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Victoria’s hiking game is pretty damn strong, and if you’re keen to tick off one of the biggies this spring, we’re here to help. The Grampians Southern Ranges Walk is one of the state’s most spectacular multi-day trails, and with the Grampians recently named among the most underrated destinations in the world, we reckon it’s time to add this one to your hit list before the crowds do. Keen? Here’s everything you need to know.
Where is the Grampians Southern Ranges Walk?
The Grampians Southern Ranges Walk is in Gariwerd (the Grampians), in western Victoria, about a three-hour drive from Melbourne. The multi-day hike winds through the southern section of Grampians National Park, taking hikers through secluded valleys and past some of the region’s most wildly beautiful landscapes.
How long is the Grampians Southern Ranges Walk?
If you're tackling the southern section of the Grampians Peaks Trail, there are two connected three-day itineraries: the 22.9km Yarram-Wannon hike and the 33.4km Djardji-djawara and Mud-dadjug hike. Together, they cover approximately 56.3km of walking through the Southern Grampians. The full Grampians Peaks Trail, by comparison, stretches for around 160km – but this stretch is an achievable option if you've just got six days to spend on the trail.
How long does the Grampians Southern Ranges Walk take?
Allow around six days to complete both southern itineraries, with four nights spent at dedicated hike-in campgrounds (or, from 2027 onwards, a more luxe option – we’ll get to that). Each individual section takes three days and two nights. According to AllTrails, this is a challenging Grade 4 hike – so you'll want a decent level of bushwalking experience and fitness before setting off.
What are the highlights of the Grampians Southern Ranges Walk?
The walk takes in some of the Southern Grampians’ most wow-worthy scenery, from the dramatic ridgelines of the Serra Range to the panoramic summit views from Mount Abrupt (Mud-dadjug) and Signal Peak. You’ll also pass striking landmarks like The Piccaninny (Bainggug) and Mount Sturgeon (Wurgarri), with lots of opportunities to spot native wildlife and wildflowers along the way.
Where can you stay on the Grampians Southern Ranges Walk?
One of the best parts of this hike is the opportunity to sleep right in the middle of the wilderness. There are four dedicated hike-in campgrounds across the two itineraries: Yarram, Wannon, Djardji-djawara and Mud-dadjug. These purpose-built sites have tent platforms or designated tent pads, basic toilet facilities and communal meal-prep areas. You'll need to bring your own tent, sleeping bag, food and cooking equipment, and book your campsites through Parks Victoria before setting off. If you'd prefer a proper bed and a hot shower before or after the adventure, the nearby town of Dunkeld is a handy base.
Want to go luxe? Next year, Mount William Station is launching a five-night guided hiking experience that swaps tents for heritage homestead accommodation, luxury ensuites, hot showers and fine dining. Guests will tackle 46 kilometres of trails over four days, returning each evening to the historic property for locally sourced meals, Grampians wines and a cosy night by the fire. Yes please.
When's the best time to do the Grampians Southern Ranges Walk?
Autumn (particularly April and May) and spring (September to November) are generally the best times to tackle the Grampians Peaks Trail. Temperatures are typically milder, making the steep climbs and exposed ridgelines more comfortable to navigate. Spring also brings wildflowers, while autumn offers crisp mornings and beautiful changing colours across the landscape.
Summer can bring extreme heat and bushfire risks, and winter conditions can include freezing temperatures, strong winds and snow at higher elevations. If you're planning a summer hike, avoid the hottest parts of the season and check weather and fire danger warnings before departing.
You can learn more about this hike (and other trails around Vic) via the Parks Victoria website. Always check weather conditions and trail routes before setting off, and only tackle a hike that’s suited to your fitness level and outdoorsy ability.
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