The Grampians is home to some of the best walks in Victoria, with tonnes of tracks packed into the fascinating national park. Not to mention, you can enjoy these Grampians walks with family, friends or take the trek solo.
Moreover, it would take weeks, if not months, to explore all the trails on offer. Yet, most of us don’t have the time to enjoy all of this at once. Therefore, selecting the best few day hikes to experience on your trip is the best way to go.
Listed below are the top ten hikes with varying features, fitness requirements and accessibility so that you can choose the most suitable according to your needs.
Finally, continue reading to find the best locations and happy hiking!
Tips for Hiking in the Grampians
There are a few things that you should know before hiking in the Grampians:
Firstly, it’s best to avoid hiking in fog, rain or high wind conditions. Moreover, if you are walking during foggy weather, it’s unlikely that you’ll see any of the views; A real letdown after trekking for many hours.
Secondly, when the trails are wet, the rocks become slippery, and you could experience a dangerous fall. Not to mention, there are many areas you will need to hike where there are little to no safety barriers. Therefore, falls are imminent in poor weather. Also, avoid going close to the edge of cliffs in high-wind.
Thirdly, I would recommend dressing for the hiking conditions. Wear layers of breathable clothing to keep yourself cool or warm, with the opportunity to take layers off as you get warm. However, you will find yourself getting colder as you reach higher altitudes. Therefore, having a windproof jacket makes the experience much more comfortable.
Fourthly, wear sturdy hiking boots with ankle support. On both recent occasions that I’ve hiked in the Grampians, I’ve left with ankle injuries. Therefore, invest in a decent and reliable pair of hiking boots to avoid any potential injuries; You’ll thank me later!
Finally, pack lightly, but everything you may need, especially for the long and strenuous hikes. Therefore, pack some things including, a mini first aid kit, water supply and snacks, to get you through your adventures flawlessly. Not to mention, you’ll be prepared in case of an emergency.
Read more: Hiking Checklist and Essentials: Everything You Need to Know
The Best Grampians Walks
- Hollow Mountain
Hollow Mountain is easily one of the most incredible hikes in the Grampians region. Moreover, this hike will have you testing your boundaries as you scour cliffs, climb boulders and trek along the mountaintop.
Keep in mind this hike isn’t child-friendly, so avoid this hike as a family outing. And, it’s best for those with a little bit of experience.
Furthermore, the best part about this hike is venturing into the cliff face for the iconic view. And, the landscape in the setting is perfectly framed by the unique shape of the rocks. Besides, it’s the perfect spot to hide from the sun on a warm day.
Finally, there are multiple areas to explore, so take some time wandering around the different cliff areas and exploring the views. Conclusively, this is easily one of the best hikes I’ve completed in the Grampians.
Distance: 2.2km return
Grade: Medium-Difficult
Time: 2 hours
Address: Hollow Mountain Carpark, Grampians VIC 3314
Read more: Hollow Mountain: Grampians Hiking Trail and Travel Guide
- The Balconies
The Balconies is one of the easiest yet most rewarding hikes in the Zumsteins area. Moreover, enjoy a simple stroll to Reed lookout from the car park or hike to the Balconies for views over the Victoria Valley.
Besides, it’s usually best to spend around an hour enjoying the panoramic views in this location.
Finally, little to no hiking experience is acceptable for this trail. Therefore, making it the perfect day out for all.
Distance: 2.2km return
Grade: Easy
Time: 1 Hour
Address: The Balconies, Glenelg River Rd, Zumsteins VIC 3401
- MacKenzie Falls Walk
Visit the Grampians most epic waterfall, MacKenzie falls. Firstly, the straightforward yet strenuous hike is absolutely worth the journey to enjoy this blissful place. Not to mention, there are a couple of waterfalls, viewing platforms and additional activities to enjoy in the area.
I would recommend allowing two to three hours to appreciate this place. Considering there are multiple activities and things to visit.
Finally, be sure to take a few pictures at the base of the falls as the waterfall looks magnificent photos.
Distance: 2km return
Grade: Medium
Time: 1.5 hours
Address: Mackenzie Falls, Northern Grampians Rd, Zumsteins VIC 3401
- The Pinnacle
The Pinnacle is easily one of the Grampians most popular walking trails. Moreover, thousands of people flock to the region yearly to experience this hike and enjoy the views.
There are sections of the hike that require a decent level of fitness, while some areas are flatter. Also, you will be required to walk through narrow and steep rock formations. Therefore, be aware of the claustrophobic setting before the adventure.
Nonetheless, the hike is simple yet interactive and a fantastic addition to your list of adventures. Finally, if you’re only spending a brief time in the Grampians, I’d recommend making this walk one of the top priorities.
Distance: 4.2km return
Grade: Medium-Difficult
Time: 2 hours
Address: Pinnacle Lookout, Grampians Rd, Halls Gap VIC 3381
- Chatauqua Peak & Clematis Falls
Chatauqua Peak is easily one of the best and most underrated hiking trails in the Grampians. Moreover, this Grampians walk is a simple yet stunning adventure.
Not to mention, you’ll get the opportunity for fascinating views over Halls Gap and the surrounds of the town. And, it’s pretty cool to see the township buzzing around beneath you as you enjoy the world from above.
Distance: 5.7km return
Grade: Medium
Time: 2.5 hours
Address: Chatauqua Peak, Halls Gap VIC 3381
Read more: Chatauqua Peak, The Grampians: Everything You Need to Know
- Silverband Falls
Silverband falls are one of the most accessible waterfall walks in the region; It’s excellent for a short family outing.
Moreover, the beautiful waterfall is unique to the Grampians region and is a lovely mid-day adventure. I would recommend spending a little bit of time at the falls, especially on a warm day.
However, keep in mind that swimming is not possible as there is no pool at the base. Although, you can lean back onto the rock while the water splashes onto you.
I would recommend this beautiful Grampians walk to anyone interested in a short adventure.
Distance: 1.4km return
Grade: Easy
Time: 30 minutes
Address: Silverband Falls Carpark, Silverband Rd, Bellfield VIC 3381
Read more: The 5 Best Grampians Waterfalls
- Mount Stapylton
Ensure that you’re well-rested before beginning the Mount Stapylton walk, as this one is truly a great adventure. Moreover, this Grampians walk is another interactive and enjoyable day hike. However, a reasonable level of fitness is required.
Throughout the walk, you will need to complete water crossings, climb rocks, traverse slippery surfaces and steep pathways. Therefore, ensure you are ultimately prepared with a lightweight backpack and necessary supplies.
Distance: 4km return
Grade: Difficult
Time: 3 hours
Address: Mount Stapylton, Laharum VIC 3401
- Chimney Pots
Take a clockwise route when viewing the Chimney Pots during the day as you will climb the hill in the shade and trek down the ridge in the sun.
Chimney Pots is another popular Grampians walk enjoyed by many hikers alike. Moreover, the 3.7km track offers a various range of ascents and descents to keep you interested.
Finally, the Chimney Pots feature looks fantastic and also offers epic views over the valleys.
Distance: 3.7km return
Grade: Medium-Difficult
Time: 3 hours
Address: Chimney Pots, Glenelg Valley Road, Grampians VIC 3314
- Beehive Falls
Beehive Falls is one of the prettiest waterfall walks in the Grampians. Moreover, the uninterrupted waterfall creates a beautiful ambience as soon as you step foot in the area.
Also, you will get to follow alongside Mud Hut Creek upstream until you reach the waterfall. Finally, I’d recommend spending at least half an hour enjoying this serene location.
Distance: 2.8km return
Grade: Easy
Time: 1 hour
Address: Beehive Falls, Roses Gap Rd, Roses Gap VIC 3381
- Venus Baths
Last but not least is Venus Baths, one of the most popular walks in the Grampians, close by Halls Gap. Firstly, this water feature is unique to the region as on offer are multiple rock pools and natural waterslides.
Furthermore, I would recommend visiting this location on a warm day to enjoy a splash in the water. However, avoid swimming in the pools, especially after heavy rain, as there is likely to be heavy flow.
Finally, this is a great attraction for kids. However, if you plan on swimming, please consider wearing environmentally-friendly sunscreen.
Distance: 2.3km return
Grade: Easy
Time: 1 hour
Address: Venus Baths, Halls Gap VIC 3381
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, you won’t need to go far to come upon the best Grampians walks. Considering, they’re easy to locate, and the options are aplenty.
Besides, there are various walking tracks on offer that are ideal for all kinds of accessibility needs. Therefore, making the Grampians a fantastic holiday destination for all.
Finally, I would recommend choosing a few of these adventures for your holiday to make the most of the Grampians.
Which Grampians walk are you going to explore? Is there a specific hike that’s caught your eye?
Read more:
Top 10 Grampians Camping Sites
The 5 Best Grampians Waterfalls
