Trail Fast Facts
Briggs Bluff via Gar Waterfalls is a 14km, grade 4, circuit hike in the Grampians National Park, Victoria. This hike typically takes 4 hrs to complete.
Warning
The Briggs Bluff via Gar Waterfalls hike is a challenging 14km circuit trail within Grampians National Park, Victoria. Rated grade 4, it's recommended for experienced walkers and takes approximately 4 hours to complete.
Beginning at Troopers Creek Campground, the track steadily climbs alongside the creek for 1.8km. You'll pass a small waterfall cascading from a wave-shaped rock formation before ascending towards the Mount Difficult (Gar) range. As you gain elevation, be rewarded with sweeping views across the western valley.
This track transitions into a circuit, culminating at the summit of Briggs Bluff in the park's northern section. The summit offers panoramic vistas as a reward for your efforts. The hike also explores a series of seasonal waterfalls, most impressive after rainfall, and provides spectacular outlooks from rocky lookouts atop the plateau.
Be aware that this hike includes steep sections with challenging rock steps and uneven terrain. Creek crossings, slippery rocks, and exposed cliff edges are also present. It's important to note that the section beyond the waterfalls, leading to Gar (Mount Difficult) and Briggs Bluff, is classified as grade 4 (difficult) and suitable only for fit, experienced, and well-prepared walkers.
Hike Overview
Commencing at the Troopers Creek Campground, follow the creek side track steadily uphill for 1.8km past the first small waterfall spilling from a wave-shaped rock. Continue upwards onto the Mount Difficult (Gar) range, enjoying amazing views across the valley to the west. From here, the hike becomes a circuit that climbs to the summit of Briggs Bluff in the northern section of the Grampians National Park where you will be rewarded with stunning views. This hike explores a series of seasonal waterfalls that are best seen after rain and offers spectacular views from rocky lookouts at the top of the plateau.
This hike includes steep sections with steep rock steps and track, creek crossings, slippery rocks, and exposed cliff edges. Note: the walking track beyond the falls and on to Gar (Mt Difficult) and Briggs Bluff is Grade 4 (Hard) and is suitable for fit, experienced and prepared walkers only.
Troopers Creek campground features shared fireplaces with BBQ hotplates and picnic tables throughout. Make sure you bring your own firewood as firewood collection is prohibited in the national park. There are pit toilet facilities and there are two large group camping areas suitable for up to 16 people. All sites must be booked online in advance.
Troopers creek is just down the road from the Beehive Falls trailhead where trails to Briggs Bluff, Gar / Mount Difficult and Beehive Falls are all accessible, and is also next to the trailhead for section two of the Grampians Peaks Trail.
Track Grade
Grade 4 (Hard) - Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
Trail features
- Gravel Path
- Rough Trail
- Waterfalls
- Rivers
- Exposed Ledges
- Rock Scrambling
- Steep Terrain
- Scenic Viewpoints
- Untreated Water
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 597 m
Min elevation: 264 m
Total climbing: 717 m
Total descent: -717 m
Trail Location (trailhead)
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Getting there
Troopers Creek Campground is in the northern Grampians off Roses Gap Road. Follow the road west from Roses Gap for 3.5kms and find the campground on your left.
Access conditions
- 2WD Access
- Gravel Road
- Large Car Park
- Public Toilets
- Picnic Table
- BBQ Facilities
- Campfire Pit
- Camping Area
About the region
The Grampians National Park (Gariwerd) is a place of deep cultural significance for Aboriginal Australians. Parks Victoria acknowledges the enduring connection Traditional Owners have to this land and their ongoing role as custodians.
Renowned for its natural beauty, the park offers a variety of experiences. Explore its world-famous walking trails, encountering majestic waterfalls, vibrant spring wildflowers, and inspiring mountain vistas. Look out for native wildlife such as kangaroos, wallabies, emus, and birds. The park's Aboriginal heritage, diverse plant and animal life, and stunning landscapes have all earned it heritage listing. Whether you choose a scenic drive or one of the many walking or hiking tracks, the Grampians will leave a lasting impression.
Traditionally known as Gariwerd, the region boasts the highest concentration of significant and ancient Aboriginal rock art sites in southern Australia. Brambuk – The National Park and Cultural Centre offers valuable insights into these sites, enriching your exploration.
Hikers of all levels are drawn to the Grampians. Challenge yourself by scaling Mount William, the park's highest peak, or choose from the numerous trails around Halls Gap and the Wonderland Range. The Pinnacle lookout offers exceptional views, but be aware that the climb is demanding. Experienced hikers can embark on overnight adventures like the iconic Grampians Peaks Trail, Major Mitchell Plateau hike, or The Fortress and Mt Thackeray Overnight Hike.
For a more relaxed pace, consider fishing, canoeing, or kayaking on Lake Wartook, Lake Bellfield, Moora Moora Reservoir, or the park's many waterways.
The Grampians' rugged sandstone ranges, spectacular wildflowers, diverse recreational activities, and rich Aboriginal heritage combine to create an unforgettable experience. These north-south ridges boast steep eastern slopes and gentler western inclines, a result of ancient earth movements that sculpted the landscape into a series of impressive peaks and valleys. Lookouts offer panoramic vistas, while waterfalls add a touch of grandeur.
Spring brings vibrant wildflower displays to the park, with the Grampians Boronia, Blue Pin-cushion Lily, and numerous other native plants painting the heathlands in colour. Keep an eye out for the park's abundant native wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, emus, wedge-tailed eagles, and more.
Don't miss the opportunity to explore the park's shelters containing ancient Aboriginal rock art paintings, a testament to the long-standing connection between Aboriginal people and this land. Billimina Shelter, Gulgurn Manja Shelter, and Manja Shelter are some notable examples.
Let the park's fresh air invigorate you. Hike, rock climb, fish, or canoe. Choose from a variety of walking tracks, whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a challenging multi-day trek.
Halls Gap, nestled beside the Wonderland Range, serves as a convenient base for exploring the park. This town is also home to Brambuk – The National Park and Cultural Centre, where you can delve deeper into the park's natural and cultural wonders.
Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Let someone know
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.