Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail: Day 4: Grassdale Section (13.3km)

Day four offers high energy coastal trekking at its best, with massive swells, towering cliffs and extended views along the coast all the way from Sanderson Bay to the spectacular Cape Younghusband. Looking back you'll continue to see Remarkable Rocks as it is rarely seen, framed by the surrounding wild landscape. When the trail meanders inland as it heads towards Hanson Bay you'll be treated to a dramatic change in vegetation from low coastal heath to tall, dense mallee and tea tree. Upon reaching the South West River you'll have the opportunity to use a punt to cross the river; a novel experience not to be missed. The river crossing marks the gateway to the Cape Bouguer Wilderness Protection Area and the most untouched area on the trail. An optional side trip off the wilderness trail to the nearby Hanson Bay headland and the small settlement of Hanson Bay offers walkers another opportunity to dip their toes in the crystal clear water. Back on the Wilderness Trail you'll follow the winding river to Kelly Hill Conservation Park and the Tea Tree Campground, located adjacent to the historic Grassdale property. A short walk from the campground you'll find the original cottage that housed the Edwards family who were pioneers in the early settlement of the western end of the island. At sunrise and sunset you will encounter Kangaroo Island kangaroos as they emerge from the shelter of the native vegetation into the open grassland to feed.

(optional side trip - Hanson Bay 1/2 hours return, 700metres)

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