Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail - Day 5: Also known as Hanson Bay hike, this walk is a leisurely finale from Tea Tree Campground to KelÂly Hill Caves that includes cave wonders on the Kelly Hill Section.
Day 5 of the KIWT offers a delightful 7.5-kilometer (grade 4) farewell, taking approximately 2-3 hours to complete. This leisurely final leg allows you to savor the diverse beauty of the island's recovering woodlands, freshwater lakes, and unique "karst" cave systems.
The trail winds through a variety of habitats, culminating at the stunning Wilderness and Grassdale Lagoons. Here, birdwatchers will be enthralled by sightings of resident and migratory woodland and wading birds. These vital freshwater havens provide sustenance even during dry periods when other water sources disappear.
A short stroll through a beautiful sugar gum forest, teeming with orchids and fungi in the wetter months, leads you to the grand finale: the awe-inspiring Kelly Hill Caves. Celebrate your accomplishment with a photo at the trail's end, and consider taking a guided tour to unlock the secrets of these limestone wonders. Discover how time and nature have sculpted these spectacular cave decorations, leaving you with a lasting impression of Kangaroo Island's magic.
Immerse yourself in a world-class adventure on the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail (KIWT), a challenging 62-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.
Total distance: 7137 m
Max elevation: 62 m
Min elevation: 11 m
Total climbing: 151 m
Total descent: -132 m
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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.
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A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
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.
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.
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
3 Reviews on “KIWT - Day 5: Kelly Hill Section (7.5km)”
Another great days walking, again through easy bushland tracks.
Some magnificent views of the Grassland Lagoon as you head toward Kelly Hill Caves.
It’s a short walk in comparison to the previous days, so I suggest you take your time and soak it all in
… that is, of course, unless you are hankering for a shower and something fresh to eat. Then get a wiggle on and you’ll be clean, fed and rested by lunch time.