Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 398m
Min elevation: 244m
Total Ascent: 313m
Hike overview
Chatauqua Peak is one of the most popular locations to visit in the Grampians, due to its beautiful panoramic views and its close proximity to Halls Gap. Chatauqua Peak is in the Grampians National Park with the loop walk commencing at the Halls Gap Botanic Gardens, with access through the Caravan Park.
The walking track is a 6.5km circuit loop which takes most hikers between 2-3 hours to complete. At 200 metres elevation, the track is very steep and is considered moderate difficulty. As you get closer to the summit, some basic climbing over rocks will be required, therefore it is not suitable for those with mobility issues or for young children.
Once at the peak, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the Grampians National Park and Mount Gar Ranges. Make your way back down the way you came. There are signposts along the way, but hikers should make sure to get a detailed map before setting out on any hikes in the Grampians. This walk will take you past Clematis Falls which is best viewed in the rainy season between May-August.
You do not need a permit or make a booking to do this hike, but please note that no dogs or other animals are permitted in the Grampians National Park. Make sure to wear appropriate footwear and carry plenty of water and warm clothing during the winter months.
You can also complete 6.5km a return hike to Chatauqua Peak if you do not wish to complete the entire circuit.
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.
Practical information
A good map should always be carried. Wonderland Walking Brochures are available from Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre Halls Gap, or from a local Grampians Visitor Information Centre.
Walk map and GPX file
Chatauqua Peak Circuit
Max elevation: 398 m
Min elevation: 244 m
Total climbing: 313 m
Total descent: -313 m
GPX files, maps and content are copyright Trail Hiking Australia. Not to be copied, redistributed or uploaded to other platforms including AllTrails.
Chatauqua Peak
Max elevation: 398 m
Min elevation: 244 m
Total climbing: 275 m
Total descent: -275 m
GPX files, maps and content are copyright Trail Hiking Australia. Not to be copied, redistributed or uploaded to other platforms including AllTrails.
Explore safely
Planning this hike? Most incidents develop before you even start. Safe outcomes depend on how navigation, hydration, environment, load and judgement work together. Small oversights can compound quickly in Australian conditions. See how it happens in the Hiking Safety Systems Foundations. Then use the Hiking Safety Systems, planning calculators, and make sure a trusted contact has your trip plan before heading out.
Leave a trip plan
Before you go, complete a trip intentions form and share it with a trusted contact. Agree on a Late-Back Time and ask them to call 000 (Police) if you have not checked in. A clear trip plan is one of the simplest and most effective safety steps you can take.
Planning checklists
Download the hiking preparation and safety checklists before leaving home to help you think through your plans. They help ensure important considerations are not overlooked and support safer decision-making on the trail.
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Grampians National Park.
Situated in Halls Gap Victoria, near the start of the walk to Venus Baths, the small but picturesque Grampians Flora Botanic Garden displays a range of local flora. It is a community garden, with no paid staff. It is wheelchair and child friendly.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Access conditions
- 2WD Access
- Bitumen Road
- Large Car Park
- Accessible Parking
- Accessible Toilet
- Public Toilets
- Drinking Water
- Picnic Shelter
- Picnic Table
- BBQ Facilities
Accommodation nearby
Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: Ararat, Cavendish, Dadswells Bridge, Dunkeld, Halls Gap, Horsham, Landsborough, Pomonal, Stawell, Warracknabeal, Wartook, Wartook Valley
About the region
Renowned for rugged mountain ranges, rich cultural heritage and breathtaking scenic views, the 168,000 hectare park is ideal for a wide range of outdoor activities. The many walking tracks will take you on a journey to waterfall views, ancient geological rock features and forests. There are guided tours, and with a large network of roads available, car touring is a great way to explore. Renowned as the major attraction in the region, the Grampians National Park is a must-visit destination for all travellers, backpackers and day-trippers in Victoria. The spectacular setting of the mountainous landscape boasts a wide array of attractions and activities for visitors to the region. The Grampians National Park (also Gariwerd), commonly referred to as The Grampians, is a national park in the Grampians region of Victoria, Australia. The 167,219-hectare (413,210-acre) national park is situated between Stawell and Horsham on the Western Highway and Dunkeld on the Glenelg Highway, 260 kilometres west of Melbourne and 460 kilometres east of Adelaide.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Grampians National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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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.




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