The Grampians Peaks Trail (GPT) in Victoria, Australia, is an adventure and nature lovers paradise—160 km of rugged Grampians National Park beauty, stunning views, rich history and diverse ecosystems. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner looking to challenge yourself, the GPT will be an experience you won’t forget.
Explore the Trail
A Walk Through Nature’s Artwork
The Grampians Peaks Trail winds through sandstone ridges, forests and open grasslands. As you walk, you’ll see mountain peaks, rock outcrops and views. The landscape is amazing and varied, perfect for hikers who love views.
The trail has everything for adventurers who want to experience different conditions, steep climbs and loose rocks, long walks with lots of stairs. The mix of mountain peaks and rock outcrops means endless photo opportunities for those who love views.
Indigenous History
The Grampians are known as Gariwerd to the traditional owners, the Djab Wurrung and Jardwadjali people. Along the trail, you can visit ancient rock art sites and get a glimpse into the rich history and cultural landscapes of the Indigenous communities that have lived on the land.
By learning about the Aboriginal culture, you’ll get more out of the trail. Guided Grampians tour staff will tell you about the cultural sites along the way.
Trail Highlights
- Halls Gap to Mount Rosea: Tough but beautiful through the woods and with views from Mount Rosea.
- Mount Difficult Range: As the name suggests, this section is tough, but the views and bushwalks are stunning.
- Mount Abrupt and Dunkeld: The southern section has steep climbs, gentle descents, and views of the plains. The southern bits are the best. The views go on for miles.
Planning Your Trip
When
The best time to do the Grampians Peaks Trail is spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May). Mild weather and great scenery, wildflowers in spring and cooler weather in autumn. Avoid dry periods and be prepared for variable weather and hot conditions.
Get Ready
- Fitness and Experience: The GPT is a tough hike with steep bits, rock scrambles and lots of stairs. Good aerobic fitness and hours of leg strengthening are recommended. Consider your hiking experience and fitness before attempting challenging sections.
- Gear: Bring a lightweight hiking tent, personal gear and a loaded day pack. Make sure your pack weight is comfortable and include a free-standing tent, rainwater tanks for water collection and a day trip playlist for relaxation. Manage your energy with good food and healthy eating.
- Permits: Get permits for overnight hikes and camping Melbourne Tours. Be aware of tent pad availability at hiker camps and designated campgrounds. Most campsites have timber tent platforms, standard tent pads and tent vestibules.
Accommodation
The trail has a mix of campsites and hiker huts, so there’s something for everyone. Book early, especially during school holidays. Accommodation often has timber platforms and town water and water tanks.
For those who want a bit more comfort, twin share basis options and private wine tours are available in nearby towns. The tent pads and designated campgrounds cater for single tents to larger free-standing tents.
Guided and All-Inclusive Options
If you prefer guided, consider walking tours or private wine tours combined with hiking. Many all-inclusive itineraries include meal preparation, healthy meals, single tents or twin share basis options and staff to help you on your adventure.
Guided camping tours include pack carrying so you can leave your heavy pack behind and enjoy the day with a lighter day pack. With staff on hand, you can learn more about the trail’s plants, animals and history.
Safety and Preparedness
The Grampians Peaks Trail has variable weather from summer to winter. Be prepared with the right gear – lightweight tents, water tanks for collecting water and personal clothing for steep climbs and long treks. Be aware of trail markers to navigate safely.
Emergency preparedness is key. Carry a personal locator beacon (PLB) if hiking remote sections. Know your emergency contacts and where the water tanks and town water access points are. If the weather turns bad, have an all-inclusive itinerary with contingency plans.
The Ultimate Experience
The Grampians Peaks Trail is more than a hike, it’s a journey of self discovery, a chance to connect with nature and to immerse yourself in the beauty and history of Gariwerd. Every step on this trail brings you closer to nature, to yourself and to the stories etched into the land by the traditional custodians.
The mix of southern sections, eastern slopes and mountain ranges means experienced hikers will have a variety of challenges and rewards. Whether you’re taking in the views from the mountain peaks or relaxing on the tent platforms in the hiker camps, the Grampians Peaks Trail is an adventure of a lifetime.
FAQ
How long does it take to do the Grampians Peaks Trail?
13-15 days, depending on your pace and which sections you do. Some people do shorter day trips or overnight hikes to do a section.
Is the trail for beginners?
Some sections are beginner-friendly, but the whole trail is challenging. Beginners should start with shorter sections and assess their fitness and experience before attempting the whole hike.
Are there guided tours?
Yes, several companies offer guided walking and camping Grampians tours. All-inclusive itineraries with meals, personal clothing guidance and support staff.
What do I do in an emergency?
Carry a personal locator beacon (PLB) and a fully charged mobile phone. Know your emergency contacts and where the nearest help points are. Be prepared for bad weather.
Can I make the trail all year?
The trail is open all year, but summer is very hot, and winter can be cold and wet. Spring and autumn are the best times to hike the GPT; the weather is more manageable, and the landscapes are more vibrant.
