Duwul and Durd Durd 3-day Hike

This is a one-way, three-day backpacking traverse of about 34.7 km, not a loop or a day walk. It runs from Redman's Trailhead in the north to the Jimmy Creek Road crossing in the south, measured along the full mapped track. The walk breaks into three stages: Redman Road to Duwul Hike-in Campground (13.1 km), Duwul to Durd Durd (14.5 km), and Durd Durd to Jimmy Creek Road (5.7 km).

• Day 1: From Redman Road, the track works through dense woodland and crosses Barney Creek at around 320 m, then climbs Seven Dials and Redman Bluff (about 1,017 m) before dropping to Duwul Hike-in Campground. Big climbing day with a full pack.
• Day 2: The longest stage. Climb to Mount William (Duwul), the highest mountain in western Victoria, for 360-degree views, then a steep descent into Boundary Gap and a climb out on stone steps. From there you cross the open Major Mitchell Plateau through montane heath, with steel walkways in places and long views, before descending to Durd Durd Hike-in Campground.
• Day 3: A long, steady descent to Jimmy Creek Road with views across the Mount William Range and Serra Range. Strong wildflower interest along the way, including Flame Grevillea, whose red spider flowers typically bloom April through November.

The route is rated grade 5, suitable only for very fit and experienced hikers. Expect roughly 330 m at the low point, 1,160 m at the high point, and around 1,970 m of cumulative ascent, with a lot of the route sitting near 1,000 m. There are steep climbs and descents, rough rocky sections, uneven ground, water crossings and some stretches that are limited, unmarked or awkward to navigate, so bring a map and the skills to use it.

Mount William and the plateau are genuinely exposed. In winter or wet weather you can get freezing temperatures, strong wind, driving rain, sleet and snow with little shelter. Fog can hide cliff edges, and lichen, algae and moss make rock slippery. Summer brings heat and bushfire risk. Mobile coverage is better up high and poor or absent in the valleys, so carry a PLB.

• Start access is Redman's Trailhead on Redman Road, off Grampians Tourist Road. Because the route is one-way, you need a vehicle shuttle or a licensed transfer to the finish at Jimmy Creek Road.
• Both nights are at dedicated hike-in campgrounds, Duwul then Durd Durd. Bookings are required and camping fees apply.
• The campgrounds have tent platforms or pads, basic toilets, communal meal areas and untreated water tanks.
• No campfires. Liquid-fuel or gas stoves are allowed.

Carry and treat your water. Guidance is at least 4 to 6 litres per person per day, and creek water can be unreliable in summer and autumn. Plan your carry rather than counting on finding water along the way.

Dogs and other pets are not permitted in Victorian national parks. Assistance dogs are the exception.

The logistics are as demanding as the walking. Between the vehicle shuttle, the campground bookings, the water carry and the weather exposure up high, this is a poor fit for casual hikers or anyone hoping to improvise. If you want the high country and a real three-day traverse and you are prepared to be self-reliant, it delivers. If not, one of the shorter high-country day walks in the Mount William area will give you views without the commitment.