Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Discover the Wottons Scrub Circuit, a 3.6km hard-grade hike nestled in South Australia's Kenneth Stirling Conservation Park. Perfect for experienced bushwalkers, this 1.5-hour loop trail weaves through a rich tapestry of stringybark forest, bracken ferns and native grasses. Start your adventure from Gate 2 near Gum Flat Road in Carey Gully, but prepare for off-track walking on the southern section for an exhilarating challenge.

Length:

3.6km

Duration:

1.5 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 462m

Min elevation: 391m

Total Ascent: 131m

Start: Gum Flat Road (Gate 2)

End: Gum Flat Road (Gate 2)

Kenneth Stirling Conservation Park

South Australia

Nearby town: Mount George

From state capital: 25.2km

Latitude: -34.98182982148839

Longitude: 138.777489066124

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Hike overview

The Wottons Scrub Circuit is a moderately challenging 3.6-kilometre hike (grade 4) located within the Kenneth Stirling Conservation Park in South Australia. This loop trail, typically taking around 1.5 hours to complete, winds through remnant native stringybark forest, similar to the nearby Mount George Conservation Park. The diverse understorey is a tapestry of bracken ferns and native grasses.

The starting point for the hike is Gate 2, conveniently located near 84 Gum Flat Road in Carey Gully. A small car park with space for 5-6 vehicles is available here. Your journey begins by walking through Gate 2 and following the designated Wottons Track.

It's important to note that the southern section of the route deviates from the fire trail and involves some off-track walking. If you're less comfortable with navigating unmarked paths, it's advisable to turn back at this point or choose a different hike. While this off-track section is relatively short, it can be disorienting for less experienced hikers.

For more information on this hiking trail, please visit Walking SA

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Walk map and GPX file
Wottons Scrub Circuit Walk (3.6km)

Total distance: 3634 m
Max elevation: 462 m
Min elevation: 391 m
Total climbing: 131 m
Total descent: -130 m

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Kenneth Stirling Conservation Park.

Due to its fragmented nature, there are multiple access points depending on which section you wish to explore. If you’re aiming for Filsell Hill, the largest section, navigate to Forest Range Road in Mount George. Alternatively, for Wotton’s Scrub, head to Gum Flat Road in Carey Gully. Limited parking is available near most trailheads, so be prepared to walk a short distance if necessary.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Aldinga Beach, Birdwood, Currency Creek, Gumeracha, Kersbrook, Lobethal, McLaren Vale, Mount Compass, Mount Pleasant, Yankalilla

About the region

A hidden gem in the Adelaide Hills, Kenneth Stirling Conservation Park offers a haven for native flora and fauna. Established in 1985, this protected area encompasses 253 hectares across five parcels of land, scattered across Balhannah, Basket Range, Carey Gully, Forest Range, and Mount George – all within an 18-kilometre radius east of Adelaide.

The park's significance lies in its remnant eucalypt vegetation. Stringybark woodlands dominate the landscape, with candlebark and manna gum adding variety on the lower slopes. This diverse environment provides a habitat for a range of plant and animal species, including some rarities. Look out for the vibrant pink boronia flowers, the elusive Southern brown bandicoot, or perhaps catch a glimpse of the shy Scaly thrush flitting through the undergrowth.

Kenneth Stirling Conservation Park's fragmented nature offers a network of walking trails, allowing visitors to explore different sections at their own pace. The park is a great destination for those seeking a peaceful escape close to Adelaide, and connects well with other walking trails in the area for those wanting to extend their exploration.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Kenneth Stirling Conservation Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Track grade

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.

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.

Let someone know

Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure

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Wottons Scrub Circuit Walk (3.6km)

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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

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Wottons Scrub Circuit Walk (3.6km)