Trail summary
Hike overview
Experience the serenity of nature on this secluded walk exploring previously untracked terrain on the southern reaches of the Mt William Range. This hike provides amazing views over the Serra Range, hikes through rocky knolls, waterways, wetlands and open grassland camping. Climb and descend a succession of six knolls and saddles passing through ancient old growth forests and lower swampland plains with stands of native Oyster Bay Pines along the way. Take in views of farmland to the east and south-east reveal a myriad wetlands. Continue hiking the ups and downs of the most southern ridgeline of the Mt William Range and settle in at Wannon Hike-in Campground for the night in a reclaimed farmland gully. Explore surrounding ridges for stunning sunset views.
Day one: (C5) Jimmy Creek Campground to Yarram Hike-in Campground (7.3km)
From the campground cross the road and climb up onto the Mt William Range and follow the range to its most southern extent. Enjoy views along the eastern slopes of farmland, small waterways and wetlands. The track passes through a gully and high cliffs to camp in a high saddle at Yarram Hike-in Campground.
Day two: (S1) Yarram Hike-in Campground to Wannon Hike-in Campground (11.1km)
This day will take hikers down steeply to a gully and then onto the western edge of the range, with views of the jagged Serra Range. Continuing south uphill and then descend to cross Yarram Gap Road. From the trailhead traverse a succession of rocky knolls with views east, west and south across to Mt Abrupt to find your camp in an open, grass clearing at Wannon Hike-in Campground.
Day three: (S2) Wannon Hike-in Campground to Griffin Fireline / Traihead (5.6km)
The final day of this itinerary takes hikers through a heavily forested saddle and slowly descends into open woodland and then grassland, to meet the Wannon River. Cross the river and follow the boardwalk that winds through wildflower-rich open woodland to the Grampians Tourist Road and then onto Griffin Fireline Trailhead.
This 3-day hike connects with Yarram and Wannon 3-day hike to the north and continues south to the Djardi-djawara and Mud-dadjug 3-day hike. The trailhead for this itinerary is Jimmy Creek. Find out more about the central Grampians walks in the official map for Grampians Peaks Trail. All itineraries require a car shuffle from start to finish. If you only have one vehicle, please visit Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre for other pick-up or walk options.
Camping fees
This itinerary includes two nights at two different, dedicated campgrounds: first night at Yarram Hike-in Campground and second night at Wannon Hike-in Campground. These are booked as an all-inclusive itinerary - all you need to do is choose the date of your first night to book. We recommend booking your 3-day hike well in advance of your planned departure to ensure there is tent pad availability at each campground.
Campground information
Campgrounds have a mix of 3.5m x 3.5m timber tent platforms and granite sand pads with steel chains that can be used to secure your tent. Additional guy rope may be needed for tent vestibules or tunnel style tents. Each campground has been individually designed the fit within the surrounding landscape. They feature an unpowered communal area for meal preparation, basic toilet facilities and water collection points
Patchy/poor mobile service between Yarram Hike-in Campground and Yarram Gap Road. Good service on the top of the range between Yarram Gap Road and Wannon Hike-in Campground. No service at Wannon Hike-in Campground. The use of fuel stoves in all hiker camps is permitted but open campfires are not allowed. Please take your rubbish with you on the entire journey and dispose of it when you get home.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 670 m
Min elevation: 275 m
Total climbing: 1139 m
Total descent: -1156 m
Getting there
Jimmy Creek Campground is located halfway between Halls Gap and Dunkeld, along Grampians Road. From the campground cross the road to begin this 3-day hike.
From Horsham/Wimmera River Bridge (100kms, 1hour and 15mins): Drive south-east on the Western Highway (A8) for 44.7kms. Turn right and follow Mt Drummond Rd, Greenhole Rd and Fyans Creek Rd for 20.7km to Grampians Road (C216). Turn right and follow Grampians Tourist Road (C216) for 32.8km to reach Jimmy Creek Campground.
From Halls Gap (27.3km, 20minutes): Drive south-east on Grampians Tourist Road (C216) for 27.3kms.
From Melbourne (252km, 3 hours and 5mins): Drive west on the Western Highway (A8) to Ararat. At Ararat, turn onto the Pyrenees Highway and follow signs towards the Grampians National Park.
Photo gallery
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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 vistas. 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 vistas, 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.
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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
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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.