Named after the landscape artist Sir Hans Heysen, the unforgettable Heysen Trail is a 681 mi point-to-point hiking trail that starts in the town of Cape Jervis, on the western tip of the Fleurieu Peninsula, South Australia and ends at Parachilna Gorge, Flinders Ranges, South Australia.
As the longest dedicated walking trail in Australia, it is considered to be difficult to hike and has a total elevation gain of 77678 ft as it leads you through some of South Australia’s most breath-taking and diverse scenery; from stunning coastline trail, pine forest paths and rolling hills to bushland, rich farmland and vineyards; making it a most popular route, not just for serious backpacking and camping, but for those looking for less strenuous day hikes or family-friendly paths. For information on how we grade trails, please click here. Also, check our latest community posts for trail updates.
Stroll over ancient hills and stop to take in geological highlights including Wilpena Pound, a natural mountainous amphitheatre, or the Brachina gorges, home to the yellow-footed rock wallaby.
Usually, the trail takes around 60 days to complete but can be finished in as little as 40 days. The terrain is rolling, with sections of steep, rough track; hikers are expected to be self-sufficient, with at least a moderate degree of fitness and navigational skills. (Caution is advised on trail times as this depends on multiple variables. For more info, click here.)
The Heysen Trail is open between April to October and winds through National Parks, Conservation areas and nature reserves which means dogs are not permitted on this end-to-end trail. Car parking is available at various sections on the trail, usually in towns or along roadsides, with some areas accessible by public transport.
