The Mount Stapylton (Gunigalg) Loop Walk is a challenging 4km hike in Grampians National Park, Victoria. This grade 4 trail is suited to experienced hikers with a good level of fitness. Expect the 2-hour circuit to involve water crossings, potentially slippery surfaces, rock hopping, scrambling sections, and unassisted climbs through caves.
The well-marked track leads you up the steep slope of Flat Rock, rewarding you with a stunning vantage point over a natural amphitheatre. After a brief descent, you'll reach the base of the imposing Taipan Wall. The path then continues its steady climb along terraces until reaching a marked intersection.
The final ascent to the summit requires close attention to signage and markers, with sections involving rock hopping and scrambling past a wind-scoured cave. The effort is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views encompassing a vast expanse of the Grampians National Park and surrounding plains. Descend via the same route, taking in the scenery once again.
This hike offers a glimpse of diverse landscapes, including iron-stained cliffs, rocky outcrops, densely vegetated gullies, and woodlands rich in banksias, grass trees, native pines, and eucalyptus trees. Be aware that the challenging nature of this trail makes it unsuitable for casual walkers.
Total distance: 4003 m
Max elevation: 469 m
Min elevation: 252 m
Total climbing: 289 m
Total descent: -289 m
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From Melbourne, follow the Western Highway through Stawell (235km) to Dadswells Bridge (and the big Koala). Continue on for 10.8km to turn left along Dadswell Bridge Road (signposted for Mount Zero). Follow the sealed road for 3km to turn left on unsealed Flat Rock Road. Drive for 3km to a t-intersection. Turn right on the Mount Zero-Halls Gap Road and follow it or 2.4km to turn left into the Mount Zero Picnic Area.
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.
Renowned for rugged mountain ranges, rich cultural heritage and breathtaking scenic views, the 168,000 hectare park is ideal for a wide range of outdoor activities. The many walking tracks will take you on a journey to waterfall vistas, ancient geological rock features and forests. There are guided tours, and with a large network of roads available, car touring is a great way to explore. Renowned as the major attraction in the region, the Grampians National Park is a must-visit destination for all travellers, backpackers and day-trippers in Victoria. The spectacular setting of the mountainous landscape boasts a wide array of attractions and activities for visitors to the region. The Grampians National Park (also Gariwerd), commonly referred to as The Grampians, is a national park in the Grampians region of Victoria, Australia. The 167,219-hectare (413,210-acre) national park is situated between Stawell and Horsham on the Western Highway and Dunkeld on the Glenelg Highway, 260 kilometres west of Melbourne and 460 kilometres east of Adelaide.
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.
Looking for things to do in Grampians National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
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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.
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
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.
3 Reviews on “Mount Stapylton Walk (4km)”
Jenni Kauter
David Sando
Des Shillabeer
Another great walking destination described in Take A Walk in Victoria’s National Parks
This is a great hike for kids or anyone who enjoys a bit of a rock scrambling. My boys loved it.
Great walk.
I thought Mt Stapleton walk was closed at the present?
Or this one Melinda Ignatenko