Trail summary
Hike overview
The Mount Rosea and Sundial Peak hike is a challenging 17.5km circuit trail within Grampians National Park, Victoria. Rated as Grade 4, it typically requires around 6 hours to complete.
The path traverses the southern slopes of the Wonderland Range, initially ascending through heathy woodland before reaching Sundial Peak. This vantage point rewards hikers with breathtaking views across Mount Rosea, Lake Bellfield, and the surrounding landscape. During spring, wildflowers add a vibrant touch to the rugged scenery.
Descending from Sundial Peak, the trail crosses the valley floor before tackling the Serra Range. This challenging circuit showcases the full grandeur of the Grampians' rugged beauty. Due to its difficulty, this hike is not recommended for inexperienced walkers.
The loop follows the southern end of the Wonderland Range, incorporating Sundial Peak before culminating in the ascent of Mount Rosea. This peak, exceeding 1000 metres in elevation, is one of a select few within the park to offer such prominence. While Sundial Peak provides exciting views, Mount Rosea's commanding position delivers one of the most expansive panoramas in all of Victoria.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 993 m
Min elevation: 533 m
Total climbing: 1002 m
Total descent: -1002 m
Getting there
Closest towns to this walk: Halls Gap, Stawell, Wartook Valley, Pomonal, Dunkeld
The Sundial Carpark, found at the end of the Sundial Road within the Grampians National Park, is best known for being a jump-off point for many exciting adventures. The car park itself features picnic tables, walking tracks, information signs, and toilets for the comfort of travellers.
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.
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.
Suggest an edit
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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Let someone know
Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
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.
1 Review on “Mount Rosea & Sundial Peak Hike (17.5km)”
Hi
Love your site.
The family and I just did this hike (12/3/23) and while very enjoyable, there are some changes that people should be aware of:
-The section of trail that descends from the sundial track to Silverband Rd appears to have been closed by the Park’s authority as it is extremely overgrown with lots of prickly bushes that were quite unpleasant to walk through. It is still walkable, however, although hard to find without GPS.
– The track south of the intersection of where the trail ascending from Silverband Rd towards the Mt Rosea peak crosses the Grampians Peaks Trail is now closed and walkers are directed to continue ascending the side of the valley via the Grampians Peaks trail.
The walk took us a total of 7.5 hours including meals and breaks.
Cheers