Discover the best things to do in the Grampians National Park with this comprehensive guide. From breathtaking hikes to stunning wildlife, there’s something for everyone!
Should you venture to one of Victoria’s crown jewels—the Grampians National Park—prepare to be mesmerized. Perfect for those seeking serene retreats, this mountainous expanse of Victoria promises a refreshing escape.
Tourists from Melbourne and other regions are drawn to this must-visit destination, given its accessible distance from urban areas. Plus, it boasts top-tier dining and accommodation choices.
The vastness of the park’s trails and pathways is extensive; capturing all in one guide would be exhaustive. Hence, this article focuses on some standout spots in the Grampians!
Experience the Majestic Mackenzie Falls
The iconic Mackenzie Falls is a top recommendation for any Grampians visit. As one of Victoria’s most voluminous cascades, it’s a visual treat you won’t want to miss.
Imagine water tumbling from great heights into a profound basin. The resulting spectacle is a mesmerizing spray, creating fleeting rainbows high above a scenic gorge all year round.
If you’re up for a more immersive experience, a moderately challenging trail of about one kilometre from the MacKenzie Falls car park leads you right to the waterfall’s base.
You’ll find the car park on Mount Victory Road, approximately 25-30 minutes from Halls Gap.
Climbing the Gariverd Rock
Both beginners and seasoned climbers are encouraged to embrace the rock climbing experience in the Grampians. Suitable for all age groups, this endeavour presents climbing opportunities for everyone.
Feel the surge of excitement as you ascend, and once you reach the summit, be captivated by the spectacular view of the heritage park.
Furthermore, based on your skill level and prior experience, a proficient climbing instructor will determine the best site matching your capabilities. They’ll also suggest the spot that aligns with the kind of adventure you’re pursuing.
Remember, it’s all about the journey, not the pace. So, considering Gariwerd Rock in the Grampians is a must when you plan a climbing escapade.
Embark on the Grampians Day Expedition
Initiate your excursion with an energizing 4.2km loop hike, introducing you to fascinating rock structures like the Grand Canyon and Silent Street.
This path takes you to the Pinnacle, a famed point in the park with its dramatic, jagged cliffs. Allow yourself time to immerse in the panoramic views and capture memorable shots.
Post-hike, savour a hearty meal, gearing up for a demanding 2km climb to Mackenzie Falls.
While it may be a steep journey, at the end lies one of Victoria’s grandest waterfalls.
Extend your adventure with a stopover at the scenic Boroka Lookout, and end your day at a secret kangaroo spot in Halls Gap, unveiled by your guide.
Engage in a Half-day Abseiling Quest
Abseiling in the Grampians is an experience not to be missed. Tailored to suit everyone and overseen by expert guides, it prioritizes your safety.
Rely on the professional instructors and top-tier equipment, enabling you to lean back confidently and descend.
A range of abseiling options catering to varied age groups, skill levels, and desired intensities. With lengths from 8 to 30 meters, everyone will surely find an abseiling experience that fits their preference.
Discover Fish Falls
Looking for more Grampians adventures? Dive into the wonders Fish Falls offers. Notably, Fish Falls cascades 60 metres across terraced rocks, maintaining its flow throughout the year.
Initiate your journey from the lower section of MacKenzie Falls and tread along the trail to relish a moderate 4.6-kilometre hike leading to Fish Falls. En route, seize the opportunity to pause and refresh at the renowned Zumsteins Picnic Area.
Admire the View at Boroka Lookout
Boroka Lookout boasts stunning views that never fail to captivate visitors. It’s conveniently located around 15 kilometres from Halls Gap and’s perfect for brief excursions.
The viewpoint is a mere 5-minute stroll leading to two viewing platforms, ensuring easy access even for those with limited mobility.
Significantly, there are disability-friendly restrooms near the parking area. These facilities can be reached via an unpaved path with a slight incline.
The Lookout presents breathtaking views, encompassing the must-see dawn moments, scenic perspectives of Halls Gap, and the shimmering Lake Bellfield.
It also provides a clear vantage point of the Wonderland and Mt William mountain ranges.
Explore The Balconies
Take a relaxed walk to The Balconies for a delightful experience. The viewing platforms, perched at the edge of a majestic cliff, offer awe-inspiring views and cater to trekkers of all skill levels.
From the same parking area as the Reed Lookout, journey the two-kilometre stretch to The Balconies. Once there, immerse yourself in the panoramic vistas of Victoria Valley and its adjacent peaks.
The site is renowned for its unique rock formations from the mountainside. Given this, The Balconies are an excellent spot for serene morning and evening views. A top recommendation when listing Grampians attractions!
Embark on a Brief Trek to Splitters Falls
Your Grampians adventure won’t be short of experiences. Add Splitter Falls to your list, especially during the spring season.
Acting as a seasonal cascade, Splitter Falls might wane in the summer. For flora enthusiasts like myself, the surrounding areas bloom with vibrant wildflowers.
You can also start from the Wonderland parking area and follow the stream down to glimpse Splitters Fall. Conveniently, it’s just a quick trek from Halls Gap.
Follow the Stony Creek pathway, which also leads to Venus Baths. Once there, you’re greeted by limestone pools, perfect for cooling off on warm days.
Experience a Chilling Ghost Tour
Dive into the spooky ambience of the famous J Ward Lunatic Asylum, once a home for Australia’s criminally deranged. Start your evening with a visit to the museum, showcasing intriguing artifacts from the past like straight jackets, electro-shock therapy tools, and archived patient data, then set off on a 2-hour guided spectral journey around the premises.
Navigate through the West Wing, the warden’s restroom, the executioner’s gallows, the authentic kitchen, the shower area, and the recreational yards. As you roam, be on the lookout for residual spirits while listening to hair-raising stories of inmates who met untimely ends.
Seize this opportunity to possibly cross paths with the phantoms of notorious convicts such as Chopper Read, Gary Webb, and William Wallace. Remember, tours operate every Friday and Saturday evening, kicking off at 9:30 PM.
Explore the Grampians Peaks Trail
If you’re looking for an exhilarating challenge, consider scaling the trails of the Grampians Peaks. This ambitious route spans a whopping 160km.
The journey, roughly spans 13 days, takes you through the rugged core of the Grampians National Park. Embarking from Mt Zero in the north, the trail winds southward, leading you to the summit of Mt Difficult.
From there, your adventure propels you through Halls Gap. Thereafter, anticipate scenic delights such as Redman Bluff, Major Mitchell Plateau, and Mt Abrupt. Your exploration culminates in Dunkeld to the south. As you traverse, take the opportunity to rest at the exclusive campgrounds along the way.
Ascending these majestic mountaintops provides a sense of accomplishment and breathtaking panoramic views of the Grampians Peak Trails. Additionally, navigating the sharp rocky ridges offers its own thrill.
To top it off, you’ll uncover a wide variety of plants and wildlife and delve into the ancient Aboriginal heritage of Gariwerd. Without a doubt, this fortnight-long trek gives you an unparalleled Grampians experience!
Where to Lodge in the Grampians
Economical- Mountain View Motor Inn & Holiday Lodges
Highlights: Prime location, complimentary parking, open-air pool
Nestled within 6 hectares of indigenous gardens and just a 5-minute drive from Halls Gap, this establishment boasts a swimming pool. Each accommodation type also offers a terrace providing vistas of the Grampian Mountains.
Kangaroos, emus, and kookaburras frequent the grounds of Mountain View Motor Inn & Holiday Lodges. Both The Gap Vineyard and Halls Gap Zoo are a mere 2 minutes away by car. Meanwhile, the Grampians National Park is a 20-minute drive.
All accommodations are furnished with heating, air conditioning, electric blankets, and facilities for tea and coffee.
Explore the Wonders of Halls Gap Zoo with Your Family
Certainly, a must-visit is the renowned Halls Gap Zoo if you’re at Halls Gap. Both children and adults will enjoy engaging with its splendid variety of animals.
This notable zoo boasts a collection of over 160 types of local and foreign animals, diverse birds and reptiles. Including this spot in your journey to the Grampians National Heritage Park is undeniably a great decision.
You’ll be captivated by the playful meerkats, towering giraffes, and impressive rhinos. The excitement continues with sightings of agile cheetahs, majestic red pandas, energetic lemurs, and radiant macaws. Moreover, diverse kangaroo and wallaby species are ready to greet you.
Insight into Grampians National Park
Dining in The Grampians: A Culinary Adventure
With its burgeoning gourmet reputation, the Grampians region is drawing culinary enthusiasts. It’s hardly surprising, given the remarkable dishes offered by restaurants in this area, bolstered by numerous local produce and nearby farms.
Though a tad secluded, the high-quality offerings in this locale are worth the extra mile. If you’re seeking family-friendly venues, Halls Gap boasts a delightful selection.
You can choose the right places to indulge in delectable meals during your stay here. From award-winning establishments to farm-to-table adventures, let me guide you to some must-visit eateries.
Harvest Halls Gap Café and Provedore
Tucked within the heart of Grampians National Park, the Harvest Halls Gap Café and Provedore stand out as chic dining spots. Amidst the forested surroundings, diners are treated to amazing views.
Dedicated to spotlighting the Grampians’ exceptional food and wine, Harvest procures most ingredients locally. Beyond the usual coffee, tea, and baked goods, they serve hearty breakfasts, brunches and lunches.
Given its popularity, especially over weekends, reserving a table ahead of time is advisable.
Spirit Of Punjab Indian Restaurant
In my view, Indian cuisine is a gastronomic masterpiece. Heralded for its rich and aromatic flavours, it’s truly a global favourite. Thus, visiting Halls Gap should include a meal at Spirit of Punjab.
The dishes here are top-notch and pride themselves on using fresh components and authentic spices. Set against the backdrop of the stunning Grampians, the Spirit of Punjab presents an Indian ambience. In the outdoor beer garden, guests can often spot kangaroos and birds by the restaurant’s serene pond.
Paper Scissors Rock Brew Co
A vibrant addition to Halls Gap, Paper Scissors Rock Brew Co is more than just a craft brewery; it’s also a restaurant and event venue.
Their staple beers are consistently available, with occasional special editions or guest brews adding variety. The rotating taps ensure fresh experiences for repeat visitors throughout the year.
Notably, they craft their brews on the premises. They serve an array of styles that fans of craft beer seek and relish. Paired with a comprehensive cocktail list, the restaurant is helmed by some of the area’s top culinary talents.
The exceptional service team completes the experience, consistently exceeding diner expectations.
Emerson story
“In the woods, we return to reason and faith,” said Ralph Waldo Emerson.
A journey into the heart of the Grampians is like a journey back to the primal self, where you are one with nature. It is a journey where you have the luxury of time to reflect in silence about nature’s relationship with humanity. So vast, so grand, so magnificent. You could not help but be amazed by its grandeur and drowned in its beauty.
The impression the spectacular mountain views of rugged ranges, rough hills, rocky cliffs, and canyons bring will stay forever etched in memory. Nature draws us closer to itself, leaving us with questions like how infinitesimal being we are compared to the vastness of the plains on the horizon or to the lengths of the Grampians’ waterways leading to the lakes, then flowing down south into the ocean.
