From Cape Jervis to Parachilna Gorge, the Heysen Trail stretches over 1,200 kilometres through some of South Australia’s most spectacular landscapes.
| Location | Cape Jervis to Parachilna Gorge, South Australia |
| Start Point | Cape Jervis, Fleurieu Peninsula |
| End Point | Parachilna Gorge, Flinders Ranges |
| Distance | 1,200 km (end to end) |
| Time | 50–60 days (full trail) |
| Difficulty | Varies by section — Easy to Challenging |
| Activity | Walking / Hiking |
| Region | Multiple — Fleurieu Peninsula, Adelaide Hills, Barossa Valley, Clare Valley, Flinders Ranges |
| Accommodation | Camping, mid-range and premium options — see Clare Valley and Flinders Ranges accommodation |
| Key Feature | Australia’s longest dedicated walking trail, passing through diverse landscapes from coast to ranges |
About the Heysen Trail
Named after renowned landscape artist Sir Hans Heysen, the Heysen Trail is one of Australia’s great long-distance walking trails. Stretching over 1,200 kilometres from the tip of the Fleurieu Peninsula at Cape Jervis to the rugged Parachilna Gorge in the Flinders Ranges, it passes through an extraordinary range of South Australian landscapes.
The trail traverses coastal cliffs, rolling farmland, dense eucalyptus forests, historic towns, the Barossa Valley wine region, the Clare Valley, and the ancient gorges and peaks of the Flinders Ranges. Most walkers tackle the Heysen Trail in sections rather than end-to-end, with each section offering its own character and highlights.
Key Sections of the Heysen Trail
The Heysen Trail is typically divided into several major sections, each with distinct terrain and experiences:
Cape Jervis to Victor Harbor — The trail begins with dramatic coastal scenery along the Fleurieu Peninsula, with views across to Kangaroo Island and through Deep Creek National Park.
Victor Harbor to Mount Lofty — This section climbs through the Adelaide Hills, passing through native bushland and small towns. Includes the popular Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty Summit stretch.
Mount Lofty to Tanunda — Descend from the Adelaide Hills through the Mount Pleasant area and into the world-famous Barossa Valley wine region.
Tanunda to Burra — Cross through the Clare Valley, following parts of the Riesling Trail and traversing farmland and open country to the historic copper mining town of Burra.
Burra to Spalding — A quieter section through pastoral country and small farming communities in the Mid North.
Spalding to Melrose — Enter the southern Flinders Ranges with increasingly dramatic scenery, finishing at the charming trail town of Melrose at the foot of Mount Remarkable.
Melrose to Parachilna Gorge — The grand finale through the heart of the Flinders Ranges, passing Wilpena Pound and finishing at Parachilna Gorge with spectacular views of ancient geological formations.
When to Walk
The official Heysen Trail walking season runs from April to November. The trail is closed during the fire danger season (typically December to March) when bushfire risk is high. Autumn and spring are considered the best times to walk, with mild temperatures and wildflowers in season during spring.
Planning Your Walk
Whether you are planning a day walk, a weekend section hike, or the full end-to-end journey, preparation is essential. The Friends of the Heysen Trail maintain the trail and provide detailed maps, guidebooks and current trail condition updates.
Water is limited along many sections, so always carry enough for the day. Accommodation ranges from basic trail shelters and camping areas to bed-and-breakfasts and hotels in towns along the way. Many walkers arrange car shuttles or use the Heysen Trail bus services to return to their starting point.
Where to Stay Along the Heysen Trail
The Heysen Trail passes through some of South Australia’s best regions for accommodation. Depending on which section you are walking, you will find a range of options:
The Fleurieu Peninsula offers coastal retreats and holiday rentals near the trail’s southern starting point. Through the Adelaide Hills, boutique lodges and B&Bs provide comfortable bases. The Barossa Valley and Clare Valley sections offer vineyard stays and country cottages. Further north, the Flinders Ranges has stations stays, eco-lodges and campgrounds near Wilpena Pound.
Wildlife and Nature
The Heysen Trail is home to remarkable wildlife. Keep an eye out for wedge-tailed eagles soaring above the ranges, kangaroos and wallabies grazing at dawn, echidnas foraging through bushland, and colourful flocks of rosellas and lorikeets. In the Flinders Ranges section, you may spot yellow-footed rock wallabies on rocky outcrops.
Explore More Trails
The Heysen Trail connects with many other great trails across South Australia. Here are some highlights along the way:
Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty Summit — One of the most popular day walks on the Heysen Trail, this 4.4 km climb rewards you with panoramic views from the summit.
Deep Creek Circuit Hike — Near the trail’s southern starting point, explore stunning coastal scenery in Deep Creek National Park.
The Riesling Trail — The Heysen Trail crosses paths with this popular 35 km cycling and walking trail through Clare Valley wine country.
Alligator Gorge Ring Route — A dramatic gorge walk in Mount Remarkable National Park, near the northern sections of the Heysen Trail.
The Mawson Trail — South Australia’s epic 900 km mountain biking trail shares several sections and crossings with the Heysen Trail.
Where to Stay
Planning an overnight trip? See our Clare Valley Accommodation Guide for the best places to stay near this trail.