Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Discover the rugged beauty of the Blinman Pools hike, a challenging 12km return journey going through Angorichina Village in South Australia. This Grade 4 trail offers scenic views of towering cliffs and spring-fed pools, sprinkled with a rich history of mining from the 1850s. Starting along the Parachilna and Blinman Creeks, the hike requires no formal track but features clear signage, making it a true adventure for seasoned bushwalkers. Don't miss the picturesque picnic spot at the end, a staple since the 1800s.

Length:

12km

Duration:

5 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 429m

Min elevation: 312m

Total Ascent: 241m

Start: Parachilna Gorge Rd

End: Parachilna Gorge Rd

Flinders Ranges

South Australia

Nearby town: Alpana

From state capital: 485km

Latitude: -31.12666096319906

Longitude: 138.56092214673913

Overview

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Important info

This is a challenging hike with sections that require a good level of fitness and sure footing. No formal track exists, so be prepared for some off-trail navigation.

Hike overview

Your journey to Blinman Pools begins at Angorichina Village, nestled along the Parachilna to Blinman Road. Here, you'll set off alongside the Parachna and Blinman Creeks, which carve their way through a landscape of rugged beauty. Towering cliffs rise dramatically from the creek bed, creating a truly spectacular backdrop for your hike.

The pools themselves are named after Robert 'Pegleg' Blinman, a former shepherd at Angorichina Station. In 1859, his discovery of copper led him to trade his crook for a pickaxe, and the area became a significant mining operation for decades.

The hike offers a glimpse into this rich history. Be prepared for a challenge, as there's no formal track and some sections require physical exertion. However, well-placed signage will guide you along the way, pointing out key features and distances.

The real reward awaits at the Blinman Pools. Spring-fed waters ensure the first pool remains full year-round, while the second pool transforms after heavy rains, reaching depths of up to 3 meters and boasting cool, green waters stretching 20-30 meters across. Cascading waterfalls complete the scene, making these pools a popular picnic spot since the 1800s.

Angorichina Village was orginally established in 1927 as a hostel. Returned soldiers, suffering from tuberculosis, found the dry, rarified air of this region was just what the doctor ordered. Today the Village is a comfortable place to stay and a good base camp for the Blinman Pools Walk. Other accommodation and access to the pools, is available through Alpana' station, the property where the pools are located.

Tips

Best time to walk April - October
1st pool return 10km - 4 hours.
2nd pool return 12 km - 5 hours.

Track grade

Grade 4 (Hard) - Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.

Walk map and GPX file
Blinman Pools Walk (12km)

Total distance: 11647 m
Max elevation: 429 m
Min elevation: 312 m
Total climbing: 241 m
Total descent: -241 m

Gallery

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Flinders Ranges.

Blinman Pools are located 520km North of Adelaide. The trail begins at Angorichina Village, look for the trail shelter. Angorichina Village is located between Blinman and Parachilna.

Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

The rugged, weathered peaks and rocky gorges of the Flinders Ranges in outback South Australia form some of the most dramatic and beautiful landscapes in the country. It's a place rich in Aboriginal history and home to a vast array of wildlife. Following the scenic roads, 4WD tracks and walking trails that crisscross this wild countryside will take you on a remarkable adventure. The Flinders Ranges are about 500 kilometres (311 miles) north of Adelaide, or a five-hour road trip. You can also fly from Adelaide to Port Augusta with Sharp Airlines, which takes about 55 minutes.

Find a place to stay

Find Accommodation

Wondering where to stay near this hike? Find accommodation close to the trailhead — hotels, cabins and campgrounds nearby. Click the button to view the interactive map.

Closest towns to this walk: Blinman, Hawker, Leigh Creek, Parachilna, Quorn, Wilpena Pound

Let someone know

Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Flinders Ranges? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.

Packing checklists

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.

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Blinman Pools Walk (12km)

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Acknowledgement of Country

Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

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