The Mount Difficult Range Traverse is a remote and demanding hike that requires excellent navigation skills, physical fitness, and preparation. Due to overgrown and unmarked sections, hikers must be confident with off-track navigation. Weather conditions in the Grampians can change quickly, carry appropriate gear, inform someone of your plans, and avoid attempting this route in poor weather or low visibility.
The Mount Difficult Range Traverse is a challenging 26 km hike through the rugged terrain of the Grampians National Park, typically completed over two days.
Day 1: Plantation Campground to Longpoint West Campsite
The hike begins at Plantation Campground, located north of Halls Gap on Mount Zero Road. The walk starts with a long, steady climb up the eastern side of the Mount Difficult Range to reach the plateau. Although this initial section is only around 3 km, it is extremely overgrown and poorly defined due to limited use, expect this part to take several hours. Strong navigation and wayfinding skills are essential.
Upon reaching the plateau, you’ll connect with the Grampians Peaks Trail, turning north to follow the escarpment edge for some spectacular cliff-top views. Continue following the cliff line northward. At approximately 9.7 km from the trailhead, look out for Long Point Track on your left (heading west). This track descends to Longpoint East Campsite and then winds around the valley to Longpoint West Campsite, where you’ll find several campsites and a toilet block with a water tank. This campsite is around 13 km from the starting point and makes an excellent overnight stop.
If time permits, consider a side trip to the summit of Mount Difficult via a track just before reaching the campsite. This return trip is approximately 4 km. However, if you'd also like to explore Briggs Bluff, it’s best to plan this for the following day and stay a second night at Longpoint West Campsite. This allows enough time to enjoy both summits without rushing before continuing the rest of the traverse.
Day 2: Return to Plantation Campground
From Longpoint West, follow the Long Point West Fire Trail south until it meets Mount Difficult Road. From here, you’ll have a 6 km road walk as you gradually ascend back to the top of the plateau.
Directly across from the turnoff to Werdug Walk-in Campsite, locate the walking track on your left—this is the Grampians Peaks Trail. Follow it as it curves around the head of the gully and gradually heads north. After approximately 2 km, you’ll need to leave the trail and enter the bush to begin your descent back to Plantation Campground. There is no visible or marked track here, so you must rely on your navigation skills to locate the correct point along the escarpment and retrace your descent route from day one. The terrain is steep and overgrown, so allow plenty of time and ensure you are confident in off-track navigation.
Plantation Campground
Nestled among the remnants of an old Radiata Pine plantation on the eastern edge of the Mount Difficult Range, Plantation Campground is the perfect base for exploring the spectacular northern Grampians. Located just a short drive from Halls Gap, the campground provides convenient access to nearby attractions such as Beehive Falls, Heatherlie Quarry, and several Aboriginal rock art sites, picnic areas, and walking trails.
The campground offers basic facilities including:
- Fire pits with barbecue plates
- Picnic tables
- Non-flush toilets
- Bush showers
- A seasonal water tank (not suitable for drinking)
Please note:
- Campfires are only permitted in designated fireplaces. Bring your own firewood.
- There are no rubbish collection facilities—pack out all waste.
- Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a lead at all times.
- Dogs are not permitted within the Grampians National Park outside of vehicles and sealed parking areas.
Camping details:
- 30 unpowered sites suitable for tents, camper trailers, caravans, and campervans
- Maximum of 6 people per site
- No bookings or fees required—sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis
Plantation Campground is a popular and accessible option for hikers and nature lovers seeking a rustic camping experience close to some of the Grampians' most stunning landscapes.
- Navigation is critical – sections of the track are overgrown, unmarked, and hard to follow. Carry a detailed map, compass, and GPS, and know how to use them.
- Allow extra time – the first 3 km climb to the plateau is slow-going due to thick vegetation and unclear trail.
- Carry sufficient water – Longpoint West Campsite has a tank, but water is seasonal and not guaranteed. Treat all water before drinking.
- Know your limits – the optional sidetrips to Mount Difficult and Briggs Bluff add up to 8 km. Consider staying a second night if attempting both.
- Expect a 6 km road section – between Longpoint West and Werdug turnoff, you'll be walking on gravel road with vehicle traffic.
- Watch for the final descent point – there’s no sign or track; you'll need to locate the right exit spot using your route from day one.
- Check park alerts – weather, fire danger, and trail conditions can change rapidly in the Grampians.
- Be snake-aware – especially in warmer months; long grass and rocky outcrops are common.
- Camp only at designated sites – Longpoint West offers basic facilities, including toilets and a water tank.
Please don’t copy GPX files or content from this site to AllTrails or other platforms. Each trail has been personally mapped, documented, and refined to support Australia’s bushwalking and hiking community. While some details come from land managers, every listing reflects significant personal effort. This is a free, community-driven initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.
Total distance: 26098 m
Max elevation: 731 m
Min elevation: 244 m
Total climbing: 1249 m
Total descent: -1249 m
Getting to the trailhead: Grampians National Park.
Plantation Campground is located approximately 261 km from Melbourne. Head towards Halls Gap, then continue 9.5 km north along Mount Zero Road to reach the campground. The road is unsealed but generally suitable for 2WD vehicles in dry conditions.
Closest towns to this walk: Ararat, Cavendish, Dadswells Bridge, Dunkeld, Halls Gap, Horsham, Landsborough, Pomonal, Stawell, Warracknabeal, Wartook, Wartook Valley
Grampians National Park is part of the Gariwerd Aboriginal cultural landscape. Parks Victoria respects the deep and continuing connection that Traditional Owners have to these lands and waters, and we recognise their ongoing role in caring for Country.
Explore the natural beauty of the Grampians from its world-famous hiking trails. Discover majestic waterfalls, dazzling spring wildflower displays and awe-inspiring mountain panoramas. Cross paths with kangaroos, wallabies, emus and native birds. Heritage-listed for its Aboriginal heritage, animal and plant life, and stunning natural beauty, the Grampians National Park is one of Australia's most recognisable places. The best way to appreciate it is on one of its many world-class walks or hikes or by taking a scenic drive.
Traditionally known as Gariwerd, this region is home to the largest number of significant and ancient Aboriginal rock art paintings and shelters in southern Australia. A visit to Brambuk – The National Park & Cultural Centre will help you get the most of your trip to these rock shelters.
The Grampians draws walkers from around the world. Hike to the highest peak within the Grampians, Mount William, or explore the plethora of walks around Halls Gap and the Wonderland Range. Views from the Pinnacle are famous, but the steep walk should only be attempted by the fit. If you’re an experienced walker you’ll enjoy the unique challenge of the park’s overnight hikes. Choose from the iconic Grampians Peaks Trail, Major Mitchell Plateau or The Fortress and Mt Thackeray Overnight Hike.
There are more relaxing pursuits to enjoy in the Grampians, too. Go fishing, canoeing or kayaking at Lake Wartook, Lake Bellfield and Moora Moora Reservoir or one of the park’s many other streams and creeks.
Looking for more walks in or near Grampians National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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1 Review on “Mount Difficult Range Traverse (26km)”
Julie and I tackled this traverse in November 2024, and the first 3 km ascending the escarpment was extremely challenging. It took us almost four hours just to cover that short section. The track was heavily overgrown, barely visible in parts, and we seriously considered turning back more than once. The thought of having to descend the same way on day two was pretty daunting. Once we reached the plateau, the walking became easier, but both days ended up being long and exhausting. This is not a hike for anyone who dislikes off-track walking, thick spiky vegetation, or emerging from the bush covered in cuts and scratches. Confident navigation skills are absolutely essential.