Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore the breathtaking Byaduk Caves on a 1.5km circuit hike in the Mount Napier State Park, Victoria. Suitable for moderate-level hikers, this Grade 3 trail offers an intriguing peek into Victoria's youngest volcano and its lava-formed caves. Be awed by stalactites, stalagmites, and ropy lava in Harmans 1 Cave, home to Batwing bats. Remember to wear sturdy shoes for climbing over rocks and bring a torch to navigate the cave, but avoid disturbing the bats' hibernation. A short trip south from Hamilton, it's a natural wonder not to be missed!

Length:

1.5km

Duration:

45 mins

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 146m

Min elevation: 141m

Total Ascent: 17m

Start: Byaduck Caves Road Byaduck North

End: Byaduck Caves Road Byaduck North

Mount Napier State Park

Victoria

Nearby town: Hamilton

From state capital: 318km

Latitude: -37.907304

Longitude: 141.973613

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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!

Gallery

Walk 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

Getting there

Closest towns to this walk: Dunkeld, Glenthompson, Hamilton, Tarrington, Warrayure

Getting to the trailhead in Mount Napier State Park.

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.

Get there with Google Maps

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.

Similar trails nearby

Looking for hikes and trails in Mount Napier State Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.

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.

Explore safe

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.

Packing checklists

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.

Let someone know

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

Reviews

Byaduk Caves Walk (1.5km)

9 Reviews 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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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.

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.

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file

Byaduk Caves Walk (1.5km)