Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore the peaceful Flinders Chase Woodland Walk, a 1km circuit in the heart of South Australia's Flinders Chase National Park. This easy, Grade 2 hike only takes 30 minutes, perfect for a brief bushwalk through sugar gum woodlands and acacia thickets. Starting and ending at the Flinders Chase Visitor Centre, it's a relaxing journey teeming with woodland birds and stunning views over Black Swamp. Ideal for nature lovers staying at the nearby Rocky River Campground, this trail is a must-visit when in Flinders Chase.

Length:

1km

Duration:

30 mins

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 91m

Min elevation: 69m

Total Ascent: 32m

Start: Flinders Chase Visitor Centre

End: Flinders Chase Visitor Centre

Flinders Chase National Park

South Australia

Nearby town: Flinders Chase

From state capital: 267km

Latitude: -35.95158173088996

Longitude: 136.73614525799755

Overview

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Hike overview

Discover the serene beauty of Flinders Chase Woodland Walk, a gentle 1km hike nestled within Flinders Chase National Park, South Australia. With a grade 2 rating, this leisurely stroll typically takes around 30 minutes to complete, making it ideal for a short excursion.

Immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings as you wander through sugar gum woodlands and acacia thickets. Keep your ears tuned for the melodic songs of woodland birds that inhabit the area, adding to the peaceful ambiance of the trail. Don't miss the Walking Trail Information Shelter overlooking Black Swamp, offering insights into the park's ecosystem.

This trail serves as a vital link between the Flinders Chase Visitor Centre and the Rocky River Campground, providing access to essential day visitor facilities. Whether you start from the main walking trails trailhead at the Flinders Chase Visitor Centre or from the Rocky River Campground (near the toilets), you're in for a delightful journey through nature's embrace.

Experience the tranquility of Flinders Chase Woodland Walk, where every step brings you closer to the heart of Kangaroo Island's natural wonders.

Track grade

Grade 2 (Easy) - A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.

Walk map and GPX file
Flinders Chase Woodland Walk (1km)

Total distance: 969 m
Max elevation: 91 m
Min elevation: 69 m
Total climbing: 32 m
Total descent: -32 m

Gallery

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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.

Get there with Google Maps

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.

Find a place to stay

Find Accommodation

Wondering where to stay near this hike? Find accommodation close to the trailhead — hotels, cabins and campgrounds nearby. Click the button to view the interactive map.

Closest towns to this walk: American River, Emu Bay, Kingscote, Parndana, Penneshaw, Seal Bay, Vivonne Bay

Let someone know

Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Flinders Chase National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.

Packing checklists

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.

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Flinders Chase Woodland Walk (1km)

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Acknowledgement of Country

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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Track grade

Walk map and GPX file
Flinders Chase Woodland Walk (1km)