The Pinnacle walks, Grampians

In the middle of Grampians National Park, The Pinnacle Walk is the ultimate walk through some of Victoria’s wildest and most beautiful country. Mountains, mountain ranges, and valleys are must-do for outdoor enthusiasts. Want views, rock climbing, or just to get back to nature? The Pinnacle has it all, from views to cultural values linked to the Aboriginal history and Traditional Owners of the land, the Djab Wurrung people.

What to Look Out For

The Pinnacle Walk is famous for its rock formations, rock pools and rock hopping. The trail takes you through a variety of landscapes, from rocky climbs to steep scrambles, so it’s a challenge for both beginners and experienced walkers. Along the way, you’ll pass Venus Baths, Reed Lookout, and MacKenzie Falls, each with stunning views that will make the walk unforgettable. Whether you start from Wonderland Carpark or Sundial Carpark, you’ll be surrounded by the rugged mountain ranges of the Grampians.

Distance and Difficulty

The Pinnacle Walk has multiple tracks of varying difficulty. From Sundial Carpark the walk is 4.2 km return and moderate, suitable for families and those looking for a shorter walk. For a more challenging experience start from Wonderland Carpark (or Wonderland Car Park) and do the 5.5 km return walk that has steep climbs and rock scrambling. Whatever way you go the sign posted track will keep you on track and in the Grampians.

Walk This Way

The Pinnacle Walk is a must do for anyone visiting the Grampians. The network of trails has something for all fitness levels, from hard to easy. Along the way you’ll see some amazing rock formations, like those near Hollow Mountain, Mount William and the famous Boroka Lookout. Hikers are rewarded with 360 degree views of the Grampians Peaks Trail, Victoria Valley and Lake Bellfield, of the raw beauty of the region and the environment.

Starting Point – Sundial Carpark or Wonderland Carpark

The starting points at Sundial Carpark and Wonderland Carpark are different. The Wonderland route is more challenging and takes you through the Grand Canyon and Silent Street, where you’ll see some amazing rock formations. The Sundial route is easier and has views of Lake Bellfield and Stony Creek. Both car parks are accessible, and Breeze Holiday Parks – Grampians is nearby if you need budget accommodation.

Walk Highlights

The Pinnacle Walk has many natural highlights. You’ll see natural rock pools, deeper rock pools and magnificent rock formations. The Grand Canyon is a unique walk with narrow, tall walls, and Silent Street is a quiet passageway that feels like another world. Along the way, you’ll see native animals like kangaroos, wallabies, and the occasional feral goat roaming the Grampians National Park.

Rock

The Grampians are famous for their rock and The Pinnacle is no exception. You’ll walk through formations that have been shaped over millions of years, it’s a visual and geological feast. From the rocky climb up to the top to the rock hopping along the trail, these formations are a feature of the walk, perfect for a photo stop or a quick sit down before you continue on.

Wildlife and Flora

The Grampians have a wide range of wildlife and flora. As you walk you may see native animals like echidnas, emus and various bird life. The flora is just as diverse, with spring bringing a colourful display of wildflowers, native grasses and unique Australian plants. The park’s Aboriginal rock art sites give a connection to the region’s deep Aboriginal history and cultural significance, added to the experience.

To the Pinnacle

The final climb to The Pinnacle is the best part. From the top, you’ll have 360-degree views of Halls Gap, Lake Bellfield and the Grampians Peaks Trail that goes on forever. The reward is the sight of the Grampians’ ruggedness below. The summit is a great spot to rest, take in the views, and enjoy the scenery.

The best time

You can do the Pinnacle Walk all year round, but the cooler months of spring and autumn are the best time to do it. The warmer months are tough with the heat so start early and bring plenty of water. Spring is lovely with wildflowers blooming and native wildlife at its most active. There’s a chance of rain in the cooler months but it’s a small price to pay to see the Grampians in all its glory.

Getting to the National Park

Grampians National Park is 260km west of Melbourne, 3 hours drive. The park is car accessible and you can stop at various points of interest along the way, Boroka Lookout, Lake Wartook and Silverband Falls. Once in Halls Gap, the main hub of the park you can explore the area or head out to do The Pinnacle Walk. Public transport is available but limited so driving is the best option.

Accommodation and Food

Halls Gap has plenty of accommodation, from Breeze Holiday Parks to luxury lodges and B&Bs. Whether you want a boutique winery experience like Barangaroo Wines or a chill-out stay, the area has it all. After your walk, you can eat at the Royal Mail Hotel or one of the many local cafes where you’ll find food to suit all tastes, from pub food to fine dining.