There are not a lot of hiking opportunities around Mount Gambier in South Australia but one short walk, worth a look is the Mount Schank Crater Rim Walk. It's around 3.3km in length including a side trail that takes you to the lowest point of the crater.
Mount Schank is a dormant volcano, originally errupting 4,500 years ago. A set of interpretive panels at the carpark provides information about the geology and history of this impressive landform. A toilet block and barbeque are adjacent to the carpark, but no other tourist facilities are provided in this area. While some visitors prefer to remain at the volcano's base, the walking track up its western side offers spectacular scenery of the surrounding district, with frequent rest stops along the way. This moderately challenging climb is rewarded at the top with a breathtaking 360 degree views into Mount Schank's crater. For the more adventurous there is a further track down into the bowl of the crater, and another track that follows its rim. A few hours should be set aside to complete all walk options, and hikers should ensure that they have suitable shoes and supplies.
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: 3324 m
Max elevation: 107 m
Min elevation: 24 m
Total climbing: 197 m
Total descent: -197 m
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Mount Schank is a prominent volcanic cone 10 minutes drive south of Mount Gambier, off the road to Port MacDonnell.
- 2WD Access
- Large Car Park
- Public Toilets
- Picnic Shelter
Mount Schank was named in December 1800 during an exploratory voyage along Australia's south-east coast by the ship HMS Lady Nelson. Mount Gambier was also spotted and named on the same voyage. It was declared a State Heritage Area on 11 June 1992. The features seen at Mount Schank today are the result of two phases of volcanic activity. The first stage developed a significant scoria cone with an ash ring (maar) to the south and a basaltic lava flow to the west. The later phase created the main cone, which buried the original scoria cone and overlapped the maar. Work by the University of Adelaide Physics Department has dated the original Mount Schank eruption to 4,500 years ago.
The Gambier limestone that forms the base layer for both Mount Schank and Mount Gambier contains abundant groundwater, which has played a role in determining the type of volcanic eruptions produced in each area. The craters at Mount Schank are at, or above, the level of the surrounding plain, and thus well above the groundwater table. This means that they have remained dry, unlike the Mount Gambier craters, which filled to become spectacular lakes
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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.
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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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1 Review on “Mount Schank Crater Rim Walk (3.3km)”
An interesting walk. Well worth exploring if you are on the area.
As of 1/1/2024, there is a sign at the entrance to this walk stating that fox baits have been set in the area and dogs should not be walked here.