Make an outdoor adventure reservation to discover why travellers have been drawn to the Grampian Mountains since the middle of the 19th century. Choose from hiking and rock climbing, kayaking and canoeing, cycling and quad biking, or golfing.
Explore the Grampians on foot
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with a Grampians tour! Discover stunning landscapes, wildlife, and cultural experiences in one of Australia’s most iconic destinations.
Put on your boots and take a walking tour of the Grampians’ breathtaking natural beauty. Walk through some of the state’s most stunning wilderness on a short, easy hike or embark on a day or multi-day abseiling adventure.
Test your endurance by crossing the Grand Canyon to the top of Pinnacle or hiking through healthy forests to breathtaking views of Mount Abrupt. For a less strenuous outing, hike to the spectacular Mackenzie Falls or take in the incredible views of the Victoria Valley from the balconies just 30 minutes away at Reed Lookout.
Select a defined trail from Grampians National Park, which runs through the cliffs. Look out in all directions and admire the deep, shady, fern-covered gorges, seasonal streams flowing down the cliffs and spectacular peaks.
For an unforgettable hiking experience, take the three-day and two-day Grampians Peaks Trail hikes through some of the park’s most famous landscapes. Rocky mountain peaks, stony canyons, and spectacular panoramic vistas dominate the path. Don’t forget to take safety equipment with you.
A walk in the Grampians offers unique access to several ancient cave paintings. More than 80% of the rock art in Victoria and the most significant number of rock art sites in southern Australia are in this region. Billimina, Gulgurn Manja, Manja (all in Grampians National Park), and Bunjil’s in the Black Range Reserve near Stowell are the five accessible to the general public.
Explore the region’s other parks and reserves, including Little Desert, Mount Arapiles and Mount Buangor, for awe-inspiring views, waterfalls and world-class rock adventures.
On the golf course
Tee off at Horsham Golf Club, one of Victoria’s best public golf courses, with an undulating course on a natural sandbar. Try Creekside Stawell Golf Club, nestled in the bushland of Suralas. Avoid the bunkers and pines of Hamilton Golf Club and enjoy the lovely fairways of Santa Ana Couch Golf Club and the well-kept greens of Chalambar Golf Club near Ararat. Share a round with the wildlife at Grampians Golf Club, at the foot of Mount Abraptus, a short drive from Dunkeld, and tee off on the Mount Difficult course at Halls Gap Golf Club.
On and off the water
Get out on the water and paddle, row or sail through the beautiful scenery of the Grampians. Explore the many creeks, lakes and streams that dot the area and discover why it’s the perfect place for a canoe or kayak adventure.
Bring your equipment or hire canoes and kayaks from local operators and take them to the waters of Bellfield, Wartuck, Fiancee, and Hamilton Lakes. Paddle out and take in the scenery from a whole new perspective. Cast your line into the clear waters, explore the winding waterways or relax to the sound of birdsong. Get up close and personal with secluded shoreline vegetation, discover fascinating local geology and watch the rich birdlife as you travel around these great lakes.
Four-wheel drive and gliders
Take an off-road drive through the varied terrain of the vast sandstone mountains of Grampians National Park (Harwich) or the sandy surroundings of Little Desert National Park, which are ideal for adventurous drivers.
Allow plenty of time and stock up on supplies and gear to explore the rocky outcrops, clay and sandy trails, and the extensive Grampians National Park (Harwich) road network. Get off the beaten track, and you’ll be richly rewarded with flower-covered plains, rocky outcrops and clear mountain streams.
For more information or detailed maps, visit Brambuk National Park and Cultural Centre in Halls Gap or one of the local visitor information centres. Check with regional tour operators for off-road adventures without the hassle of gear and route planning.
Caravan parks and holiday parks
Pitch your tent or park your motorhome in the Grampians to enjoy the region’s natural attractions. Get up close and personal with nature and meet wildlife. Your campground is within a short stroll from the beginning of various treks. Stay in a woodland park or pick a vacation pitch that is fully equipped.
Grampians is a campground and caravan-friendly place. Conveniences may be used while unwinding, including covered kitchens, resting spaces, public motorhome dumping sites, gated security, showers, toilets, and washing machines.
Some locations provide TVs, tennis courts, and wireless internet. Campsite kitchens, swimming pools, jumping pads, and bike rentals are all available in family-friendly caravan sites. Call beforehand if you want a place during the busiest times of the school holidays.
In recent years, Grampians has become a popular glamping destination, with the Great Western Vineyards and stunning views of Halls Gap becoming popular luxury camping spots. Experience the harmony of the surrounding fauna while lounging in a bell tent, safari tent, or remodelled caravan, which is entirely furnished and fashionable. After an ultra-comfortable night’s sleep, plunge into the morning freshness of the Grampian Mountains.
Climb the cliffs
Climb the spectacular Grampian Rocks. Pick from routes for severe or beginning climbers. It’s the ideal location to improve your skills, share experiences with other climbers, and advance your climbing because of its expanding reputation as a climbing hotspot on a global scale.
Mount Arapiles, a majestic peak west of Horsham, has some of Australia’s most impressive and challenging rock formations. With reliable weather and a wide range of cliffs, pinnacles and rock formations, Mount Arapiles has become Australia’s most popular climbing and abseiling destination. The mountain has over 2,000 designated routes, from easy beginner climbs to level 30.
Over 60% of the 165,000-hectare Grampians National Park is accessible to climbers. Unique geological structures in the park provide popular overhangs and tricky pitches. Climbers can test their stamina and skills at Bundalir, the Mount Stapleton Amphitheatre, Watchtower, Wonderland and Halls Gap.
Numerous climbing and mountaineering courses are available from local adventure businesses. Beginner-friendly instruction and expert skill-focused programmes are available.
Victoria Parks is making combined efforts to reduce human influence and protect the park’s fragile ecosystems and priceless rock art. As such, climbing is prohibited in specific locations. Check access paths for closure signs. Employees at Victoria Parks may penalise violators.
Cycling and mountain biking
Explore the hard-to-reach corners of the Grampians on two wheels, as there are plenty of shaded bike paths for those looking for a gentle bike ride or an invigorating mountain bike adventure through the nighttime National Park.
Strap on your helmet and pedal along the marked trails past cellar doors, lavender farms or olive groves. Cycle through Dunkeld’s significant streets and those of other nearby towns and villages as you follow the Wimmera River and Lake Hamilton through the valley floor at Halls Gap.
Rent a bike at the Ararat and Grampians Visitor Information Centre and explore the many riding trails in and around Ararat. Cycle through the Grampians National Park (Garivird) and then take a short ride to the viewpoints atop ancient mountain peaks or waterfalls.
Take the family on the bike trail between Bellfield Lake and Halls Gap. You can also take advantage of the Natimuk-Mt Arapiles Hiking Trail, a 10-kilometre recreational trail that connects Natimuk to Mount Arapiles. Cyclists looking for something more energetic can take advantage of the extensive regional loops between Halls Gap, Stowell, Ararat and Great Western.
Not all of the Grampians’ challenges involve climbing uphill. Take advantage of the region’s narrow bush tracks for exciting bike rides. Combine the pleasure of free riding with a short walk and explore the natural surroundings. The trails offer different levels and terrain for all abilities and are suitable for hybrid bikes.
Explore at your speed by renting or carrying your bike. Contact Brambuk – Halls Gap National Park and Cultural Centre or any local information centre for advice on local trails and routes.
FAQ
What outdoor activities can I try in the Grampians?
You can choose from hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, canoeing, cycling, quad biking, and golfing, all set against stunning landscapes.
Are there guided hiking options in the Grampians?
Yes, from short walks to multi-day hikes like the Grampians Peaks Trail, with access to lookouts, waterfalls, and Indigenous rock art sites.
Can I go rock climbing if I’m a beginner?
Absolutely — local operators offer climbing and abseiling courses for all skill levels, from easy climbs to challenging routes at Mount Arapiles.
Where can I kayak or canoe in the Grampians?
Popular paddling spots include Bellfield, Wartook, Fyans, and Hamilton Lakes, where you can enjoy birdlife, geology, and serene waters.
Are there camping and glamping options nearby?
Yes, you’ll find caravan parks, campgrounds, and luxury glamping sites near attractions, some with full amenities and family-friendly facilities.
