Byaduk Caves Walk (1.5km)

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!