Trail Fast Facts
Filsell Hill Summit is a 6.2km, grade 4 hike in Kenneth Stirling Conservation Park, South Australia. This hike typically takes 2.5 hours to complete.
Warning
As of January 2023 this area is closed with no public access. For more information, please contact Parks and Wildlife SA.
Hike Overview
Nestled within the Kenneth Stirling Conservation Park, Filsell Hill Summit offers a rewarding 6.2-kilometre loop trail (grade 4) for experienced walkers. This moderately challenging hike typically takes approximately 2.5 hours to complete and is perfect for those seeking a taste of the park's natural beauty.
The trail begins on Proberts Track, gradually leading you up the slopes of Filsell Hill, the park's most extensive landholding. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the bushland as you ascend, enjoying the diverse flora and fauna along the way. Having reached the summit, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views. Take a moment to soak in the views before continuing along the trail, which conveniently circles the summit before returning you to the starting point via Proberts Track.
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.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 571 m
Min elevation: 446 m
Total climbing: 217 m
Total descent: -217 m
Trailhead
Sorry, no records were found. Please adjust your search criteria and try again.
Sorry, unable to load the Maps API.
Getting there
Due to its fragmented nature, there are multiple access points depending on which section you wish to explore. If you're aiming for Filsell Hill, the largest section, navigate to Forest Range Road in Mount George. Alternatively, for Wotton's Scrub, head to Gum Flat Road in Carey Gully. Limited parking is available near most trailheads, so be prepared to walk a short distance if necessary.
Photo gallery
If you have any photos from this hike and are happy to share them, please upload your .jpg files here.
Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
About the region
A hidden gem in the Adelaide Hills, Kenneth Stirling Conservation Park offers a haven for native flora and fauna. Established in 1985, this protected area encompasses 253 hectares across five parcels of land, scattered across Balhannah, Basket Range, Carey Gully, Forest Range, and Mount George – all within an 18-kilometre radius east of Adelaide.
The park's significance lies in its remnant eucalypt vegetation. Stringybark woodlands dominate the landscape, with candlebark and manna gum adding variety on the lower slopes. This diverse environment provides a habitat for a range of plant and animal species, including some rarities. Look out for the vibrant pink boronia flowers, the elusive Southern brown bandicoot, or perhaps catch a glimpse of the shy Scaly thrush flitting through the undergrowth.
Kenneth Stirling Conservation Park's fragmented nature offers a network of walking trails, allowing visitors to explore different sections at their own pace. The park is a great destination for those seeking a peaceful escape close to Adelaide, and connects well with other walking trails in the area for those wanting to extend their exploration.
Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in Kenneth Stirling Conservation Park? Try these hikes or bushwalks.
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
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? 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
Suggest an edit
Trail changed? New features discovered? Has the route changed? Trail permanently closed? Help fellow hikers by suggesting edits! Click above to update route descriptions, GPX file, trail features (like boardwalks), or access conditions (like parking availability). Help me keep the trails info fresh!
Weather
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.