Mount Sturgeon (Wurgarri) Southern Traverse (7.5km)

Grampians National Park, traditionally known as Gariwerd, forms part of an important Aboriginal cultural landscape in western Victoria. The park sits near the town of Halls Gap in Victoria, about 260 kilometres west of Melbourne, and is one of the most recognisable national parks in Australia. For many visitors, the best way to experience the park is on foot, following the network of well-known walks, bushwalks and longer hikes that wind through its rugged ranges and valleys. Scenic drives offer a good introduction, but stepping onto the trail allows you to properly appreciate the scale and character of the landscape.

Walking through the Grampians reveals an ever-changing environment. Tracks lead to waterfalls that flow strongly after rain, across rocky ridgelines, and through forest that bursts into colour during the spring wildflower season. Along the way it is common to see kangaroos grazing in open clearings, wallabies moving quietly through the bush, or emus striding across grassy flats. Birdlife is also abundant, and many people find that slowing their pace on walks helps them notice far more than they would from a vehicle.

The area holds deep cultural significance for the Traditional Owners and contains the largest concentration of Aboriginal rock art sites in southern Australia. These ancient shelters and paintings provide an important connection to the long human history of the region. Visitors interested in learning more can start their visit at Brambuk – The National Park and Cultural Centre near Halls Gap. The centre provides cultural information and context that adds meaning to many of the nearby bushwalks and hikes.

Today the Grampians attracts walkers from across Australia and overseas, drawn by its wide range of all trails suitable for different levels of experience. Short walks around Halls Gap and the Wonderland Range provide accessible ways to explore the area, while more demanding hikes lead to some of the park’s most recognised viewpoints. The climb to The Pinnacle is particularly popular, offering expansive views across the ranges, although the steep sections mean it is best suited to reasonably fit walkers.

For those seeking a longer challenge, the park also supports multi-day hikes that reward careful planning and preparation. The Grampians Peaks Trail has become one of Australia’s most talked about long-distance hikes, linking dramatic sections of the range across several days of walking. Experienced bushwalkers may also consider overnight routes such as Major Mitchell Plateau or the hike through The Fortress and Mount Thackeray area, where quieter trails allow walkers to spend more time exploring remote parts of the park.

Whether you are planning a relaxed walk, a challenging bushwalk, or a multi-day hike, the Grampians offers an impressive range of trails that highlight the character of this remarkable part of Victoria. With careful planning and the right level of preparation, visitors can experience some of the most rewarding walks and hikes in the state.