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 recent Aboriginal cultural heritage rediscoveries
Aboriginal cultural heritage has been rediscovered at a number of locations in Mount Arapiles-Tooan State Park over the past 12 months.
These rediscoveries are protected by legislation and are enormously important to Traditional Owners the Wotjobaluk, Jaadwa, Jadawadjali, Wergaia and Jupagulk peoples, who have occupied the lands around Mount Arapiles – known as Dyuritte – for thousands of years.
The cultural heritage places are at the locations known, or referred to, as: Pharos Gully Boulders, Plaque Rock and Tiger Wall, Castle Crag and Chicken Boulder. Rock art was rediscovered last year at the location known as Taylors Rock (Declaration Crag).
To protect these special places, protection measures will be put in place along with signage so that people don’t inadvertently enter these areas.
Further information: Information Sheet – Aboriginal cultural heritage rediscoveries (PDF)
Camping in Mount Arapiles-Tooan State Park
Aboriginal heritage
Wildlife viewing
Tours and adventure experiences in parks
One of the best ways you can get into nature is with a Licensed Tour Operator.
There are more than 400 Licensed Tour Operators across Victoria who are ready and waiting to help you experience and connect with Victoria’s spectacular parks and waterways.
Discover more than 60 different types of nature-based experiences including hiking, mountain biking, boating, four-wheel driving, indigenous culture tours, birdwatching, surfing, diving and so much more.
Licensed Tour Operators know the all best places to go and will plan and prepare your visit to ensure you are safe and can enjoy your nature-based adventure to the fullest.
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
Visiting a park can be more of a challenge for people with disabilities, however in Victoria there are a wide range of facilities to help people of all abilities enjoy our wonderful parks around the state.
Assistance dogs are welcome in Parks Victoria parks and reserves. Entry requirements apply for parks and reserves that are usually dog prohibited, such as national parks.
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.
