The Walk

South Australia’s Heysen Trail is approximately 1200km long and goes from Cape Jervis (100km south of Adelaide) to Parachilna Gorge in the North Flinders Ranges (500km north of Adelaide). It follows tracks, roads and occasionally crosses trackless paddocks and creeks. The flora encountered is mostly native, interspersed with pasture and occasional gardens, especially in the Adelaide Hills. Native animals are regularly encountered. The trail’s greatest appeal is its wide open spaces and diversity of landscapes. The terrain and climate is akin to walking from England, with its rolling green hills, to the mountains and deserts of North Africa. It is a perfect place to regenerate your soul and enjoy South Australia from a different perspective.

The Trail

The Heysen Trail is well marked and the terrain is not overly strenuous. Mountains are few but those that are crossed offer great views. It is the length of the trail that provides the greatest challenge, with the more arid stretches farther north offering the added challenge of waterless terrain. Along the way there are many spur trails to lookouts, towns and other interesting attractions, so it is worth allowing plenty of time.

Please visit the Kapunda Visitor Information Centre to purchase your Heysen Trail maps.

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