This is a demanding hike that is not for the faint-hearted or ill-prepared. It includes exposed ledges, serious rock scrambling and challenging route finding.
Regarded as one of Victoria's most challenging day walks, Stapylton Amphitheatre follows an unmarked ridge route between Hollow Mountain and Mt Stapylton in Grampians National Park. Featuring exposed scrambling, cave climbing, and precarious drops, this rugged trek is best for experienced hikers only.
Prepare for water crossings, slippery tracks, rock hopping, and unassisted climbing through wind-scoured caverns. You'll be rewarded with splendid views of iron-stained cliffs, rocky outcrops, densely vegetated gullies, and woodlands teeming with banksias, grass trees, native pines, and eucalypts. The Stapylton Amphitheatre itself is a sight to behold.
This demanding hike is not for the faint-hearted. A substantial part involves exposed scrambling and tricky route-finding, requiring good navigation skills and a head for heights. If you're an experienced hiker seeking an unforgettable adventure, Stapylton Amphitheatre awaits.
- The GPX file has strategic waypoints that may assist with navigation between Hollow Mountain and Stapylton.
- This is the most challenging section of the walk where a wrong turn could see you stranded on the edge of a ravine.
Please don’t copy GPX files or content from this site to AllTrails or other platforms. Each trail has been personally mapped, documented, and refined to support Australia’s bushwalking and hiking community. While some details come from land managers, every listing reflects significant personal effort. This is a free, community-driven initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.
Total distance: 6200 m
Max elevation: 489 m
Min elevation: 229 m
Total climbing: 401 m
Total descent: -401 m
Getting to the trailhead: Grampians National Park.
From Melbourne, follow the Western Highway through Stawell (235km) to Dadswells Bridge (and the big Koala). Continue on for 10.8km to turn left along Dadswell Bridge Road (signposted for Mount Zero). Follow the sealed road for 3km to turn left on unsealed Flat Rock Road. Drive for 3km to a t-intersection. Turn right on the Mount Zero-Halls Gap Road and follow it or 1.4km to turn left into Hollow Mountain Carpark.
Closest towns to this walk: Ararat, Cavendish, Dadswells Bridge, Dunkeld, Halls Gap, Horsham, Landsborough, Pomonal, Stawell, Warracknabeal, Wartook, Wartook Valley
Grampians National Park is part of the Gariwerd Aboriginal cultural landscape. Parks Victoria respects the deep and continuing connection that Traditional Owners have to these lands and waters, and we recognise their ongoing role in caring for Country.
Explore the natural beauty of the Grampians from its world-famous hiking trails. Discover majestic waterfalls, dazzling spring wildflower displays and awe-inspiring mountain panoramas. Cross paths with kangaroos, wallabies, emus and native birds. Heritage-listed for its Aboriginal heritage, animal and plant life, and stunning natural beauty, the Grampians National Park is one of Australia's most recognisable places. The best way to appreciate it is on one of its many world-class walks or hikes or by taking a scenic drive.
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 & Cultural Centre will help you get the most of your trip to these rock shelters.
The Grampians draws walkers from around the world. Hike to the highest peak within the Grampians, Mount William, or explore the plethora of walks around Halls Gap and the Wonderland Range. Views from the Pinnacle are famous, but the steep walk should only be attempted by the fit. If you’re an experienced walker you’ll enjoy the unique challenge of the park’s overnight hikes. Choose from the iconic Grampians Peaks Trail, Major Mitchell Plateau or The Fortress and Mt Thackeray Overnight Hike.
There are more relaxing pursuits to enjoy in the Grampians, too. Go fishing, canoeing or kayaking at Lake Wartook, Lake Bellfield and Moora Moora Reservoir or one of the park’s many other streams and creeks.
Looking for more walks in or near Grampians National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Grade 4 (Hard) -
Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the
AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
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10 Reviews on “Stapylton Ampitheatre Hike (6.7km)”
Which direction is easier? Mt Stapylton to Hollow Mt or the other way?
One of my favourites in the Grampians. Highly recommend avoiding this one in the wet as the rocks get very slippery 🙂