Grampians Peaks Trail Trailheads
For information about walking the Grampians Peaks Trail or to make a campground booking click here
The Grampians Peaks Trail (GPT) project is a 160km, world-class natural and cultural walking experience that was opened in November 2021. This project is on the Traditional Lands of the Jardwadjali and Djab Wurrung peoples.
Project status
A construction contractor has been appointed. All project assessments and approvals are being finalised ahead of the start of works. The above timeline is subject to assessment, on-ground and construction industry conditions. Last updated: April 2024
The project
Showcasing the stunning Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park, the trail connects the park’s spectacular peaks, from the massive sandstone outcrops around Mount Zero (Mura Mura) in the north to Mount Abrupt (Murdajoog) in the south, near the town of Dunkeld.
To provide more options to access the Grampians Peaks Trail, a range of new and upgraded access points and trailheads are being developed along the trail. These are places where people can access the Grampians Peaks Trail to walk all or sections of the Grampians Peaks Trail.
This project has so far implemented new infrastructure and improvements at some sites. Further work will see additional upgrades at trailheads and access points spread along the trail, including improved carparking, landscaping and visitor and interpretive information about the cultural and environmental values of the Gariwerd landscape. Environmental and cultural heritage assessments will inform exactly where, when and how components of the project are delivered.
Find out more detail on what is planned for each location.
A new trailhead in the heart of the bustling tourist town of Halls Gap in the central Grampians will better connect the town to the national park and the Grampians Peaks Trail. The concept images below show the type of improvements that are planned for opposite the main commercial strip in town.
The trailhead will give people a taste of the trail experience from the comfort of Halls Gap. It will feature elements of the trail and landscape including boulders, a boardwalk and an example of a tent camping platform. Construction is expected to start in mid 2024, subject to onground and construction industry conditions.
Project benefits
Visitors - The new and upgraded access points and trailheads will provide hikers with increased flexibility, information and facilities to access the trail and enjoy it in more ways than ever before.
Environment - By providing dedicated carparks, the surrounding environment is better protected, as visitors and tour guides can park vehicles safely and start or end their trail walks without the risk of harming vegetation by parking along roadsides.
Economy - By providing increased flexibility to walk the trail and improved facilities at access points and trailheads, more walkers will be able to enjoy the Trail, providing a boost to regional tourism and the economy.
Project funding
- $5 million from the Victorian Government Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions for new and upgraded trailheads
- This is in addition to the funding to create the Grampians Peaks Trail, which was: $23.2 million from the State Government, and $10 million from the Commonwealth Government through Horsham City Rural Council
Project timeline
Subject to on-ground and construction industry conditions, the upgrades to trailheads and access points are expected to be completed during 2024.
Environmental and cultural heritage management
The placement of new trailheads and upgrades to existing trails are being mapped out in partnership with Traditional Owners and conservation scientists to ensure they comply with all necessary environmental and cultural heritage assessments.
All statutory compliance requirements are being considered and any planning permits required will be sought from the relevant local government authorities: Northern Grampians Shire Council, Ararat Rural City Council, Southern Grampians Shire Council.
Putting safety first
Visitor safety is our number one priority when considering risk in parks.
While nature will always be unpredictable, our projects and maintenance works help minimise risks and help people explore the great outdoors safely.
Parks Victoria is responsible for continuously managing and maintaining over 50,000 pieces of infrastructure across the state annually.
We’re also delivering new projects to help visitors get into nature. These are thoroughly planned and prepared to keep people and projects separate – and safe. When visiting a park where projects are happening, especially during construction, it’s important that people follow the direction of signs, stay out of fenced and restricted areas, and listen to Parks Victoria staff and work crews.
Who we’re working with
Barengi Gadjin Land Council, Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation, and Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation are working in partnership with Parks Victoria to guide the upgrades at trailheads and shape the visitor information and stories, which promote awareness and respect for this special cultural landscape.
In addition, Parks Victoria is working with Grampians Tourism and local government including Horsham Rural City Council, Northern Grampians Shire Council, Ararat Rural City Council, and Southern Grampians Shire Council.
Relevant government departments such as Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions and Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action are also key contributors to the project.
Staying updated
Community information sessions on Halls Gap/Budja Budja trailhead were held in May 2023.
Parks Victoria will provide further updates and information as the project progresses. To stay up to date please register your interest to receive community updates. You can also email us with enquiries at engage@vic.gov.au. As the project progresses, information on this page will be updated regularly.
Related information
Tourism opportunities
A tour operator licence is required to operate commercial visitor tours and services within Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park including on Grampians Peaks Trail.
The GPT Licensed Tour Operator prospectus (PDF) outlines opportunities. For further licensing information visit the Licensed Tour Operator page.