Trail Fast Facts

Byaduk Caves Walk is a 1.5km, grade 3 hike in Mount Napier State Park, Victoria. This hike typically takes 45 minutes to complete.

Length: 1.5km

Duration: 45 mins

Grade 3 (Moderate)

Style: Circuit

Start: Byaduck Caves Road Byaduck North

End: Byaduck Caves Road Byaduck North

Location: Mount Napier State Park

State: Victoria

Nearby town: Hamilton

From state capital: 318km

Latitude: -37.907304

Longitude: 141.973613

Overview

Map and GPX file

Directions

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Hike Overview

The Byaduk Caves are a stunning attraction in the Mount Napier State Park, formed by the lava flow from Mount Napier. The caves were created when the lava solidified on top, and molten lava continued to flow underneath the surface. Today, one of the caves can be explored by visitors to the Grampians Region.

Mount Napier is the youngest volcano in the state of Victoria and last erupted 10,000 years ago, creating the magnificent state park around its base, and an intricate connection of tubes (referred to today as caves) below the surface. The largest of the Byaduk Caves measures 18 metres wide, 20 metres deep and 10 metres high.

There are many walking trails that interconnect the caves and visitors will be able to view stalactites, stalagmites, columns and ropy lava in the one cave open to the public, Harmans 1. Batwing bats call this cave home and so visitors are advised to remain quiet whilst inside the caves.

Harmans 1 is a lava tube which has a flat roof and arched ceiling. There are a number of rocks to climb over to enter the cave, so this activity is not suitable for those with mobility issues. If planning o visit the Byaduk Caves, visitors should wear runners or hiking shoes, as the ground can get slippery. Make sure to bring a torch to explore the cave, but ensure you do not shine your torch on the bats inside the cave, as this can disturb their hibernation during the winter months.

So the next time you are visiting Hamilton, take a short trip south and visit these wondrous creations of nature!

Map and GPX file

Byaduk Caves Walk (1.5km)

Total distance: 1463 m
Max elevation: 146 m
Min elevation: 141 m
Total climbing: 17 m
Total descent: -17 m

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Getting there

Byaduk Caves Walk (1.5km)

Byaduk Caves are reached via the Byaduk Caves Road, 18 km from Hamilton on the Hamilton-Port Fairy Road. They are part of a lava flow from Mount Napier solidified and were formed by molten lava continuing to flow beneath.

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Track Grade

Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.

About the region

Stand on the edge of Mount Napier, the most recently active volcano in Victoria, and enjoy magnificent views from the Grampians to the sea. There is a walking track to the summit that winds through manna gum and Blackwood forest and past impressive volcanic features.

There is a walking track to the summit, which leads through the forest and past interesting volcanic formations. The walk winds through manna gum and Blackwood forest and past impressive volcanic features including a lava canal and tumulus and featuring a scoria zone at the summit.

The park also takes in the Byaduk Caves, one of the most extensive and accessible sets of lava caves in Australia. They are part of a lava flow stretching out 24 kilometre from Mount Napier to Mount Eccles and contain wrinkles, stalactites and stalagmites, columns and ropy lava.

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Similar trails nearby

Looking for things to do in Mount Napier State Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.

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Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.

Reviews

Byaduk Caves Walk (1.5km)

1 Review on “Byaduk Caves Walk (1.5km)”

Overall rating

Ann Cook

Judy Kennedy

24/03/2022, 05:23

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Bill Papadimitriou

J. Orchid Ngo

24/03/2022, 05:23

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Joshua Ming

Nick LyellLiam Anthony FrogleyJackson Cleary

24/03/2022, 05:23

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Jay Lewis

Karen Malloch when footy season is over can we get back to doing this please!

24/03/2022, 05:23

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Grant Hollingworth

Great mini adventure in a well hidden area.

19/03/2022, 00:48

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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.

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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.

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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.