The Grampian Ranges are a series of low-angled sandstone ridges running roughly north-south.

The eastern sides of the ridges, where the sedimentary layers have faulted, are steep and spectacular, beyond the vertical in places - notably at Hollow Mountain near Dadswell's Bridge at the northern end of the ranges.

The most popular walking area for day trippers is the 'Wonderland' area near the town of Halls Gap. In summer the ranges can get very hot and dry. Winter and spring are the best times for walking. In spring the Grampians wildflowers are a major attraction.

The area is a noted rock climbing destination, and it is popular with campers and bushwalkers for its many spectacular views and unspoilt nature. Mount William is known within the gliding community as the epicentre of the 'Grampians Wave', a weather phenomenon enabling glider pilots to reach extreme altitudes above 28,000ft.

This predominantly occurs during the months of May, June, September and October when strong westerly winds flow at right angles to the ridge, and produce a large-scale standing wave (Mountain Lee Wave).