Spring is here, and there are so many stunning flower festivals for us to look forward to this year. But, if you prefer to these pretty blooms out in nature, why don’t you head west of Melbourne to the Grampians? This incredible national park, just over 3 hours away from Melbourne, is home to over 1000 species of wildflowers, including 130 types of orchids, and over 40 species found nowhere else in the world. Take advantage of the mild spring weather and stretch your legs on one of the many wildflower walks around Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Gorgeous wildflower walks to try in the Grampians
The Piccaninny (Bainggug)
If you’re looking for one that’s more leisurely than challenging, we’d recommend the walk to The Piccaninny (Bainggug). This 2.5km return hike in the south of the Grampians will take you to the summit of Mount Piccaninny, where you’ll take in scenic views of Mount Abrupt (Mud-dadjug), Mount Sturgeon (Wurgarri) and Dunkeld, as well as the surrounding pastoral landscape.
Your journey begins at the Picaninny carpark on either Victoria Valley Road or Grampians Tourist Road, just a few minutes north of Dunkeld. From there, follow the path through the woodlands and make your way slowly up to the summit. As you go, look out for pretty wildflowers and native grass species. In the southern plains of the Grampians, you’ll likely find purple, pink and orange peas, bluebells, pincushions, flowering shrubs and green and red correas.
The walk is suitable for most hikers, and takes around 90 minutes to complete.
MacKenzie Falls
The marvellous MacKenzie Falls flows all year round, and it’s one of the largest waterfalls in Victoria. Make the most of your trip to the Grampians this spring by taking a stroll to see this natural wonder. Stretch your legs on the MacKenzie Falls Lookout Walk, a 1.9km return journey through stringybark forest. Along the way, look out for splendid wildflower displays. Once you reach Bluff Lookout, watch the water tumble down into the gorge below. This particular walk is pram and wheelchair friendly.
Heatherlie Quarry
The historic Heatherlie Quarry, which was once used to supply stone for notable buildings like Parliament House, is now a lovely area to look for wild orchids. Go on a relatively short loop to see the site, and find old machinery and stone cottages as you go. While you walk, look out for bursts of vibrant colour from the variety of orchids.
Boroka Lookout
The road to Boroka Lookout from Halls Gap is a great place to look out for wildflowers. Once you reach the car park, it’s just a short stroll through stringybark forest to two viewing platforms. Gaze at marvellous views of Halls Gap, Lake Bellfield and the nearby mountain ranges. Come at sunrise to see rich hues of red, yellow and gold across the landscape.
The Pinnacle
There’s a few different walks you can take to reach the iconic Pinnacle. The easiest trail is a 4.2km return journey, and takes about two hours to complete, starting from the Sundial Car Park. For something a bit more challenging, start from Wonderland car park and journey through the Grand Canyon, before climbing up to the landmark. The most ambitious way to get there is from the base of the mountains, at Halls Gap caravan park. This lengthy journey takes about five hours to complete. Whichever way you choose, you’ll be guaranteed fantastic views at the top, as well as beautiful wildflowers in spring. As you go, look out for wildlife like koalas, kangaroos and snakes. Learn more here.
Before you go
The wildflower season starts in late August, and can continue on in the Grampians until November. Early September to October is typically the best time to see these pretty blooms. As you are planning your adventure in the great outdoors, keep an eye on Parks Victoria for any changes to conditions, such as closures. As you are exploring a national park, remember to leave no trace. Take as many photos as you please, but don’t pick the flowers.
For more tips about trails or native flora during your stay, visit Brambuk: The National Park and Cultural Centre in Halls Gap.