Rest days at Myocum, Northern NSW

Friday 25th to Sunday 27th September 2026

We enjoyed a couple of restful days at Syudio 59, Myocum after our 4 day Gidjuum Gulganyi hike in Mt Jerusalem and Nightcap National Parks.

Studio 59 was a lovely appointed, tranquil little studio cabin on a property in Myocum. It had a lovely pond surrounded by lush gardens and everything we needed to enjoy a quiet break and disconnect before returning home.

We enjoyed a full day just chilling, doing yoga, meditating and just doing a little bit of nothng. We had some lovely dinners – Thai, Vietnamese and pizza. Very unusual for us to eat out every night, but I suppose someone has to do it.

On Saturday, we had another restful morning, listening and seeing the local birds and we headed out for a drive after lunch. We drove through the beautiful countryside to Byron Bay, a very busy, not so little surfing town. It was very hectic. We then headed to Brunswick Heads, Ocean Shores and South Golden Beach. These towns were a little less busy.

And just like that our little rest was over. We had a slow Sunday morning enjoying the serenity of our little home whilst packing up to head home. We were on our way by about 9.30am for the not so long drive home. We were home by 5.30pm including a grocery shop at Coles on the way.

Thanks for sharing yet another holiday with us! See you all soon.

Weeun Weeun to Minyon Grass via Minyon Falls – Day 4 – GGW

Thursday 24th September 2026
Day 4 – Weeun Weeun to Minyon Grass via Minyon Falls
Today 12.8
5:08 hours
367m up 407m down

Total hike 50.1km
20:32 hours
1758m up 1637m down

We were up early again today as we had a long-ish walk (about 12km) which needed to be finished by 2pm for our pickup at Minyon Grass. I was up for sunrise but didn’t quite catch it as I had to go back to the tent for my phone. We packed up before breakfast, as the weather looked a little inclement. We had our last breakfast with our fellow hikers and were on our way by 8.20am. Pretty good for us.

Within the first few minutes of walking it was raining and we put up our umbrellas. They are a great addition to our gear, as it stops the on again, off again, rain jacket. We were on a fire trail to start with and it went straight down 50m into the dip and then up 80m elevation. A great heart thumping 15 mins. A little while later we were back on single trail and in the rainforest most of the time. The rest of the trail was undulating ups and downs for the next 2 hours to Minyon Falls lookout. It followed a creek, was lush, green and magnificent. The palm trees so tall, the strangler figs amazing and the general foliage so beautiful. I saw fungi of all different sizes and colour. And then many different flowers. It was a lovely walk through the lush rainforest. Minyon Falls was incredible from above. The sheer rock face was beautiful and the view out towards the coast looking passed the countryside was spectacular. We sat here for about 30 mins enjoying the view and a quick snack. We then headed off, as we only had 3 hours before our pickup and we still had 6km to go, with a 180m descent to the base of the fall’s. We enjoyed a lovely downhill, albeit a little steep sometimes walk down through the beautiful rainforest. Lucky we left when we did, as we didn’t realise we had a rock scramble to get to the base of the fall’s. Minyon Falls – what an incredible sight. Unfortunately, as always the camera lens doesn’t capture it. Another picture to be stored in my mind. Or forgotten. Oh well, it is beautiful for now. We sat and enjoyed a quick lunch. I decided against the last little scramble down for a swim, as we knew we still had to scramble back again to the trail and then had a big climb back up to Minyon Grass. It was now 1pm, so I left David chatting and started the scramble back to the trail. It didn’t take as long as I thought it would. I waited at the trail crossroad for David and we then hot-footed it up they last 2km and 130m elevation. We walked at a steady, fast-ish pace, once again enjoying the view. We arrived at the top with 30 mins to spare. David had neck ache by the time we got to the top, as he had been looking for koalas along the way, we were told they were here. Unfortunately, only a sore neck for DB. We enjoyed a restful snack before being collected at 2pm for the scenic drive back to Mullumbimby Showground. They provided the code for the showers at the showground to let hikers have a shower after the hike, which was a great gesture for the onwards travellers.

We headed in to Woollie’s to get a few things for breakfast and then drove the 15 mins east to Myocum where we will be staying until Sunday. A lovely little granny flat in a tranquil location, overlooking trees and forests, with abundant birdlife to be seen from the verandah.

It’s time for a rest now. Xx

NSW NATIONAL PARKS NOTES

Day 4: Weeun Weeun campground to Minyon Falls lookout

Distance: 6 km
Time suggested: 2 to 3 hours
Toilets at: Weeun Weeun campground, Minyon Falls lookout
Water at: Weeun Weeun campground, Minyon Falls lookout

Day 4 begins with a clifftop path offering sweeping views of Wanganui Gorge and Coopers Creek. The track winds through rainforest and eucalypt forest, crossing creeks on the way to your final destination at Minyon Falls lookout.
The track takes you across creek crossings and wet areas on narrow boardwalks and stepping stones, surrounded by lush subtropical rainforest.
Filtered glimpses of the distant coast and Snows Gully Nature Reserve peek through the trees. Take extra care here, wet conditions can make the track slippery and the crossing can become impassable after or during heavy rainfall.
As you approach Rummery Park campground, you’ll discover a rustic timber walkway (tread carefully on the beams). Arriving at the campground, you’ll be greeted by resting kookaburras perched among the tall Hoop pines.
From here, follow Boggy Creek walk for about 45mins, tracing the clear waters of the creek. The track winds through gullies framed by towering blackbutt and turpentine trees, with short, steep climbs leading to tranquil resting spots beside the creek. As you near Minyon Falls, the crashing roar of the waterfall will guide you to the spectacular lookout. From the lookout platform, pause to take in the view of the deep palm-shaded gorge roughly 100m below – a fitting end to your 4-day adventure. On a clear day, the view stretches all the way to the coast.
If you’re still eager to explore, several short walking tracks await in the Minyon Falls area. Nearby Rummery Park campground provides a peaceful option for those wishing to stay longer. The view from Minyon Falls lookout is the best in the area.
Minyon Falls picnic area has plenty of shady trees and picnic tables to enjoy a snack. If you booked transfers with Vision Walks Eco Tours, meet them at the carpark for your return transfer.

Yelgun Kyoomgun to Weeun Weeun camp – Day 3 – GGW

Wednesday 23rd September 2026
GGW Day 3 – Yelgun Kyoomgun to Weeun Weeun camp
Today 12.6km
4:58 hours
138m up 514m down

We had a few mm of rain last night and woke up to an early misty morning. Over the next hour the mIst cleared and it was just a little cloudy. The forecast is for only 1mm of rain again today.
We enjoyed a slow and lazy start to the day with lots of chatting and a didgeridoo performance before Jesse and his friend were on their way. They left reasonably early as they were heading all the way to Minyon Grass today. About 18km.

We were on our way about 10am for our 8 km hike. Not too much elevation gain which will be nice as our legs are pretty tired and my calves were a little sore.

The walk today started on a fire trail fire the first little bit before getting on a single trail. It was fairly easy, a steady 12km walk through lovely rainforest and very tall trees. The size of some of the fallen trees root systems were sometimes twice my height which you can imagine how big and tall they were. There were not as many flowers today. We had lunch on a log in the middle of nowhere and arrived at the very small swimming hole about 2pm. I enjoyed a shallow swim in very cold refreshing water. Definitely not as cold as the swim on the first day. We headed to camp a little later with a light sprinkle of rain for a short 1.5km walk, up and down a few big dippers along a fire trail. We saw a nice view from a lookout along the way.

We arrived and setup camp in case the rain came in heavier but it didn’t for a while. Whilst setting up our tent we saw an Australian Paralysis tick on the outside panel. We are not sure if it had just fallen off one of us or we had carried it in our pack. Very unusual for it not to be embedded in David somewhere. Unfortunately for it and for our own safety we ended it’s life.
We have really enjoyed getting to camp early and having a cup of tea, a chat and time to wander. We had a light drizzle of rain for about 30 mins so it delayed my yoga a little today.

Some more hiker information. Neroli has 2 children 26 and 29. Adam’s children live rent free in their Melbourne house just paying the bills and rates, and Adam and his wife live on a 10 acre farm south of Melbourne. Aaron from New Zealand who lives in Wollstonecraft on the North Shore of Sydney and Grace from Balmain joined us from the other side of camp as well. Aaron is a mechanical engineer of a small drone company, so needless to say David had enjoyed a long chat worth him asking the trail on the first day.

The family of 4 took the fire trail today to make it a lighter day for the girls to keep them happy as they had handled the big day yesterday very well.

The boys got the fire going today in the fire pit circle and we sat around chatting before having a later dinner. Nothing like the flow of the fire to bring everyone together. We sat around talking until at about 9am a bit of light rain scurried us all off to bed. A fitting end to another lovely day.

NSW NATIONAL PARKS NOTES
Distance: 11.5km
Time suggested: 3 to 5 hours
Toilets at: Yelgun Kyoomgun campground, Weeun Weeun campground
Water at: Yelgun Kyoomgun campground, Weeun Weeun campground

Your walk today will start and end with striking views. As you set out, the route descends along a ridgeline of the Nightcap Range. You’ll journey through landscapes that shift between rainforest and eucalypt forest. Look for bursts of orange fungi peeking through mossy carpets along the forest floor. In the cooler months, the elusive Albert’s lyrebird may be seen scratching through the leaf litter in search of food. The track weaves through shaded rainforest, following the gentle, soft paths of long-dormant logging roads.
You will cross Peates Mountain Road and link up to Perlite Road and Fork Fire Road before reaching the Eastern Fire Break. Midway along Fork Fire Road look out for the cascades which lead you off the track to a secluded creek, perfect for a cool down. Keep an eye on trail markers to stay on track, and take care crossing roads, as management vehicles may be present. Along the way, you might spot red-legged pademelons darting through the undergrowth.
As you approach Weeun Weeun campground, the landscape opens dramatically at Wanganui Gorge lookout. Sweeping views stretch across Coopers Creek and into Goonengerry National Park, framed by cascading waterfalls tumbling through cliffs and trees. Arriving at Weeun Weeun campground, you’ll find yourself perched on the edge of Wanganui Gorge overlooking Goonengerry National Park. Weeun Weeun (wee-ahn wee-ahn) means ‘home of the cleverman’ in the language of the local Widjabul Wia-bal People.
The lookouts within the campground precinct offer unique perspectives of the Wanganui Valley, where dense rainforest clings to steep slopes featuring waterfalls. As you savour the view, take care to stay well back from the lookout barrier.
At night, go spotlighting to find vulnerable animals like the yellow-bellied glider and marbled frogmouth. Set your torch to a red light to avoid damaging their eyes. Settle in for your final night on the track beneath the towering blackbutt trees. Let the calls of cockatoos and eucalyptus-scented air set the tone for reflection on the incredible journey so far. Rest up – tomorrow’s grand finale at Minyon Falls awaits.

Sand Ridge to Yelgun Kyoomgun camp – Day 2 – GGW

Tuesday, 22 September 2026
GGW Day 2 – Sand Ridge Yelgun Kyoomgun camp

15.8km
6:27 hours
908m up 462m down

Well, after a terrible night of no sleep, we were up early and on our way by 7.30ish. Wow! That would be a first. We needed to leave early, just in case we took the 7-9 hours the trail notes suggested. It was a big up day, starting with a climb of about 500m right from the start. It did start gradual before many, many flights of stairs. We walked through eucalypt woodland and rainforests. We enjoyed the view of the Tweed Valley from the first lookout. It was quite spectacular. A little misty in the distance but overall a great view. We continued going up for what felt like forever to the second lookout with another enjoyable view. I took many photos of different flowers and fungi. I even saw a few different kinds of orchids. We then descended about 400m before the next ascent. This time for a 400m elevation but gradual climb. Although it did seem to take forever. At about the 6 hour and 15km mark I had had enough. So I continued the last downhill trudge to camp. We arrived at camp about 2.15pm which was a great time for 16.5km with about 1000m elevation gain. We enjoyed our early afternoon unexpected arrival with a cup of tea, yoga and lots of chatting. We have become quite expert at setting up our Z pack duplex tent. It is a lot cooler tonight as the camp is at 800m elevation.

We met Neroli and Rev (Verrell) tonight. Rev is a GP and ED doctor. And Neroli is a journalist who works at Queensland University. They are sisters and enjoying their first walk together. Rev is from Margaret River WA and a Neroli is from Brisbane. As the days go on, as usual, you learn a little more about your fellow hikers lives. I always find it interesting, as well as sharing each other’s adventures.

Well we are now at the halfway mark and tomorrow is a lot easier day. So we will take our time heading out depending on the weather as it would be nice to pack up and set up without rain. So we will be watching the BOM in the morning.

We saw a few birds today and a marble frog mouth tonight. Unfortunately no red legged pademelons but David did frighten an Albert lyrebird on the trail on his early morning animal scout. Aaron and Grace saw 2 black snakes. Aaron and Grace are in their late 20’s, Aaron is a mechanical engineer that David chatted to on the trail, he is originally from New Zealand but lives in Wollstonecraft Sydney and Grace lives in Balmain.

NSW NATIONAL PARK TRAIL NOTES

Distance: 16km
Time suggested: 7 to 9 hours
Toilets at: Sand Ridge campground, Yelgun Kyoomgun campground
Water at: Sand Ridge campground, Yelgun Kyoomgun campground
Please note: Yelgun Kyoomgun campground has native rodents that like to eat your food. Please use the bag hooks provided in shelters or secure food in sealed containers. Be aware, they will chew through your tent.
Today’s walk is the longest and most challenging, offering sweeping views and a journey through eucalypt woodland and both warm temperate and subtropical rainforest. Prepare for uphill sections, numerous steps and 2 particularly steep sections that will test your stamina. Make sure you check your water supply before setting out and carry at least 3 litres. There are no refill points until Yelgun Kyoomgun campground.
Set out from Sand Ridge campground as early as possible, heading past the sheltered picnic table to the marked track at the southern end of the campsite. The walk begins with a steady 2hr climb through eucalypt forest and subtropical rainforest. Along the way, Grasstree lookout rewards you with magnificent views over the Tweed Caldera, with Wollumbin rising in the distance. The path you follow traces the ancient routes of Widjabul Wia-bal ancestors, who walked these lands many years ago while travelling through Country.
As the track winds south of Mount Jerusalem, the rainforest transitions into warm temperate rainforest before opening into eucalypt woodland. Look for lace monitors basking on sunlit tree trunks or moving stealthily through the undergrowth. Be cautious of slippery conditions after rain, particularly on the old Jerusalem Mountain Road. Soon you will arrive at Tweed Valley lookout, where views stretch across Commissioners Creek Valley. Back on the main track, you’ll descend into warm temperate rainforest. A 242m side track (one-way) offers a steep scramble to Jerusalem Cliffs, where dramatic views over Doon Doon await. From this rocky vantage point, look out for Doughboy Mountain and the Pinnacle in Border Ranges National Park. If you’re lucky, you might catch sight of a goshawk or other birds of prey soaring overhead.
Crossing the Doon Doon saddle marks your departure from Mount Jerusalem National Park. This section of the track passes through a private property easement, so please respect the landholders by staying on the marked track and avoiding unnecessary stops.
The climb out of the saddle takes you past Doughboy Mountain View and Tea Tree Lookout, with a spectacular vista of both sides of the ridge across the Tweed caldera to the north and the Huonbrook Valley to the south.
The final part of the walk weaves through a transition of dry sclerophyll edges into rainforest. Keep an eye out for the Postman’s Tree, a huge burnt-out tree that’s said to have provided a resting place for travelling posties who used this route in the 1800s and 1900s. The landscape here feels ancient and otherworldly, with dense rainforest and towering trees. Listen for the ‘chip chip’ call of the threatened rufous scrub-bird and watch for flashes of colour from fruit-eating rainforest doves.
Day 2 comes to an end as you approach Yelgun Kyoomgun campground. Yelgun Kyoomgun (yell-gun key-oom-gun) means ‘sun and stars’ to reflect the view from the campground. The camp is nestled in an understorey rich with native mint and Lepidosperma clipeicola, a rare clumping sedge that only occurs in moist eucalypt forests at higher altitudes associated with the Mount Warning shield volcano. If you’re here during spring, vibrant yellow guinea flowers and blue flax lilies will be in bloom, adding bursts of colour to the landscape.
As night falls, watch for mountain brushtail possums and yellow-bellied gliders emerging in the treetops. Unwind as you take in the distant lights of Lismore twinkling far below – a magical close to an unforgettable day on the track.

Mann’s Rd trailhead to Sand Ridge camp – Day 1 – GGW

Monday 21st September 2026
Mann’s Rd Trailhead to Sand Ridge camp

Cost details
Car storage at Mullumbimby Showground
– $10 per night for 3 nights + $30 – includes shower at completion of hike
Hike and camp
– $172 for 1 tent pad – could accommodate 2 small tents
– book through NSW National Parks website
Shuttle to and from trail
– $172 for 2 people to trailhead and pickup 4 days later
– book through Vision Walks – Eco Tours

Distance: 8.9km
Time: 3:59 hours
Elevation: 345m up 254m down

We arrived at Mullumbimby Showground at 9:15am for our 9:50am bus transfer with Vision Walks – Eco Tours. This was about a 45min drive along a winding, narrow, beautiful tree canopied road. Tom the driver have us some interesting information about the trail. There was a group of 3 guys – Richard from SA, Adam and Ralph from Melbourne. A family of 4 – Henry, Toni, Willow and Gemma from Brisbane. And a couple of ladies on the bus with us.

We set off on our way at about 10:30ish. Today was a short walk, about 8km with about 400m elevation. We walked closely beside the road for the first kilometre, then continued through the eucalypt and rainforests, crossing a few creeks and travelling along mainly single trails with a few short distance stints on fire trails. Along the way we heard the calls of a few birds but didn’t really see any to photograph today. We were grateful for the tree cover along the trail as it was very warm today, about 30°C. It was a pleasant walk, although very similar most of the way. A good introduction to overnight pack hiking allowing us to get used to the weight on our back again. At about the 7km mark, we took the unmarked side trail to Hells Holes, which was along a creek to a few small water falls that formed some little water holes. We enjoyed our lunch beside the waterhole and then I had a very short, cold dip in one of the larger water holes. It was refreshing and as always a lovely opportunity to have today’s bath. As you will all know, I swam alone as it was way too cold for David. Haha!!

After that we headed in our way to camp which was about another 2km and up 100m elevation. It was a pleasant climb with not too many steep sections. We followed some switchbacks which reduced the steep climb a little.

We arrived at camp and were set up by 3pm. I mended the tent a little and David did the water collection. This was followed by some yoga and then a cup of tea. We sat chatting with the boys and learnt a little about their families. Richard is about 58 and has 3 girls 18, 22 and 26. Adam has 2 children and his are 18 and 22, and Ralph we are yet to learn more about. Both Richard and Ralph are still working and Adam is having a year off work and hoping not to go back. Another couple of guys joined us, one indigenous with his didgeridoo named Jesse and a no name at this stage.

We enjoyed some lovely time chatting with everyone over dinner. It is 8.30pm and we are heading off to sleep now, as we have a big day tomorrow and need to be on the trail by about 8am. As you know this may be a challenge for us but that is the loose plan. The temperature is very pleasant tonight but it’s supposed to be cooler tomorrow.

NSW NATIONAL PARKS NOTES
Distance: 8.5km
Time suggested: 2 to 4 hours
Toilets at: Manns Road track head, Sand Ridge campground
Water at: Sand Ridge campground

Your multi-day walk begins today, leading you into a landscape of diverse forests and tracks that will challenge and excite. Stop by Mullumbimby or Uki for last minute supplies before arriving at Manns Road track head – the last spot with reliable phone coverage until the start of day 2.
Ensure you have at least 3L of water per person for today’s walk and pack a reliable method to treat water for the days ahead. Start your walk at the Manns Road track head, following undulating paths through tall eucalypt forest and subtropical rainforest. Notice the striking contrasts in bark textures – from the rugged grooves of ironbark to the smooth, mottled grey of coachwoods.
Soon after you set out, a 3km return side track offers a chance to visit Unicorn Falls, a peaceful spot where moss-covered rocks frame a quaint waterfall. Continuing along the main track, the ridgeline leads to Whiskey Creek walk. Descending into the lush gully of Whisky Creek, you’ll be greeted by the refreshing sight of clear running waters with a vibrant green canopy overhead. This section includes 7 creek crossings – be mindful of slippery rocks and changing water levels after rain.
Take a moment at one of the creek crossings for a quiet morning tea and watch for the splash of an eastern water dragon. Continue on through eucalypt forest and subtropical rainforest and listen for the calls of the forest’s rare birdlife, including regent bowerbirds, paradise riflebirds and green catbirds. Crossing the creek a final time, you’ll follow an old logging track as it winds through towering palms and giant strangler figs on a gradual climb to the top of Middle Ridge. A little further on you’ll descend off the ridge and eventually cross Sand Ridge bridge. A few hundred metres on, the track diverts off the management trail and leads you through creek lines framed by riparian rainforest.
The final ascent brings you to Sand Ridge campground, perched on a lower saddle of the ridge. Here, beneath the canopy of ancient New England blackbutt eucalypt forest, you can rest and reflect on your journey. An early night is recommended – tomorrow’s track will push your endurance with steep climbs but you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views.

Mud-Dadjug to Dunkeld town – Day 13 – South section – GPT

Monday, 11 May 2026
Temp:
Distance 15.43km
Up 537m Down 815m
Time 5:41 hrs Moving time 4:07 hrs
Food: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner at Dunkeld

We had a very ordinary night, as the wind changed direction and we were set up the wrong way. Oh well! These things happen. Sometimes, the best laid plans go awry. The tent flapped in David’s face all night, he even contemplated moving it in the middle of the night but I was fast asleep until 4am, so he didn’t. This is my usual wake time, as by then we have had 8 hours sleep. I do usually doze until 7am most days.

We were up and organising at 7.15am as it is a big one! 14.7km 5 to 5.5hrs without any side tracks to the lookouts, followed by however far we can drive.

Today was also a sad day for us, our last day on the trail. We enjoyed a beautiful sunrise with the low cloud over the farmland and covering the mountain top. We headed off just after 9.30am, a little later than we had hoped. Oh well! As always we will adjust. The initial part of the walk was downhill on an easy trail but it quickly changed to a rocky platform and a bit of rock hopping. Within a few minutes David disturbed a Scrub wallaby right next to the trail and then we came to another one having a drink from a rock pool. It was unphased by our attention. We spent about 10 mins just enjoying watching it with the most amazing backdrop in the distance.

We continued down the rocky trail, with some man made rock steps as well. Both David and I prefer the natural rock as the man made steps upset our knees with their consistent size and continuous drop. Once again the rocky cliffs and enormous rocks are incredible. You just don’t get tired of admiring them. I also love finding shapes in them. We also saw many grass trees, the ones near the edge of the track we think have been trimmed and often to me look like a face with wild hair and beards. Once again, my imagination at work!

Today is a big down day, with the initial downhill being almost 300m descent, before we head to our first lookout up about 160m to Piccanniny lookout. You could see Dunkeld in the distance. We then went down about 190m before heading back up again. This was a big grind, with a false summit. We climbed about 360m to the true summit of Mt Sturgeon. The views and the cliff edges and rocks were spectacular. We enjoyed our lunch up there, just soaking in the last of the views.

After lunch we still had 6.8km and estimated 2.5 hrs to hike. The most of it was downhill. It was single trail around the ridge of Mt Sturgeon, some on easy walking path, other parts was loose rocks, with some rock hopping as well. On the trail parts, we paced it out, as we had spent a bit of time before lunch talking to people on the trail, and as usual were behind our expected schedule. We enjoyed a lovely view most of the way. We walked through what I would call tree graveyards, lots of fallen trees scattered everywhere. The last 4km (our usual doggy point, return walk at home) was along an easy trail on the outskirts of town. It was through beautiful fields with gorgeous trees, some of the best we had seen. We finally made it to Dunkeld about 3.30pm, in time to register for our certificate at the Visitors Information Centre. Then time for a quick shower, a bite to eat, and a coffee and coke to get us on our way.

Tonight’s destination is Bendigo. About a 3 hour drive and we are starting just before ROO o’clock! Oops!! Wish us luck.

David was a legend, driving the whole way. I will have to take my turn tomorrow.
Thanks for sharing our adventure.

National Parks notes
Day 13: (S4) Mud-Dadjug Hike-in Campground – Dunkeld Township
Start: Mud-dadjug Hike-in Campground  
Distance: 14.8km  
Grade: 4
Key elevation points: Picaninny (Bainggugg) 422m Mt Sturgeon 582m
Elevation: 510m up, 810m down
Names and meanings: Mud-Dadjug = ‘Murd-dajook’: blunt, useless arm.
Highlights: Bainggug (The Piccaninny) and Mt Sturgeon (Wurgarri) (582m). Bainggug is renowned for its winter and spring native wildflowers including spider, tiger, wax-lip and greenhood orchids.
Descend steeply, passing a reservoir and then climbing over Bainnggug (the Piccaninny). Cross Victoria Valley Road and undertake the final climb over Mt Sturgeon (Wurgarri). Take in stunning views out over volcanic plains and the impressive peaks of the southern Grampians. To the north are the sedimentary sandstones of Gariwerd; to the south, basalt lava flows. The landscape reveals stories of country. Volcanoes nearby at Budj Bim National Park and Mt Gambier are only 5000 years old, while the oldest dated Aboriginal rock shelter in Gariwerd is 22,000 years old. Imagine living in a landscape of active volcanoes! Skeletons buried in layers of ash near Warrnambool, and Dreamtime (creation) stories speak to this. Complete your journey by steeply descending into farmland below and wandering through open old-growth Red Gum woodland to arrive at Dunkeld for a hot shower, great meal and comfortable bed. Congratulations!
Important safety information:
– Rainwater tank at Mud-Dadjug Hike-in Campground
– Serviced water tanks at Dunkeld Reservoir Rd Crossing and Sturgeon Rd Crossing MVO

Djardji-djawara to Mud-Dadjug – Day 12 – South section – GPT

Sunday, 10 May 2026
Temp: cold
Distance 8.85km
Up 677m Down 564m
Time 4:16 hrs Moving time 3:02 hrs
Food: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Shelter – Enclosed shelter

This morning we woke to misty, dreary conditions. We didn’t want to risk starting out without any vision as it was only an 8km 4hr hike today. So we took our time, as the forecast was for morning fog. Fingers were crossed that it would lift. We packed up everything and put it in the shelter and then hung our tent in the shelter hoping the morning dew would dry off so we could pack it away. We enjoyed a quiet Mother’s day morning making a few calls and preparing for the day ahead. A few hours later it still looked like there was no end in sight to the fog. So we decided to have an early lunch and head off. As always that took a little longer than expected and we were on our way at about 1.15pm.

The trail started out downhill and relatively easy. And then we had a few little uphill climbs, some rock hopping, some boulder climbing and lots and lots of man made stairs made from rocks in the area. We then had a very big climb to 778m up to Signal Peak. Rocks, rocks stairs and more rocks. It was an amazing view at the top. On the way to signal peak we saw a rescue helicopter and were told the Rescue Services were at Mt Abrupt. We hoped it wasn’t one of our camp buddies from the last 2 nights as they had left a lot earlier than us today. We then continued to Mt Abrupt which was back down to 575m and then back up to 828m. Again, the view was spectacular in all directions. By then it was 4pm and we still had a couple of kilometres left to walk on the trail and most of it downhill, as our camp tonight is at 550m elevation. The downhill stairs were tough on our bodies at the end of the day and we were a little slow on them. We arrived just before 4.30pm. We quickly chose our tent pad and setup. By the time we were done, the sun had set spectacularly and it was quite cold. We were very lucky to have enjoyed a dry day on the trail compared to our friends who left at 9.30am and saw nothing until they got to the camp. We enjoyed great walking conditions and the views were amazing in different directions, viewing amazing rock formations, dramatic peaks and farmland all day. We are very grateful for the lovely enclosed shelter again tonight. My feet are feeling the cold tonight as the stars are out and the temperature is a lot colder.

Our camp friends saw paramedics on the trail who said an older lady had twisted her ankle, I wonder if she was helicoptered out?

We have gone up to bed and the forecasted wind gusts of 10kmph have been surpassed already. The wind is quite strong, changed direction as is often the case and we may have chosen the wrong site. Only time will tell. It is only meant to be 5°C at Dunkeld overnight, so it will be colder up here for sure. Eek!!

It is our last night, hopefully we get a good night’s sleep and can get on the trail early.
Wish us good luck. Hehehe!

National Parks notes
Day 12: (S3) Djardji-djawara Hike-in Campground – Mud-Dadjug Hike-in Campground
Start: Djardji-djawara Hike-in Campground 
Distance: 8.1km 
Grade: 4
Key elevation points: Signal Peak780m, Mt Abrupt 822m
Elevation: 580m up, 460m down
Names and meanings: Djardji-djawara = ‘Djatji-djawara’: Djadki = sister. Mud-Dadjug = ‘Murd-dajook’: blunt, useless arm.
Highlights: New sections of trail passing through stunted eucalypt forest, the rocky mountain summits of Signal Peak and Mt Abrupt (Mud-Dadjug).
The steep track to Signal Peak alternates between rock steps and jumbles of boulders passing small cliffs and ledges that provide excellent vantage points. From Signal Peak the trail descends then climbs south towards Mt Abrupt (Mud-Dadjug) through a series of small heathy, forested saddles, rocky slabs and steps. Mt Abrupt (Mud-Dadjug) is an exposed rocky summit marked by a steel trigonometric (trig) station. Descend through eucalypts paralleled by a stand of tea-tree along a creek line. Very steep rock steps finally reach Mud-Dadjug Hike-in Campground.
Important safety information:
– Serviced water tank at Djardji-djawara Hike-in Campground 

Wannon to Djardji-djawara – Day 11 – South section – GPT

Saturday, 9th May 2026
Temp:
Distance 16.61km
Up 547m Down 410m
Time 6:01 hrs Moving time 4:22 hrs
Food: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Shelter – Enclosed shelter

We are very grateful we slept in a tent last night as there was quite a lot of rain. It wasn’t torrential just consistent rain falling most of the night.

We woke to a bit of a dreary day. It wasn’t raining, just quite misty. Everything was quite wet. David went for a walk to see if he could find some wildlife to photograph. He saw some emus, kangaroos and a few birds but the light was too low to capture them.

We didn’t rush too much this morning even though we had a big walk. We headed off just before 10am and the walk today is about 16.3km and 5.5hrs.

It was a bit wet as we started out and I enjoy this part of the walk as I love photographing the water drops on the plants. The first 5km was a nice undulating stroll through the reclaimed farmland as we crossed from the Mt William Range to the Serra Range. We then hiked up 340m in elevation over the next 3km to a viewpoint of the Mt William Range where we enjoyed some lunch with a lovely view. We then had a further 8km to walk. Some more up with some rock hopping, stairs and ridgeline walking with a bit of a slippery slope. Compared to the northern section it is not very rocky but you still go up, up and up some more. I enjoyed the views of flowers, the green and rusty lichen, the last part of the trail was quite easy walking on an unused fire trail. It was a lovely easy walk to the camp at Djardji-Djawara. The shelter was like the northern ones. Nice enclosed shelter and good facilities. We chose our site, setup camp before heading up for dinner in the warmth and comfort of the hut. It’s 8pm and I an ready for sleep. Only 2 more days on the trail. We are thankful that the weather is looking better for the next 2 days

National Park notes
Day 11: (S2) Wannon Hike-in Campground – Djardji-djawara Hike-in Campground
Start: Wannon Hike-in Campground 
Distance: 16.3km, 5 to 6 hours
Grade: 4
Key elevation points: Mt William to Serra range.
Elevation: 610m up, 490m down
Names and meanings: ‘Wannon’: may be a corruption of the word for digging stick or boomerang. Djardji-djawara = ‘Djatji-djawara’: Djadki = sister.
Highlights: Some of Gariwerd’s most important heathy habitat for threatened native mammals in the valley-heathland between Mt William and Serra Ranges.
Travel over open grassland, across steel boardwalks, through Austral Grass-trees, swampy river flats and open heathy forest. The thick understory provides important habitat for threatened small mammals such as the Long-nosed Potoroo, Southern Brown Bandicoot and Heath Mouse. Cross Griffin Fireline and climb through forest onto the Serra Range. Old growth saddles, forested eastern slopes and expansive views to the western Victoria Range will bring you to Djardji-djawara on a small rocky knoll. Expect to see an extraordinary array of spring wildflowers in this day section including a range of heath, orchid, grevillea and bush pea species. Watch carefully for the star shaped flowers of the low-growing Blue Tinsel-lily.
Important safety information:
– Serviced water tanks at Griffin Trailhead, Wannon and Djardji-djawara Hike-in Campgrounds

Yarram Gap crossing to Wannon – Day 10.2 – South section – GPT

Friday, 8 May 2026
Temp:
Distance 6.92km
Up 273m Down 328m
Time 2:24 hrs Moving time 1:53 hrs
Rainy
Shelter – Open air wind shelter only

What a great idea to bail on the trail on Monday. We have enjoyed 3 full days in comfort at the Halls Gap NRMA Holiday Park in a cabin. The warmth, comfort and shelter from the gloomy, rainy days was welcomed with open arms. Then after a drive day yesterday to Ballarat to buy a connection for the good camera to David’s backpack strap, we checked in to what was to be our after hike accommodation at Dunkeld. A little suite in the Old Dunkeld Bakery. A quaint little room and living room in the old style building. It was lovely!

Although we woke this morning to another drizzling day, we are still thinking positively that it will improve, as we continue to prepare for our 12pm pickup. So we crossed our fingers and did our last minute pack. I was tossing up on taking another pair of thermals but decided on an extra pair of socks instead. I hope I don’t regret it. The aim is to not get too wet or too cold before you go to bed. We enjoyed an early lunch (11am) at the new Artisan Bakery in town owned by our accommodation last night. They are very clever, they give you a complimentary coffee and then you spend $20 on their fresh pastries and goodies. They were very yummy, I had a lamb and rosemary pie and David had a ham and cheese croissant for an early lunch. Very yummy. We then found out that the toilets near the information centre had hot showers open 24 hours, which is a great find for when we finish the trail. Then at midday we headed around the corner to Peter’s home from Peaks Trail Rest Dunkeld, where we were leaving our car and getting transported back to Yarram Gap Rd Crossing ($130 per car load) to restart the last 3.5 sections of the trail over the next 4 days. He was a very friendly man and I think he had always lived in Dunkeld.

It was a 30 minute drive to the trailhead and an extra 15 mins chatting at either end of the drive. We got started on the trail about 1pm, which was plenty of time, as we only had about 6km to hike and that would take about 2-3 hours. We walked through intermittent rain and sunshine for the entire walk. Raincoat on, then off, umbrella up, then down, raincoat back on. The trail was pretty good as the majority of it was dirt trail with the occasional rock hop. We enjoyed a lovely view to the east of the farmland and plains 95% of the time and then to the west looking out to the Serra Range, we saw it in low cloud and misty rain for about 80% of the time but it was beautiful all the same. We saw a couple of scrub wallabies (I think) and heard a few birds.

I wasn’t sure how I would go on the trail again as we had rested for 3 full days but the pack was a great weight and I felt strong. We walked up and down comfortably for the 2.5 hours to the camp at Wannon. In the last 15 minutes we met our camp buddies who were having a snack. They were Catherine and Marcus with their 13 year old son Fitzy.

We then continued down to camp and setup in mostly dry weather. By then it was about 4.30pm and I decided as the weather was good i was going to eat early. David wasn’t keen, so I went and met our new camp mates at the table and wind shelter to make a start. David joined me about 15 mins later after getting us some more water. We enjoyed a lovely early evening chatting. Marcus has done the whole trail from Mt Zero trailhead and their daughter did section 7 and 8 with him. Then Fitzy joined him at Jimmy’s Creek and Catherine joined them today. Catherine and their daughter did the first four or five sections last month. Marcus had had a couple of ordinary days (Wednesday and Thursday), which confirmed we had made a good decision on Monday. It started raining a little more consistently at about 6.15pm, so we packed up and headed to bed. It is now 7.44pm and David is breathing heavily beside me and I am off to sleep now too. Fingers crossed the weather forecast is right as we should have improved weather each day. Night night. Xx

GPT Rest days – Halls Gap Vic

Tuesday, 5 May to Thursday, 7 May 2026

Well, after bailing on day 10 of the trail to enjoy a few days rest and respite from the cold and rainy weather in the great outdoors. We are truly grateful to have time on our side and are staying for three nights in a cabin in the NRMA Halls Gap Caravan Park. It is a lovely little home, one bedroom, lounge, dining/kitchen and bathroom. Absolutely perfect. We spent the first Tuesday just washing, re-grouping and resting out of the elements, yeehah!

A little more rest on Wednesday as the rainy, cold days continue.

On Thursday we headed via Ararat to Ballarat in the warm car to buy a camera clip so David can take the good camera on the last section of the hike. We enjoyed a lovely Thai lunch in Ballarat, thank goodness for heating as the weather was freezing. We then drove to Dunkeld to enjoy our last night in accommodation in the Old Dunkeld Bakery. This was to be our accommodation after the hike, but with our little gap in the middle we are using it today. It is a quaint little room with old style furniture, it is old fashioned right down to the crockery.

We have had a lovely few days rest and hopefully our planning to avoid the nasty weather comes through with positive results.