TERRAIN

Steep, rocky terrain with sustained climbs, natural stone steps, and narrow canyon passages, transitioning to exposed ridgelines with sweeping views before descending through forested tracks toward a quieter, undulating hikers campsite at Stoney Creek finish on day one. Day two includes narrow rock corridors, shaded gullies, and stepped sandstone paths wind through tight formations, opening to exposed slopes before easing into descending bush track before return to Halls Gap.

GRADING & FITNESS

This complete hike is Graded 3–4, requiring good fitness for steep climbs, rocky terrain, and sustained walking. Hikers should have endurance, balance, and confidence on uneven surfaces, with the ability to maintain effort over several hours of continuous hiking.

ITEMS REQUIRED

All HACO night hikers are supplied with a lightweight overnight kit, which includes:

• 50L backpack

• Single-person tent with protective base

• Sleeping doona rated to 0°C, bed mattress, and pillow

• Water bladder and filtered water bottle

• Hiking poles

• Trowl and foam seat pad

• Mini cooking stove with utensils

In addition, hikers will receive three dry bags — one each for their chosen clothing, food, and electronics. HACO will also provide a recommended packing list, covering suitable clothing for the specific hike and climate, along with suggested food options for the two days and details on where to purchase them.

Together, these three dry bags complete your kit for the hike.

DESTINATION & TRAVEL TIME

All hikers will be transported to the starting point at the Halls Gap Botanical Gardens. It’s approximately a 3 hour drive from Melbourne’s CBD.

A scenic drive from Melbourne to Halls Gap passes through Ballarat, Ararat, and Stawell, with rolling farmland leading toward the Grampians ranges.

You can click the button below to access the exact starting point coordinates on Google Maps.