The Wonderland Loop is a hike I pieced together many years ago from a series of existing Grampians trails. After exploring most of the Grampians, I thought it would be great to have a longer day or overnight option. This was before the Grampians Peaks Trail was developed. My original plan was to do this as an overnight hike but I ended up completing it in a long and tiring day. You could do either but would need to research appropriate campsites.
Commencing in Halls Hap, along School Road, this loop first allows you to summit Chatauqua Peak north west of Halls Gap before making your way along the creek via Venus Baths, Splitter and Stoney Falls before arriving at the Wonderland Carpark.
After traversing the Wonderland Forest, you will then commence a steady climb via Cool Chamber to the famed Pinnacle Lookout where you will be rewarded with stunning views over Halls Gap and the valley below. From the Pinnacle, continue to make your way south via Bellfield Park and Devils Gap to the Sundial Turntable carpark.
It covers most of the Wonderland Loop including the Pinnacle and Sundial Peak before crossing the valley to the opposite ridge. Following a short side trip to Lakeview Lookout, continue to follow the trail south east towards Eagan Point and the breathtaking Sundial Peak where you can gain access to a number of view points.
After leaving Sundial, continue south east along the trail as it slowly descends to the valley below. You will reach the valley at Bellfield Settlement where you can spend some time exploring the dam wall of Lake Bellfield. From this point, you simply follow the walking track that runs parallel to the Grampians Pipeline and main road into Halls Gap and the end of the trail.
Variation to extend the hike
If you wanted to extend the hike (by approximately 5km), you can cross the dam wall at Lake Bellfield to pick up the Baronia trail on the eastern side of Fyanns Creek. When I did this hike, the section from Lake Bellfield to Boronia Peak was extensively overgrown and took a long time and a lot of effort to navigate. Just before reaching Mount Ida, you can take a quick side trip to the summit of Baronia Peak for great views of the range you traversed earlier. Complete the circuit hike by continuing north along Fyanns Creek to Grampians Road. Cross the bridge over the creek and make your way back into Halls Gap and the end of the trail.
You will find the GPX file for this variation below.
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.
Wonderland Loop - 25km
Total distance: 22741 m
Max elevation: 779 m
Min elevation: 233 m
Total climbing: 1254 m
Total descent: -1256 m
Download
Wonderland Loop via Baronia Peak - 30km
Total distance: 29044 m
Max elevation: 779 m
Min elevation: 228 m
Total climbing: 1775 m
Total descent: -1776 m
Download
No Records Found
Sorry, no records were found. Please adjust your search criteria and try again.
Maps failed to load
Sorry, unable to load the Maps API.
Grampians National Park is in western Victoria, 260km from Melbourne and 460km from Adelaide. Halls Gaps is 253km west of Melbourne.
Unveiling the beauty and deep history of Gariwerd, also known as Grampians National Park, is a fascinating journey. This rugged landscape boasts a rich Aboriginal heritage, awe-inspiring scenery, and diverse wildlife. Hike world-renowned trails past cascading waterfalls, or witness vibrant wildflower displays that erupt in spring. Explore the cultural richness of Gariwerd, which holds the most significant collection of ancient Aboriginal rock art paintings and shelters in southern Australia. Brambuk – The National Park & Cultural Centre offers a deeper look into this fascinating past.
Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual explorer, Gariwerd caters to all interests. Challenge yourself by reaching the summit of Mount William, the park's highest peak. Explore the scenic trails around Halls Gap and the Wonderland Range, or take in breathtaking views from the Pinnacle lookout. Experienced hikers can embark on overnight (multi-day) adventures on trails like the Grampians Peaks Trail or head out on The Fortress and Mt Thackeray hikes.
Beyond hiking, Gariwerd offers scenic drives along its extensive network of roads, revealing hidden waterfalls, ancient rock formations, and lush forests. Guided tours provide a deeper understanding of the park's natural and cultural wonders. As Victoria's crown jewel park destination, Gariwerd welcomes everyone – backpackers, day-trippers, and dedicated explorers alike. This spectacular mountainous wonderland offers a vast array of activities, promising an unforgettable adventure.
Trail changed? New features discovered? Has the route changed? Trail permanently closed? Help fellow hikers by suggesting edits! Click above to update route descriptions, GPX file, trail features (like boardwalks), or access conditions (like parking availability). Help me keep the trails info fresh!
Looking for things to do in Grampians National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
Favourite
Favourite
Favourite
Favourite
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.
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
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.
