The first section of the Grampians Peaks Trail, a long distance walk connecting some of the Grampians' most spectacular peaks, was officially launched in Halls Gap on May 29.

Section one of the Grampians Peaks Trail is a three day, two night 36 kilometre loop walk featuring ancient rock formations at the Grand Canyon. Hiking enthusiasts can witness the majestic Mt William and Fyans Valley from Pinnacle Lookout plus 360-degree views from the summit of Mt Rosea.

Grampians Tourism CEO, Will Flamsteed is delighted that stage one is now complete and ready for visitors to experience.

“The hard work that has gone into transforming the Grampians Peaks Trail vision into a reality has been phenomenal” Mr Flamsteed said.

“We are very excited to have an attraction of such calibre in the Grampians that will have a flow on effect to other key attractions in the region. Once completed, the trail will contribute to The Grampians standing as one of the country's leading nature based destinations, drawing year-round visitation from local and international experience seekers,” he said.

As part of section one, hikers are able to stay at various camping grounds along the way including the Bugiga Hikers Camp nestled under Mt Rosea. Bugiga has been designed by multi-award winning architect Sean Godsell and has been designed to respond to the surrounding landscape and minimise impact on the environment.

The trail rich in Aboriginal culture is being constructed in stages over the next five years and will be a 144 kilometre, 13 day world class walk starting in the region's north near Mt Zero and running south past Halls Gap to Dunkeld showcasing the dramatic peaks and panoramic views of Grampians National Park.

Dave Roberts, Area Chief Ranger for the Grampians said that the project is destined to become one of Victoria's leading nature-based and cultural tourism attractions.

“This section of the Grampians has been enjoyed by walkers over many years and Parks Victoria has identified the highlights and realigned or improved the track to provide a distinctive identity and experience for overnight hikers”.

For more information visit www.grampianspeakstrail.com.au.