Route finding can be challenging, and a good head for heights is essential. The trail includes exposed sections where the track passes close to drop-offs. If you're uncomfortable with heights or prefer well-defined paths, this is not the walk for you.
The Black Range Escarpment Traverse is a demanding 7km (one-way) adventure located within Black Range State Park, Victoria. Expect to spend 5-6 hours (possibly longer) tackling this challenging grade 5 hike.
Your journey commences at the Mudadgadjin Picnic Ground. Take the trail south, passing the Mudadgadjin Shelter, a significant Aboriginal cultural site, and descend across a sandy flat before reaching the base of the cliffs. Here, the challenge begins.
Ascend left (east) following rock cairns, guiding you to the corner of the cliff line for breathtaking eastern vistas. Continue south, traversing along the base of the rugged cliffs until you reach the main gully. Caution is advised, as some sections here are exposed.
Head west into the top of the gully before traversing back eastward, climbing to the clifftop. The track then continues south, reaching the highest point marked by a rock cairn (set back from the cliff edge for safety). Take a moment to soak in the breathtaking panoramic views of the Grampians.
The track then follows the cliff line south, with navigation becoming more challenging. Reaching the end of the cliffs, the path descends west, it's almost an off-track adventure. Explore the magnificent Wildman's Cave before continuing south off-trail to link up with the Muirfoot Track.
Important Notes:
- Due to the one-way nature of the hike, a car shuffle is required between the Muirfoot Track and the Mudadgadjin Picnic Ground trailhead. You could continue to walk north along Muirfoot Track, then Rees Road to complete a circuit back to the trailhead. This circuit would be approximately 20km.
- Similar to the Rock Escarpment Discovery Walk, route-finding can be challenging in sections.
- A good head for heights and strong navigational skills (including potentially using GPS) are essential for this hike.
- Be aware of exposed sections with drop-offs.
- This is not a suitable hike for those uncomfortable with heights or uneven terrain.
- The southern end of the ridgeline is extremely overgrown and requires excellent navigation skills.
Grade 5 (Difficult) - Walks for the Most Experienced: Grade 5 represents the most challenging walking tracks on the
AWTGS. These are only recommended for very experienced and fit walkers with specialised skills, including navigation and emergency first aid. Tracks are likely to be very rough, very steep, and unmarked. Walks may be more than 20 kilometers. These challenging walks demand a high level of fitness and experience to navigate difficult terrain, significant elevation changes, and potentially unformed paths.
- There are a number of camping areas in the State Forests surrounding the Black Range.
- Enjoy a picnic at Black Range Picnic Area surrounded by tranquil forest.
- Picnic tables and basic toilet facilities provided.
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Burrunj (Black Range) State Park is situated in Western Victoria 340km north-west of Melbourne. To reach the trailhead, if you're coming from Melbourne, head northwest on the Western Highway towards Ararat. In Ararat, take the Grampians Road (C243) which leads northwest towards Stawell.
Once on the Grampians Road, keep an eye out for Rocklands-Cherry Pool Road turning off to your left. Take this turn and follow it for a while. You'll eventually see Black Range Road branching off to the north. Take this turn and follow Black Range Road until you reach your destination, the Mudadgadjin Picnic Ground.
The trailhead is located within the Mudadgadjin Picnic Ground itself. Look for signage for the specific starting point of the trail.
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Steeped in cultural significance and natural beauty, Burrunj (Black Range) offers a tranquil escape for nature lovers. This remote pocket of land boasts an ancient and rich heritage, evident in the presence of significant Aboriginal cultural sites.
Black Range State Park, spanning over 11,700 hectares, beckons outdoor enthusiasts. Hike through diverse landscapes, from towering sandstone cliffs to lush native forests. Challenge yourself with trails leading to mountain peaks and be rewarded with panoramic vistas.
Beyond Black Range's borders, discover a wider range of recreational opportunities. Explore the nearby Rocklands Reservoir for water sports and fishing, or venture into the Grampians National Park for camping, four-wheel driving, and more.
As you explore Burrunj, remember that you're entering a place of deep cultural significance. "Dalkaiana wartaty Burrunj" (Welcome to Burrunj Country) – the Traditional Owners ask visitors to treat the land with respect. Look out for rock shelters, rock art, and scarred trees – silent testaments to a rich cultural history.
Burrunj provides a sanctuary for a variety of native flora and fauna. Look for rare plant species like the Mount Byron bush-pea and spot iconic birds amongst the Yellow Box and River Red Gum trees. Keep an eye out for Red-necked Wallabies and kangaroos as they navigate the park.
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While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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1 Review on “Black Range Escarpment Traverse (8km)”
Traversed exposed sections along cliffs and finally reached the top for mind-blowing Grampian panoramas. Navigation wasn’t easy, especially after Wildman’s Cave. Overall, super rewarding but definitely for experienced hikers with a good head for heights. Just be prepared to take your time as much of the last section is off-trail and quite overgrown.