Mud-Dadjug Overnight Hike

A short but front-loaded day. The track climbs through rocky shrubland to Signal Peak, then traverses escarpment edges to the bare rocky summit of Mud-Dadjug (Mt Abrupt) before dropping to the hike-in campground. The views from Signal Peak and Mud-Dadjug are the reason people walk this section, taking in the Serra Range, the Southern Grampians and the volcanic plains and farmland spread out below. Vegetation shifts from heath and stunted montane plants to more sheltered growth as you lose height.

The longer day. You cross Bainggug (The Piccaninny), climb Wurgarri (Mt Sturgeon) for the last of the high views, then make a sustained descent into open Red Gum woodland. Bridges and a crossing of the Wannon River lead the final stretch into Dunkeld. Start early enough to be down before dusk, since the second half is long and the light goes quickly in the woodland.

Graded Grade 4 on the Australian walking track system, and about 8/10 in practical terms. Expect steep and uneven rock steps, boulder sections, loose and slippery surfaces when wet, and long stretches of exposed rock on the summits and escarpments. Suited to experienced hikers who are comfortable carrying overnight gear over rough ground. Weather can change what the high ridges feel like, so treat the exposed sections as the part of the walk that dictates your plan.

The walk itself is free, but the Mud-Dadjug Hike-in Campground must be booked and carries a camping fee. Facilities are basic and adequate:

Fuel stoves are permitted; open campfires are not. Carry a reliable way to filter or treat tank water, and carry more water than you think you need, since tanks can run low. The setting earns its good reputation, but the site sits high and can be very windy, so bring a tent you trust and peg it properly.

• Tent platforms or granite sand pads
• Unpowered communal meal area
• Basic toilets
• Untreated rainwater tank

The walk is one-way, so plan the logistics before you plan the walking. Parking at Cassidy Gap Road is limited and drop-offs are encouraged. Either arrange a vehicle shuffle between Dunkeld and Cassidy Gap Road or use a licensed transfer. The finish in Dunkeld makes the town the natural base. Ordinary dogs are not allowed in the national park; assistance dogs fall under separate rules.

• Exposed rocky summits, escarpment edges and unstable cliff lines
• Steep, uneven rock steps and boulder scrambling
• Slippery rock and gravel, especially in wet weather
• Falling limbs and trees in the wooded sections
• Limited mobile coverage along much of the route
• Untreated water at camp and the need to finish before dark

Most of the best views on day 1 can be reached on the shorter Mt Abrupt (Mud-Dadjug) Walk, which is the sensible alternative if you want the summit outlook without the overnight commitment, the pack weight or the vehicle shuffle. Outside busier periods this traverse tends to see relatively light traffic, which is part of its appeal if you do commit.