The Andrews Labor Government is upgrading Victoria’s iconic 160-kilometre Grampians Peaks Trail, which includes a new trailhead in the centre of the Halls Gap (Budja Budja) township.
The development is part of a $5 million investment by the Labor Government to provide visitors with more options to access the world-class hiking experience.
Halls Gap is a bustling township that sits in the heart of the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park and is an ideal launching point for thousands of visitors to explore the region and the peaks trail.
The new trailhead will better connect the town to the mountains with a new track and boardwalk, gathering spaces, rock seating and signage. The final designs are currently being shared with the local community.
In addition to the new Halls Gap trailhead, access points at Mount Zero and the southern Grampians town of Dunkeld will also receive upgrades.
The Grampians Peaks Trail is a unique and cultural hiking experience – offering day hikes to 13-day journeys – treating visitors with dramatic rocky peaks, picturesque valleys and beautiful waterfalls and lakes.
Since its opening in 2021, hikers have booked more than 15,000 nights along the trail.
Barengi Gadjin Land Council, Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation, and Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation are working in partnership with Parks Victoria to guide the trailhead upgrades and visitor information about the Gariwerd cultural landscape.
The trail upgrades are expected to take place in stages from late 2023 until mid-2024. For more information about experiencing the Grampians Peaks Trail visit parks.vic.gov.au/grampianspeakstrail.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Environment Ingrid Stitt
“These upgrades will enhance the heart of Halls Gap and provide a welcome space for visitors, highlighting the outstanding walking opportunities in Gariwerd.”
“This investment supports regional tourism and the local economy and helps visitors better enjoy everything Gariwerd has to offer.”
Quote attributable to Member for Western Victoria Jacinta Ermacora
“When complete, the upgraded trailheads will provide more flexibility, information and better facilities so that hikers can enjoy the region in more ways than ever before.”
