The description following this point details a now-closed and unmaintained trail through Devils Gap. Due to the lack of track maintenance and potential for getting lost in the dense scrub, this section is extremely dangerous and not recommended.
The Pinnacle and Devils Gap circuit is a demanding 18.3km Grade 5 hike within Grampians National Park, Victoria. This challenging route, designed for experienced hikers with strong rock scrambling skills, takes approximately 7 hours to complete.
The trail begins in Halls Gap, following a well-maintained track to Venus Baths. Here, you'll cross the creek before tackling the rocky ascent known as "The Elephant Hide" to reach the summit of Mackey's Peak. After exploring the peak, descend to the southern saddle and rejoin the marked trail that traverses below the ridge line past Sunshine Point and on towards The Pinnacle.
Enjoy the panoramic views overlooking Halls Gap before merging with the Sundial Car Park track that leads over Bellfield Peak. As you descend from this peak, you'll encounter a signposted junction. Here, the official route diverges.
For a safe and enjoyable alternative route back to Halls Gap, follow the official signage from the junction. This section details an alternate route that is not recommended due to safety concerns.
Total distance: 18301 m
Max elevation: 717 m
Min elevation: 231 m
Total climbing: 1058 m
Total descent: -1058 m
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Grampians National Park is in western Victoria, 260km from Melbourne and 460km from Adelaide. Halls Gaps is 253km west of Melbourne.
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
Grade 5 (Difficult) - Walks for the Most Experienced: Grade 5 represents the most challenging walking tracks on the
AWTGS. These are only recommended for very experienced and fit walkers with specialised skills, including navigation and emergency first aid. Tracks are likely to be very rough, very steep, and unmarked. Walks may be more than 20 kilometers. These challenging walks demand a high level of fitness and experience to navigate difficult terrain, significant elevation changes, and potentially unformed paths.
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 “The Pinnacle & Devils Gap Hike (18.3km)”
Sam Dunkley
Great hike. The section through Devils gap is not easy to follow so good navigation is required
Hiked thru there for 7 days solo in 1980. Camp fire, camp anywhere. Take nothing but photos – Leave nothing but footprints. The good old days.
Great, thanks, I will try that! Do I need an app for it?
Just a note to anyone thinking of doing this. The track via Devils Gap has not been maintained for years and is likely to be non existent. You will need good navigation skills and be prepared for some off trail bush bashing
Kristina Serpentina the GPX file is on my site. You can just download and follow that
Kristina Serpentina all you need is an app that allows you to import GPX files.
Karl Bryann Te
Laura Kirby
Marcin Chomkowicz ?
Mark Goodwin
Mat Ross
Karen Malloch ?
Kim, for Easter?