Grampians Peaks Trail - a new iconic walk for Victoria
After eight years of planning and construction, Victoria’s newest multi-day walking trail has officially opened in the Grampians National Park. The much anticipated Grampians Peaks Trail (GPT) traverses 160 kilometres of continuous track between the rugged Mount Zero in the north and the quaint town of Dunkeld in the south. The entire track takes 13 days to complete and is graded as a challenging, grade 4/5 hike. Fortunately for those looking for a shorter option, the GPT can be easily divided into shorter multi-day sections thanks to a variety of trailheads from which to access the track.
The Grampians National Park is conveniently located three hours northwest of Melbourne and is a long standing favourite destination for walkers. Prior to the opening of the GPT, the main walking trails were concentrated in the Halls Gap region of the national park and featured the popular Wonderland Loop, Grand Canyon Gorge and Pinnacle Lookout. The creation of the GPT now makes the lesser known northern and southern sections of the national park more accessible to walkers. There are many memorable highlights along the route including Mt Difficult, Mt Rosea, Redman Bluff, Mt William, Major Mitchell Plateau, Signal Peak, Mt Abrupt and Mt Sturgeon.
The GPT enables hikers to become completely immersed in the ancient Gariwerd countryside and to experience some of Victoria’s most dramatic landscape along the Grampians mountain range. The northern section features dramatic mountains, rocky plateaus and towering cliffs overlooking the vast valleys below. Such terrain can make for some steep and rocky ascents. Easier walking can be found in the southern section through grasslands and forests, still with some summits to tackle. The varied landscape holds many “wow factor” surprises with unique rock formations, scenic waterfalls and numerous 360 degree panorama lookouts.
Walkers can choose from a range of accommodation options. The GPT offers two new eco-friendly hiker huts atop the northern peaks of Gar and Werdug. These private hiker huts can be accessed as part of a guided walking holiday operated by a licensed tour operator. Alternatively, some tour operators offer guided walks with transfers to lodge accommodation situated close to the trail.
For campers, eleven well-equipped campgrounds have been constructed along the trail. Tent pads must be booked through Parks Victoria and facilities include toilets, water tanks and enclosed community shelters complete with solar powered USB charging points. Local tour operators can also assist with transport, camping equipment hire and food drops.
Much has been written recently about the health benefits of reconnecting with nature. The new Grampians Peaks Trail allows walkers to escape into the stunning remote landscapes of the Grampians National Park and to enjoy abundant wildflowers, birdlife and wildlife plus fascinating indigenous history. Creature comforts are never too far away so that completion of your walking adventure can be celebrated in style in either Halls Gap or Dunkeld. One thing is certain - the soaring Grampians mountain range never fails to impress and most visitors return to this beloved region time and again for more restorative recreation.