Explore
Mount Arapiles-Tooan State Park
Numerous important cultural heritage sites are evidence of the significance of Dyurrite for Wotjobaluk Peoples and the use of the area for thousands of years.
Mt Arapiles is a spectacular feature, rising sharply from the Wimmera plains. It is one of Australia’s premier rock climbing areas, and a valuable nature conservation area, with 14% of the State’s flora species represented in the Mt Arapiles section alone.
Things to do in the area
Walking
Circuit Walk
15.0km, 3 hrs one way Starting and ending at Centenary Park Campground & Picnic Area, this mostly flat walk follows the park boundary. The walk takes in a changing landscape, views of the region and has access to the Mt Arapiles Summit via short but steep paths at the end of the circuit.
Gully Loop Walk
4.0km, 1 hr one way The Pharos Gully and Central Gully walking tracks can be combined into a loop walk and feature some spectacular views.
Nature Walk
1.0km, 30min circuit This short track on the Summit Road features spring wildflowers on an easy walk.
Rock climbing
Mt Arapiles is a world-renowned rock climbing area. More than 3000 routes have been established on the many cliffs, crags and pinnacles, presenting variety and challenge for all levels of experience. A range of commercial climbing guides available from the Natimuk Post Office or the Arapiles Mountain Shop in Natimuk.
Climbing should only be undertaken by climbers with experience and training, or under the guidance of skilled and qualified instructors.
Mt Arapiles is much loved and sees many thousands of visitors annually. Please support the long-term sustainability of climbing here by respecting the park and other visitors. Stay on existing tracks, avoid damaging vegetation and the rock, and respect cultural sites.
Information regarding Taylors Rock (Declaration Crag)
Significant Aboriginal cultural heritage, including rock art, has been rediscovered at Taylors Rock (Declaration Crag) in Mount Arapiles-Tooan State Park.
To protect the area while a longer-term management approach is explored, Parks Victoria and Barengi Gadjin Land Council have installed signage advising people not to enter the area. The Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 protects Aboriginal cultural heritage and significant financial penalties apply for harm caused by individuals or corporate bodies.
In addition, on 18 June 2020, an Interim Protection Declaration was approved for an Aboriginal place known as Dyurrite 1 at the Taylors Rock area. This declaration allows for significant fines if the area is disturbed.
There is otherwise no change to visitor activities in the rest of the park such as rock climbing, bushwalking, camping and cycling.
Further information:
- FAQ sheet – Taylors Rock (PDF)
- Information sheet – Protecting Aboriginal cultural heritage: Mount Arapiles-Tooan State Park (PDF)
- Information sheet – Management overview: Mount Arapiles-Tooan State Park (PDF)
Camping in Mount Arapiles-Tooan State Park
Aboriginal heritage
Wildlife viewing
Tours in the area
Bushwalking, four-wheel driving, horse riding, kayaking, rock climbing and mountain biking are just some of the many activities you can experience in Victoria's parks.
If you want to try something new or meet some like-minded people on your next visit to a park, contact a licensed tour operator.
Parks Victoria licenses tour operators who are experts in these activities and more. They will help you get the most out of your visit.
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How to get there
Mount Arapiles-Tooan State Park
When you're there
Camping & accommodation
Three camping areas are located in Centenary Park, Mount Arapiles. A combination of non-flush and flush toilets are available for campers to use. The site has communal fireplaces at some sites in the camping areas.
Need to know
Mount Arapiles-Tooan State Park
Accessibility
Change of Conditions
Nature being nature, sometimes conditions can change at short notice. It’s a good idea to check this page ahead of your visit for any updates.
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Mount Arapiles-Tooan State Park
Access restricted at Around the World Boulder
Possible Aboriginal rock art has been identified at a location referred to as Around the World Boulder. Public access to a section of this boulder is currently restricted. -
Notices Affecting Multiple Parks
Partial closure due to COVID-19
Under the direction of the Chief Health Officer and in accordance with Department of Health and Human Services’ requirements, this park is open to local residents in regional Victoria. You can use this park for walking, hiking, bike riding, surfing, kayaking or yoga so long as it is closest to your home. While exercising with a person outside your household, you should keep at least 1.5 metres distance from them and others. Some parts of this park are closed to reduce the number of people moving around in the community and reduce the risk of transmission. For more information, visit www.parks.vic.gov.au/covid-19
How we keep it special
The approved Management Plan for the Mount Arapiles section of the Mount Arapiles-Tooan State Park contains a summary of park resources, a review of present and possible future use, management objectives and strategies.
The Management Plan for Mount Arapiles-Tooan State Park - Tooan Block directs management of the park until the plan is reviewed.
