If you’ve been wanting to go on your first hike but don’t know where to start, 10 Epic Walks For Newbie Hikers In The Grampians is your push out the door. The Grampians National Park — known to Traditional Owners as Gariwerd — is one of Victoria’s best natural wonders. Sandstone ridges, deep valleys and misty mornings with kookaburras calling.
This is heaven for first-time hikers. Whether you’re staying at Breeze Holiday Parks in Halls Gap or camping near Lake Bellfield, there’s a track for every level of comfort. As someone who’s guided hundreds of beginners here, I can tell you — the Grampians isn’t just a walk in the bush. It’s an introduction to hiking that’ll get you hooked for life.
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If you want to get your toes wet (literally), start with the Venus Baths Walk. This short, easy loop follows Stony Creek through smooth rock formations to a series of natural pools. The water is clear, the air is eucalyptus scented, and it feels like a world away from Halls Gap’s main street — even though it’s just minutes away.
I’ve seen plenty of families walk this track barefoot, laughing as the kids splash about. It’s one of the most peaceful hikes in the National Park — a perfect first taste of Gariwerd’s magic.
Track Details:
Distance: 2.3 km return
Time: 45 min – 1 hr
Grade: Easy
Access: Halls Gap Caravan Park
The Pinnacle Walk (From Sundial Carpark)
Every walker in Grampians National Park ends up at The Pinnacle, and for first timers, the Sundial Carpark route is the best place to start. It’s a moderate climb over stone steps and rocky slopes with stunning views across Fyans Valley and the ridges beyond. You’ll walk through a shady forest with birdlife — kookaburras and wedge-tailed eagles often flying overhead. Take your time and enjoy the views; there’s no hurry. The views at the top are one of Victoria’s most photographed — pure hiking bliss.
Track Details:
Distance: 4.2 km return
Time: 2 hrs
Grade: Moderate
Access: Sundial Carpark
Mackenzie Falls Walk – Thunder and Mist Guaranteed
For sheer spectacle, there’s nothing to beat the view of Mackenzie Falls. A paved path takes you up to a lookout where you can watch the thunder of the waterfall crashing into a deep pool below. Feeling brave? Then carry on down the stone steps to the base and get ready for the sound and mist to take your breath away.
It’s one of the few waterfalls in Victoria that never runs dry, so you can visit at any time of the year. This walk is perfect for beginner hikers who want to get a taste of adventure without committing to a full-day hike.
Track Details:
Distance: 2 km return to the base
Time: About 1 to 1 1/2 hours – give or take
Grade: Moderate for a reason (it’s not flat!)
Access: The carpark at Mackenzie Falls
Silverband Falls Walk – A Shaded Escape From The Sun
Just south of Halls Gap, you’ll find the Silverband Falls Walk, which follows a quiet little forest track along Fyans Creek. It’s a great place to escape the heat on a warm afternoon, and the sound of the creek running alongside you just adds to the peaceful atmosphere. The waterfall itself is a bit slender, but it’s still a beautiful sight as it cascades into a shallow pool before disappearing underground.
This one’s a good option for anyone looking for a peaceful walk in the trees and some quiet time to themselves.
Track Details:
Distance: 2.4 km return – just a hop, skip and a jump
Time: About 40 minutes – you can have a stroll or hurry along
Grade: Easy as can be – anyone can handle this one
Access: Follow Silverband Road, about 9 km south of Halls Gap
Boroka Lookout Walk – Sunrise Views Without The Hike
Some walks are all about the exercise, while others are all about the view – this one’s all about the view. Boroka Lookout has impressive views of Fyans Valley from right next to the carpark. I mean, I can still remember standing there on a misty morning, with a coffee in my hand and the sun slowly creeping over Mount William and the surrounding peaks. You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world – no need to break a sweat.
Track Details:
Distance: 200 m return – almost too short to count
Time: 10 minutes – just long enough to take it all in
Grade: Super easy – even the little ones can handle this one
Access: The Mount Difficult Road carpark – easy to find
Grand Canyon Walk
If you’re looking for a bit of excitement without having to hike for miles, the Grand Canyon Walk near Halls Gap has got you covered. Think narrow passages, towering cliffs, and stone steps leading through rock formations that’ll make you feel like a proper explorer. It’s also a great way to get a taste of the Grampians Peaks Trail – and the kids will love it, too – it’s safe, short and full of character.
Track Details:
Distance: 1 km loop – you can have a wander then head back to the car
Time: About 30 minutes – long enough to take it all in
Grade: Moderate – enough of a challenge to keep things interesting
Access: Wonderland Carpark – easy to find, even for a newcomer
Chatauqua Peak Walk – Short Summit, Big Views
Starts from Halls Gap, the Chatauqua Peak Walk climbs through rosella and kangaroo filled woodland to a rocky summit with great views of Fyans Valley.
A great introduction to hiking – easy for beginners, rewarding for everyone. On clear days, you can see Mount William and Victoria Valley in the afternoon sun.
Track Details:
Distance: 5.6 km loop
Time: 2–2.5 hrs
Grade: Moderate
Access: Halls Gap Caravan Park
Zumstein Historical Walk – Picnic With A Story
For a walk with a bit of history, the Zumstein Historical Walk is a winner. Along the MacKenzie River, this short track passes the remnants of one of the Grampians’ first tourist retreats. Interpretive signs tell the story of the Zumstein family, who hosted visitors here in the 1930s.
Kangaroos graze near the picnic area most afternoons, and the birdlife along the river is great – galahs, kookaburras and sometimes wedge-tailed eagles.
Track Details:
Distance: 1 km loop
Time: 30 min
Grade: Easy
Access: Zumsteins Picnic Area
The Balconies Walk – Big Views, Minimal Effort
Formerly known as “The Jaws of Death”, The Balconies Walk has one of the best views in Grampians National Park for minimal effort. The path is flat and goes through open forest to the rock outcrop high above Victoria Valley.
Go at sunset when the light is golden – and always stay behind the fence.
Track Details:
Distance: 2 km return
Time: 45 min
Grade: Easy
Access: Reed Lookout Carpark
Hollow Mountain Walk – Hands On And Heart Pumping
For those who want a bit of adventure, the Hollow Mountain Walk near Mount Zero is a short but fun scramble. The track goes past cliffs and rocky slopes with a few sections that require both hands.
From the top, you’ll see miles of rock formations across the northern Grampians – a wild landscape. Just bring plenty of water and sunscreen – there’s not much shade up here.
Track Details:
Distance: 2.2 km return
Time: 1.5 hrs
Grade: Moderate (some scrambling)
Access: Hollow Mountain Carpark, Mount Zero Road
Best Time To Hike Victoria
The Grampians National Park is walkable all year, but some seasons are better than others. Spring (September–November) is wildflower season and cool breezes, autumn (March–May) is crisp air and perfect walking weather.
Summer can hit 35 °C – so take frequent breaks, carry 2 L of water per person and start early. Winter brings quiet trails and mist drifting through Fyans Valley – ideal if you like peaceful hikes and empty lookouts.
| Season | Average Temp (°C) | Rainfall (mm/month) | Trail Conditions | Notes |
| Summer (Dec–Feb) | 27–35 | 35–45 | Hot, dry | Early starts, sun protection |
| Autumn (Mar–May) | 15–25 | 45–55 | Stable | Great for waterfalls |
| Winter (Jun–Aug) | 8–15 | 70–90 | Cool, damp | Quiet tracks, cold nights |
| Spring (Sep–Nov) | 15–26 | 50–60 | Mild, lush | Best overall hiking season |
Essential Gear For Beginner Hikers
Before you head out on these walks for beginners, make sure you have:
- 2 L of water per person
- Hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent
- Sturdy walking shoes
- Lightweight jacket — mountain weather changes fast
- Phone with offline maps
- Snacks and a rubbish bag (leave no trace)
And if you’d rather someone else handle the logistics, consider joining a Grampian tour — it’s a great way to walk multiple trails, meet other walkers and hear local stories along the way. Joining a Melbourne Coastal Tours day trip, this region is a hiker’s paradise.
FAQ
Are Dogs Allowed In Grampians National Park?
No — no dogs are allowed in the park to protect native wildlife.
Do I Need A Permit To Walk These Trails?
Day walks are free. For overnight stays or sections of the Grampians Peaks Trail, you’ll need a booking with Parks Victoria.
Can I Swim At Mackenzie Falls?
No — swimming is not allowed due to strong currents and slippery rocks.
Are These Walks Family Friendly?
Yes. Venus Baths Walk, Zumstein Historical Walk, and The Balconies Walk are great family walks.
What’s The Best Sunrise Or Sunset Spot?
Head to Boroka Lookout for sunrise and Reed Lookout for sunset — both are magic.
