Wannon to Djardji-djawara
Open swamp, forest and a contouring climb with views east and west
We respectfully acknowledge the Djab Wurrung and Jardwardjali people as the traditional custodians of the lands and waters of Gariwerd.
Today’s 16.3km/10.2mi hike takes us across the Grampians Valley with seasonal swampland before climbing onto the Serra Range at last. You have seen teasing views of this range for days and, after a beautifully contouring ascent, you will spend almost all day following its spine, with views both east over farmland and west across the Victoria Valley to the Victoria Range. In the late afternoon (for slower hikers), you’ll descend the range’s eastern flanks to reach the hut.
Once again after those challenging track surfaces of the Central Section, you will be pleasantly surprised by today’s much less rocky terrain and the daily distance, whilst longer than many others on the GPT, is therefore still very doable - just take it easy up the long main climb of the day.
How to Make Today Easier
At 16.3 km, this is one of the longer ones of the GPT but don’t be daunted: the track is much better formed. An early start is helpful, especially if you are hiking in late autumn or winter with fewer daylight hours.
No need to carry water for the full day: top up at the serviced Griffin Trailhead water tank about one fifth of the way in for the day at 3.2km/2mi. It’s also the perfect spot to stash a food drop in an animal-proof plastic tub or barrel; hide it discreetly as day hikers use the area. Daily food drop stashes will make a huge difference in your pack weight.
For those who want to split the day, the Griffin Trailhead is also an opportunity for a car shuffle or track transfer company for a night in Dunkeld, though transfers to and from here will be expensive.
Walk with Us
When you are hiking on tracks like this, you really have no excuse to get caught in rain. You will see the squalls, and the direction in which they are moving. If you glance at them now and then, you’ll also be able to tell whether they are growing as they approach, and whether you are in their path. Plenty of time to don rainwear!
You can identify light squalls because they are not opaque: you will be able to see the land on the other side through them. Sometimes they are very light, as the barely visible one centre left in the ‘V’ of the lower background hills, but beware: light squalls on flat terrain may grow in intensity as they reach hills or mountains.
Conversely, we have heard heavy squalls approaching in densely forested terrain, with just enough time to put on our jackets. Use all your senses! We’ve often been amazed that many folk are completely oblivious to approaching weather, even when it is clearly visible. Situational awareness is a great skill for hikers to practise and learn.
I know we keep saying it but, frankly, we have run out of superlatives for this hike. Even the bits that on paper seem to be least spectacular are still gobsmackingly stunning. Today had countless “Wow!” moments: it’s just that good!