Sunset over a mountainous landscape with trees and a clear sky.

Grampians Southern Peaks 5-Day Trek | Jimmy Creek to Dunkeld Hike

📍 The Grampians, VIC | Guided | All Inclusive

Trace wild sandstone ridges, sweeping valleys, and rugged peaks

From Jimmy Creek to Dunkeld, each day brings dramatic views, remote camps, and raw beauty

Start and Finish

Start and Finish

Hall's Gap, Vic

Small Groups

Small Groups

Maximum 12 People

Full Distance

Full Distance

62 KM

Difficulty

Difficulty

Moderate - Challenging

Climate +

Climate +

200% Co2 Offset

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Southern Grampians Peaks 5-Day Guided Expedition | Jimmy Creek to Dunkeld
Tour Overview

Gariwerd Southern Traverse: Jimmy Creek → Dunkeld (5-Day Guided Trek)

Venture deep into the wild southern reaches of Gariwerd on this 5-day guided trek from Jimmy Creek to Dunkeld. This final stretch of the Grampians Peaks Trail offers a true off-grid experience—where dramatic ridgelines, ancient sandstone, and sweeping vistas set the stage for your final chapter through this sacred landscape.

You’ll cross high country and dense forest, traverse windswept volcanic plains, and summit Mount Abrupt and Mount Sturgeon—both icons of the Southern Grampians. Nights are spent at remote hiker camps, where you'll share stories under the stars and fall asleep to the sounds of wild country.

This is a supported expedition, but don’t mistake it for a walk in the park. The terrain is rugged, the rewards immense, and by the time you descend into the quiet charm of Dunkeld, you’ll know you’ve truly earned it.


Quick Facts

  • Duration: 5 days

  • Style: Supported, guided trek (off-grid)

  • Route: Grampians Peaks Trail — Jimmy Creek → Dunkeld

  • Accommodation: Remote hiker camps

  • Difficulty: Rugged / challenging terrain


Trip Highlights

  • Dramatic ridgelines, ancient sandstone, and sweeping vistas

  • High country & forest crossings; windswept volcanic plains

  • Summit days: Mount Abrupt and Mount Sturgeon

  • Starry nights at remote camps; stories by headlamp glow

  • Finish in Dunkeld with that hard-earned, trail-dusted glow

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Key Tour Info

Tour Itinerary
Day 1 | Into the Wild: Lower Mt William Range

Distance: 12km · Elevation: ⬆ 438m ⬇ 190m

Begin with a short transfer from Halls Gap to Jimmy Creek, where the final leg of the Grampians Peaks Trail begins.

The trail gradually gains elevation as you traverse the rugged lower ridgelines of the Mount William Range—untouched country until recently.

To the east, views open to wetlands and farmlands; to the west, the Serra Range looms in the distance. Expect spring wildflowers, flame grevillea, and ridgetop vistas before reaching the remote Yarram Hiker Camp.

Day 2 | Old-Growth Forests & Forgotten Trails

Distance: 11km · Elevation: ⬆ 313m ⬇ 588m

Today’s trail winds through diverse landscapes: old-growth forests, reclaimed farmland, and swampy lowlands flanked by Oyster Bay Pines.

Birdlife thrives in the surrounding wetlands, including the rare Brolga. After crossing the final rises of the Mount William Range, settle into Wannon Hiker Camp for a peaceful night in a secluded gully.

Day 3 | Jurassic Feels, Serra Bound

Distance: 16km · Elevation: ⬆ 550m ⬇ 427m

Hike through open grasslands and heathy forest, following raised boardwalks through prehistoric-feeling landscapes home to bandicoots, potoroos, and heath mice.

After crossing Griffin Fireline and the Grampians Tourist Road, begin your re-entry into the Serra Range. Tonight’s camp—Djardji-djawara—rests on a rocky knoll with views over dramatic escarpments and endless bush.

Day 4 | Signal Peak & Mount Abrupt

Distance: 8km · Elevation: ⬆ 583m ⬇ 481m

An early morning climb up Signal Peak delivers one of the best sunrise vantage points in the Grampians. From here, continue south over lush saddles and sheer ridgelines to ascend Mount Abrupt—steep, scenic, and deeply rewarding. After taking in the views, descend to the sheltered Mud-Dadjug Hiker Camp nestled on its southern shoulder.

Day 5 | The Final Push: Mount Sturgeon to Dunkeld

Distance: 14.7km · Elevation: ⬆ 501m ⬇ 770m

The final morning begins pre-dawn with a rewarding climb over The Piccaninny before breakfast with a view. The last ascent takes you up Mount Sturgeon (Wurgarri), a commanding sandstone peak with panoramic views south to volcanic plains and north to the full sweep of Gariwerd. Your descent into Dunkeld is steep but satisfying—through Red Gum woodlands and into the final trailhead, where a local brew and transport back to Halls Gap await.

Food & Accommodation

Accommodation: Rugged, Remote & Real

Each night, you’ll sleep in a different hiker camp along the Grampians Peaks Trail—ranging from more established sites with communal shelters to remote backcountry camps where the stars are your ceiling. Expect tent-based camping on elevated platforms, basic composting toilets, and nature at your doorstep.

🛖 Night 1 – Stony Creek Hiker Camp: A gentler intro with more comforts and partial shelter

🏞️ Nights 2–4 – Barri Yalug, Duwul & Durd Durd: Backcountry sites in high, exposed terrain—minimal facilities, maximum immersion

This is wild camping the way it should be: supported, sustainable, and spectacularly off-grid.

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

  • 5 days of fully guided hiking along the Central section of the Grampians Peaks Trail
  • Summit hikes to Mount Rosea, Redman Bluff, and Mount William
  • Iconic Grampians landmarks: Grand Canyon, The Pinnacle, Major Mitchell Plateau & more

Guides

  • Passionate local guides with deep knowledge of Gariwerd
  • Safety-focused support every step of the way
  • Group safety equipment including first aid kits, satellite phones & navigation gear

Accommodation

  • 4 nights in supported hiker camps along the trail
  • Combination of sheltered and remote backcountry sites
  • Tent platforms and composting toilets at each camp

Meals

  • All meals from Day 1 lunch to Day 5 lunch
  • Fresh, trail-cooked breakfasts, lunches & dinners
  • Camp snacks and warm drinks each day

Transport

  • Trailhead transfers between Halls Gap and Jimmy Creek
  • Gear shuttles where required
  • End-of-tour return to Halls Gap and celebratory brewery stop 🍻

Equipment & Support

  • All group gear provided: cooking equipment, shelters, communal gear
  • Emergency comms and support systems in place
  • On-ground logistics managed so you can just hike

Fees & Impact

  • National Park and GPT camping fees
  • Leave No Trace travel practices
  • Carbon offset included through rewilding and landscape restoration 🌿

🚫 What’s Not Included

  • Personal gear – You’ll need to bring your own hiking pack, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, clothing, and toiletries. (Rental options available via the provider if needed.)
  • Travel to/from Halls Gap – Make your own way to the Hiker Hub to begin the expedition.
  • Travel insurance – Strongly recommended in case of injury, illness, or last-minute cancellations.
  • Alcohol – BYO if you'd like to enjoy something at camp (lightweight only!) or save it for the post-hike brewery visit.
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 Southern Peaks | 5-Day Guided Trek (Jimmy Creek → Dunkeld)

Results Summary

  • Estimated total per person: ≈ 285 kg CO₂e
  • Offset per person (200%): ≈ 0.57 t CO₂e
  • Group total for context (12 guests): ≈ 3.42 t CO₂e

Method: high-estimate with Well-to-Tank (WTT) and conservative road/room/meal assumptions; includes single-origin guest travel, all meals (included + off-tour), on-tour transfers, and +10% uncertainty uplift.

Purpose

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

Key Tour Info

  • Region: Gariwerd / Grampians, Victoria
  • Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
  • Route: Jimmy Creek → Dunkeld (Southern Grampians Peaks Trail)
  • Start/Finish hub: Halls Gap (VIC)
  • Group size used for context totals: Max 12
  • Trail distance: ≈ 62 km total
  • Difficulty: Moderate–Challenging
  • Logistics included: Trailhead transfer Halls Gap → Jimmy Creek; post-hike transfer Dunkeld → Halls Gap; guided trek; hiker-camp overnights; meals from Day 1 lunch to Day 5 lunch; national park fees; gear shuttles (per listing).

Scope & Boundaries

  • Scope 1: On-tour vehicle fuel (trailhead transfers/gear shuttles).
  • Scope 2: Purchased electricity only if directly attributable (generally captured via accommodation factors).
  • Scope 3: Guest travel from a single origin hub, accommodation (camp nights via room-night method), all meals (included + off-tour to reach 3/day), and uncertainty uplift. Capital goods excluded.

Feeder Hub (Guest Travel) — Single Origin Rule

  • Chosen origin hub: Melbourne (MEL) — nearest major capital.
  • Routing applied: Melbourne ↔ Halls Gap (road) for each person.
  • On-tour transfers: Halls Gap → Jimmy Creek (~27 km) at start; Dunkeld → Halls Gap (~64–65 km) at end (included).

Emission Factors & Conservative Defaults

  • Road (guest travel): Treat as single-occupancy car (petrol) with WTT included (conservative).
  • Road (on-tour transfers): Use a higher bus/mini-coach passenger-km factor (conservative for partial loads).
  • Accommodation: Room-night approach (HCMI/CHSB regional benchmarks) for 4 nights of hiker-camping to avoid undercounting.
  • Meals: Count all meals consumed over 5 days = 15 meals/person at ~2.5 kg CO₂e/meal (meat-inclusive upper-bound).
  • Uncertainty uplift: +10% added to the subtotal to remain deliberately conservative.

Activity Data Applied

  • Guest road travel: Melbourne ↔ Halls Gap ~252 km each way → ~504 km total.
  • On-tour transfers (included): Halls Gap → Jimmy Creek ~27.3 km; Dunkeld → Halls Gap ~64–65 km~100 km allowance including gear shuttles.
  • Accommodation: 4 nights (hiker-camps).
  • Meals (consumed): 15 per person (3/day × 5).

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

Guest road travel (Melbourne ↔ Halls Gap; single-occupancy car, WTT): ≈ 126 kg
On-tour road (trailhead transfers & shuttles; conservative p-km): ≈ 15 kg
Accommodation (4 nights; room-night benchmarks): ≈ 80 kg
All meals (15 × ~2.5 kg): ≈ 38 kg

Subtotal: ≈ 259 kg
+10% uncertainty uplift: ≈ 26 kg
Estimated total per person: ≈ 285 kg CO₂e

Reporting focus is per person. Group totals are provided below for context only.

Group Totals (context, 12 guests)

  • Tour total: ≈ 3.42 t CO₂e
  • (Offsets are applied per person only: ≈ 0.57 t CO₂e retired per traveller.)

Assumptions (transparent)

  • Origin hub fixed: Melbourne for consistency with the “nearest major capital” rule.
  • Road methods: Guest travel as single-occupancy petrol car (bias high); on-tour transfers as higher bus/mini-coach passenger-km.
  • Accommodation: Camp nights counted via room-night method (prevents underestimation vs “camping = zero”).
  • Meals: We count every meal in the 5-day window (15/person), independent of inclusions listed.
  • No powered extras: No boats or flights associated with this trek; celebratory stop negligible.
  • Uncertainty: +10% uplift applied to subtotal for conservatism.

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 challenging multi-day trek. You’ll be hiking up to 15 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
0–2 t Low · 2–4 t Moderate · 4–6 t High · 6–8 t Very High · 8+ Extreme
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