The Grampians Peaks Hiking Trail Opens

Three people, touching rocks and climbing the Grampians Trails on a sunny day

Keen hikers have long been lured to Victoria’s Grampians to traverse the region’s incredible ancient bushland and craggy peaks. Now, the newly opened Grampians Peaks Trail is posing a challenge like few others, while offering some of the best panoramic views in the country.

Officially opened in November 2021, the new trail spans 160km through the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park, inspiring experienced hikers to tackle the trail in one go – over 12 nights and 13 days. It is, in fact, the longest hiking trail to open in Victoria since the 100km Great Ocean Walk in 2006.

If a two-week hike sounds a little intense, the good news is the trail can be walked in stages, with multi-day, overnight and even day-walk options.

How long is the Grampians Peaks Trail?

In full, the new Grampians Peaks Trail covers 160km, taking hikers through the rugged interior of the spectacular national park. It’s recommended to walk the trail from north to south. Starting at Mt Zero, passing over Mt Difficult (Gar), and through Halls Gap, before reaching Dunkeld in the south.

Highlights of the trail include Redman Bluff, Major Mitchell Plateau and Mt Abrupt, in addition to the awe-inspiring scenery, bushland and sweeping views throughout.

How hard is the Grampians Peaks Trail?

Most of the Grampians Peaks Trail is classified as Grade 4 in the Australian Walking Track Grading System, which goes up to a maximum of Grade 5. According to the system, Grade 4 is for experienced bushwalkers: “Tracks may be long, rough and very steep. Directional signage may be limited.”

If that sounds daunting, Parks Victoria has outlined the classifications and suggested times for each section of the trail, along with directions and other advice. They have broken the trail into multi-day hikes, overnight hikes, and day walks, making it easy for anyone who is unfamiliar with the national park.

Where do you stay on the Grampians Peaks Trail?

If you choose to walk the full trail or over several days, you will hike into camp sites along the way. All located at remote sites, these unique, sustainable camping grounds are said to bring many of the rewards that come from doing the walk. Sleeping under the stars here is a memorable experience.

Can you do the Grampians Peaks Trail with a tour group?

Anyone keen to tackle this trail who isn’t so confident to do it themselves should consider joining a tour. Even experienced hikers are likely to get more out of being part of a group, thanks to the tour guides’ extensive local knowledge and insights. Some tour operators also offer a two-night itinerary that includes the option of staying in eco-friendly huts, which aren’t accessible to self-guided hikers.

Three key local operators include Grampians Peaks Walking Company, RAW Travel and Auswalk Walking Holidays.

Reward Yourself After the Hike

On return from hiking the Grampians Peaks Trail, the best reward is surely visiting our cellar door at Best’s Wines where a glass of wine awaits.

We offer a choice of seated tasting experiences in our old stables. Choose from a free introductory tasting to paid Premium and Icon tasting experiences. Book ahead for your 45-minute session, and don’t forget to explore our underground cellars while you’re here to learn more about our long history.

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