Halls Gap to The Pinnacle

The return leg trends downhill compared with the climb, though it still involves uneven rock underfoot.

• Start at School Road, near the rear of Breeze Caravan Park, and climb on the Halls Gap to Pinnacle Track.
• Continue the steady ascent to The Pinnacle lookout, the high point and turning point of the circuit.
• Return through the Wonderland forest route, past the Silent Street and Grand Canyon rock formations.
• Finish along the Venus Baths area and back to School Road.

Rated moderate to hard, 6 out of 10. Expect:

Sturdy, well gripped footwear matters on this route, and steady footing is more useful than speed.

• A steep, rocky ascent with steel staircases and step-ups.
• Uneven rock, loose surfaces and sections of rock hopping.
• Seasonal water crossings on the lower and mid sections.
• Rock that becomes slippery when wet.
• Open, exposed rocky terrain along the upper route, with a fenced viewing area at the lookout itself. Take care near drops and keep children close.

Sandstone formations are the constant feature, and seasonal wildflowers can add colour along the track margins. The summit and the other rock platforms are the best vantage points for broad landscape photography, and morning or late afternoon light is generally kinder for it. Wildlife in the area includes kangaroos, koalas, snakes, skinks and echidnas, though sightings are never assured. Staying on the formed track is the simplest way to protect both the vegetation and your footing.

• Begin at School Road, Halls Gap, near the rear of Breeze Caravan Park. This is the long Halls Gap circuit.
• No booking or permit is required to walk it.
• Dogs and other domestic pets are not permitted in the national park. Assistance animals are covered by separate rules.

This circuit is materially longer and harder than the short approaches to The Pinnacle from the Sundial or Wonderland car parks, which are separate, briefer walks to the same lookout. If you want a shorter or easier visit, or you are short on daylight, use one of those approaches instead. Take on the School Road loop when you want the full climb, the linking rock passages and a satisfying day on foot from the town itself.