Grampians Northern Peaks 4-Day Guided Expedition | Mount Zero to Halls Gap

📍 The Grampians, VIC | Guided | All Inclusive

Hike the wildest stretch of the Grampians Peaks Trail—from Mount Zero to Halls Gap

Expect big views, remote camps, and a whole lot of trail magic.

Start and Finish

Start and Finish

Hall's Gap, Vic

Small Groups

Small Groups

Maximum 12 People

Full Distance

Full Distance

53 KM

Difficulty

Difficulty

Moderate to Challenging

Climate +

Climate +

200% Co2 Offset

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Stunning panoramic view from Gariwerd, showcasing rugged mountains and lush valleys on a guided adventure.
Tour Overview

Gariwerd Northern Traverse: Mount Zero → Halls Gap (4-Day All-Inclusive Trek)

Follow ancient songlines and rugged ridgelines across the sandstone spine of Gariwerd on this all-inclusive 4-day trek through the northern Grampians. Starting at Mount Zero and ending in Halls Gap, this expedition covers some of the most striking and remote terrain on the Grampians Peaks Trail.

Expect towering cliffs, wildflower-filled plateaus, iron-rich outcrops, and panoramic views over Country that’s deeply sacred to the Djab Wurrung and Jardwadjali peoples. With gear and food carried in your pack, this is a journey of full immersion—into nature, solitude, and self.

Perfect for hikers with solid multi-day experience and a taste for adventure off the beaten track.


Quick Facts

  • Duration: 4 days

  • Style: All-inclusive, guided trek (pack carry)

  • Region/Route: Northern Grampians — Grampians Peaks Trail

  • Start/Finish: Mount Zero → Halls Gap


Trip Highlights

  • Ancient songlines and rugged ridgelines along Gariwerd’s sandstone spine

  • Striking, remote terrain on the northern Grampians Peaks Trail

  • Towering cliffs, wildflower-filled plateaus, and iron-rich outcrops

  • Panoramic views over Country sacred to Djab Wurrung and Jardwadjali peoples

  • Full immersion: nature, solitude, and self with gear and food in your pack

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Key Tour Info

Tour Itinerary
Day 1 | Flat Rock, Stapylton Amphitheatre & Barigar Falls

Distance: 12.9km · Elevation Gain: 440m · Descent: 460m

Meet your guides in Halls Gap before transferring north to the trailhead near Mount Zero—where your Grampians journey begins. The trail wastes no time, rising quickly up Flat Rock to deliver your first panoramic views just minutes in.

From there, traverse the sculpted corridors of the Stapylton Amphitheatre, with the option to scramble to the summit of Mount Stapylton for a 360° view of the northern range. After a fresh trail lunch, continue along windswept ridgelines before descending into a quiet valley where Barigar Hiker Camp awaits. There’s time for a side trip to the camp’s namesake falls before dinner and a peaceful night beneath the stars.

Day 2 | Rock Walls, Hidden Waterfalls & Gar Hiker Camp

Distance: 12.9km · Elevation Gain: 615m · Descent: 113m

Fuel up on breakfast before tackling one of the most dramatic days on trail. The morning follows the base of an enormous escarpment known as the Rock Wall—rarely visited and incredibly photogenic. Then comes the climb.

You’ll follow a seasonal watercourse as it tumbles over a series of increasingly spectacular waterfalls, eventually reaching the mighty ‘Pacific Ocean Wall’. After a thigh-burning stone stairway and final ascent to Briggs Bluff, the hard work pays off. Gar Hiker Camp rests atop the high ground, offering jaw-dropping views and a well-earned rest.

Day 3 | Sunrise on Gar & The Werdug Basin Traverse

Distance: 14km · Elevation Gain: 521m · Descent: 462m

Rise early to summit Gar (Mount Difficult) for a truly unforgettable sunrise, then return to camp for breakfast. From there, it’s a steep descent down the eastern side of the massif before crossing the Werdug Basin and beginning your next climb.

This section follows the eastern ridgeline—open country with sweeping views over Lake Wartook and back to where you stood that morning. Tonight’s camp, Werdug Hiker Camp, is perfectly perched for sunset views and quiet reflection.

Day 4 | Chautauqua Peak & Descent into Halls Gap

Distance: 13km · Elevation Gain: 33m · Descent: 587m

Your final day winds southward, descending gently along the flanks of Mount Difficult before one last push to the stunning lookout of Chautauqua Peak. After soaking in the final views, drop into Halls Gap for hot showers, a celebratory lunch, and a local craft beer at the brewery next door to base camp.

Food & Accommodation

Where You’ll Be Staying

Nights under stars, days powered by real food and good company.

This expedition is for those who love a true hiking journey—start to finish, without leaving the trail. Each night is spent at one of the Grampians Peaks Trail’s supported hiker camps: simple, remote, and beautifully located. Think lightweight hiking tents, composting toilets, and an unfiltered connection to the landscape around you. There are no showers, but the clean air and crisp starlight more than make up for it.

And while the comforts are minimalist, the sense of connection—to land, story, and the people beside you—is rich and real. Whether you’re sipping coffee at sunrise or swapping stories over dinner, you’ll be part of something grounded and unforgettable.

Meals: Fuel for the Trail, Flavour for the Soul

Forget freeze-dried. Your guides whip up fresh, hearty meals each day—cooked on the trail and designed to keep you fuelled through the ups, downs, and everything in between.

🍳 Breakfasts – Hot coffee, hearty porridges, and energy-rich options to start the day right

🥪 Lunches – Trail-side spreads with fresh produce, wraps, and protein-packed snacks

🍲 Dinners – Camp-cooked and comforting: think veggie-packed stews, curries, or pasta with a view

🍫 Snacks – A rotating stash of energy bars, fruit, trail mix, and little morale-boosters along the way

Special dietary needs? No worries—just let the team know in advance and they’ll make sure you’re well catered for.

What's Included & What's Not

✅ What’s Included:

Itinerary Activities

  • Fully guided 4-day trek covering the entire Northern Stage of the Grampians Peaks Trail
  • Optional side trips to summit viewpoints and waterfalls
  • Entry to Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park

Guides

  • Passionate, qualified local guides with deep knowledge of the Gariwerd landscape
  • Daily briefings, route support, and on-trail storytelling
  • Group safety equipment, including first aid kit and satellite comms

Accommodation

  • 3 nights in remote supported hiker camps
  • Lightweight hiking tents provided and pitched for you
  • Composting toilet facilities (no showers)

Meals

  • All meals on the trail: breakfasts, trail lunches, snacks, and hearty camp dinners
  • Hot drinks and treats to enjoy around the camp kitchen

Transport

  • Return transfers between Halls Gap and trailheads
  • Gear storage at the Hiker HUB in Halls Gap

Equipment & Support

  • Use of all group gear (tents, cooking equipment, safety kit)
  • Backup support from the local base team

Fees & Impact

  • National Park access fees included
  • This tour helps fund ongoing track maintenance and cultural heritage preservation

🚫 What’s Not Included:

  • Personal hiking gear (see packing list for required items)
  • Sleeping bag and inflatable hiking mat (BYO or hire available)
  • Personal travel insurance (strongly recommended)
  • Alcoholic drinks (but a celebratory craft beer in Halls Gap is encouraged!)
  • Post-hike accommodation in Halls Gap (available nearby if needed)
Weather Expectations

Spring (Sep–Nov):

One of the best times to hit the trail. Wildflowers are blooming across the ridgelines, the waterfalls are flowing, and daytime temps hover between 15–25°C. Expect crisp mornings, mild days, and the occasional spring shower—layers are your friend.

Summer (Dec–Feb):

It can get hot and dry, with temperatures often soaring above 30°C. This tour may not run during the hottest parts of summer for safety. If operating, early starts and shaded breaks help manage the heat. Expect clear skies, warm nights, and strong UV—bring sun protection and hydration capacity.

Autumn (Mar–May):

Cool mornings, golden light, and steady conditions make this a beautiful time to walk. Temps usually range between 10–20°C with low humidity. Tracks are drier underfoot, and the views are often haze-free.

Winter (Jun–Aug):

Rug up—it’s cold, and rain is more common. Overnight temps can dip below 5°C, though the days are often clear and crisp. This is the quietest season on the trail, perfect for solitude lovers. You'll need a warm sleeping bag, a beanie, and a solid waterproof jacket.

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What To Pack

🎒 What to Pack

This isn’t your average stroll—this is a supported multi-day expedition through the wild and rugged north of Gariwerd.

You’ll need to carry your own personal gear (approx. 8–12kg), but the team will handle the group gear and meals. Here's what you'll need to bring:

👣 Footwear

  • Well-worn-in hiking boots or sturdy trail runners
  • 2–3 pairs of moisture-wicking hiking socks
  • Lightweight camp shoes (optional, but your feet will thank you)

🧥 Clothing

  • 1–2 breathable hiking shirts
  • 1 pair of hiking shorts
  • 1 pair of hiking trousers
  • 4 days of underwear (comfort > fashion)
  • Warm fleece or puffer jacket (nights can bite)
  • Rain jacket and rain pants (a non-negotiable)
  • Thermal baselayers (for cooler seasons)
  • Beanie, gloves, and warm socks (Jun–Aug)

🧢 Head & Hands

  • Wide-brim hat or cap for sun protection
  • Sunglasses (polarised = bonus points)
  • Neck buff or bandana (multi-use magic)

🧼 Health & Hygiene

  • Toothbrush and paste
  • Sunscreen (30+ minimum)
  • Lip balm
  • Quick-dry face cloth
  • Feminine hygiene supplies (if needed)
  • Small bottle of hand sanitiser
  • Personal medications (pain relief, anti-inflammatories, etc.)
  • Mini first-aid kit (blister plasters, antiseptic cream, Band-Aids, etc.)
  • Emergency TP stash (trust us)

🎒 Trekking Gear

  • 45–60L hiking backpack with good support
  • Sleeping bag (season-appropriate rating)
  • Inflatable hiking mattress
  • Dry bags or garbage bags for waterproofing essentials
  • Head torch (plus spare batteries or USB charger)
  • 3L water carrying capacity (hydration bladder or bottles)
  • Lightweight towel (optional)
  • Trekking poles (optional but great on descents)
  • A couple of small carabiners (for clipping bits & bobs)
  • Camera or phone with extra storage—this place is stunning
  • Your best trail attitude (essential and irreplaceable)
Co2 Footprint
Your Tour Offsets drive far more than Tree Planting — We Go Climate Positive By Design | Click Here to View the Method

Zero Trace CO₂e Report — Grampians Peaks Trail (4-Day) | Mount Zero → Halls Gap (VIC)

Results Summary]

  • Estimated total per person: ≈ 237 kg CO₂e
  • Offset per person (200%): ≈ 0.47 t CO₂e
  • Group total for context (12 guests): ≈ 2.85 t CO₂e

Method: high-estimate with Well-to-Tank (WTT) and conservative road factors; includes single-origin guest travel, all meals (included + off-tour), on-tour shuttles & stays, and +10% uncertainty uplift.

Purpose

Conservatively estimate greenhouse gas emissions (CO₂e) across Scopes 1–3, report per person (plus group totals for context), and state the 200% offset applied per person.

Key Tour Info

  • Region: Grampians / Gariwerd, Victoria
  • Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
  • Start / Finish: Mount Zero → Halls Gap (meet/finish Halls Gap)
  • Group size used for context totals: 12 guests (max 12 shown)
  • Trail distance on foot: ~53 km
  • Difficulty: Moderate–Challenging
  • Inclusions (per listing): All-inclusive guided trek; small group; 200% CO₂ offset. (Zero Trace Tours)

Scope & Boundaries

  • Scope 1: On-tour vehicle fuel (trailhead shuttles, local logistics).
  • Scope 2: Purchased electricity only if directly attributable (typically captured within accommodation factors).
  • Scope 3: Guest travel from single origin hub, accommodation (camp/guesthouse equivalent), all meals (included + off-tour), and uncertainty uplift. Capital goods excluded.
  • Method frame: GHG Protocol; DEFRA-aligned factors with WTT.

Feeder Hub (Guest Travel) — Single Origin Rule

  • Chosen origin hub: Melbourne (MEL) — nearest major capital to Halls Gap.
  • Routing & mode: MEL ↔ Halls Gap by road (roundtrip), modelled as single-occupancy petrol car for a conservative per-person estimate.
  • Reference distance: ~252 km each way (≈ 505 km return). (Distance Cities)

Emission Factors & Conservative Defaults

  • Road (guest car): DEFRA car (petrol) distance factors with WTT; single occupancy to bias high. (GOV.UK, GOV.UK)
  • Road (on-tour shuttles): Higher “local bus/coach” passenger-km factor (WTT) to avoid undercounting at partial loads. (GOV.UK)
  • Accommodation: Room-night method using HCMI/CHSB regional benchmarks (applied even to camp/eco stays to remain conservative). (World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance)
  • Meals: Meat-heavy mixed-diet average ~2.5 kg CO₂e per meal (upper-bound, EPIC-Oxford context). (oxfordmartin.ox.ac.uk)
  • Uncertainty uplift: +10% applied to subtotal where primary meter/fuel data isn’t available.

Activity Data Applied

  • Guest travel (origin hub): ~505 km roundtrip MEL ↔ Halls Gap by car (single occupant). (Distance Cities)
  • On-tour road (shuttles/logistics): ~120 km total (e.g., Halls Gap → Mount Zero ~36 km one-way plus local moves and contingency). (taxihowmuch.com)
  • Accommodation: 3 nights (camp/eco stay equivalent via room-night method).
  • All meals consumed: 12 meals/person (4 days × 3/day).
  • Powered optionals: None assumed (hiking itinerary).

Results — Per Person (high-estimate, no tables)

Guest travel (MEL ↔ Halls Gap, single-occupancy petrol car; WTT): ≈ 111 kg
On-tour shuttles (≈ 120 km; higher coach p-km factor; WTT): ≈ 15 kg
Accommodation (3 nights; HCMI/CHSB benchmark): ≈ 60 kg
All meals (12 × ~2.5 kg): ≈ 30 kg

Subtotal: ≈ 216 kg
+10% uncertainty uplift: ≈ 22 kg
Estimated total per person: ≈ 237 kg CO₂e

Reporting focus is per person. Group total above is provided only for context. Offsets are applied per person.

Assumptions (transparent)

  • Origin hub fixed: Melbourne for all travellers (nearest capital to start).
  • On-tour road distance: Listing doesn’t publish shuttle km; basis uses Halls Gap ↔ Mount Zero ~36 km plus allowance for local logistics to keep the estimate conservative. (taxihowmuch.com)
  • Accommodation: Nights treated via room-night benchmarks (prevents underestimation for camping).
  • Meals: Every meal during the 4-day window counted, independent of inclusions.
  • No powered extras assumed.
  • Method standards: GHG Protocol scopes; DEFRA factors with WTT; conservative choices where ranges exist. (GHG Protocol, GOV.UK)

Versioning

Generated 23 Aug 2025 (Australia/Perth). Factors reviewed at least annually or when official sources update.

References

Local Insights

Local Insights — Grampians / Gariwerd (Park-wide & Surrounds)

Travel on the lands of the Djab Wurrung and Jardwadjali peoples. Culture leads—follow Traditional Owner guidance, signage and any cultural closures.

Big-picture snapshot

A rugged sandstone range running from Mt Zero (Mura Mura) to Dunkeld, the Grampians delivers clifftop views, year-round waterfalls and rock art—with food, wine and arts scenes that punch well above their weight in the surrounding towns. Halls Gap is the main hub; expect patchy reception on ridgelines and in gorges. Build in weather wiggle-room: conditions and access can change quickly.

Regions at a glance (how to aim days)

North — Slabs and caves at Hollow Mountain (Wudjub-guyan) and Mt Stapylton; short walks to Gulgurn Manja and Ngamadjidj rock-art shelters.
Central (Halls Gap / Wonderland) — Icons on tap: The Pinnacle, Boroka Lookout, Reeds → The Balconies, and MacKenzie Falls.
South (Dunkeld / Serra Range)Mt Abrupt (Mud-dadjug) and Mt Sturgeon (Wurgarri) for wide-angle summits; small-town dining that’s frankly outrageous for a country postcode.
Around the edges — Day-trip detours to Great Western and Murtoa add wine heritage and big-scale silo/heritage art.

Must-dos (beyond the trail shoes)

  • Taste the region’s shiraz pedigree. Great Western’s historic cellar doors—Best’s, Seppelt and Mount Langi Ghiran—show why Grampians = cool-climate shiraz in many cellars. At Seppelt, the Underground “Drives” tours add winemaking history to your glass.
  • Dine under a mountain skyline. In Dunkeld, the Royal Mail Hotel couples an award-winning kitchen with a 30,000-bottle cellar; the casual Parker St Project next door leans into garden-grown produce.
  • Drop into indie makers. Pomonal Estate (winery + microbrewery + cider house) and Paper Scissors Rock Brew Co (Halls Gap) bring local taps, tunes and easy plates.
  • See living culture. Begin at Brambuk – The National Park & Cultural Centre, then visit Bunjil’s Shelter (near Stawell) and the Gulgurn Manja gallery in the north. Read every sign; some places are no-photo or restricted.
  • Family-friendly hours. Halls Gap Zoo adds keeper talks and animal encounters; pair with an easy wander to Venus Baths or the Botanic Gardens in Halls Gap.
  • Art at landscape scale. Road-trip the Silo Art Trail across the Wimmera Mallee, or step inside Murtoa’s soaring Stick Shed—a WWII grain cathedral of timber poles.
  • Seasonal wildflowers. Spring pops with native orchids, hakeas and pea flowers, especially around Pomonal and the northern walks; time a visit for the Pomonal Native Flower Show.

Classic nature hits (still essential)

  • MacKenzie Falls: all-season flow, no swimming; combine with Fish Falls or the MacKenzie River Walk.
  • Lookouts with a plan: Boroka at sunrise; Reeds → The Balconies for sunset (bring a headlamp).
  • Choose-your-own Pinnacle: Sundial approach = easiest; Wonderland route adds Grand Canyon and Silent Street fun.
  • Quieter ridgelines: Mt Rosea or southern summits (Mt Abrupt / Mt Sturgeon) for big horizons.

Local-style tips

  • Crowd hack: Dawn at Boroka, then straight to MacKenzie Falls as the car park opens; slot Reeds/Balconies for golden hour.
  • Wet-weather Plan B: Lookouts and cellar doors still deliver when ridgelines go moody.
  • Farm-gate loop: Pair Pomonal producers (think Five Ducks Farm and neighbours) with Pomonal Estate for lunch.
  • Drive the Grampians Way: a perimeter touring route linking towns, cellar doors, rock-art sites and lookouts—easy to hop on/off.

Seasonal calendar (why timing matters)

  • Mar/Apr: Cooler walking; harvest energy at cellar doors.
  • Early May: Grampians Grape Escape—regional wine/food/music festival in Halls Gap.
  • Spring (Sep–Nov): Wildflower season; Pomonal Native Flower Show; waterfalls lively after winter rain.
  • Summer: Start early, retreat to creeks and cellar doors in the heat; watch fire-danger alerts.

Culture & conduct (respect that matters)

  • Rock art & sacred places: Stay on formed tracks; follow no-photo and restricted-access signs without argument.
  • Drones: Leave them at home on Parks Victoria land (permits required for commercial shoots).
  • Climbing: Allowed only in designated areas; check current open/closed crags before you rack up.
  • Dogs: Not permitted in the national park (assistance dogs excepted under specific rules).

Practical logistics

  • Changed conditions are normal. Storms, fire recovery and road works can close roads/tracks; check status before leaving sealed roads.
  • Heat & hydration: Cover up, carry more water than feels reasonable, and aim for early starts on exposed routes.
  • Comms: Expect black spots; download offline maps and carry a PLB/satellite messenger for remote walks.
  • Zero trace: Stay on formed tracks, no soaps in water, pack out everything, and respect seasonal/cultural closures. Simple: leave it feeling untouched.
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Tour FAQ's
How fit do I need to be for this walk?

This is a moderately challenging multi-day trek. You’ll be hiking up to 14 km a day with sustained climbs, descents, and rugged terrain. You’ll need to carry your own pack (approx. 8–12 kg), including personal gear and a share of group food and equipment. A good level of fitness and experience hiking with a loaded pack is recommended.

What kind of camping is it?

You’ll stay at supported hiker camps with basic amenities: tent platforms, composting toilets, and designated cooking areas. There are no showers on the trail. Nights are spent in lightweight hiking tents under starry skies in remote wilderness.

Can dietary requirements be accommodated?

Yes—vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other special diets can usually be catered for with advance notice. All meals are freshly prepared on the trail by your guides.

How do I get to the tour’s starting point, and is transport included?

The expedition begins and ends in Halls Gap, VIC. A pre-trip briefing takes place at the Grampians Peaks Walking Co. Hiker Hub. Transport to and from the trailhead is included

What happens in bad weather?

This trip runs in most conditions—rain or shine. The Grampians are known for changeable weather, so come prepared with waterproof layers and a flexible mindset. In rare cases of extreme weather, the operator may adjust the itinerary for safety.

This Tour Has An estimated footprint of :

-1.0tCO₂e
-1.0t 10.0t
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