Trail Fast Facts
The Chimney Pots is a 3.7km, grade 4 hike in the Grampians National Park, Victoria. This hike typically takes 1.5 hrs to complete.
Hike Overview
The Chimney Pots is a 3.7 km, grade 4 hike in Grampians National Park, Victoria. This hike typically takes around 1.5 hours to complete and is perfect for those seeking a less crowded experience. The walk features a unique rock stack, and the summit offers panoramic views.
The hike begins on a well-maintained trail, crossing a dry creek and gently climbing until reaching a junction. Here, hikers can choose to circle Chimney Pots in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. Heading clockwise, the trail initially follows the base of a cliff before a steep climb begins.
After cresting a shoulder, the trail continues to ascend along the north side. Another junction offers a short, scrambly side trip to a viewpoint on a prominent rock prow just below the final cliffs of the Chimney Pots. This viewpoint provides an interesting perspective of Mount Abrupt and Mount Sturgeon, with many intriguing rock outcrops on the hillside north of Chimney Pots.
Returning to the junction, the main trail climbs a short distance to crest the ridge, then descends through a shady, green, and picturesque valley before rejoining the main track. This hike offers a rewarding experience with its spectacular views and scenery.
Although the hike to the summit covers only 3.7 km, it is considered challenging due to its steep and rocky sections, requiring careful manoeuvring. The Chimney Pots, a giant sandstone formation with distinct cliffs and ledges, rises to 320 metres above sea level and is popular with rock climbers. However, novice hikers can also complete the trek with adequate preparation.
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.
Trail features
- Gravel Path
- Rough Trail
- Exposed Ledges
- Rock Scrambling
- Steep Terrain
- Off Trail
- Scenic Viewpoints
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 746 m
Min elevation: 452 m
Total climbing: 432 m
Total descent: -432 m
Trail Location (trailhead)
Sorry, no records were found. Please adjust your search criteria and try again.
Sorry, unable to load the Maps API.
Getting there
Parking for the beginning of the walk is located off Glenelg Valley Road. The road is unsealed and there are no facilities located at the carpark.
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
Suggest an edit
Trail changed? New features discovered? Has the route changed? Trail permanently closed? Help fellow hikers by suggesting edits! Click above to update route descriptions, GPX file, trail features (like boardwalks), or access conditions (like parking availability). Help me keep the trails info fresh!
Weather
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.
3 Reviews on “The Chimney Pots Walk (3.7km)”
A comfortable 3 hours with a break for lunch up top. Definitely recommend heading ‘clockwise’ for a nicer route up i.e. when you get to the first directions sign at a junction, stay on the path you’re on rather than turning right.