Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 1004m
Min elevation: 339m
Total Ascent: 1600m
Essential information
Mount William and the Major Mitchell Plateau are highly exposed areas where weather can change rapidly. In winter and during wet periods, hikers may encounter heavy rain, sleet and strong winds. Snow is possible between May and October. July is typically the coldest month, with average temperatures around 5°C and about 170 mm of rainfall. Walkers should be well prepared for these conditions and carefully reconsider crossing the plateau during poor weather.
Hike overview
Duwul Walk via Redman Bluff is a 26 kilometre, grade 4 return hike in Grampians National Park, Victoria. Most hikers complete the walk over two days, allowing time to enjoy the rugged terrain and wide mountain scenery that characterises this part of the park.
Starting from the Redman Road Trailhead, the track climbs steadily through dense eucalypt woodland. The forest provides shade in the early stages, with birdsong and the scent of gum leaves accompanying the gradual ascent. As the track gains elevation the environment begins to change, with patches of exposed rock and small moss beds appearing among the trees. Along the way you may notice a section of historic raised water fluming supported by dry stone pillars, a quiet reminder of earlier efforts to manage water in this landscape. The climb continues toward the area known as Seven Dials, where the terrain becomes noticeably rockier and the views begin to open.
Beyond Seven Dials the walk takes on a more rugged character. The track crosses a series of rocky outcrops before joining the ridgeline leading toward Redman Bluff. Careful footing is required in places, particularly after rain, but the surrounding scenery becomes increasingly dramatic. Vegetation also changes with elevation, and during spring and early summer the ridges can be dotted with seasonal wildflowers that add colour to the otherwise weathered sandstone landscape.
Redman Bluff rises to about 1017 metres and is marked by a historic rock cairn at the summit. From here the views stretch widely across the central Grampians. The Serra Range stands prominently to the west, while Mount Abrupt is visible to the south and Mount Difficult rises along the northern skyline. Lake Bellfield and the township of Halls Gap sit far below, and on clear days Mount William, the highest peak in the Grampians, is easily recognised in the distance. It is an ideal place to pause, take in the surrounding terrain, and prepare for the final section of the walk toward Duwul Hike-in Campground.
After leaving Redman Bluff the track continues along the high ridgeline before passing through a narrow corridor between Mount William Road and the cliff edge. This section demands attention, particularly in windy or wet conditions, but it also offers some of the most striking scenery of the walk. The Serra Range rises prominently across the landscape and the distinctive rock formations around Cathedral Rock stand out against the skyline. Looking back along the ridge reveals Mount William and Durd Durd forming an impressive backdrop. The ground here is often uneven and rocky, so steady footing is important while taking in the expansive surroundings.
Duwul Hike-in Campground sits among the high country of the range and provides a quiet place to spend the night before returning the following day by the same route. The area is known for its impressive displays of wildflowers and sweeping mountain scenery, making this walk one of the more rewarding high ridge experiences in the Grampians.
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.
Walk map and GPX file
Max elevation: 1004 m
Min elevation: 339 m
Total climbing: 1600 m
Total descent: -1600 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.
From the centre of Halls Gap, begin by heading south on Grampians Road (C216) toward Dunkeld. Follow this sealed road for about 6 kilometres as it winds along the eastern side of the Serra Range and passes Lake Bellfield. Shortly after passing the lake, turn right onto Redman Road. Redman Road is an unsealed park management road, so drive slowly and take care, especially after rain when conditions can become rough.
Continue along Redman Road for approximately 3 kilometres. The road passes through open forest and gradually climbs into the foothills of the range. Watch for the signed Redman Road Trailhead parking area on the side of the road. This small clearing serves as the starting point for the Redman Bluff hike via Seven Dials. From Halls Gap the total driving distance to the trailhead is roughly 12 kilometres and usually takes around 15 minutes, depending on road conditions.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
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
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 views. 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 views, 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.
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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.





