Halls Gap 28 – 29 Oct 2012

Had a short drive in the morning to Halls Gap through very pretty countryside sprinkled with contented sheep, thick green grass and full dams. Although the Grampians is a series of gigantic monoliths set in splendour isolation on a flood plain, they are actually the last vestiges of the Great Dividing Range that sweeps 3,000KM down the east coast. As there is limited free camping in the area, we decided to stay in a caravan park to catch up on our washing and have a swim in their heated pool – luxury lad, pure luxury! We drove the 4WD half way up Mt Wilson and decided to take a 2km walk up to the peak – how hard could it be? However we had not appreciated the steepness of the climb (60o) and took an hour to reach the top. We were rewarded with magnificent 360o views that took in all the Grampians, as well as the surrounding farm land. On Monday we went to see a number of lookouts and waterfalls. There were amazing views, with thundering waterfalls and spectacular views of the rugged peaks formed when the sandstone was forced up into sharp relief. The next morning we packed up and then went on what we thought was an easy 6km walk to Chatauqua Peak, via Clematis Falls and Bullaces Glen, however it turned out to be a lot steeper than we thought. We enjoyed the walk with a variety of wild flowers and more spectacular views into Halls Gap. After lunch, we drove to Ararat, a large pleasant town with many fine buildings from the gold rush. Camped by the showground for a peaceful night.