The Mambray Creek Alligator Gorge hike follows the winding courses of Mambray and Alligator Creeks through Mount Remarkable National Park in South Australia. Over 14 kilometres, the track passes through river red gum corridors and stands of native pine, with the creeks providing a constant sense of direction and scale as the landscape gradually shifts around you. It is a demanding Grade 5 hike that typically takes around five hours to complete, best suited to experienced hikers who are comfortable with rough terrain, steep sections, and sustained distances.
Much of the appeal lies in the variety. Shaded creek lines give way to open ridges, rocky sections contrast with softer forested stretches, and the sound of water often accompanies you through the lower ground. The hike can be walked as a long, challenging day hike, but it also lends itself well to a slower, more exploratory approach. With designated campsites along the route, many walkers choose to break the journey over multiple days, allowing time to absorb the changing scenery and the quiet, remote feel of the park.
There are several worthwhile side trips that add depth to the experience. Hidden Gorge offers a narrow, rugged detour that feels tucked away from the main route, while The Battery and the Black Range provide tougher terrain and broader views across the surrounding ranges. These options allow you to tailor the walk to your interests and energy levels, whether you want a straightforward hike or a more ambitious outing that explores the park in greater detail.
The hike can be started at either Mambray Creek Campground or Alligator Gorge, depending on your preferred direction and logistics. Whichever option you choose, careful planning is essential. Check weather conditions before setting out, allow realistic time for the distance and elevation, and carry sufficient water, food, and safety gear. This is a walk that rewards preparation, offering a rich mix of creek walking, forested gullies, and rugged country for those willing to take it on at their own pace.
If walking the route as a one way hike, you will need to return via the same track or organise transport between Mambray Creek and Alligator Gorge before setting out.
Alternate itineraries
Two day hike
This option breaks the hike into manageable days while allowing time to explore some of the most interesting sections of the park. On day one, walk from Mambray Creek to Longhill Camp near Hidden Gorge, covering 14.1 kilometres. From camp, an optional side trip into Hidden Gorge adds around 3 kilometres return and is well worth the effort. If time and energy allow, a short walk north into Alligator Gorge takes you to the Narrows at 1.3 kilometres one way, or further on to the Terraces at 2.3 kilometres one way. Camp at Longhill and enjoy a relaxed evening in the gorge.
Day two follows the return route to Mambray Creek, covering approximately 13.8 kilometres. While familiar ground, the walk feels different in the opposite direction, with changing light and perspectives along the creeks.
Three day hike
For a more immersive experience, the three day option allows you to explore the gorges and ridgelines at a slower pace. Day one follows the same route as the two day hike, walking 14.1 kilometres from Mambray Creek to Longhill Camp near Hidden Gorge.
On day two, continue from Longhill Camp to Kingfisher Camp via the Narrows and the Terraces, then climb onto Battery Ridge Track and Fricks Track. This section covers around 14.3 kilometres and includes some of the more rugged terrain of the hike, with a mix of narrow gorge walking and exposed ridge sections.
Day three returns to Mambray Creek via Hidden Gorge and Battery Ridge Track, covering approximately 12.9 kilometres. This final day ties together creek lines and elevated sections, providing a satisfying finish to a multi day walk through Mount Remarkable National Park.
For more information on this hiking trail, please visit Walking SA
Grade 5 (Difficult) - Walks for the Most Experienced: Grade 5 represents the most challenging walking tracks on the
AWTGS. These are only recommended for very experienced and fit walkers with specialised skills, including navigation and emergency first aid. Tracks are likely to be very rough, very steep, and unmarked. Walks may be more than 20 kilometers. These challenging walks demand a high level of fitness and experience to navigate difficult terrain, significant elevation changes, and potentially unformed paths.
- Dogs are not permitted in this park.
- The park is also closed on days of Catastrophic Fire Danger and may be closed on days of Extreme Fire Danger.
Total distance: 13755 m
Max elevation: 400 m
Min elevation: 152 m
Total climbing: 390 m
Total descent: -145 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: Mount Remarkable National Park.
The park is located 45km north of Port Pirie. Access is from National Highway One via Mambray Creek. You can also reach Alligator Gorge via a scenic but sometimes challenging drive starting 1km south of Wilmington on Main North Road. This road is very steep and unsuitable for caravans, camper trailers, and buses. Alternatively, walk into the park from the adjacent town of Melrose, nestled at the foot of Mount Remarkable.
Please note: There are no public roads that pass through Mount Remarkable National Park. Horrocks Pass and Port Germein Gorge are the nearest public roads to the park for crossing the Flinders Ranges east to west.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: Booleroo Centre, Gladstone, Hawker, Laura, Melrose, Port Germain, Port Germein, Quorn, Stirling North, Wilmington, Wirrabara
Within easy reach of Adelaide, Mount Remarkable National Park is an ideal place for a family getaway. There's plenty of diverse wildlife to spot, and campgrounds with good facilities make it a comfortable base for exploring.
The park is a popular destination for bushwalking, with trails for all ages and abilities. Hike to the 960-meter summit of Mount Remarkable for incredible views overlooking the Willochra Plain and Spencer Gulf.
The Willowie area offers a network of mountain biking and walking trails that meander through the foothills of the Mount Remarkable Range. Choose from short and longer trails of varying difficulty. These trails wind through the native forest and peaceful woodlands, echoing with bird calls and crossing numerous water courses. Keep an eye out for historical reminders like old farm buildings and equipment scattered throughout the trails.
The mild temperatures from April to October are the most comfortable for walking and enjoying the park's spectacular wildflowers. Summers are warm to hot with little rain, so take plenty of water if you choose to hike during those months.
Looking for more walks in or near Mount Remarkable National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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10 Reviews on “Mambray Creek Alligator Gorge Hike (14km)”
Alligator gorge is A M A Z I N G!!!
Grace Capasso Keren Dugdell surprised we didn’t find this while we were lost ?
Hidden gorge within there is a 17 km circuit, awesome hike!
What makes this a grade 5 hike?