Dutchmans Stern Circuit is a 10.5km, grade 3 hike located in The Dutchmans Stern Conservation Park, South Australia. The hike should take around 5 hours to complete.
Hike overview
Embark on a hike to the iconic Dutchmans Stern bluff, a prominent landmark in the region. Immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the landscape, teeming with diverse plant and animal life. Ascend to the summit via a well-maintained walking trail, and be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Spencer Gulf, the surrounding mountain ranges, and the vast Willochra Plain.
Choose your adventure: Challenge yourself with the 10.5km circuit walk, a rewarding 5-hour journey. Opt for the shorter, 4.2km one-way trek to the Summit Viewpoint, offering stunning vistas (allow 2 hours for the ascent and 2 hours for the descent).
Enhance your experience by following the informative interpretive guide and map, created by the Walking Trails Support Group in collaboration with the Royal Geographic Society of SA. This valuable resource will introduce you to the fascinating plants, animals, and geological features you'll encounter along the trail.
The trail is well-maintained with gentle slopes. While there may be some rocky sections, they are not particularly steep and manageable for most hikers.
Route and GPX file
Max elevation: 810 m
Min elevation: 445 m
Total climbing: 516 m
Total descent: -516 m
Trail location
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Getting there
DutchÂmans Stern ConÂserÂvaÂtion Park is locatÂed 10km north west of Quorn. Access is via Arden Vale Road, the signÂpostÂed turn-off to the park is 6.5 km from the Port AugusÂta road interÂsecÂtion in Quorn. It is then a furÂther 3 km to The DutchÂman car park. All walkÂing trails comÂmence at the car park.
Gallery
Main image: Walking SA
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About the region
The bluff known as the Dutchmans Stern, located 10km north east of Quorn, is a prominent landmark. Home to a host of plants and animals, the Dutchmans Stern Conservation Park has plenty of walking trails to explore the rugged landscape. Make your way to the summit via the Dutchmans Stern hiking trail. The summit offers spectacular views of Spencer Gulf, surrounding ranges and the Willochra Plain. The Heysen Trail also winds its way through the park.
Similar trails nearby
Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Let someone know
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
Gear to consider
My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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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.