Summary

At 1127m, Mt William is the highest point in the Gariwerd National Park, with spectacular views in every direction. The climb is worth the effort, being a short but challenging walk.

Description

The Indigenous population of western Victoria knew this peak for millennia before European settlers arrived. However, it was Thomas (later Sir Thomas) Mitchell who named the peak after King William IV on his expedition to 'Australia Felix' in 1836. As gold was discovered in Victoria 15 years later, gold-seekers explored the ranges in search of the elusive metal. Road surveyors mapped out a route direct from the port of Geelong to this reference point, which survives today. Gold deposits were discovered at nearby Stawell, where mining is still running today.
An access road was opened to Mt William in 1963. With its commanding views, Mt William was a perfect location for telecommunications, with an impressive array of antennae on the summit.
The top 2 km of the sealed road is gated off. It is also the steepest. NOTE: This is a high altitude walk. Weather can change rapidly, and winter snow is not unknown. The bitumen surface could be slippery in wet weather. Carry wet weather gear, water and snacks even on a clear day.
Starting from the gate at the top end of the car park, the first section is straight, and at the ruling grade of 10 per cent. The views are steadily more impressive as the road ascends the peak.
Above the two hairpins, the summit towers are in plain sight, though it only becomes evident how massive these are on the final ascent to what was formerly the top turntable.
The stone and metal summit cairn is on the north side of the fenced telecommunications complex. On a clear day, the Pyrenees (also named by Thomas Mitchell) are visible to the east. Almost the entire Gariwerd main range is visible, from Halls Gap in the north to Mt Abrupt to the south. The volcanic peak of Mt Eccles is just visible on the southern horizon, almost 100 km away.
Return to the car park is via the same route. Going down is less tiring than climbing on a short walk such as this, though it stresses a different set of leg muscles than those used in the other direction.

853 Views

Points of Interest

1. lower car park

The altitude here is about 940m, with 180 vertical metres to the top. Walking poles are useful in climbing, though not essential.

2. Ferals

Gariwerd has a large population of several types of deer, an invasive pest species. The damage they do is visible here, as in forest areas elsewhere. Deer are shy, and will run at first sight.

3. Summit

Enjoy the spectacular panoramic views, especially in rapidly changing weather. on a cold, windy day, this is where you are exposed to the full force of it. But the view makes it worthwhile.

Features

Nature trail

Park / Garden