Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail - Day 2: Maupertuis Section (14.1km)

Day two takes you along the Rocky River towards its mouth at the coast. Not long into the walk you'll be rewarded with your first breathtaking view of the mighty Southern Ocean. Here at the edge of the world there is nothing but the deep blue sea between you and Antarctica. The trail then heads south along the island's wild and rugged coastline where birds of prey may be seen flying over the land and sea, while on the water bottle-nosed dolphins often surface as they hunt for fish. If you're visiting between June and early October, you may even by treated to the majestic sight of Southern Right Whales on their annual migration to the Great Australian Bight. Upon reaching Maupertuis Bay you'll head down from the clifftop onto the bone white beach below. Seafarers found this wild coastline unforgiving, with the remnants of shipwrecks that cost the lives of many still visible today. The trail eventually winds its way back up to the rocky clifftop, bringing you ever closer to the famous Cape du Couedic Lighthouse that sits atop the headland in the distance. Pause for a final look back on your day's journey along the spectacularly beautiful coastline of Maupertuis Bay. When the trail turns inland you'll be treated to softer conditions underfoot for the final stretch to camp. Tucked away in a swale, the Hakea Campground offers you protection from the relentless coastal winds and will lull you to sleep with the relaxing soundtrack of crashing waves on the nearby cliffs. If time permits, you may want to venture to nearby Admirals Arch to finish the day with a spectacular sunset.

GPX file courtesy of Walking SA. File may not contain elevation data and may only represent half the length on return hikes.