Mount Arapiles-Tooan State Park

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.

The sites have been added to the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Register, and Parks Victoria and Barengi Gadjin Land Council, who co-manage the park, have a legislated responsibility to protect the area from visitor impacts.

Traditional Owners and Parks Victoria are inviting stakeholders and visitors to help protect and communicate the rediscovery, and celebrate the area’s rich Aboriginal history.

To protect the site while a management approach is explored, Parks Victoria and Barengi Gadjin Land Council have installed signage advising people not to enter the area. Park Rangers and Aboriginal Heritage Officers are regularly visiting the site to help make visitors aware of its cultural significance. The Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 protects Aboriginal cultural heritage and significant financial penalties apply for harm caused by individuals or corporate bodies.

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)