Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Discover the rich history and stunning views of the Ironstone Hill Hike located in Baudin Conservation Park, South Australia. Starting and ending at Binneys Track Carpark, this 4.2km, grade 3 trail takes about 1.5 hours to navigate through scenic sheoak woodlands, offering fantastic views across Backstairs Passage towards Fleurieu Peninsula. A stone's throw from the town of Penneshaw, the track reveals relics from the region's farming past, including the remnants of Harry Bates' cottage.

Length:

4.2km

Duration:

1.5 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 125m

Min elevation: 11m

Total Ascent: 189m

Start: Binneys Track Carpark

End: Binneys Track Carpark

Baudin Conservation Park

South Australia

Nearby town: Penneshaw

From state capital: 128km

Latitude: -35.72454424364403

Longitude: 137.95347690582278

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Hike overview

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

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
Ironstone Hill Walk (4.2km)

Total distance: 4168 m
Max elevation: 125 m
Min elevation: 11 m
Total climbing: 189 m
Total descent: -189 m

Gallery

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Baudin Conservation Park.

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.

Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

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.

Find a place to stay

Find Accommodation

Wondering where to stay near this hike? Find accommodation close to the trailhead — hotels, cabins and campgrounds nearby. Click the button to view the interactive map.

Closest towns to this walk: Meningie, Narrung, Poltalloch, Tailem Bend, Wellington East

Let someone know

Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Baudin Conservation Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

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.

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Ironstone Hill Walk (4.2km)

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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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Track grade

Walk map and GPX file
Ironstone Hill Walk (4.2km)