Grampians National Park
Victoria
Grampians National Park, or Gariwerd, is a vast protected area in Victoria, Australia, covering over 167,000 hectares. It is renowned for its dramatic sandstone mountain ranges, rich Aboriginal heritage, and abundant native wildlife including kangaroos and emus. The park features numerous hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging multi-day treks like the Grampians Peaks Trail. Visitors can explore spectacular lookouts such as The Pinnacle and visit iconic waterfalls like Mackenzie Falls. The park is also home to one of the richest collections of Aboriginal rock art in southeastern Australia, with over 90% of the state's rock art found here. Its diverse landscapes include rugged cliffs, forests, and pristine waterways, offering opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and wildlife observation. The cultural centre at Brambuk provides insight into the indigenous history and significance of the area. Grampians National Park is celebrated for its outstanding natural beauty and cultural importance, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.
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Tip: The best time to visit Grampians National Park is during spring for wildflower displays or autumn for cooler hiking conditions. Purchase park passes or hiking permits in advance during peak seasons. Prepare for variable weather and bring suitable gear for steep and challenging trails like The Pinnacle walk. Visit the Brambuk Cultural Centre early to learn about the Aboriginal heritage. Consider guided tours for rock art sites to enhance understanding and preserve the sites. Use the well-developed road network to access major attractions like Mackenzie Falls and Zumsteins Historic Area. Discounts may be available for seniors or groups; check the official website before visiting.
Interesting facts
- •Grampians National Park contains about 90% of Victoria's Aboriginal rock art sites, making it one of the richest such areas in southeastern Australia.
- •The highest peak, Mount William, stands at 1,167 meters (3,829 feet).
- •The park features the iconic Mackenzie Falls, one of the largest and most spectacular waterfalls in Victoria.
- •The sandstone ranges were formed from sediment deposited during the Devonian period, approximately 425 million years ago.
- •The Grampians Peaks Trail is a world-class 164 km hiking route that can be completed in sections or as a 13-day trek.
History
The Grampians region, traditionally known as Gariwerd, has been home to the Jardwadjali and Djab Wurrung peoples for thousands of years, who created extensive Aboriginal rock art found throughout the park.
European exploration began in 1836 when Sir Thomas Mitchell named the ranges after the Scottish Grampian Mountains.
The area was proclaimed a national park in 1984 and later listed on the National Heritage List in 2006 for its natural and cultural significance.
The park's name has undergone changes reflecting recognition of indigenous heritage, with the dual naming of Grampians (Gariwerd) officially adopted in recent decades to honor the Aboriginal connections.
Place Guide
Brambuk – The National Park & Cultural Centre
The cultural centre offers comprehensive insight into the Aboriginal heritage of the Grampians, including information about the ancient rock art and indigenous culture of the Jardwadjali and Djab Wurrung peoples.
Mackenzie Falls
One of the most famous waterfalls in the park, Mackenzie Falls offers stunning views from a lookout platform and a challenging walk down to the base through the MacKenzie River Gorge.
The Pinnacle Lookout
A popular viewpoint accessible via two main routes: an easier walk from Sundial Carpark and a more strenuous climb from Wonderland Carpark, offering panoramic views over Halls Gap and the surrounding ranges.
Grampians Peaks Trail
A 164-kilometer long-distance hiking trail that traverses the park from Mt Zero to Dunkeld, showcasing diverse landscapes, mountain peaks, and remote wilderness. It can be completed in sections or as a multi-day trek.
Zumsteins Historic Area
Located on the banks of the MacKenzie River, Zumsteins offers picnic facilities and a glimpse into the area's historic settlement, surrounded by natural beauty and wildlife.
Contact
Phone: (03) 8427 2058
