Trail summary
Safety advice
The Devils Peak walking trail is located on private property. The walk up to Devil's Peak is steep in places and is recommended for experienced and fit walkers. Watch carefully for the markers as there are animal tracks that can confuse you easily.
Hike overview
The Devil's Peak trail is a moderately difficult bushwalk becoming increasingly strenuous towards the summit, where some scrambling over rocks is required. Allow 1.5 to 3 hours to complete this walk. From the summit you will be rewarded with extensive panoramic views of Quorn, the Southern Flinders Ranges, the Horseshoe Range, Pichi Richi Pass, Port August, Upper Spencer Gulf and beyond to Wilpena Pound.
Devil's Peak is 697m above sea level, and formed of pound quartzite approximately 700 million years old. Have a good look around you, as there are many examples of faults and fossil impressions on this walk.
When looking at the peak from Quorn, it was said to look like the face of the Devil lying back looking towards the heavens, hence the name. You can clearly see his chin, nose and eyebrow. During the 1800s the very top point of Devil's Peak fell off after storms, it can be seen from the trail at some distance out from the peak. It has been called Eurydice Rock and also The Devil's Toenail.
The Devils Peak walking trail is located on private property so please respect the land by not littering or damaging the vegetation. Dogs, firearms, fires and camping are not permitted.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 669 m
Min elevation: 429 m
Total climbing: 250 m
Total descent: -251 m
Getting there
Closest towns to this walk: Hawker, Wilpena Pound, Blinman, Parachilna, Leigh Creek
Access the trail from Richmans Valley Road, out of Quorn. From the corner of South and West Terraces in Quorn, take the Richman Valley Road. Look for the signs on the road. This will lead you through a gate (please close behind you) and continue to the car park. Vehicles are not permitted past the car park. These roads are easily damaged in wet weather so take care. Observe the signs that indicate if the road and walking trail are open or closed.
Photo gallery
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
Track grade
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.
About the region
The Flinders Ranges is a young landscape made from ancient rocks that reflect changes in Australia's environment over the millennia. As you walk along the Devil's Peak trail you climb through an ancient and vital piece of Earth history. The rocks around you represent the various time periods, such as the Cambrian, Ediacaran and Pre-Cambrian.
Geologically, the Flinders Ranges are considered to be anticlines (upwards folds) with arches and basins within them. At the top of Devil's Peak you can see this clearly. From Devil's Peak you can see Mount Brown to the south-east, which is the highest peak near Quorn and can have snow on its summit during winter. Also in the south-east look down to The Devil's Punchbowl to the north you can see the majestic Elder Range and Wilpena Pound. To the west is the ghost town of Pichi Richi.
Many faults are active in the Flinders Ranges and cause frequent earth tremors, indicating that the squeezing and stretching of the strata continues today. Separate ranges that you see today were once a single mountainous range. This does not mean that the Flinders Ranges were massive mountains, but rather the soft rock was eroded away as it was pushed above sea level.
The Flinders Ranges are approximately 400 kilometres long and stretch from Port Pirie in the south to Mt Hopeless, north of Arkaroola. Erosion has levelled all but the harder layers, which form the many dramatic ridges. St Mary's Peak at Wilpena Pound is the highest spot in the Flinders Ranges reaching 1170 metres high.
Common birds in this area include the Grey Fantail (Rhipidura fuliginosa), Grey Shrike Thrush (Colluricincla harmonica), Kookaburra (Dacelo novaeguineae), Rufous Whistler (Pachycephala rufiventris) and Mallee Ringneck (Barnardius barnardi).
Suggest an edit
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in Flinders Ranges or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
Let someone know
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.
Gear to consider
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.
Explore safe
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
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.