This hike is classified as Grade 2 (Easy) due to its distance exceeding the typical Grade 1 limit of 5km. While the terrain itself is relatively easy and may still be suitable for all abilities, feel free to turn back at any point for a shorter adventure.
The three trails are located within the floristically diverse Honan Native Forest Reserve and are named after Mentha atrolilacina, which was discovered here in 2007. The trails begin at either the Swamp Gum or Wildflower carparks and are clearly marked with green, blue and purple trail markers. Time allowed for walking the trails is based on an average speed of 3km/hour. Cycling will take less time. The trails follow reasonably flat sandy tracks with slight undulations with boardwalks providing year-round access through wetter areas and include:
- Honan Mint Trail - Distance and time: The full loop is 5.7km, allow two hours to walk the trail.
- Swamp Gum Trail - Distance and Time: The full loop is 2.7km, allow 1 ¼ hours to walk the trail.
- Wildflower Trail - Distance and Time: The full loop is 4km from the Wildower Carpark, allow 1 ¾ hours to walk the trail.
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.
Please don’t copy GPX files or content from this site to AllTrails or other platforms. Each trail has been personally mapped, documented, and refined to support Australia’s bushwalking and hiking community. While some details come from land managers, every listing reflects significant personal effort. This is a free, community-driven initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.
Total distance: 6026 m
Max elevation: 80 m
Min elevation: 70 m
Total climbing: 48 m
Total descent: -48 m
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Honan Native Forest Reserve.
From the main roundabout in Mount Gambier, head West on Princes Hwy toward Millicent approximately 12km. Turn right onto Kangaroo Flat Rd (signposted for Glencoe/Kalangadoo). Continue on Kangaroo Flat Road for approximately 3.9km. Turn left into the Swamp Gum Carpark. Note: Look for the signs at the carpark on the edge of the forest, there is no clearly defined turn for the carpark.
Closest towns to this walk: Melrose, Port Augusta, Quorn, Stirling North, Wilmington
About the region
Honan Native Forest Reserve at Glencoe, just 16 kilometres from Mount Gambier, is a large reserve of over 1000 hectares containing the highest number of threatened plants in any reserve in South Australia! About 500 plant species have been recorded in the reserve, with about 140 of those rare or threatened, including the Honan Mint (Mentha atrolilacina) discovered and known only to occur here.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Honan Native Forest Reserve? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
Favourite
Discovery Bay Coastal Park
Favourite
Discovery Bay Coastal Park
Favourite
Burrunj (Black Range) State Park
Favourite
Little Desert National Park
Track grade
Grade 2 (Easy) -Â
A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the
AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.
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.