Central Grampians

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Central Grampians

Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park

The central Grampians is the most popular area of the national park, boasting a variety of short walks, lookouts, waterfalls and picnic areas. Hikers flock to the Wonderland Range, while a memorable car tour from the pretty town of Halls Gap takes in the Balconies, Boroka Lookout, Mackenzie Falls and Zumsteins.

The Grampians between Halls Gap, Mackenzie Falls and Zumsteins is home to many of the most famous sights of this celebrated national park. There are epic landscapes and a mix of easy and challenging trails to explore them. See majestic waterfalls and take a memorable scenic drive over mountains and through valleys.

Traditionally known as Gariwerd, the Grampians and the surrounding region has a fascinating Aboriginal history. Make Brambuk – The National Park & Cultural Centre in Halls Gap your first stop. Here you can explore what Gariwerd-Grampians means to Aboriginal people and find general information about visiting the Grampians National Park.

Grampians is most famous for its spring wildflowers, Aboriginal culture and cascades and waterfalls. Take a short journey to the iconic and enduring Mackenzie Falls. Or venture deeper along trails into the rugged landscape to discover the slither of Silverband, cascades of Fish or Turret Falls.

Bushwalking in the Wonderland from its carpark near Halls Gap is aptly named. A hike to the Pinnacle is very popular despite being a strenuous walk. An easier and no less spectacular view can be had by walking the Lakeview Loop from Sundial Carpark. Venus Baths is a delight for all with its refreshing spa-like rock pools. It is another easy walk from Halls Gap along the Stony Creek.

If you’re an experienced walker you’ll enjoy the unique challenge of the park’s overnight hikes. A section of the iconic Grampians Peaks Trail starts at Halls Gap. Visit the website for further details.

There are lakes here too! Go fishing, canoeing, kayaking or sailing. Lake Wartook, Lake Bellfield and Moora Moora Reservoir all have access.

The Grampians is a special place for nature lovers and there is something to see in all seasons.

Things to do

 
Person watching the sunrise at Boroka Lookout in Grampians National Park

Boroka Lookout

Boroka Lookout provides spectacular views of the Wonderland Range, Mt William Range, Fyans Valley, Lake Bellfield and the plains to the east of the Grampians. The lookout is located 15km from Halls Gap and is easily accessed via sealed roads.
A couple take in the views from Reeds Lookout

Reeds Lookout

Great views overlooking the Victoria Valley. Follow the path around the gate and along the sealed road to the summit of Reeds Lookout. From this magnificent lookout you will receive breathtaking views over Victoria Valley, Victoria Range, Serra Range,
A young couple cross the stream on rocks in front a the spectacular MacKenzies Falls.

Mackenzie Falls

An easy stroll from the Mackenzie Falls carpark leads to a viewing platform overlooking the picturesque Broken Falls. To reach the base of Mackenzie Falls, follow the signs. Take care as this walk has many steps and is steep, slippery and strenuous in sections.
A couple enjoy a picnic by the MacKenzie river at Zumsteins Historic Area.

Zumsteins Historic Area

Zumsteins Picnic Area is located on the banks of the MacKenzie River and is the site of an historic settlement. It provides a great opportunity to relax in the natural setting of the Grampians, enjoy the wildlife, a barbecue and a short stroll.

Brambuk The National Park and Culture Centre

Brambuk The National Park and Cultural Centre in Halls Gap began with the building of the Brambuk Cultural Centre in 1989 to acknowledge, protect and share the cultures of the Jadawadjali and Djab Wurrung Peoples.
A young man offers his hand to his walking partner at the summit of The Pinnacle in the Grampians National Park.

The Pinnacle walks

Choose from two different routes up to The Pinnacle lookout – an easy to medium walk from Sundial Carpark and a more challenging walk from Wonderland Carpark.
Two friends walk along the track south of Redmans Bluff with views of the Serra Range in the background on central section 3 of the GPT

Grampians Peaks Trail

The Grampians Peaks Trail (160km) is a world-class 13-day hiking experience from Mt Zero in the north, through Halls Gap and finishing at Dunkeld. It can also be completed in shorter sections.
A tent and fireplace at Boreang Campground in the Grampians National Park

Boreang Campground

There are many locations for camping in the central region of the Grampians National Park including, Smiths Mill Campground, Borough Huts Campground, Boreang Campground and Jimmy Creek.
A family camps at Borough Huts in the Grampians National Park

Borough Huts Campground

Borough Huts Campground is set in a tranquil forested area adjacent to Fyans Creek. It is close to Halls Gap, The Wonderland Range and a starting point for walks to Lake Bellfield and Mt Rosea.
A side view of a green-grey tent set among tall eucalypts at Smiths Mill Campground in the Grampians National Park

Smiths Mill Campground

Smiths Mill Campground is positioned within heath woodland at the site of an old sawmill. It is centrally located a kilometre from Mackenzie Falls, and only a short drive to Boroka Lookout, Reed Lookout and Zumsteins Picnic Area.

How to get there

Central Grampians

Grampians National Park is located in Western Victoria, a three-hour (260km) drive from Melbourne and a five-hour (460km) drive from Adelaide. The central Grampians is easily accessed from the villages of Halls Gap and Wartook and is a scenic day trip from the regional towns of Hamilton, Horsham, Stawell and Ararat. It is also a key destination on the internationally renowned Great Southern Touring Route.

Need to know

Central Grampians

Change of Conditions

Nature being nature, sometimes conditions can change at short notice. It’s a good idea to check this page ahead of your visit for any updates.

  • Mackenzie Falls Day Visitor Area

    Mackenzie Falls (Migunang wirab) – Closed for major construction works – 9 February 2026 to midyear 2026

    Construction work at Mackenzie Falls in the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park is underway and the carpark and precinct is closed to visitors.
     
    The works at Mackenzie Falls precinct includes the construction of a new viewing platform at the base of the falls, upgrades to the carpark and the Bluff Lookout Walk and other important safety improvements to stabilise rock and improve walking tracks.

    The Mackenzie Falls carpark and all walking tracks in the precinct including Broken Falls Walk, Mackenzie Falls Walk to the base (from the carpark) and the Bluff Lookout Walk are all closed. We anticipate that construction work will finish in the second half of the year.
     
    The carpark will be a construction site throughout the works period with large machinery operating and materials being stored on site.  There will be no access for all vehicles or visitors at Mackenzie Falls Precinct during construction.  

    Zumsteins Picnic Area Parking
    During construction parking at the popular Zumsteins picnic area will be limited. It is not recommended for large passenger coaches and long caravans to visit during construction. Similarly, they should not travel between Mackenzie Falls and Zumsteins due to the narrow winding road.
     
    A small amount of parking for campervans, small motorhomes and cars with trailers is available opposite the Zumsteins Picnic Area car park, however, may not be available on busy weekends and public holidays.
     
    Zumsteins to Fish Falls – This popular walk to the beautiful Fish Falls is a 1.5 to 2 hour return walk (Grade 3) – walkers should have a reasonable fitness level, carry water and wear sturdy walking shoes as the track can be rocky with uneven surfaces and some steep sections.
      
    Mackenzie River Walk – There will be no access to the base of Mackenzie Falls from Zumsteins Picnic Area from 27 April 2026 until construction works are complete. Fish Falls will still be accessible from Zumsteins Picnic Area.
     
    For further information on the Mackenzie Falls (Migunang wirab) project visit https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/projects/western-victoria/mackenzie-falls-revitalisation
     
    Popular day visitor sites such as Reeds Lookout, the Balconies, Boroka Lookout, Silverband Falls and various walks with large bus carparking will still be available.
     
    For further information contact Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre in Halls Gap (Ph 8427 2058).
     
    Please keep up to date with closures through the Change of Conditions page for Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park.

  • Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park

    Rockclimbing Access Changes - Centurion Walls, Tortoise Wall

    Re-discovery of cultural heritage at two designated rock-climbing sites in Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park has resulted in changes to access.
     
    Centurion Walls
    Significant Aboriginal cultural values were rediscovered at Lower Centurion in late 2025. As a result, a partial closure is now in place, ensuring cultural heritage protection while maintaining modified climbing access for visitors. On-ground signage at the access track clearly delineates where climbing is or isn’t permitted. 
     
    Visitors are advised:
    • Access is closed from the area north of and including Damage Done. These sites include: 
      Damage Done, Shades of Black, Liberator, Lexicon, Temuujin, Killer Wolf, Devilled Haircut, Compressor route, Anti-Christ Superstar, Pining for the Fiords, Unknown Route 2, Genghis Khan, Project KP2, Project KP, Kublai Khan, Stone Temptress, Psychotic Episode, Trail of the dead, Flood the Zone, Push it Upstairs, Progressive Happy House.

    • All climbs south of and including In Plain Sight remain open. These climbs include; In Plain Sight, Who Dreams of Cats, Who Dreams of Cats – short,  Nowhere to Hide, Afterworld, Left Hand Black, Centrifugal Force, Centrifugal Force – Romanes Eunt Domas (linkup), Romanes Eunt Domas, Black Nobility, Sandpit, Ton Steine Scherben, Winged Corpse, HCP, Massacres and Maniacs, Lunchbox Legend, and AA New Rope / New route.
     
    • Access to Upper Centurion remains unchanged and is via the south end near Winged Corpse.
     
    Tortoise Wall
    We’re currently asking visitors to not access the area known as ‘Tortoise Wall’ to avoid causing potential harm to Aboriginal cultural heritage that was rediscovered in April 2026. A temporary closure is now in place, while Parks Victoria and Gariwerd Traditional Owners determine a longer-term management response. Out of respect for this significant cultural landscape, visitors are requested to not access this area.
     
    For further information visit the 'rock climbing in Gariwerd' web page https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/grampians-national-park/rock-climbing-in-gariwerd

    Temporary closure of a Glenelg River Road section – 25 May to 26 June 2026

    The section of Glenelg River Road from the Stony Creek Road intersection to the Boreang Campground turn off will be closed from Monday 25 May 2026 to Friday 26 June 2026 for roadworks.

    The southern end of the closure can be accessed via Rose Creek Road. Paddy Castle walk and Boreang Campground remain open, as does Glenelg River Road, south of Lodge Road.

    Mount Victory Road will have an increased amount of heavy trucks and machinery. Drivers are urged to slow down and drive with care, particularly in tight corners.

    Please refer to the map provided for detour information.


    For further information please contact Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre Phone 8427 2058. 

    Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park - Roads Update 29.05.2026

    The Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park has roads temporarily closed due to bushfire and flood impacts.
    Please be aware the movement of visitors in parts of the National Park is restricted

    Ongoing Roadworks
    Mt Zero Rd
    Grading near Roses Gap Rd intersection, drive with caution.

    Recent Openings
    Mitchell Rd

    Recent Closure
    Glenelg River Rd

    The section of Glenelg River Road from the Stony Creek Road intersection to the Boreang Campground turn off will be closed from Monday 25 May 2026 to Friday 26 June 2026 for roadworks.

    The southern end of the closure can be accessed via Rose Creek Road. Paddy Castle walk and Boreang Campground remain open, as does Glenelg River Road, south of Lodge Road.

    Likely increased traffic on Rose Creek Road. Also trucks carting materials near Syphon Road.
    Upcoming Seasonal Road Closures will be in place from 9 June 2026 to 29 October 2026.

    Please refer to the attached up-to-date road report below.

    Attachments: Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park - Road Report -29.05.2026 (236KB)

  • Billimina Walk

    Billimina Walk – Temporary closure

    Billimina Walk and Rock Art Shelter remain closed to visitors due to track damage from the 2024/25 summer bushfires.

    An alternative walk in this area is the Manja Walk to the Manja Shelter, which is an Aboriginal Rock Art site in the Victoria Range.

    For more information visit Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre in Halls Gap or call 03 8427 2058.

  • The Fortress Walk (Victoria Range Remote and Natural Area)

    The Fortress Walk and Hike-in Campground – Temporary closure

    The Fortress Walk and The Fortress Hike-in Camp remain closed to visitors due to track damage from the 2024/25 summer bushfires.

    For more information on alternate walks in the western section of the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park visit Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre in Halls Gap or call 03 8427 2058.

  • The Chimney Pots Walk (Victoria Range Remote and Natural Area)

    The Chimney Pots Walk – Temporary closure

    The Chimney Pots Walk remains closed to visitors due to track damage from the 2024/25 summer bushfires.

    For more information on alternate walks in the western section of the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park visit Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre in Halls Gap or call 03 8427 2058.

  • Red Gum Walk

    Red Gum Walk – Temporary closure

    The Red Gum Walk remains closed to visitors due to track damage from the 2024/25 summer bushfires.

    For more information on alternate walks in the western section of the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park visit Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre in Halls Gap or call 03 8427 2058.
     

  • Mafeking Picnic Area

    Mafeking Picnic Ground and Brownings Loop Walk – Temporary closure

    Mafeking Picnic Area and Brownings Loop Walk remain closed to visitors due to damage from the 2024/25 summer bushfires.

    For more information visit Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre in Halls Gap or call 03 8427 2058.

  • Strachans Campground

    Strachans Campground –Temporary Closure – 13 April – 25 June 2026

    Strachans Campground will be closed to visitors for major upgrade works from 13 April to 25 June 2026.
     
    Alternative campgrounds can be booked at https://bookings.parks.vic.gov.au/book

    For further information contact Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre in Halls Gap (Ph 8427 2058).

  • Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre

    Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre – Building Upgrades in 2026

    The Cultural Centre is closed for refurbishment.
     
    Parks Victoria is working with a strategic partnership committee of Gariwerd Traditional Owners from Barengi Gadjin Land Council, Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation, and Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation to ‘reimagine’ the future of Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre.
     
    Building upgrades are essential to ensure the centre meets current services requirements, accessibility, and compliance to current building regulation. New visitor experiences and activation opportunities including Aboriginal arts, community events and cultural exhibitions are being explored as Brambuk moves towards operation by a Gariwerd Traditional Owner entity.
     
    The National Park Information Centre and gift shop remain open.
     
    For up-to-date national park information, brochures, maps, permits and access advice contact information staff at Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre info@parks.vic.gov.au or phone 8427 2058

    For Junior Ranger School holiday programs visit https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/things-to-do/junior-rangers

    For a list of Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park Licensed Tour Operators Visit https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/lto

    Further details on the Brambuk Reimagining project can be found on the Parks Victoria website https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/projects/western-victoria/brambuk-cultural-centre-upgrade

  • Notices Affecting Multiple Parks

    Pest Animal Control Program Scheduled in Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park and Black Range State Park (Burrunj)

    Throughout June, a ground shooting program (involving firearms) will occur throughout Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park and Black Range State Park (Burrunj) located west of the Henty Highway near Cherrypool.
     
    • Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park: Every week of June
    • Black Range State Park (Burrunj): 22nd June and 25 June
     
    The program will be delivered at night between 6pm to 5am, in remote areas away from busy visitor sites, and will be carried out by professionals under strict conditions to ensure practices are safe, effective, and humane.
     
    There will be no visitor site closures as part of this operation. Areas will be thoroughly assessed and swept prior, but there may be signage in place to notify visitors of the operation occurring in the surrounding area. 
     
    Target species include deer and goats which cause serious damage to native plants, animals, and habitat by trampling and destroying plants, increasing grazing pressure, ring-barking young trees, fouling waterholes, causing soil erosion, and spreading weeds. Introduced predators (foxes and cats) prey on small mammals and reptiles and impact the ability of these species to recover from bushfire events.
     
    For further information, please contact Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre at brambuk@parks.vic.gov.au  

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