Mawson Trail

The Mawson Trail, named after named after Australian Antarctic explorer Sir Douglas Mawson, is a 560 mi point-to-point walking and cycling trail that starts from Gorge Road, South Australia, east of Adelaide and heads north to the outback town of Blinman in the Flinders Mountain Ranges. A tough, predominantly gravel trail, expect difficult dirt and country roads and wild farm tracks with the odd hard surface road, making it more suitable for mountain bikes or robust touring bikes, although there are some steep sections that can become extremely difficult during heavy rain. For information on how we grade trails, please click here. Also, check our latest community posts for trail updates. You'll be in the wild often but still have plenty of opportunities to stop by towns for resupply, particularly when travelling on a bike. Passing through the Adelaide Hills, forests and farmland; riding or walking through historic and small rural towns such as Lobethal, Birdwood and through the ever-popular and beautiful Barossa valley wine region, towards the outback town of Blinman in the Flinders Ranges. This trail is signposted at intersections and turns, although it is advised that hikers or cyclists have access to their own route planner or trail map in case of an emergency or diversion. With only a small bit of elevation gain, the climbs will reward with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. On foot expect the trail to take anywhere from 50-70 days, and on bike from 7-20 days with a number of different factors like wind, the weather having an impact. Caution is advised on trail times as this depends on multiple variables. For more info, click here. Best hiked between March and December, accommodation, resupply, water and public transport can be found in the towns on route. Dogs are not allowed on this trail.