Mount Zero in the Northern Grampians is a must-visit for walkers and nature enthusiasts. Its ruggedness and cultural and natural significance are a real experience. The Mount Zero walk takes you through stunning landscapes of rocky hillsides, views and some of the best rock formations in the area. Whether you’re an experienced adventurer or just looking for a day walk, the Mount Zero walk has it all – cultural heritage, Aboriginal history and wildlife.
Mt Zero Walk
Moderate walk with a signposted track that takes you through the rocky hillside. Track markers are frequent, so you can’t get lost. The walk has rocky steps and some steep climbs, so it’s a great challenge for energetic walkers and those who like rock scrambling a bit. At the top, you’ll have 360-degree views of the Northern Grampians and Wimmera plains.
It starts at the Mount Zero Picnic Area, where facilities are available to prepare for the walk. Walkers should allow 2-3 hours of return, depending on pace and breaks. Rock climbing and varied terrain mean a fun and interesting walk from gentle hills to steep hills and the famous giant rock formations of Mount Zero.
Highlights of Mount Zero
One of the main highlights is the Taipan Wall, a towering tiger-striped rock face that’s become an international climbing hot spot. Along with this, the Hollow Mountain rock ledge offers some of the best rock climbing in Australia. For walkers, the Griffin Track is a route that takes you through bizarre rock formations, scrambling and the Black Rock Skink and Brush-tailed Rock Wallabies that call this area home.
Beyond the thrill of the walk and the views, cultural sites like Heatherlie Quarry and Mount Stapylton add to the experience with Aboriginal heritage. These areas are not just beautiful but have cultural and historical significance.
Stargazing
Mount Zero is also a great spot for stargazing, the clear night sky is due to its distance from major towns. Spread a blanket on a rock ledge and enjoy the Milky Way and the occasional shooting star. It’s also a great spot to escape light pollution so it’s a popular spot for the environmentally conscious.
Getting to Mount Zero
In the Northern Grampians, the Mount Zero track is about 3 hours from Melbourne. The Hollow Mountain Car Park and Mount Zero Picnic Area are the well maintained entry points with facilities for day walkers. The drive is scenic and takes you through the Grampians National Park. There are multiple access tracks that link to tracks within the park so you can do short or long walks depending on your time and fitness.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Mount Zero is up to you. Spring is great for wildflower displays, and the park has wildflowers everywhere. If you are more into rock scrambling and climbing, then autumn and winter are the best, with no heat. Summer visits require early starts to avoid the heat, but the views from the top are worth it no matter the time of year.
What to Pack for Your Mount Zero Hike
To make the most of your walk, pack the right gear. Bring plenty of water as there are no drinking water facilities on the track. Sturdy hiking boots with good grip are necessary for steep climbs, rocky sections and scrambling over giant boulders. A hat, sunscreen and sunglasses are a must for sun protection, especially in the hotter months. If you are planning to stargaze, pack a warm jacket and blanket, as it gets cold in the evening. A reliable map or guide from the Grampians National Park Visitor Guide is also recommended so you can follow the Australian Walking Track Grading and avoid hazards like unstable cliffs, steep tracks and slippery rocks.
Cultural and Natural Significance of Mount Zero
Mount Zero has great cultural and European significance. The area is full of Aboriginal cultural sites and a collection of rock art that gives insight into the lives of the traditional owners, the Jardwadjali people. The Grampians Peak Trail connects several cultural sites so walkers can gain a better understanding of the area’s history.
In addition to cultural heritage, Mount Zero and the surrounding area are home to many plant and animal species. Grass Trees and the Black Rock Skink are just a couple of the local flora and fauna that live in this unique environment. The wildflower display in spring is the icing on the cake, making it a nature lovers paradise.
Nearby Attractions
Mount Zero is just one of the many amazing things in the Grampians. Nearby is the beautiful Green Lake and Hollow Mountain, which offers rock climbing. The Grampians Peak Trail also goes to Mount Stapylton and the Hollow Mountain Car Park for a day of wandering. Grampians tours often include these highlights, making it easy to explore the region.
If you like history, the Heatherlie Quarry is worth a visit to see the European heritage of the region. Black Range State Park and Mount Zero Olives are also worth a visit for their environmental and cultural significance, and Grampians tours frequently stop at these sites.
FAQ
How long does it take to walk the Mount Zero track?
2-3 hours depending on your pace and how long you stay at the top.
Is Mount Zero suitable for beginners?
Moderate difficulty, some steep hills and rocky steps. Beginners can do it but a reasonable level of fitness is recommended especially for the rock scrambling sections.
What wildlife will I see on the Mount Zero track?
You may see Brush-tailed Rock Wallabies, Black Rock Skinks, kangaroos and various bird species. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way!
Can I camp near Mount Zero?
Yes, camping is available in Grampians National Park. The Mount Zero Picnic Area has a trailhead with facilities but no camping spots on the track itself.
When is the best time to rock climb at Mount Zero?
Autumn and winter is the best time for rock climbing at Mount Zero. Taipan Wall and Hollow Mountain are some of the best rock climbing in the region.
Grampians Travel
Activities for Visitors
Hiking Trails: Around Gunlom Falls or Twin Falls there are some trails that are stunning and get you up close to local wildlife.
Water Based Activities: Explore the waterways by kayak or canoe during the wet season and get up close to what’s on the water’s edge and in the water – animals.
Scenic Cruises: See a vast array of wildlife as you take a guided cruise around this billabong where the ecology is self explanatory.
Bird Watching: Have your binoculars and field guide ready to spot many species of birds here.
