The Acacia Ridge Walk is a moderately challenging 6.5-kilometre one-way hike within Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary, South Australia. The journey typically takes around four hours to complete. Hikers can begin the trail from either Arkaroola Checkpoint A2 or Arkaroola Village. Opting to return via Arkaroola Road extends the hike to a 10.5-kilometre loop.
This ridgetop walk provides an excellent introduction to the unique landscape of Arkaroola, contrasting significantly with the southern Flinders Ranges. As you ascend the trail, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of rolling hills and ranges stretching out in all directions. True to its name, the hike features both acacia trees and a prominent ridge.
Starting from the village, you can reach the trailhead either by foot (approximately 4 kilometres) or by taking a daily bus service departing at 9:00 am. A map and trail information are available at the starting point. The trail then leads directly into the hills, with stunning vistas unfolding as you climb.
After roughly 2.5 kilometres, you'll reach the summit, offering unparalleled panoramic views. While dead finish and mulga acacias are abundant in this area, sightings of the other two less common acacia species are occasional. The trail continues downhill along the ridge, presenting magnificent views of the village, the nearby dam, and the surrounding landscape. Upon reaching the base, a short 0.5-kilometre walk takes you back to the village, completing a 9-kilometre round trip.
Total distance: 5458 m
Max elevation: 550 m
Min elevation: 276 m
Total climbing: 327 m
Total descent: -266 m
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Acacia-Ridge.gpx
Nestled within the northern Flinders Ranges of South Australia, Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary lies approximately 630 kilometres north of Adelaide. This outback haven promises breathtaking scenery and offers multiple routes for visitors to choose from. National Parks Permits are not required for entry to Arkaroola. For detailed information on accessing the sanctuary, please refer to the Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary website.
Image: Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary
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Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the
AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
The Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary, in South Australia's remote northeast, is a haven for geology enthusiasts. Established by the Sprigg family, the sanctuary honours the legacy of the late Reg Sprigg, a distinguished South Australian geologist. His work included significant geological discoveries in the northern Flinders Ranges and Cooper Basin, and he played a key role in founding Santos and Beach Petroleum.
Arkaroola boasts a remarkable geological tapestry. Rugged mountains, towering granite peaks, and magnificent gorges characterise this ancient landscape. Mysterious waterholes dot the terrain, providing habitat for a diverse range of Australian wildlife. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the variety of avian species, while reptile and mammal enthusiasts can search for creatures including the shy and endangered Yellow-footed Rock-wallaby. Notably, Arkaroola is considered one of the best places in Australia to observe these rare marsupials in their natural environment.
Visitors can explore this extraordinary landscape on foot, following in the footsteps of early explorers. The sanctuary offers a network of well-marked walking trails suitable for most ages and abilities. The latter section of Griselda Hill presents the most challenging terrain. Brochures detailing the trails are available for purchase at the Arkaroola Resort Village.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
