This hike follows the coast east of Penneshaw along a section of the original bullock track to Cape Willoughby and provides spectacular views across Backstairs Passage to the Fleurieu Peninsula. After climbing through regenerating sheoak vegetation, the hike leads to the ruins of Harry Bates’ cottage and a stone threshing floor on Ironstone Hill. The farming heritage of the area is interpreted on signs along the hike.

Access: follow Frenchmans Terrace along the foreshore at Penneshawto the car park at the start of Binneys Track.

More information and maps can be found in the Parks of Kangaroo Island guide.

Baudin Conservation Park was originally a family farm from 1861 to 2001, and comprises of she-oak woodland and rolling hills, with spectacular views across Backstairs Passage to the Fleurieu Peninsula.

Interpretation along the Ironstone Hill Hike follows part of the original bullock track to Cape Willoughby and provides an insight into how the Bates family lived and worked in this area. The hike leads to Ironstone Hill where the ruins of the Bates’ cottage and a stone threshing floor remain.

While walking through the park you may encounter tammar wallabies, and see wedge-tailed eagles. The rare glossy black cockatoos may also be seen feeding in the she-oak forest.

You may even catch a glimpse of dolphins swimming in Backstairs Passage adjoining the park.