The Ironstone Hill Hike is a moderately challenging (grade 3) trail located within Baudin Conservation Park on Kangaroo Island, South Australia. Stretching for approximately 4.2 kilometres, the return journey typically takes around 1.5 hours to complete.
This historic route follows a section of the original bullock track used for travel to Cape Willoughby Lighthouse in the past. As you ascend the trail, enveloped by regenerating sheoak woodlands, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views across Backstairs Passage towards the Fleurieu Peninsula. The hike culminates at Ironstone Hill, where the remnants of Harry Bates' cottage and a stone threshing floor stand as a reminder of the area's rich farming heritage. Interpretive signage along the track provides further insight into the life and work of the Bates family who once called this land home.
For more information on this hiking trail, please visit Walking SA
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.
Total distance: 4168 m
Max elevation: 125 m
Min elevation: 11 m
Total climbing: 189 m
Total descent: -189 m
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Accessing Baudin Conservation Park is straightforward. Located 2 kilometres southeast of Penneshaw on Kangaroo Island, the park is easily reached by car. Take Frenchman's Terrace and follow it until you reach the car park at the beginning of Binneys Track.
For visitors coming from mainland South Australia, ferry travel is necessary. SeaLink operates a vehicle and passenger ferry service daily (excluding Christmas Day) between Cape Jervis, located two hours south of Adelaide, and Penneshaw on Kangaroo Island. The ferry journey takes approximately 45 minutes for the 16 kilometre crossing.
The trailhead is at a small carpark on Binneys Track (a dirt road) which follows on from Frenchmans Terrace in Penneshaw.
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Baudin Conservation Park, located near the town of Penneshaw on Kangaroo Island, offers a unique blend of historical and natural beauty. Once a family farm from 1861 to 2001, the park is now a protected area showcasing rolling hills and she-oak woodlands.
Hikers and bushwalkers will find plenty to explore here. The Ironstone Hill Hike follows part of the original bullock track used for travel to Cape Willoughby in the past. Along the trail, interpretive signage provides a glimpse into the life and work of the Bates family who once farmed this land. The hike culminates at Ironstone Hill, where the ruins of their cottage and a stone threshing floor stand as a testament to their history.
The park is a haven for native wildlife. Look out for tammar wallabies and the majestic wedge-tailed eagle soaring overhead. The she-oak forest provides habitat for the rare glossy black cockatoo, which you might be lucky enough to see feeding amongst the trees.
For those seeking a glimpse of marine life, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and whales swimming in the waters of Backstairs Passage, which borders the park.
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Cape WilloughÂby ConÂserÂvaÂtion Park
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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.
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.
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
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!
