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Description
Mount Arapiles is a rock formation that rises 369 metres above the Wimmera plains in western Victoria. Along with the nearby Grampians, Arapiles is one of the premier climbing sites in Australia due to the quality and quantity of climbs, whatever grade you're climbing at.
With over 2000 routes, Mt Arapiles - aka 'Araps' - is one of the best traditional rock climbing areas in the world. You'll find predominantly single and multi-pitch slab and face routes. Grades are from around 7 all the way up to 31 - 'Punks in the Gym' was once the hardest graded climb in the world. There are a few isolated sport climbs, but these tend to be in the higher grades and exist only where natural protection is either impractical or not readily available.
There are also a number of bouldering areas sprinkled around Arapiles that cater for all abilities. Two areas that are close to camp are the Krondorf Area and the Golden Streak Area. They are often populated in the late afternoon and early evening after the day's climbing has been done.
Location
Mount Arapiles is 320 kilometres north-west from Melbourne, and 30 kilometres from the large town of Horsham on the main Highway from Melbourne to Adelaide. The nearest town is Natimuk with a population of around 500, approximately 8 kilometres to the west. Accommodation and other facilities are available here.
Climate
The climate here is great all year round, except for the hottest days in summer and the coldest/wettest in winter. Autumn (March-May) is the season where Arapiles is perfect, so it can get really busy over the Easter break. (Try and go when everyone is back at work!) Long stable periods of 18-25 degrees Celcius make perfect climbing weather.
