After following the driving directions to Jack's Corner, park at the entrance of Griffin Fire Trail. Follow the track northward for about 5km until you reach Yarrunga Creek. During this section of the walk you will pass some large Conglomerate rock formations as the track begins to steepen and wind it's way down the mountain. You will also be rewarded with picturesque views of the surrounding escarpment. The final section to the creek is quite steep. Given that this will make up the latter part of your return walk it will be obvious why we suggest having a good level of fitness.

Once the creek is reached, you will need to cross it via a series of stepping stones. A strong stick or trekking pole will be valuable for keeping balance. On the opposite side of the creek the terrain levels out considerably for the next kilometre or so. Along this section are historical remnants of farming life in the early to mid 1900s. Watch for the remains of a stone wall along the track as you near the old Griffin farm site. Unfortunately careless machinery operators have recently damaged some parts of the wall while maintaining the fire trail.

An excellent black and white photo of Griffin's Farm is displayed in the book Fitzroy Falls and Beyond along with an in depth look at the history of this region.

Wander down to where some of the paddocks once were and you will find an excellent spot for lunch.

Rejoin the fire trail and continue westward. You will reach a causeway which crosses Crankey's Creek. Take the opportunity to fill the water bottles prior to the long climb ahead. On the opposite side of the causeway the steep climb begins immediately. Take your time and try to get into a rhythm with your walking and breathing.

Eventually you will come to a T intersection. This junction marks the official start of the Griffin Fire Trail. Turn right here and you will be on Meryla Pass. Continuing on upwards you will eventually reach Gales Flat, the entrance to which will be on your right. This is a grassy open area that was once used by Arthur Yates of Yates Seeds to graze cattle.

After resting the legs here, continue on upwards until you eventually come to a locked gate. Climb over it and head around the sharp hair pin bend to the left. Here you will discover a coal seam in the wall of the cutting along side the track. A historic reminder of the importance that coal played in the economy of this region. Just ahead is yet another locked gate that needs to be negotiated. Although these may seem a nuisance, they play a vital role in keeping trail bikes, four wheel drives and the like out of these fragile areas.

At the top of the pass are newly installed picnic tables. Make use of the rest opportunity because you are only at the half way mark. Remember that what you walked down now has to be walked back up again. At least the next 5km or so is all down hill.

Enjoy the workout.