Heysen Trail

Heysen Trail is South Australia’s long-distance walking route, running from Parachilna Gorge in the Flinders Ranges to Cape Jervis on the Fleurieu Peninsula. The full traverse is about 1,200 km and is typically completed in 50–60 walking days by experienced thru-hikers.

The route crosses a wide range of country as you move south: Flinders Ranges ridgelines and rocky terrain, then through Mid North farmland and vineyard country, continuing into the Adelaide Hills and out to the coastal landscapes around Cape Jervis.

Wayfinding is straightforward on the ground, but you still need planning. The trail is well marked, while most hikers rely on a map for the majority of the distance—especially in remote northern sections where help and communications are limited.

Time your hike around closures. Much of the Heysen Trail is closed during the Fire Danger Season (generally November to April), with the trail open across its entirety mainly from April to November.

Plan for long resupply gaps and limited water in the north. Water can be scarce away from Adelaide, and water tanks along the route may be empty in dry conditions, so you may need to treat water and carry enough for long stretches.

Accommodation is distributed as huts, shelters, and campsites that you can only use for camping. Many options are simple and require you to be self-sufficient, with additional nights possible in towns along the route (especially in the south).

The walking season and logistics also shape the way people choose direction. Many through-hikers plan either NOBO or SOBO to match weather patterns, starting near Cape Jervis to reach the Flinders Ranges mid-season, or starting in Parachilna to finish on the coast as conditions change.

More information: Official website, Official website, Wikipedia