The Platypus Waterholes Circuit is a gentle, 5km hike perfect for all ages and abilities, taking around 1.5 hours to complete. Starting at the Flinders Chase Visitor Centre, the trail leads you past the Black Swamp Lookout shelter and through the picturesque Black Swamp.
Platypuses are rare in South Australia, but with some patience, you might spot one. Viewing platforms are strategically placed around the waterholes, providing ideal spots to sit quietly and watch for the telltale movements of a platypus, especially at dawn and dusk.
Along the way, enjoy the rich birdlife and frequent sightings of kangaroos, wallabies, geese, echidnas, and goannas. The trail is wheelchair accessible, though some assistance may be required in certain areas. For a shorter walk, you can also access the trail from the Shackle Road trailhead.
This hike offers a wonderful opportunity to experience the diverse wildlife and tranquil scenery of Flinders Chase National Park.
For more information on this hiking trail, please visit Walking SA
Grade 1 (All-abilities) -Â Perfect for Families and Beginners: Grade 1 on the
AWTGS represents the easiest walking tracks, perfect for families with young children or those new to bushwalking. No prior experience is required. These gentle walks feature a flat, even surface with no steps or steep sections. They are suitable for wheelchair users with assistance due to the even terrain. The total distance of a Grade 1 walk is typically no greater than 5 kilometers, making them a comfortable and manageable option for all ages and fitness levels.
Total distance: 5331 m
Max elevation: 90 m
Min elevation: 62 m
Total climbing: 109 m
Total descent: -109 m
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Leave a trip plan
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.
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Flinders Chase National Park.
Flinders Chase National Park awaits on Kangaroo Island, a 110km journey west of Kingscote. Choose your island adventure:
- Ferry: Set sail on SeaLink or KI Connect ferries from mainland South Australia.
- Flight: Take a scenic flight with Qantas or Rex for a bird’s-eye view before landing on Kangaroo Island.
Once on the island, navigate to the park using Playford and West End Highways or the scenic South Coast Road.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
About the region
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.
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