The Foul Bay to Marion Bay section is a challenging but rewarding 28-kilometer hike along the stunning coastline of Yorke Peninsula in South Australia. Rated as grade 4, it's estimated to take experienced walkers 8 to 10 hours to complete due to varied terrain including beaches, dunes, and rock scrambles.
The adventure begins at Foul Bay on a shared walking and cycling trail. Take a moment to admire Kangaroo Island from the dedicated lookout as you head towards Point Yorke. Here, cyclists split off to follow the highway, while hikers continue along a dedicated walking trail with scenic beach sections.
The next stop is Meehan Hill Lookout, offering panoramic views for both walkers and cyclists (cyclists take a short detour). Cyclists then rejoin the highway for their final leg. Hikers will experience some of the peninsula's most picturesque scenery, traversing beaches, hopping over rocks, and climbing dunes. The trail rejoins cyclists just before Marion Bay. Follow signs into the township.
Consider staying at the Marion Bay Caravan Park for post-hike relaxation. Nestled amongst native trees, it offers a true bush camping experience within a short walk of the sheltered beach.
- Minimise your impact: walk in the center of the track and avoid widening muddy paths.
- Share the beaches: walk below the high tide mark to avoid disturbing nesting birds (Sept-March).
- Allow extra time: walking times are estimates only. Factor in difficult terrain like soft sand, dunes, and rocks.
Looks like I don’t have a GPX file for this trail yet. If you have one you’d be willing to share, please email it to me so we can help other hikers have a safer, easier time out there. I’ll double-check each file to make sure it aligns with official tracks and topo maps before adding it to this hike. Thanks so much for helping build an even better hiking resource.
Accessing Foul Bay Camping Reserve requires some off-road travel. From Warooka, the nearest town, travel 37 kilometres south, with the last 16 kilometres being unsealed road. Alternatively, if you've been exploring Innes National Park, you can reach the reserve via Marion Bay. This route is 30 kilometres long, with 19 kilometres on unsealed Happy Valley Road. Look for signage for Foul Bay Campground or South Coast Road along the way. Remember, the car park gate closes at dusk each night.
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A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
Grade 4 (Hard) -
Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the
AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
The Yorke Peninsula, known as Guuranda by its original inhabitants the Narungga people, stretches northwest and west from Adelaide in South Australia. Jutting into the Southern Ocean, it's bordered by Spencer Gulf on the west and Gulf St Vincent on the east. Kangaroo Island lies just south across Investigator Strait.
A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, Yorke Peninsula boasts kilometres of pristine coastline. From fishing and boating to surfing, swimming, camping, and bushwalking, there's something for everyone. Just over an hour's drive from Adelaide, this accessible escape offers 700 kilometres of coastline to explore. Relax on sandy beaches, unwind at a local brewery, or retreat to a charming coastal cottage near Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park. Alternatively, trace the scenic Coastal Way road trip and discover the laid-back atmosphere of the region's many beaches. Perfect for swimming, surfing, fishing, or a family picnic, these stretches of coastline are a hallmark of the Yorke Peninsula experience.
Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park offers a stunning wilderness escape. Serene landscapes teeming with wildlife, rugged cliffs, and secluded beaches make this park a must-visit. Anglers will also find some of the country's best fishing opportunities, with historic jetties providing prime spots to cast a line. It's important to remember that the Yorke Peninsula is the traditional land of the Narungga people, who have been the caretakers of this country for countless generations.
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
