This hike, along with others in the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail (KIWT) series, is written to support those completing the full multi-day hike. The route descriptions, distances, and logistics assume a staged, continuous journey and are not intended to be used as standalone day walks.
Day three of the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail is a rewarding and adventurous stretch, covering 14.5 kilometres from Hakea Campground to Banksia Campground. Rated as a grade 4 walk and taking about five hours to complete, this section offers a balance of physical challenge and rich natural variety, rewarding those who set out early with some of the trail’s most memorable highlights.
Leaving Hakea Campground, the trail soon invites an optional detour that’s well worth the effort. The track to Weirs Cove tells stories of isolation and resilience, where supplies were once winched up sheer cliffs to the lighthouse keepers who lived here. Nearby stands the stately Cape du Couedic Lighthouse, its sturdy form contrasting with the restless Southern Ocean below. Just beyond, Admirals Arch is a masterpiece of natural sculpture, where fur seals and sea lions sprawl across the rocks, soaking up the warmth of the sun or diving through the surf that thunders beneath the archway.
Returning to the main trail, the walk continues east through dense coastal mallee, the scent of eucalyptus hanging in the air. The terrain opens gradually toward Sanderson Bay, revealing sweeping ocean views and, in the distance, the unmistakable outline of the Remarkable Rocks. This iconic cluster of granite boulders, carved smooth by centuries of wind and salt, seems to defy balance and gravity. A short side trip allows you to wander among them, admiring the way sunlight and shadow transform their shape and colour throughout the day.
The track then traces the contours of the coastline, with moments of stillness and grandeur that encourage quiet reflection. Looking back, the Remarkable Rocks fade into the horizon, framed by the rugged cliffs and rolling surf. As the day winds down, the trail leads inland to Banksia Campground, a peaceful spot nestled among the vegetation near Sanderson Bay. The gentle hush of the sea is never far away, and a short stroll leads to a secluded beach where you can cool off in the shallows and rest after a day that captures the true spirit of Kangaroo Island’s wild coast.
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: 14532 m
Max elevation: 152 m
Min elevation: 10 m
Total climbing: 175 m
Total descent: -301 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.
KanÂgaÂroo Island is just 35 minÂutes by air from AdeÂlaide AirÂport to Kingscote on KanÂgaÂroo Island, or 2.5 hours by coach plus 1 hour by ferÂry from AdeÂlaide. It’s then a 1.5 to 2 hour driÂve to the start of the KanÂgaÂroo Island WilderÂness Trail in Flinders Chase NationÂal Park.
You can travÂel in the comÂfort of your own vehiÂcle from the mainÂland via the Sealink ferÂry and then on to Flinders Chase NationÂal Park, or you can pick up a rental car from Kingscote, Kingscote AirÂport or PenÂneshaw. LimÂitÂed numÂbers of cars are availÂable for hire on the island so advance bookÂings are recÂomÂmendÂed. A desÂigÂnatÂed car parkÂing area will be availÂable at Flinders Chase NationÂal Park VisÂiÂtor CenÂtre for indeÂpenÂdent walkers.
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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8 Reviews on “KIWT - Day 3: Sanderson Section (13.5km)”
Helen Panayi Cath Dowling Shelley Burke
Stephanie Brosnan Sammie Mac