The Mount Brown Summit Circuit is a moderately challenging 15km loop hike located within Mount Brown Conservation Park in South Australia. Designed for experienced hikers and estimated to take approximately 6 hours to complete, the trail offers a gradual ascent through scenic woodlands, rewarding hikers with panoramic vistas of surrounding farmlands and mountains.
The circuit commences at the Olive Grove trailhead, accessible via Richman Valley Road out of Quorn. Following a well-marked fire track, you'll pass by Waukarie Falls, a short detour off the main trail. Upon reaching the Heysen Trail junction, follow the designated markers along a long ridge that leads steadily towards the summit. Roughly 3km from the start and 100m off the main track, Bald Hill Viewpoint provides a chance to admire the unfolding scenery.
Nearing the summit, the circuit presents an optional 1km detour to the very peak. Here, a lookout tower stands as a tribute to Robert Brown, the naturalist who accompanied Matthew Flinders on his voyage in 1802. Informative signage enriches the experience, while the surrounding landscape offers a glimpse into the park's geological history. Look closely for evidence of a massive 1km-deep canyon formed a staggering 600 million years ago.
The return journey follows a long ridge back to the Olive Grove trailhead. Keep an eye out for the distinctive yellow distance markers and checkpoints that guide you throughout the circuit.
For more information on this hiking trail, please visit Walking SA
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the
AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Total distance: 15231 m
Max elevation: 959 m
Min elevation: 416 m
Total climbing: 711 m
Total descent: -711 m
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Reaching Mount Brown Conservation Park is straightforward. Situated 14 kilometres south of Quorn, the park is accessible from the township itself. Begin your journey at the Quorn Mill and follow the well-marked signs leading south towards Richman Valley and Waukarie Falls. Continue along Richman Valley Road for approximately 14 kilometres until you reach the park entrance.
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Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
Nestled just 14 kilometres south of Quorn in South Australia's Flinders Ranges, Mount Brown Conservation Park offers a paradise for hikers and bushwalkers. At 964 metres, Mount Brown is one of the highest peaks in the region, and the park itself encompasses a diverse landscape transitioning from rolling hills with various vegetation cover to rugged ridges adorned with open woodland and scrub.
A highlight of the park is the 15km loop walking trail that leads you to the summit. The trail includes the Mount Brown lookout, commemorating Robert Brown, the naturalist on Matthew Flinders' Investigator - the first ship to circumnavigate Australia. Along the way, you'll encounter fascinating geological evidence of a one-kilometre-deep canyon formed a staggering 600 million years ago. The exposed rock in Waukarie Creek showcases the canyon's depth, while the surrounding slopes reveal the sedimentary layers filled with sand, silt, limestone, and shale deposited over the millennia. This geological wonder is just one of the many captivating features that await exploration within Mount Brown Conservation Park.
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While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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3 Reviews on “Mount Brown Summit Circuit Hike (15km)”
It’s so peaceful.