle the 40km Major Mitchell Plateau hike or the truly remote experience of the Fortress and Mt Thackeray hike.
The Grampians is a special place for nature lovers and the remote campgrounds that offer temporary accommodation to humans are also the permanent homes of native animals. You're pretty much guaranteed to see emus, kangaroos and wallabies if you stay the night. Encounters with wildlife and plants become even more pleasing against the spectacular mountain backdrops. .
Some of the most popular places in the Grampians are its waterfalls. In the southern region, Kalymna Falls and Burrong Falls are reached by fairly short walks and are spectacular after rain. Jadawadjali Falls is a pleasant stop on the way up to Billimina Shelter, a massive rock overhang with Aboriginal art.
Traditionally known as Gariwerd, this region is home to the largest number of significant and ancient Aboriginal rock art paintings and shelters in southern Australia. A visit to Brambuk – The National Park and Cultural Centre in Halls Gap will help you get the most of your trip to these rock shelters. You will also find general information about visiting the park.
Dunkeld is the gateway to the southern Grampians and many visitors stay here. The town is close to three fantastic summit walks: Mount Abrupt, Mt Sturgeon and The Piccaninny.
Mt William, the highest point in the Grampians, is a short and scenic drive from Halls Gap - or a longer and even more scenic drive from Dunkeld.
If you’re an experienced walker you’ll enjoy the unique challenge of the southern Grampians' overnight hikes. Tackle the 40km Major Mitchell Plateau hike or the truly remote experience of the Fortress and Mt Thackeray hike.
The Grampians is a special place for nature lovers and the remote campgrounds that offer temporary accommodation to humans are also the permanent homes of native animals. You're pretty much guaranteed to see emus, kangaroos and wallabies if you stay the night. Encounters with wildlife and plants become even more pleasing against the spectacular mountain backdrops. .
Some of the most popular places in the Grampians are its waterfalls. In the southern region, Kalymna Falls and Burrong Falls are reached by fairly short walks and are spectacular after rain. Jadawadjali Falls is a pleasant stop on the way up to Billimina Shelter, a massive rock overhang with Aboriginal art.
Traditionally known as Gariwerd, this region is home to the largest number of significant and ancient Aboriginal rock art paintings and shelters in southern Australia. A visit to Brambuk – The National Park and Cultural Centre in Halls Gap will help you get the most of your trip to these rock shelters. You will also find general information about visiting the park.
Things to do
Mount William
Mount William or Duwul is the highest peak in the Grampians National Park (Gariwerd). This trailhead provides access to the challenging Mount William walk where you can obtain 360 degree views of the mountains and surrounding pastoral lands reward walkers for their efforts.
Buandik Campground
Buandik Campground is located in the Western Grampians at the base of the Victoria Range. The campground is set amongst open woodland beside Cultivation Creek and is close to the start of walks to Billimina and Manja rock art shelters and Buandik Falls.
Strachans Campground
Strachans Campground is located beside the headwaters of the Glenelg River at the site of a former timber mill. Strachans is perfectly situated to explore the Victoria Range and Victoria Valley, where there are opportunities for bushwalking, four wheel driving and rock climbing.
First Wannon Hiker Camp
First Wannon Hiker Camp is a small clearing with limited space best positioned for small, single groups or individual walkers undertaking the remote overnight hike across the Major Mitchell Plateau.
Jimmy Creek Campground
Jimmy Creek Campground is located in an open forest adjacent to the upper Wannon River. This campground is halfway between Halls Gap and Dunkeld, and is a great base for exploring both the Southern and Eastern Grampians.
How to get there
Southern Grampians
The Grampians National Park is located in Western Victoria, a three-hour (260km) drive from Melbourne and a five-hour (460km) drive from Adelaide. It is also a key destination on the internationally renowned Great Southern Touring Route. The southern Grampians is easily accessed from the villages of Halls Gap and Dunkeld and is a scenic day trip from the regional town of Hamilton.
When you're there
Download the Grampians National Park visitor guide or start your visit at Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre in Halls Gap. Here you will find the latest park information, maps and guidebooks.
The Grampians Road and Touring Map covers car touring and is an essential tool to help plan your route. There are two main drives in the southern Grampians. One loop starts in Halls Gap and takes in Mt William, Mirranatwa Gap, The Piccaninny and back to Halls Gap. Another, also starting in Halls Gap, includes some unsealed roads and takes in Paddy Castle, Billimina Shelter and Manja Shelter before returning to Halls Gap. The Grampians Iconic 4WD brochure details a popular easy-medium route.
Need to know
Southern Grampians
Accessibility
A Trailrider all-terrain wheelchair and Sherpa Volunteers are now available for park visitors with limited mobility to explore the natural beauty of Grampians National Park. The Grampians has two TrailRiders available for visitors and both of these chairs are fitted with electric motors to assist operators on steeper sections of track. Passengers must wear a helmet.
The TrailRider all-terrain wheelchair and Volunteer Sherpa service is free of charge however please book a week in advance. To book the TrailRider please contact Brambuk – The National Park and Cultural Centre on (03) 8427 2058. To book a Volunteer Sherpa please contact the Volunteer Sherpa Coordinator on (03) 8427 3541 or volunteersherpa@parks.vic.gov.au
Assistance dogs are welcome in Parks Victoria parks and reserves. Entry requirements apply for parks and reserves that are usually dog prohibited, such as national parks.
Change of Conditions
Nature being nature, sometimes conditions can change at short notice. It’s a good idea to check this page ahead of your visit for any updates.
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Notices Affecting Multiple Sites
Grampians Peaks Trail – Helicopter Air-Lift Operations – 13.05.2024 to 15.05.2024
Helicopter Air-Lift Operations are scheduled along Grampians Peaks Trail (GPT) from Monday 13th May to Wednesday 15th of May 2024.This operation will take place across three days at various locations in the northern, central and southern sections of the Grampians Peaks Trail, and at other key visitor sites.Temporary closures of Hike-in campgrounds, roads, walking tracks, and trailheads will be required for helicopter operations as staff work to remove/replace toilet pods out of and into Grampians Peaks Trail Hike-in campgrounds.Signage will be installed at key closure points and staff will be on ground to assist with visitor safety. Please follow safety advice and remain clear of closed areas during the operation.Locations may change at short notice due to weather conditions. Should the operation be suspended, the works will re-commence when conditions are deemed favourable.Temporary ‘hold in place’ closures of up to 30 minutes will occur at:Helicopter Landing Sites (HLS)Roses Gap, Gar, Wartook East, Mt William, First Wannon, Yarram (ridgeline above Hike-in campground), Stockyard and Piccaninny East CarparkFyans Creek Helicopter Landing Site (behind Brambuk The National Park and Cultural Centre)GPT Hike-in CampgroundsBarigar, Gar, Werdug, Barri Yalug, Duwul, Durd Durd, Yarram and Mud-Dadjug Hike-in campgroundsGPT Trailheads/CarparksRedman Road Trailhead CarparkPiccaninny East Car Park (Note: Victoria Valley Road Trailhead access to the Piccaninny remains open)CampgroundsFirst WannonWalking Tracks/Management Vehicle Only tracks (MVO)Walking tracks, roads, and MVO's north and south of the GPT Hike-in campgrounds and helipads listedRoads around Dunkeld Reservoir and Piccaninny Car ParkFor further information, please visit Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre in Halls Gap or call 8427 2258.Planned Burn – Jimmy Creek - Update 10.05.2024
FFMVic have completed the following planned burn and are now monitoring the area.Jimmy Creek Road (GR-WIM-HG-0103)
This burn is located, this burn is located in the south-east area of Grampians National Park, 8km E of Mirranatwa, 37km north of Dunkeld.The following visitor areas are now reopened, however, please adhere to “Don’t walk off the track” signage.- Grampians Peaks
Trail (C5/S1) between Yarram Gap Rd and Jimmy Creek Rd
- Yarram Hike-in campground
- Yarram Park Rd
- Jimmy Creek Rd
Stay informed about this Autumns planned burns schedule:Visit & Sign Up: Sign up to Planned Burns Victoria www.vic.gov.au/plannedburns Set up automated notifications about upcoming planned burns on public land near you. There is no charge to sign up to receive text messages.Download: The Vic Emergency App. Set up a watch zone and choose to be notified about planned burns in the ‘alerts’ settings
Call: The Vic Emergency Hotline on 1800 226 226 and request an interpreter or assistance for hearing difficulties via the National Relay Service. IN AN EMERGENCY CALL 000Email: For specialist advice about planned burns in the Wimmera District you can contact Horsham FFMVic Office at wimmera.fuelmanagement@delwp.vic.gov.au or phone the office on (03) 8508 1222.For Information about park closures and campground bookings within Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park:Visit the Parks Victoria website: https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/grampians-national-park#change-of-conditionsVisit: Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre – 277 Grampians Road Halls Gap, Ph 8427 2058 or for bookings and cancellations advice contact the Parks Victoria Information Centre Ph 13 1963 or email info@parks.vic.gov.auYou may see or smell smoke in the vicinity of the burn. For advice on how this may impact your health, visit www.epa.vic.gov.au/smokeGrampians National Park - Autumn planned burn season underway
Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park – Autumn Planned Program UnderwayForest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) have commenced the Autumn Planned Burning Program in Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park and surrounding reserves.These planned burns have been nominated and approved as part of the FFMVic three-year Joint Fuel Management Program for the Wimmera Fire District. Each burn has been designated to a year and season, though this may change depending on burn objectives and seasonal conditions. You can view the three-year plan at https://www.ffm.vic.gov.au/bushfire-fuel-and-risk-management/joint-fuel-management-programThe map attached, outlines the burns programmed for this year. Detailing the exact date and time of ignition can be difficult and the final decision to proceed may only be made on the day of the burn - once resources, weather conditions and local fuel moisture levels are deemed suitable. Once a burn is scheduled for ignition, FFMVIC will send out regular notifications.Some of the planned burns this Autumn may involve the temporary closure of visitor sites, roads and campgrounds within Grampians Gariwerd National Park and other reserves. This may include detours or closures of hike in campgrounds along the Grampians Peaks Trail, and other vehicle-based campgrounds.· Closures will be enforced for the duration of ignition and may remain in place for some days. Visitor sites will re-open once the burn is declared safe.· We recommend that you seek information and stay informed about the status of the planned burns scheduled near you.Stay informed about this Autumns planned burns schedule:Visit & Sign Up:Sign up to Planned Burns Victoria to set up automated notifications about upcoming planned burns on public land near you. There is no charge to sign up to receive text messages.
Sign up via Planned Burns Victoria at www.vic.gov.au/plannedburnsDownload: the VicEmergency AppSet up a watch zone and choose to be notified about planned burns in the ‘alerts’ settingsCall: the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226 and request an interpreter or assistance for hearing difficulties via the National Relay ServiceEmail: For specialist advice about planned burns in the Wimmera District you can contact Horsham FFMVic Office at wimmera.fuelmanagement@delwp.vic.gov.au or phone the office on (03) 8508 1222.For Information about park closures and campground bookings within Grampians National Park:Visit the Parks Victoria website: https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/grampians-national-park#change-of-conditionsVisit: Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre – 277 Grampians Road Halls Gap, Ph 8427 2058or for bookings and cancellations advice contact the Parks Victoria Information Centre Ph 13 1963 or email info@parks.vic.gov.auPlanned Burn Update – Cassidy Gap
FMVIC have now completed the following Planned Burn within Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park.Cassidy Gap (GR-WIM-CAV-00071)This burn is located 3km north of Dunkeld and includes section S3 of the Grampians Peaks Trail.The following visitor areas are now reopened, however, please adhere to “Don’t walk off the track” signage.· Grampians Peaks Trail (Section S3) north and south bound hiking between Cassidy Gap Rd Trailhead, over Signal Peak to Dunkeld Reservoir Road.· Mud-Dadjug Hike-in Campground.· Mt Abrupt carpark· Signal Peak walking trackThe following roads remain closed, please follow directions, and do not enter:· Serra Range Fireline is closed at the intersection of Vic Valley Road and Cassidy Gap Road· Cassidy Gap Road from closed from its intersection with Serra Range Fireline to its intersection with Grampians Rd.Visit & Sign Up: Sign up to Planned Burns Victoria www.vic.gov.au/plannedburns Set up automated notifications about upcoming planned burns on public land near you. There is no charge to sign up to receive text messages.Download: The Vic Emergency App. Set up a watch zone and choose to be notified about planned burns in the ‘alerts’ settingsCall: The Vic Emergency Hotline on 1800 226 226 and request an interpreter or assistance for hearing difficulties via the National Relay Service. IN AN EMERGENCY CALL 000Email: For specialist advice about planned burns in the Wimmera District you can contact Horsham FFMVic Office at wimmera.fuelmanagement@delwp.vic.gov.au or phone the office on (03) 8508 1222.For Information about park closures and campground bookings within Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park:Visit the Parks Victoria website: https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/grampians-national-park#change-of-conditionsVisit: Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre – 277 Grampians Road Halls Gap, Ph 8427 2058 or for bookings and cancellations advice contact the Parks Victoria Information Centre Ph 13 1963 or email info@parks.vic.gov.auYou may see or smell smoke in the vicinity of the burn. For advice on how this may impact your health, visit www.epa.vic.gov.au/smokePlanned Burn Update - Millstream Creek
FFMVic have completed the following planned burn.
Millstream Creek (GR-WIM-HGP-0081)This burn is located 6km west of Halls Gap.The following visitor areas have now reopened, however, please adhere to “Don’t walk off the track” signage.
· Boroka Lookout· Reeds Lookout· Lake Wartook Lookout· Lake Wartook· Mackenzie Falls precinct· Boroka Walking Track· Mackenzie River Walk (includes Fish Falls)· Smiths Mill CampgroundThe following roads have now reopened:· Old Mill Rd· Rose Creek Rd (north between Mt Victory Rd and Old Mill Rd)Visit & Sign Up: Sign up to Planned Burns Victoria www.vic.gov.au/plannedburns Set up automated notifications about upcoming planned burns on public land near you. There is no charge to sign up to receive text messages.Download: The Vic Emergency App. Set up a watch zone and choose to be notified about planned burns in the ‘alerts’ settings
Call: The Vic Emergency Hotline on 1800 226 226 and request an interpreter or assistance for hearing difficulties via the National Relay Service. IN AN EMERGENCY CALL 000Email: For specialist advice about planned burns in the Wimmera District you can contact Horsham FFMVic Office at wimmera.fuelmanagement@delwp.vic.gov.au or phone the office on (03) 8508 1222.For Information about park closures and campground bookings within Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park:Visit the Parks Victoria website: https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/grampians-national-park#change-of-conditionsVisit: Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre – 277 Grampians Road Halls Gap, Ph 8427 2058 or for bookings and cancellations advice contact the Parks Victoria Information Centre Ph 13 1963 or email info@parks.vic.gov.auYou may see or smell smoke in the vicinity of the burn. For advice on how this may impact your health, visit www.epa.vic.gov.au/smoke - Grampians Peaks
Trail (C5/S1) between Yarram Gap Rd and Jimmy Creek Rd
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Grampians National Park
Mt Zero Road Closure – Mud Hut Creek bridge replacement – 7th May to July 2024
Mt Zero Road will be closed between Roses Gap Road and north of Heatherlie Quarry between 7th May and July 2024 while the Department of Environment Energy and Climate Action (DEECA) undertakes critical bridge replacement works approximately 100m south of Roses Gap Road.Visitors wishing to travel between Halls Gap, Roses Gap and the Northern Grampians area (Hollow Mountain, Mt Zero and Mt Stapylton) will need to follow a detour via Ledcourt and Lake Lonsdale areas. See attached map.Plantation Campground and Heatherlie Quarry are still accessible from Mt Zero Road south (Halls Gap) or Pines Road.For further information on national park access please contact Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre phone 8427 2058Attachments: Mud Hut Creek - Bridge Works 2024 (584KB)
Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park - Bushfire Closures Update - April 26, 2024
Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park was impacted by the Bellfield and Stapylton bushfires from 13th February 2024. There are temporary closures still in place in the vicinity of the fires. Visitors are asked to adhere to road and park closures as we work to assess and re-open these areas.Northern Grampians (Mt Stapylton Fire) Closures remaining April 26, 2024:Road/track closures east of Mt Zero RoadGolton trackCrutes track/Crutes roadNo off-track walking within the burnt areaMt William Range (Bellfield Fire) - Closures remaining April 26, 2024Tunnel Walking TrackMt Cassell TrackPomonal FirelineBirdrock RdNo off-track walking within the burnt areaAll other areas of the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park previously closed due to the fires have been re-opened.For further information about the closures, please visit Brambuk the National Park & Cultural Centre, or call (03) 8427 2258. For National Park Information visit www.parks.vic.gov.au, or for booking refunds email info@parks.vic.gov.auPlease visit www.emergency.vic.gov.au for emergency updates, or free call 1800 226 226. Monitor the Emergency Vic app for alerts and warnings or listen to your local ABC radio stations for emergency broadcasts.Mountain Lion (Designated rock-climbing and bouldering area) – Temporary exclusion
Mountain Lion (Designated rock-climbing and bouldering area) – Temporary exclusionSignificant Aboriginal cultural values have recently been rediscovered at the Mountain Lion designated rock-climbing and bouldering area.While Parks Victoria and Gariwerd Traditional Owners determine a longer-term management response, and out of respect for this significant cultural landscape, visitors are requested to not access this area.The Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 protects Aboriginal cultural heritage and significant financial penalties apply for harm caused by individuals or corporate bodies.For more information please visit the FAQ Update at the Rock Climbing in Gariwerd link below.Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park - Roads Update 10.05.2024
The Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park has several roads temporarily closed for repair works, upgrades, and recent fire impacts. Please be aware the movement of visitors in these parts of the National Park is restrictedPlanned Burn – Temporary Road ClosuresOld Mill RdRose Creek RdCassidy Gap Rd from Cassidy Gap GPT Trailhead to Sierra Fireline (MVO)Geerack TrackOslers Track between Red Gum Lease and Pines RdRoad ClosuresMt Zero Rd (Pines Rd-Roses Gap Rd) is closed for bridge replacement works between Roses Gap Rd and north of Heatherlie Quarry from May 7 until the end of July 2024.Mitchell Rd between Redman Rd and Mt William Picnic Ground Rd.Seasonal Closures
Launders and Sanders Tracks are closed.Moora Moora Track is partially closed in the southern section, from Homestead Track intersection to Glenelg River Road.Grampians Peaks Trail – Trailhead Access
Road access (Griffin Track) to the Griffin Trailhead for the Grampians Peaks Trail is open to 4WD vehicles only. Walkers can access the GPT on foot via the Griffin Track from the Grampians Tourist Road.Please see the latest road report attachment for full road and track details at the bottom of this page.Attachments: Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park - Road Report - 10.05.2024 (281KB)
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The Balconies Walk (Grampians National Park)
The Balconies Lookout – Walking Track Improvement Works
The popular Balconies Lookout walking track accessible from Reed Lookout carpark in the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park is undergoing trail improvement works.The walking track to The Balconies Lookout will be closed from Monday 13 May to Friday 17 May 2024. A section of Reed Lookout carpark will also be closed during this period.
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