Discover Victoria’s National Parks: The Best Hikes in Victoria

Wilsons Promontory National Park:

Wilsons Promontory National Park, known affectionately as "The Prom," is a true paradise for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Located at the southernmost tip of mainland Australia in Victoria, this pristine wilderness offers a range of hiking and camping experiences that will leave you in awe.

Hiking at Wilsons Promontory allows you to explore a diverse landscape encompassing coastal vistas, granite mountains, rainforests, and serene beaches. One of the most popular hikes is the Wilsons Promontory Circuit, a multi-day trek that covers approximately 80 kilometers, showcasing the park's stunning natural beauty. Along the way, you'll encounter breathtaking lookouts, white sandy beaches, and secluded coves that invite you to relax and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings.

For those seeking shorter hikes, there are numerous trails to choose from, catering to various fitness levels. Mt. Oberon Summit Walk offers panoramic views of the entire promontory, while the Lilly Pilly Gully Nature Walk takes you through lush rainforest, home to abundant wildlife and beautiful fern gullies. The Tidal River area provides access to easy walks, including the scenic Pillar Point Circuit and the peaceful Squeaky Beach.

Camping at Wilsons Promontory is an unforgettable experience. Tidal River Campground is the main camping area, nestled amidst coastal banksias and just a short walk from the beach. The campground offers a range of facilities, including hot showers, picnic areas, and a general store. There are also remote campgrounds available for those seeking a more secluded camping adventure.

While exploring Wilsons Promontory, keep an eye out for native wildlife such as kangaroos, emus, wombats, and a variety of bird species. The park is teeming with natural wonders, from hidden caves to pristine rivers and stunning rock formations.

Grampians National Park:

Immerse yourself in the majestic beauty of the Grampians with hikes such as the Pinnacle Walk, taking you to breathtaking viewpoints and showcasing dramatic rock formations. Nestled in the heart of Victoria, The Grampians National Park is a hiker's and camper's paradise. Known for its rugged beauty, ancient rock formations, and stunning vistas, this iconic park offers a range of experiences that will captivate nature enthusiasts.

Hiking in The Grampians unveils a world of breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems. The Pinnacle Walk is a must-do, leading you to panoramic viewpoints where you can marvel at dramatic sandstone cliffs and expansive valleys. For a challenging adventure, conquer the challenging but rewarding trek to the summit of Mount William, the highest peak in the park, and be rewarded with sweeping vistas of the surrounding countryside.

Other popular hikes include the Wonderland Loop, where you can explore the magical Grand Canyon and witness the splendor of the Silverband Falls. The Balconies Walk takes you to iconic viewpoints where you can gaze out over the vast expanse of the park, while the Mackenzie Falls Trail leads to a majestic waterfall cascading down sheer rock faces.

Camping at The Grampians offers an immersive experience in nature. Halls Gap is the main camping hub, providing various campgrounds and facilities, including hot showers and picnic areas. Alternatively, there are secluded bush campsites available for those seeking a more remote and tranquil setting.

While exploring The Grampians, keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife that call this park home. Kangaroos, emus, and colorful bird species can often be spotted, adding to the enchantment of the natural surroundings.

For those seeking additional activities, The Grampians offers rock climbing, abseiling, and scenic drives that wind through the park, allowing you to take in the awe-inspiring beauty from the comfort of your car.

The Grampians National Park is a place of awe-inspiring natural beauty, where ancient geological wonders meet lush forests and vibrant wildflowers. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a family looking for an outdoor adventure, The Grampians offers a wealth of opportunities to explore, reconnect with nature, and create lasting memories.

Great Otway National Park

Great Otway National Park, located along the stunning coastline of Victoria, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking hiking and camping adventures. This diverse and expansive park offers a remarkable combination of lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, breathtaking coastal cliffs, and pristine beaches, making it a nature lover's dream.

Hiking in Great Otway National Park allows you to explore an array of captivating trails. The Great Ocean Walk, spanning over 100 kilometers, is a renowned multi-day hike that showcases the dramatic coastal scenery, including the iconic Twelve Apostles. With its cliff-top vistas and secluded beaches, this hike offers an unforgettable experience.

For shorter hikes, there are numerous trails to suit all fitness levels. The Maits Rest Rainforest Walk takes you through a magical fern gully, immersing you in the enchanting beauty of the ancient rainforest. The Triplet Falls Trail leads to a mesmerizing cascade of waterfalls, surrounded by towering mountain ash trees.

Camping in Great Otway National Park allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural surroundings. Blanket Bay, Johanna Beach, and Aire River are some of the campgrounds available, each offering unique settings and access to the park's attractions. Fall asleep to the sound of crashing waves or wake up to the peaceful melodies of birdsong in this coastal wilderness.

While exploring Great Otway, keep an eye out for native wildlife, including koalas, kangaroos, and a variety of bird species. You may even be lucky enough to spot the elusive platypus in the park's waterways.

Beyond hiking and camping, the park offers opportunities for mountain biking, fishing, and scenic drives along the Great Ocean Road. You can also visit the Cape Otway Lightstation, the oldest surviving lighthouse on mainland Australia, and learn about the area's maritime history.

Great Otway National Park is a treasure trove of natural wonders, offering a diverse range of landscapes that will leave you in awe. From tranquil rainforests to rugged coastlines, this park invites you to disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with the beauty of nature.