Hikes on Kangaroo Island

1. Hanson Bay Hike 

If you’re up for a challenge, The Hanson Bay Hike promises stunning views of the Southern Ocean. It’s the perfect adventure if you want to test out the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail without committing to the full five-day trek. The trail takes you from Kelly Hill Visitor Centre to Hanson Bay, passing through gorgeous woodlands and alongside freshwater lagoons to stunning viewpoints along the coast. 

The Hanson Bay Hike is well known for its wildlife and beautiful scenery. Along the trail, you are likely to come across kangaroos in open grasslands and echidnas foraging. The hike also offers access to some of the island's most beautiful and secluded beaches, perfect for a refreshing break or a picnic once you reach your destination. You can either make the hike back, or organise pick-up at the other end if your legs have had enough.

Distance: 18km return

Difficulty: Moderate

Duration: 6-7 hours

2. Remarkable Rocks to Admirals Arch

The trail from Remarkable Rocks to Admirals Arch is a scenic hike connecting two of Kangaroo Island's most iconic landmarks. Starting at the stunning granite formations of Remarkable Rocks, where wind and sea have sculpted massive granite boulders into incredible shapes. The trail winds along the coastline, providing breathtaking views before reaching Admirals Arch, a natural rock archway framing the ocean. You can also head across the boardwalk to see the local fur seal colony at play.

This is a fairly easy hike that can be enjoyed by all members of the family. If you want to make the most of it, head out in the early morning or late afternoon to get the best lighting for capturing photos of the Remarkable Rocks and the vista along the trail. These times also offer a better chance of seeing the fur seals at Admirals Arch being more active.

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Duration: 1.5-2 hours

3. Cape du Couedic Hike

If you’re looking to take in a little history during your stay, this hike delivers. The Cape du Couedic trail is a fairly short one, but don’t be mistaken. It presents a real challenge winding through the southwestern tip of the island. This trail offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and historical adventure, where you can connect with the island’s past as you take in the ocean views. 

The hike has several highlights for you to enjoy along the way, including the Cape du Couedic Lighthouse, which has guided mariners since 1909. You can extend the hike by taking the Lighthouse Heritage Walk, which is an extra 600m circuit all the way up to the lighthouse where you can learn about the lightkeepers and their families. You'll also come across shipwreck sites that tell tales of the island's maritime history.

Distance: 1.9km circuit

Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

Duration: 40 minutes return

4. Ironstone Hill Hike 

The Ironstone Hill Hike offers an inland adventure through Kangaroo Island. This trail is perfect during the spring months when the wildflowers come into bloom and blanket the path with plenty of colour. It follows the coastline to the east of Penneshaw offering views across Backstairs Passage to Fleurieu Peninsula.

Along with the incredible views, there’s also lots of history along the route. You can stop at the ruins of Harry Bate’s cottage and the stone floor on Ironstone Hill. If you’re lucky you might even spot some wildlife, including wallabies, goannas and more, and even see some migrating whales during the winter season. 

Distance: 4.2km return

Difficulty: Moderate

Duration: 3-4 hours

5. Snake Lagoon Walk

Located within Flinders Chase National Park, The Snake Lagoon Walk takes you through both riverine and coastal landscapes, ending at a secluded beach. It’s perfect for during the summer months when you can head off on an adventure that ends with a refreshing dip. The perfect reward! 

The path winds through plenty of vegetation offering a cool, shaded start to your hike. Note that the trail involves crossing the river multiple times and it’s important to be cautious and check water levels before attempting to cross, especially after heavy rains. You can also keep an eye out for native wildlife along the trail, including kangaroos, wallabies and various bird species. The river areas are particularly good for spotting water birds.

At the end a boardwalk guides you across the river, leading to the mouth where the river meets the Southern Ocean and a nice secluded beach that is perfect for a splash.

Distance: 4.2km

Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

Duration: 1.5 hours

Hiking on Kangaroo Island 

From the coastal views of the Hanson Bay Hike and the iconic landmarks of the Remarkable Rocks to Admirals Arch, to the historic Cape du Couedic Hike, Kangaroo Island offers up so many beautiful hiking trails for you to explore.
 

• Explore responsibly: Respect Kangaroo Island's natural beauty.

• Stay on track: Stick to marked paths for safety and plant life protection.

• Pack it in, pack it out: Take all your rubbish with you.

• Leave no trace: Avoid disturbing wildlife or removing plants and rocks.

• Adventure awaits: Lace up, pack your essentials, and get exploring!

Looking for more inspiration? Check out our latest reviews - see what our guests loved about their dream trips to Australia. 

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