The Grampians is a favourite place amongst the 1st Ballan youth ... where many challenges have been conquered and memories made. So, when a 3-day hike along the Grampians Peaks Trail was planned, our Scouts were keen to go, explore and discover.
In perfect hiking conditions, the Scouts departed Halls Gap and climbed up past Venus Baths towards the Pinnacle, where they enjoyed spectacular views. As the walk continued, so did the stunning views, before heading further into the forest. Arriving at the campsite the Scouts were amazed at the Hut located at Stoney Creek Campground. It was the best hiking hut they'd ever seen, complete with impressive views.
For the remainder of the afternoon the Scouts simply relaxed in the hut, occasionally coming outside to explore the tent campsite and enjoy the views. The Scouts were so impressed with the hut, and lack of other walkers in the area ... their tents remained rolled up & they chose to sleep in the hut for the night.
Halls Gap to Stoney Creek Campground
Distance:- 10km
The Pinnacle
Stoney Creek Campground – Home Sweet Home
Stoney Creek Campground – Sunset
Stoney Creek Campground – Dinner & Good Night
Stoney Creek Campground – Sunrise
WAKE UP
Stoney Creek Campground to Borough Huts
Distance:- 12km
After a relatively comfortable but cool night on the hard wood floor of the Stoney Creek Campground Hut, the Scouts got themselves up and ready for another day's hike. Looking out the window the weather was stunning ... crystal clear blue skies and it was a magical day for a hike. Today they were mentally prepared as their Expedition Leader had been talking about the climb over Mt Rosea on day 2. This would be a challenge for all participants, but at least today would offer amazing views of the entire Grampians National Park. The climb up to the summit of Mt Rosea would be slow and steady, but once over the top and off the rocks it was an easy walk along a clear track to Borough Huts.
Mt Rosea - Elevation 1,009
Borough Huts to Brambuk Cultural Centre
Distance:- 12km
For the third day in a row, the Scouts woke up to perfect hiking conditions and happily dried out most of their equipment from the overnight dew while enjoying breakfast. According to their Expedition Leader ....
Day 3 is the easy day, a simple relatively flat walk around the back of Lake Bellfield to the Brambuk Cultural Centre.
Flat walk ... FLAT WALK ... how wrong the leader was, and it didn't take the Scouts very long to find themselves in a very sticky situation.
While the walk did start off very flat and not far from the edge of Lake Bellfield, as the walk followed the track around the Lake, it felt more like a rollercoaster ride than a bushwalk.
Hill, Dip, Hill, Dip, Hill, Dip followed by another large hill that headed down into a deep dip.
While the hills & dips were steep and required effort, rest, effort & rest it wouldn't have been so bad if the Scouts were all mentally prepared. But thanks to our fearless Leader promoting day 3 as a relaxing walk, everyone was knackered before finally coming out into a flat open plain behind the Cultural Centre where they were greeted by a field of Emus. As tired as the Scouts were, it was a great way to complete a memorable expedition.
3-Day Grampians Peak Trail Expedition ... SURVIVORS
