The park may be closed on days of extreme weather risk (such as fire or flood) or for other land management reasons. Visit the NPWS website for current access conditions.
The Yandinga Five Falls walk is a 4.8-kilometre hike classified as grade 3 within the Gawler Ranges National Park, South Australia. Typically requiring around two hours to complete, this moderately challenging walk offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history and unique natural features.
Historically significant, the area was first traversed by European explorer Stephen Hack in 1857. Guided by local Aboriginal people, Hack sought suitable grazing lands and discovered numerous waterholes, including Yandinga. The subsequent rediscovery of a remnant population of the Yellow-footed Rock-wallaby at Yellow-footed Rock wallaby Falls in the 1990s proved instrumental in establishing the Gawler Ranges National Park.
The Yandinga Five Falls walk winds through the valley, providing opportunities to explore several spring-fed waterholes. While the majority of the walk is moderate, caution is advised near Wallaby Falls, where a narrow ledge requires careful navigation.
Visitors can utilise the car park at the trailhead, which also features a sheltered picnic area. Toilet facilities are available at the Yandinga campground, located a short distance from the trailhead.
Beyond the waterholes, the area showcases impressive geological formations, including rocky outcrops similar to the renowned Organ Pipes. These structures, formed over 1.5 billion years ago through volcanic activity, contribute to the region’s remarkable natural beauty.
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the
AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Walking Safety. To ensure a safe and enjoyable walking experience, adhere to the following guidelines:
- Stay on the trail: Always follow designated walking paths and avoid shortcuts or venturing off-track.
- Weather awareness: Be mindful of weather conditions and exercise extreme caution during inclement weather.
- Prepare for the elements: Carry sufficient food and water, especially in hot weather. Water from natural sources should not be consumed.
- Navigation: Bring a detailed map of the park for orientation.
- Essential gear: Wear sturdy footwear, a hat, and sunscreen. Dress appropriately for the weather.
- Emergency planning: Inform a trusted contact of your planned walking route and expected return time. Mobile phone coverage may be limited in remote areas.
By following these precautions, you can significantly enhance your safety while exploring the park's trails.
Total distance: 4674 m
Max elevation: 247 m
Min elevation: 193 m
Total climbing: 180 m
Total descent: -180 m
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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.
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.
Getting to the trailhead: Gawler Ranges National Park.
Accessing the Gawler Ranges National Park. To fully experience the Gawler Ranges National Park, a four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended due to the challenging terrain. However, high-clearance two-wheel drive vehicles can access some areas during dry conditions. Located approximately six hours northwest of Adelaide in South Australia’s spectacular southern Gawler Ranges, the park is accessible via Iron Knob, Kimba, Wudinna, or Minnipa, situated 40 kilometres to the north of the Eyre Highway. The Gawler Ranges is a popular stopover for travellers journeying between Adelaide and Perth along the Eyre Peninsula.
To reach Yandinga Falls, travel along the north-south Yardea Road within the northern section of Gawler Ranges National Park. A vehicle with high ground clearance is essential for navigating the terrain. Once you’ve arrived, you’ll find the Yandinga Falls carpark as your starting point for exploring the area.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: Carrieton, Copley, Cradock, Elliston, Hawker, Kimba, Peterborough, Poochera, Port Lincoln, Quorn, Streaky Bay, Wilpena Pound, Wudinna
Gawler Ranges National Park: A Rugged Wilderness. The Gawler Ranges National Park is a vast and remote region characterised by ancient ranges, deep gorges, and seasonal waterfalls. This majestic wilderness offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore a landscape shaped by millions of years of geological history.
Proclaimed a national park in 2002, the park plays a vital role in conserving biodiversity, protecting rare and threatened species such as the Crimson Mallee and the Yellow-footed Rock-wallaby. The iconic Organ Pipes, towering rock formations formed through volcanic activity, are a geological highlight. The park is also deeply connected to the cultural heritage of the Barngarla, Kokatha, and Wirangu Aboriginal people, who continue to maintain strong ties to the land.
The park's natural beauty varies with the seasons. Autumn and winter offer mild conditions ideal for exploring the park's many walking trails. Springtime brings a vibrant display of wildflowers, while summer, though hot, provides clear skies and stunning stargazing opportunities.
For those seeking a remote and authentic wilderness experience, the Gawler Ranges National Park offers a captivating escape.
Looking for more walks in or near Gawler Ranges National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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