Description
The Grampians National Park, located 235 kilometres west of Melbourne and 460 kilometres south-east of Adelaide, has the largest concentration of quality climbing within Australia. It comprises hundreds of cliffs that include severely overhanging walls, sweeping escarpments and isolated towers. The rock varies from grey sandstone to beautiful orange and red quartzite. Approximately 100 kilometres long, 45 kilometres wide and covering an area of around 2000 square kilometres, the Grampians has something for everyone.
Climbing within the Grampians offers easy single-pitch climbs to multi-pitch monsters that have rarely been repeated. All styles of climbing are represented here - vertical face climbing, highly exposed corner climbing, endless chimney and crack climbs. However, the 'Gramps' would have to be most famous for its impossibly long roof climbs such as 'Passport to Insanity' (27). As well as being a world class climbing area, it is also becoming known for its bouldering.
Best Time To Go
The best time to visit the Grampians is during spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May). In summer, temperature can soar to the mid 40s and in winter it can be bitterly cold.
Location
Halls Gap is the town most central within the Grampians, but it is possible to camp throughout the park. Some prefer to camp at Arapiles, taking an hour's drive to reach the Northern Grampians. From Melbourne, you'll need to choose which highway depending on which part of the Grampians you're heading to.
