The Pinnacle, Halls Gap: The Best Hike in the Grampians

The Pinnacle is an epic hike in Halls Gap, Grampians National Park. Moreover, it’s one of the most popular walking trails completed by thousands of travellers year-round, not just in the national park, but within Victoria.

Not to mention, it’s likely one of the most popular spots in the region, and many tourists come to the Grampians just to experience this hiking trail. And, for great reason! This hiking trail is truly incredible and there are so many fantastic aspects to enjoy along the way.

I’ve written up everything you may wish to know in regard to visiting this Grampians walking trail. From trail information to an in-depth experience, you can be sure to be prepared prior to visiting the Pinnacle.

So, let’s dive into everything you need to know so that you can get ready to take on the hike!

Where Is the Pinnacle?

The Pinnacle is within Halls Gap in the Grampians National Park. Moreover, this walking trail is just a short drive from the town centre.

You will need to make use of Mount Victory Road to reach the car park location for the hike. Moreover, I highly recommend putting in ‘Wonderland Carpark’ when looking for directions, as this will direct you to the most suitable spot to park your vehicle.

Not to mention, there are loads of car spaces available here and it’s the best spot to start the walk to the Pinnacle.

Address: Wonderland Carpark, Wonderland Rd, Halls Gap VIC 3381

Information on the Hiking Trail

There are a few things you may like to know in regards to the hiking trail. I’ve displayed these in dot form for easy skimming.

Length: 4.2km return
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult. Narrow and steep tracks, slopes and narrow canyons.
Time: 2-3 hours
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Height: 720m above sea level / 400m above Halls Gap

There are two different tracks you can take to reach the lookout. Firstly, you can start at Sundial car park. And, this location is great for those with children as the tracks are easier.

Alternatively, you can visit from Wonderland car park, and, this is my recommended option. There is much more to see along the way and many places that you can stop to do further exploring.

Note: There are no facilities when hiking up the trail. Please make use of the bathroom and any other amenities necessary before beginning the hike. Additionally, please take rubbish away with you and do not litter anywhere along the trail.

The beginning of the hike and different types of tracks along the way

The Pinnacle Experience

Wonderland Carpark

Upon arrival at Wonderland Car park, this is where you can get yourself sorted and park your vehicle before getting ready to complete the hike. I would advise making use of the public toilet before beginning your hike, as there is nowhere else to go along the way.

Otherwise, begin your hike by following the signage and get ready for an uphill battle.

Follow the direction of the yellow arrows to stay on track

Grand Canyon

The first stop along the way is the Grand Canyon. And, this is a pretty great spot to pull into as you will get some awesome views into the canyon and get a fantastic view of the shape of the rocks.

Feel free to make use of the staircase to do some further exploring if you wish, and then head back the same way to continue the hike up to the Pinnacle.

Cool Chamber

Next up along the adventure is the Cool Chamber. Moreover, this is a small cave that you can do a little bit of exploring within. Children love wandering inside and it’s an excellent spot to cool down for a moment, especially if you’re hiking on a warm day!

I recommend hanging out here for at least 5 minutes and enjoying the sounds inside the cave.

Different terrain along the track

Bridal Veil Falls

A little further up, you’ll come upon Bridal Veil Falls. And, this is a lovely and quaint waterfall to enjoy while wandering the Pinnacle.

There is a small pool at the base of the falls and you can splash yourself with the water if you’re feeling a bit hot. Not to mention, you can go around the inside of the waterfall and get some pretty cool pictures.

This is a great spot to hang out for a moment and enjoy the gorgeous trickling sounds of the water.

Silent Street

Next up is Silent Street. And, this spot has to be my favourite part of the hike to the Pinnacle (aside from the lookout itself).

Silent Street is an incredibly narrow area with towering large rocks that have been carved by wind and rain over millions of years. Think of it as a narrow hallway and you have to squeeze your way through certain parts of it.

Not to mention, this space is incredibly quiet. Especially when all the other hikers have made their way through, you can enjoy the silence of the area and it’s a pretty incredible experience.

Silent Street

The Pinnacle Lookout

Last but not least, after hiking the entire 2.1km trail, climbing lots of rocks, crossing streams, viewing waterfalls and exploring canyons, you will reach the Pinnacle lookout.

And, to say this view is spectacular is the very least one could say about this viewpoint. You can enjoy absolutely magnificent views over the town of Halls Gap, Lake Bellfield and other surrounding landscape.

This viewpoint sits at 720 metres above sea level, so you can expect to enjoy some pretty incredible views. Halls Gap sits at around 400 metres below the lookout, so you will get some spectacular views around the region.

Views from the Pinnacle lookout

What to Bring

You may be wondering what you should bring along on the hike. Well, there are a few things that I think you should consider taking along with you. And, some of the items that I recommend wearing.

Keep in mind that it gets rather windy at the top of the lookout, so you may find yourself getting a little chilly even on a warm day!

Sturdy hiking shoes or runners
Backpack to store items
Snacks or lunch to eat at the viewpoint
Minimum of 1L of water per person
Windbreaker / Jacket. The lookout gets pretty cool and there can be some strong winds
Camera for taking photos

Additional Activities in the Grampians

There are loads of things to do when visiting the Grampians, however, some of the activities I recommend checking out include:

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, the Pinnacle is easily one of the best hikes within the Grampians National Park. There are so many cool aspects to the hike and so many fun things to do along the way that make the effort well worth the journey.

I think this hike is a great activity for families, couples and solos and it can virtually be experienced any time of year.

Finally, be sure to complete this trail when visiting the Grampians, it’s an awesome hike you’re sure to love!

Additionally, if you’d like to discover more from Victoria, feel free to check out this section of my blog. I upload loads of travel content and do my best to keep it updated to ensure you have the best and most accessible information 24/7. Happy reading!