Grade 1

South Wall Return Walk (4.8km)

Watarrka National Park

Northern Territory

4.8km

2 hrs

Grade 3

Return

Save

Bookmark

Compare

Favourite

Hike at a glance

Quick overview: Explore the natural beauty of Watarrka National Park with the South Wall Walk, a moderate 4.8km return hike near Kings Canyon. This Grade 3 trail offers a demanding yet rewarding adventure, with breathtaking panoramic views and stunning geological features. Start at the Kings Canyon car park and prepare for a challenging initial climb before capturing unforgettable photos at the summit. Remember to wear sturdy footwear and note that access to the Garden of Eden is not possible from this trail. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a unique perspective of Kings Canyon.

Hike length

Average duration

Trail Difficulty

Hike Type

Technical details

Max elevation: 756m
Min elevation: 624m
Total Ascent: 193m

Advertisement


Advertisement


Grade 3 (moderate) badge

Uneven terrain and steady climbs
These walks require a reasonable level of fitness and confidence on rough ground. Expect hills, rough surfaces, and sections with steps or short, steeper climbs.

While not technically difficult, these tracks are no longer "easy" and can feel demanding over distance, especially in heat or with a pack. Some bushwalking experience is recommended, particularly for managing footing and pacing. Distances can extend up to 20km.

Worth knowing: Many hikers underestimate Grade 3 when conditions change or fatigue sets in.

Advertisement


Advertisement


Small oversights can compound quickly in Australian conditions. See how it happens in the Interactive Safety Scenarios. Then refer to the Hiking Safety Systems, planning calculators, and make sure a trusted contact has your trip plan before heading out.

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.

Register your plans here →

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.

Advertisement


Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here →

Get there with Google Maps

Find hotels, cabins, and campgrounds near the trailhead. Click the button below to open an interactive map automatically centred on this hike's location — no searching required.

Find Accommodation

Or browse accommodation in nearby towns: Alice Springs, Curtin Springs, Kings Canyon, Watarrka, Yulara

Advertisement


Grade 1
Grade 1
Grade 1
Grade 1
Advertisement


The map below shows the rain forecast for the trail area. Tap the toggle in the top right corner to explore other layers including wind, temperature, UV index, thunderstorms, fire danger, and weather warnings — all useful for planning a safe hike.

Leave a Review.

Whether it’s a new feature, a route change, or a closure, share your update so we can keep our info accurate and helpful for fellow hikers.

Suggest an edit here →

South wall return walk (4. 8km) trail hiking australia

Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.

Last modified: