Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 498m
Min elevation: 152m
Total Ascent: 501m
4,030 Total views
Hike overview
Unearth the secrets of Mount Remarkable National Park on the Hidden Gorge Circuit, a challenging 18-kilometer loop hike. This rewarding adventure, taking roughly 7 hours, unveils two spectacular natural wonders: the narrow Hidden Gorge and the panoramic Battery Ridge.
Begin your journey at either the Mambray Creek Day Visitor Carpark or Campground. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Mambray Creek as you stroll past refreshing permanent water pools and native pine forests. The path then leads you past Hidden Gorge Campsite, where you can consider setting up camp for a multi-day adventure.
Prepare to be awestruck as you enter the dramatic Hidden Gorge. Towering red rock walls flank your path as you navigate the ever-narrowing passage. Upon emerging, a well-maintained trail takes you up The Battery, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking, expansive views overlooking the Spencer Gulf.
The adventure continues as you follow the fire track for 1 kilometer before rejoining a single-track trail. This winds its way back to the Mambray Creek carpark, completing the loop. Excellent signage with markers every 200 meters ensures you stay on track throughout your exploration.
For the truly adventurous:
Consider extending your exploration by continuing on to Alligator Gorge after conquering The Battery.
Plan a multi-day adventure by setting up camp at Hidden Camp.
Tips
- Dogs are not permitted in this park.
- The park is also closed on days of Catastrophic Fire Danger and may be closed on days of Extreme Fire Danger.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 498 m
Min elevation: 152 m
Total climbing: 501 m
Total descent: -501 m
Getting there
Closest towns to this walk: Melrose, Wilmington, Quorn, Port Germein, Stirling North
How to get to Mount Remarkable National ParkThe park is located 45km north of Port Pirie. Access is from National Highway One via Mambray Creek. You can also reach Alligator Gorge via a scenic but sometimes challenging drive starting 1km south of Wilmington on Main North Road. This road is very steep and unsuitable for caravans, camper trailers, and buses. Alternatively, walk into the park from the adjacent town of Melrose, nestled at the foot of Mount Remarkable.
Please note: There are no public roads that pass through Mount Remarkable National Park. Horrocks Pass and Port Germein Gorge are the nearest public roads to the park for crossing the Flinders Ranges east to west.
Photo gallery
Got some great shots from this hike? Upload your photos here to inspire others and show off the beauty of the trail!
Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You can be credited for your contributions, and you can request removal at any time.
About the region
Within easy reach of Adelaide, Mount Remarkable National Park is an ideal place for a family getaway. There's plenty of diverse wildlife to spot, and campgrounds with good facilities make it a comfortable base for exploring.
The park is a popular destination for bushwalking, with trails for all ages and abilities. Hike to the 960-meter summit of Mount Remarkable for incredible views overlooking the Willochra Plain and Spencer Gulf.
The Willowie area offers a network of mountain biking and walking trails that meander through the foothills of the Mount Remarkable Range. Choose from short and longer trails of varying difficulty. These trails wind through the native forest and peaceful woodlands, echoing with bird calls and crossing numerous water courses. Keep an eye out for historical reminders like old farm buildings and equipment scattered throughout the trails.
The mild temperatures from April to October are the most comfortable for walking and enjoying the park's spectacular wildflowers. Summers are warm to hot with little rain, so take plenty of water if you choose to hike during those months.
Similar trails nearby
Looking for hikes and trails in Mount Remarkable National Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.
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.
Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
Packing checklists
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
Let someone know
Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure
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.
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.
1 Review on “Hidden Gorge Circuit Hike (18km)”
Challenging hike with a full pack, a large amount of creek crossing requires good foot wear. Hidden camp is lovely, we were lucky enough to have it to ourselves for the night, very peaceful. We hiked in from the carpark via Battery Ridge, making the walk out from Hidden Camp to the carpark, the next day an easy 3-4hr walk.