The Grampians National Park in spring is a time of blossoming wildflowers, flowing waterfalls and baby animals – not to mention great weather for walking.
A day trip to the Grampians National Park from Melbourne is sure to fill you with wonder. The waterfalls, wildlife and stunning natural surrounds allow you to experience the true flora and fauna of Australia.
Native animals such as kangaroos, emus and kookaburras call these mountainous areas home. Plus there are walking trails that let you explore bushland, wetlands and rainforest as well.
If you want to take a day trip to the Grampians National Park, we highly recommend taking a tour. It’s the most relaxing way to make the journey out west from Melbourne and explore the highlights of the National Park.
Your guide will ensure you don’t miss any of the Grampians best features – particularly the highlights of this National Park in Spring.
Why you should visit the Grampians National Park in Spring
Wildflowers in Bloom
Spring is when wildflowers start to bloom throughout the Grampians. All shades of purple, pink, yellow, orange and red are on display in what is known as the ‘Garden of Victoria’. One third of Victoria’s flora can be found in the region and the wildflowers are perhaps the most spectacular.
To spot the wildflowers, it’s best to visit places such as Boroka Lookout, Heatherlie Quarry or Mt Abrupt. This is where you can spot the Pink Thryptomene, orchids ranging in colour from pale lilac to vibrant violet, and the Common Heath which is Victoria’s floral emblem. This brightly coloured flower can be seen in shades of red, pink and white.
Flowing waterfalls
After the winter (and sometimes spring) rains, the Grampians waterfalls are flowing at their fullest. It is the best time of year to see waterfalls such as Silverband Falls which can actually dry up over summertime.
Along the MacKenzie River you can view Broken Falls, where the river splits up as it cascades down over rocks. You can also view the mighty MacKenzie Falls, the largest in the National Park. The visitor area at MacKenzie Falls is one of the most popular places to visit, and has a couple of different walking trails.
You can walk down steep steps to the base of the falls (be prepared – you need to walk back up again!) Or you can walk along the top of the gorge through bushland to a scenic lookout high above the falls.
Baby Animals
Spring is a perfect time of year to view baby animals in the Grampians National Park. From kangaroos, to wallabies and emus, the native Australian animals are a unique sight to see.
Kangaroos and wallabies carry their young (called joeys) in their pouch. In spring it is common to see a joeys head poking out of its mother pouch.
Wallabies are shy and tend to hide amongst the bushes alongside the walking trails. Kangaroos you will find in the open grassland surrounding the town of Halls Gap.
Great Weather for Walking
Because so much of the Grampians can be explored on foot, it is recommended to bring some sturdy walking shoes and take to the trails.
The summer heat can make it exhausting just to be outside, let alone walking in the bush. The winter cold can make it tough to get outside and on the trails.
However, we rate the in between seasons as the best time to go walking. Spring in particular heralds the arrival of warmer weather. You are able to explore the Grampians walking trails without worrying about extreme weather deterring you.
What to expect on a Go West Tour of the Grampians National Park in Spring
This Grampians day tour is a chance to connect to nature and explore an iconic Australian destination. You’ll marvel at the waterfalls, wilderness and wildlife that is part of the Grampians National Park. Walk with your guide along some of the trails to learn about the Aboriginal history of the area and spot wildlife such as kangaroos and rare birds. Take spectacular photos at the various lookout points that boast panoramic views over the mountains and valleys below.
Highlights:
- Take a stroll through shady forests to Silverband Falls
- Time to explore the wildlife and surroundings of Grampians township of Halls Gap
- Take a short hike from the Wonderland Turntable into the spectacular Grand Canyon
- Hike to one of the Grampians most famous sites, MacKenzie Falls
- Enjoy panoramic views from Reeds Lookout and views over the mountain range from Boroka Lookout
- Spot wild animals in their natural habitat
Itinerary:
We start our Grampians National Park tour in Melbourne and pass through the Western Plains of Victoria before stopping for a morning tea break in the historic Gold Rush town of Ballarat.
Continuing on our drive we arrive in the Grampians National Park and take a walk to Silverband Falls. It is an easy walk through bushland. Plus there is the chance to spot some wildflowers blooming amongst the Australian bush and eucalyptus trees.
We visit the township of Halls Gap in the Central Grampians for a lunch break (own expense). There is a chance to see kangaroos and native birds in town.
After lunch, we take a short walk through the Grand Canyon where you can get up close to the incredible rock formations of the Wonderland Range.
On route to MacKenzie Falls we check out the view of valley and mountains at Reeds Lookout. Next stop is the most popular in the Grampians – MacKenzie Falls. Walk into the gorge to marvel at the falls from the base, or walk along the gorge to view the falls below you.
Heading back to Halls Gap we stop at Boroka Lookout for views of the surrounding region, the town of Halls Gap and Lake Bellfield.
In Halls Gap we take a close look at the resident Grampians wild kangaroo’s who come out to feed in the late afternoon, before our return journey to Melbourne.
Written by: Leah Furey – Digital Content Coordinator @gowest.com.au