Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 82m
Min elevation: 9m
Total Ascent: 79m
Essential information
Please be aware that this trail is not currently maintained and may be difficult to navigate.
Hike overview
The Investigator Trail on Kangaroo Island commemorates the footsteps of explorer Matthew Flinders. In 1802, Flinders rowed to the end of Pelican Lagoon and ascended the prominent sand dune he named Prospect Hill. The trail itself is an easy 800-meter (grade 3) return journey, taking approximately 40 minutes to complete.
To begin your exploration, follow the signs to the carpark on the northern side of Hog Bay Road, near the intersection with Muston Road. A commemorative plaque marks the trailhead. From here, you'll briefly cross Hog Bay Road before continuing along a dirt track leading to a carpark at the base of Prospect Hill. The trail then winds its way up the hill, rewarding you with panoramic views upon reaching the summit.
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.
Walk map and GPX file
Max elevation: 82 m
Min elevation: 9 m
Total climbing: 79 m
Total descent: -79 m
GPX files, maps and content are copyright Trail Hiking Australia. Not to be copied, redistributed or uploaded to other platforms including AllTrails.
Explore safely
Planning this hike? Most incidents develop before you even start. Safe outcomes depend on how navigation, hydration, environment, load and judgement work together. Small oversights can compound quickly in Australian conditions. See how it happens in the Hiking Safety Systems Foundations. Then use the Hiking Safety Systems, planning calculators, and make sure a trusted contact has your trip plan before heading out.
Leave a trip plan
Before you go, complete a trip intentions form and share it with a trusted contact. Agree on a Late-Back Time and ask them to call 000 (Police) if you have not checked in. A clear trip plan is one of the simplest and most effective safety steps you can take.
Planning checklists
Download the hiking preparation and safety checklists before leaving home to help you think through your plans. They help ensure important considerations are not overlooked and support safer decision-making on the trail.
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Kangaroo Island.
Reaching Kangaroo Island is convenient, with options to suit your needs. Take a ferry with Sealink or KI Connect, fly in with QantasLink, or enjoy a scenic Southern Ocean Drive road trip for a memorable arrival experience. Accessing the Investigator Trail is straightforward. Look for the brown historical site sign pointing to a carpark on the northern side of Hog Bay Road, near its intersection with Muston Road. This marks the designated parking area for the trailhead. Be sure to exercise caution when crossing Hog Bay Road, as it is a traffic lane. From the carpark, a short dirt track leads you directly to the base of Prospect Hill, where the Investigator Trail begins its ascent.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Accommodation nearby
Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: American River, Emu Bay, Kingscote, Parndana, Penneshaw, Seal Bay, Vivonne Bay
About the region
Kangaroo Island, a paradise for nature lovers, lies off the coast of South Australia, southwest of Adelaide. With over a third of its landmass protected in nature reserves, the island boasts a remarkable diversity of wildlife. Encounter playful sea lions, koalas basking in eucalyptus trees, and a chorus of native birdsong.
Flinders Chase National Park in the west is a highlight, renowned for its penguin colonies and dramatic coastal formations. Marvel at the sculpted Remarkable Rocks, balancing precariously on the cliffside, and explore Admirals Arch, a natural cavern adorned with stalactites.
Kangaroo Island offers something for everyone. Stretch out on pristine beaches, savor delicious local wines, and witness breathtaking sunsets. Explore beyond the beaten path to discover unique wildlife encounters, indulge in mouthwatering cuisine, and soak in the island's relaxed atmosphere.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Kangaroo Island? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
Gallery
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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.






3 Reviews on “Investigator Trail Walk (800m)”
Hi I would like to know if possible when is your next meet up for hiking and if you do this durring the hotter summer months or not?