Trail Fast Facts
Bugiga Walk is a 22.5km, grade 4, one way hike in Grampians National Park, Victoria. The hike typically takes 2 days to complete but can be completed in 1 day.
Hike Overview
Grampians Peaks Trail: Halls Gap to Barri Yalug Hike-in Campground (2 Days)
This itinerary details the first two days of the Grampians Peaks Trail, beginning at Halls Gap and concluding at Barri Yalug Hike-in Campground.
Day One: Halls Gap to Bugiga Hike-in Campground (9km)
Start your trek from either your Halls Gap accommodation or Brambuk - The National Park and Cultural Centre. Consult the C1 section of your GPT topographic map for guidance. The initial leg involves stone staircases and footbridge crossings as you follow Stony Creek towards the summit of The Pinnacle. Along the way, be rewarded with impressive views that stretch all the way to Lake View Lookout.
Day Two: Bugiga Hike-in Campground to Barri Yalug Hike-in Campground (13.5km)
Departing from Bugiga Hike-in Campground, prepare for a steady climb through towering forest towards Mount Rosea, the northernmost peak in the Serra Range. This section boasts some of the highest cliffs encountered on the entire trail. The descent features a series of steep and winding steps leading to Borough Huts before reaching your final destination: Barri Yalug Hike-in Campground.
While this is best enjoyed as an overnight hike, it is relatively short and can be undertaken as a full day hike. If you plan on making this an overnight adventure, bookings are required.
Track Grade
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.
Tips
- As this is a one way hike you will need to complete a short vehicle shuffle from Borough Huts Campground back to Halls Gap or arrange a bus transfer with Licensed Tour Operator.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 993 m
Min elevation: 243 m
Total climbing: 1118 m
Total descent: -1055 m
Trail Location (trailhead)
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Getting there
From Melbourne (253km, 3hrs), drive west on the Western Highway (A8) to Ararat. From Ararat take the Ararat-Halls Gap Road (C222) for 48km through Moyston, Pomonal and onto Halls Gap.
Photo gallery
If you have any photos from this hike and are happy to share them, please upload your .jpg files here.
Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
About the region
The Grampians National Park (Gariwerd) is a place of deep cultural significance for Aboriginal Australians. Parks Victoria acknowledges the enduring connection Traditional Owners have to this land and their ongoing role as custodians.
Renowned for its natural beauty, the park offers a variety of experiences. Explore its world-famous walking trails, encountering majestic waterfalls, vibrant spring wildflowers, and inspiring mountain vistas. Look out for native wildlife such as kangaroos, wallabies, emus, and birds. The park's Aboriginal heritage, diverse plant and animal life, and stunning landscapes have all earned it heritage listing. Whether you choose a scenic drive or one of the many walking or hiking tracks, the Grampians will leave a lasting impression.
Traditionally known as Gariwerd, the region boasts the highest concentration of significant and ancient Aboriginal rock art sites in southern Australia. Brambuk – The National Park and Cultural Centre offers valuable insights into these sites, enriching your exploration.
Hikers of all levels are drawn to the Grampians. Challenge yourself by scaling Mount William, the park's highest peak, or choose from the numerous trails around Halls Gap and the Wonderland Range. The Pinnacle lookout offers exceptional views, but be aware that the climb is demanding. Experienced hikers can embark on overnight adventures like the iconic Grampians Peaks Trail, Major Mitchell Plateau hike, or The Fortress and Mt Thackeray Overnight Hike.
For a more relaxed pace, consider fishing, canoeing, or kayaking on Lake Wartook, Lake Bellfield, Moora Moora Reservoir, or the park's many waterways.
The Grampians' rugged sandstone ranges, spectacular wildflowers, diverse recreational activities, and rich Aboriginal heritage combine to create an unforgettable experience. These north-south ridges boast steep eastern slopes and gentler western inclines, a result of ancient earth movements that sculpted the landscape into a series of impressive peaks and valleys. Lookouts offer panoramic vistas, while waterfalls add a touch of grandeur.
Spring brings vibrant wildflower displays to the park, with the Grampians Boronia, Blue Pin-cushion Lily, and numerous other native plants painting the heathlands in colour. Keep an eye out for the park's abundant native wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, emus, wedge-tailed eagles, and more.
Don't miss the opportunity to explore the park's shelters containing ancient Aboriginal rock art paintings, a testament to the long-standing connection between Aboriginal people and this land. Billimina Shelter, Gulgurn Manja Shelter, and Manja Shelter are some notable examples.
Let the park's fresh air invigorate you. Hike, rock climb, fish, or canoe. Choose from a variety of walking tracks, whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a challenging multi-day trek.
Halls Gap, nestled beside the Wonderland Range, serves as a convenient base for exploring the park. This town is also home to Brambuk – The National Park and Cultural Centre, where you can delve deeper into the park's natural and cultural wonders.
Similar trails nearby
Explore Safe
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.
Let someone know
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.
Gear to consider
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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Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.