Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. For the latest information on changes to local conditions, please visit the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website.
The Rock Escarpment Discovery Walk is a 5km (return trip) adventure for experienced hikers in Black Range State Park, Victoria. Rated as a grade 4 hike, it takes approximately 3-4 hours to complete and offers stunning panoramic views of the park.
Starting at the Mudadgadjin Picnic Ground, the trail leads you past the Mudadgadjin Shelter, a significant Aboriginal cultural site. After the shelter, the challenge begins. The path becomes steeper and requires a good head for heights as you navigate sections with cliffs. Keep your eyes peeled for the majestic Wedge-Tailed Eagles soaring overhead.
Following the cairns and with the help of GPS (recommended), you'll navigate a section with overgrown vegetation before reaching the high point of the trail. Here, your efforts will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Western Grampians. Take a moment to soak in the panorama before returning via the same route.
Important Notes:
- This trail is best suited for experienced hikers with a good sense of direction and comfort with heights.
- Be aware that the section after the Mudadgadjin Shelter can be overgrown and requires good route-finding skills and potentially GPS assistance.
- Remember to wear appropriate footwear and clothing for the conditions.
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the
AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
- There are a number of camping areas in the State Forests surrounding the Black Range.
- Enjoy a picnic at Black Range Picnic Area surrounded by tranquil forest.
- Picnic tables and basic toilet facilities provided.
Total distance: 4975 m
Max elevation: 483 m
Min elevation: 337 m
Total climbing: 309 m
Total descent: -308 m
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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.
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 to the trailhead: Burrunj (Black Range) State Park.
Burrunj (Black Range) State Park is situated in Western Victoria 340km north-west of Melbourne. To reach the trailhead, if you’re coming from Melbourne, head northwest on the Western Highway towards Ararat. In Ararat, take the Grampians Road (C243) which leads northwest towards Stawell.
Once on the Grampians Road, keep an eye out for Rocklands-Cherry Pool Road turning off to your left. Take this turn and follow it for a while. You’ll eventually see Black Range Road branching off to the north. Take this turn and follow Black Range Road until you reach your destination, the Mudadgadjin Picnic Ground.
The trailhead is located within the Mudadgadjin Picnic Ground itself. Look for signage for the specific starting point of the trail.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: Amphitheatre, Avoca, Bealiba, Beaufort, Burrumbeet, Eddington, Glenpatrick, Halls Gap, Lexton, Majorca, Moonambel, Moonambel Avoca, Natte Yallock Ararat, Pomonal, Skipton, Smythesdale, Stawell Ballarat
Steeped in cultural significance and natural beauty, Burrunj (Black Range) offers a tranquil escape for nature lovers. This remote pocket of land boasts an ancient and rich heritage, evident in the presence of significant Aboriginal cultural sites.
Black Range State Park, spanning over 11,700 hectares, beckons outdoor enthusiasts. Hike through diverse landscapes, from towering sandstone cliffs to lush native forests. Challenge yourself with trails leading to mountain peaks and be rewarded with panoramic views.
Beyond Black Range's borders, discover a wider range of recreational opportunities. Explore the nearby Rocklands Reservoir for water sports and fishing, or venture into the Grampians National Park for camping, four-wheel driving, and more.
As you explore Burrunj, remember that you're entering a place of deep cultural significance. "Dalkaiana wartaty Burrunj" (Welcome to Burrunj Country) – the Traditional Owners ask visitors to treat the land with respect. Look out for rock shelters, rock art, and scarred trees – silent testaments to a rich cultural history.
Burrunj provides a sanctuary for a variety of native flora and fauna. Look for rare plant species like the Mount Byron bush-pea and spot iconic birds amongst the Yellow Box and River Red Gum trees. Keep an eye out for Red-necked Wallabies and kangaroos as they navigate the park.
Looking for more walks in or near Burrunj (Black Range) State Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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10 Reviews on “Rock Escarpment Discovery Walk (5km)”
5km of grade 4 challenge – definitely for experienced hikers. Steep and overgrown sections, but the views from the top were unreal. Clearly this walk doesn’t see a lot of people as the track was hard to find in places.