Unveiling the diverse landscapes of Kangaroo Island's southwestern corner, the Hanson Bay Hike is an 18-kilometer (grade 4) adventure suitable for experienced hikers. This challenging journey, taking approximately 6-7 hours to complete, commences at the Kelly Hill Visitor Centre.
The trail unfolds with a captivating blend of ecosystems. Initially, it winds through lush banksia heath and Pink Gum woodlands, transitioning into drier mallee and coastal heath landscapes. Hikers will encounter freshwater lagoons, traverse sand dunes, and be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and inland areas from designated viewpoints.
Planning a full day for the out-and-back trek is essential. The hike offers two starting points: Kelly Hill Caves or Hanson Bay, accessible via a well-marked turnoff from South Coast Road. The Hanson Bay car park lies just before the Hanson Bay Sanctuary (hotel).
The first leg, incorporating sections of the Burgess Hike and May Walk, leads from the Kelly Hill Visitor Centre. Hikers can expect to encounter pristine wilderness beaches teeming with wildlife. The trail winds through diverse environments, encompassing beautiful beaches, arid expanses, sheltered woodlands, and even pockets of vegetation reminiscent of tropical regions.
The initial section boasts a more tropical feel, eventually giving way to open woodland. Hikers will have the opportunity to rest and take in the scenery at a small sandy beach area bordering a lake. The path then progresses through open grassland, where sightings of grazing kangaroos are a possibility. As the trail re-enters bushland, it winds through shrubbery and follows a river before culminating in a magnificent view of Hanson Bay and its neighboring counterpart.
From this vantage point, hikers can choose to retrace their steps or, if opting for the one-way 9-kilometer journey, pre-arrange pick-up at Hanson Bay.
About KelÂly Hill Caves
Nestled within Kangaroo Island's Kelly Hill Conservation Park lies a remarkable geological wonder – a labyrinth of ancient limestone caves. Formed over two million years ago, the story of these caves begins with a fluctuating sea level. As the ocean receded, exposing the continental shelf, calcareous shell fragments were deposited by wind onto the island's southern and western coasts. Over time, these sediments hardened into a porous limestone, further sculpted by percolating rainwater. This process at Kelly Hill resulted in a vast underground network of sinkholes and caverns, believed to stretch for kilometers.
Venturing into these caves is like entering another world. Adorned with beautiful and delicate speleothems – stalagmites rising from the floor, stalactites hanging from the ceiling, and twisting helictites – the formations paint a mesmerizing picture. Towering columns complete the awe-inspiring scene, leaving visitors breathless before the majesty of nature's handiwork.
Total distance: 17185 m
Max elevation: 62 m
Min elevation: 0 m
Total climbing: 304 m
Total descent: -314 m
Download file:
Hanson-Bay-Hike.gpx
Closest towns to this walk: Vivonne Bay, Penneshaw, Kingscote, Parndana, American River
Nestled along Kangaroo Island’s south coast, Kelly Hill Conservation Park is a must-visit for spelunking enthusiasts. The park is conveniently located near other island attractions, including Flinders Chase National Park and the Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary.
For visitors arriving by car, the Kelly Hill Visitor Centre serves as the starting point for guided cave tours. Reaching the center takes roughly an hour’s drive from Kingscote or 90 minutes from Penneshaw, following the South Coast Road. Since public transportation isn’t available within the park, joining a guided tour is recommended for those without a vehicle.
For those unfamiliar with Kangaroo Island geography, Kelly Hill Conservation Park sits 85 kilometers southwest of Kingscote. If you’re planning a trip to Kangaroo Island, you can reach the island from mainland South Australia via SeaLink or KI Connect ferries or by flying with Qantas.
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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.
Kangaroo Island's Kelly Hill Conservation Park boasts a remarkable subterranean treasure: a network of ancient limestone caves. Discovered in the 1880s when a horse named Kelly fell through a hidden entrance, these caves have become a popular tourist destination.
Guided tours are the only way to access the caves. The standard show cave tour, offered regularly throughout the day, takes visitors on a journey past dramatic rock formations, colorful shawls adorning the cave walls, and towering stalagmites and stalactites. A captivating light show further enhances the beauty of these natural wonders. For a more adventurous experience, book an add-on caving tour, venturing deeper into the cave system.
Above ground, the Kelly Hill Visitor Centre serves as a starting point for various walking tracks catering to different interests. For a leisurely stroll, explore the surrounding bushland trails. The ambitious can embark on the Hanson Bay Hike, an 18-kilometer round-trip journey through diverse landscapes, including lagoons, woodlands, and sand dunes.
The Kelly Hill Caves are just one highlight of Kangaroo Island's natural wonders. Neighboring Flinders Chase National Park offers stunning rock formations like Admirals Arch and Remarkable Rocks. Seal Bay provides a chance to witness Australian fur seals basking on the beach. Explore the Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, where koalas reside in the eucalyptus forests. The island's north coast boasts pristine beaches like Snellings Beach and Stokes Bay, while the interior offers scenic walks around Murray Lagoon.
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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
