For those walking the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail from end to end, this optional side trip from Hakea Campsite is well worth setting aside a few hours to explore. Allow around three to four hours for the full experience, either at the end of Day 2 or the start of Day 3, when your legs are fresh and the light is soft across the coastline. The Cape du Couedic Spur Trail heads south from Hakea Campsite, linking with the Weirs Cove Hike before continuing to the Admirals Arch Walk, offering a memorable glimpse into the island’s maritime and natural heritage.
The track to Weirs Cove leads you across exposed coastal terrain, where wind-sculpted vegetation clings to rocky slopes. The view opens to reveal the remnants of the old flying fox system that once winched supplies up nearly ninety metres of sheer cliff from the jetty below. It’s easy to imagine the isolation of the lighthouse keepers who depended on these deliveries in such a remote and unforgiving place. As you continue, the outline of the Cape du Couedic Lighthouse gradually comes into view, its solid stone tower standing guard against the Southern Ocean. Built in 1909, it remains a striking feature of the landscape, a symbol of resilience in an environment shaped by wind and sea.
Beyond the lighthouse, the path descends toward Admirals Arch, one of Kangaroo Island’s most remarkable natural formations. The boardwalk is wide and wheelchair accessible, winding along the headland with constant ocean views and regular sightings of long-nosed fur seals resting on the rocks below. Their playful calls and the crash of the surf fill the air as you approach the arch itself.
The final section involves a series of steps leading down into the cavern where Admirals Arch reveals its full grandeur. Sunlight filters through openings in the rock, casting moving patterns on the sea-sculpted walls. A viewing platform offers a perfect vantage point to watch the seal colony in action, diving and gliding effortlessly through the water. When it’s time to return, you can retrace the trail back to Hakea Campsite or take the shorter, more direct route via the access road. Either way, this side trip adds a rewarding layer to your wilderness experience, blending history, geology, and wildlife in a way that few places can.
Immerse yourself in a world-class adventure on the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail (KIWT), a challenging 66-kilometer, five-day trek. This iconic Australian journey grants you unparalleled access to South Australia's most rugged and breathtaking coastlines.
With each step, uncover the secrets this unique ecosystem holds. Traverse the most botanically diverse region in South Australia before reaching the dramatic coastlines where the Southern Ocean crashes against the shore. Prepare to be awestruck by the unimaginable beauty that unfolds before you.
The trail winds through a variety of protected areas, including Flinders Chase National Park, Kelly Hill Conservation Park, and the Cape Bouguer Wilderness Protection Area. Encounter the island's unique wildlife while traversing new and upgraded trails.
Along the way, witness the otherworldly Remarkable Rocks, marvel at the natural wonder of Admirals Arch, and explore historic Weirs Cove. Hike to the pristine Hanson Bay and delve into the fascinating Kelly Hill Caves. This unforgettable experience offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, diverse wildlife encounters, and historical exploration.
Grade 4 (Hard) -
Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the
AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
Total distance: 8658 m
Max elevation: 153 m
Min elevation: 0 m
Total climbing: 245 m
Total descent: -246 m
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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.
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 to the trailhead: Flinders Chase National Park.
Flinders Chase National Park awaits on Kangaroo Island, a 110km journey west of Kingscote. Choose your island adventure:
- Ferry: Set sail on SeaLink or KI Connect ferries from mainland South Australia.
- Flight: Take a scenic flight with Qantas or Rex for a bird’s-eye view before landing on Kangaroo Island.
Once on the island, navigate to the park using Playford and West End Highways or the scenic South Coast Road.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Kangaroo Island's crown jewel, Flinders Chase National Park, offers a chance to explore a vast wilderness teeming with wildlife. Witness the otherworldly shapes of the Remarkable Rocks, their golden hues contrasting with the ever-changing ocean backdrop. Stand in awe at Admirals Arch, a natural wonder carved by relentless waves, and observe a colony of long-nosed fur seals basking on the shores below.
Entry fees are required, and while there's a Wi-Fi hotspot for payment at Rocky River, reception can be unreliable. For a smoother visit, consider purchasing your day pass beforehand. Park rangers are stationed within the park daily (9am-5pm) to answer your questions.
Be mindful of wildlife while driving, especially at dawn and dusk. Pack sufficient water and snacks, and adhere to leave-no-trace principles to ensure the park's continued health. Public toilets are limited, and there are no shops inside the park, so plan accordingly.
Flinders Chase National Park offers a unique experience year-round:
- Winter: Witness cascading rivers, diverse fungi, and blooming orchids.
- Spring: Experience an explosion of wildflowers, lively frogs, and breeding birds and animals. Spring and summer are perfect for camping, picnics, and exploring the many walking trails.
- Summer: Enjoy mild weather, ideal for swimming on pristine beaches. However, expect larger crowds during this peak season.
Looking for more walks in or near Flinders Chase National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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6 Reviews on “KIWT: Admirals Arch Hike Trip Side (9km)”
oops got a walk ahead of myself in the previous comment.
We walked to Admirals Arch after setting up camp. It’s a nice trail walk with views of Remarkable Rocks and the lighthouse. However it took longer than expected.
The bonus was we had Admirals Arch to ourselves, as it was early evening by the time we got there. However it was dark by the time we left. So we walked back via the road, which was a long slog.
After the days trail walk and then this side trip, it made for a 20km day and I don’t mind admitting I was pretty shattered by the time we crawled into the tent.
Day 3 was better, under foot than Day 2, some rocky cliff top walking but also a lot of inland trails. The inland trails are good under foot, so you don’t need to concentrate so much on your foot fall and can enjoy the scenery.