This hike, along with others in the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail (KIWT) series, is written to support those completing the full multi-day hike. The route descriptions, distances, and logistics assume a staged, continuous journey and are not intended to be used as standalone day walks.
Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail - Day 5: Also known as Hanson Bay hike, this walk is a leisurely finale from Tea Tree Campground to KelÂly Hill Caves that includes cave wonders on the Kelly Hill Section.
Day 5 of the KIWT offers a delightful 7.5-kilometer (grade 4) farewell, taking approximately 2-3 hours to complete. This leisurely final leg allows you to savor the diverse beauty of the island's recovering woodlands, freshwater lakes, and unique "karst" cave systems.
The trail winds through a variety of habitats, culminating at the stunning Wilderness and Grassdale Lagoons. Here, birdwatchers will be enthralled by sightings of resident and migratory woodland and wading birds. These vital freshwater havens provide sustenance even during dry periods when other water sources disappear.
A short stroll through a beautiful sugar gum forest, teeming with orchids and fungi in the wetter months, leads you to the grand finale: the awe-inspiring Kelly Hill Caves. Celebrate your accomplishment with a photo at the trail's end, and consider taking a guided tour to unlock the secrets of these limestone wonders. Discover how time and nature have sculpted these spectacular cave decorations, leaving you with a lasting impression of Kangaroo Island's magic.
Immerse yourself in a world-class adventure on the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail (KIWT), a challenging 62-kilometer, five-day trek. This iconic Australian journey grants you unparalleled access to South Australia's most rugged and breathtaking coastlines.
With each step, uncover the secrets this unique ecosystem holds. Traverse the most botanically diverse region in South Australia before reaching the dramatic coastlines where the Southern Ocean crashes against the shore. Prepare to be awestruck by the unimaginable beauty that unfolds before you.
The trail winds through a variety of protected areas, including Flinders Chase National Park, Kelly Hill Conservation Park, and the Cape Bouguer Wilderness Protection Area. Encounter the island's unique wildlife while traversing new and upgraded trails.
Along the way, witness the otherworldly Remarkable Rocks, marvel at the natural wonder of Admirals Arch, and explore historic Weirs Cove. Hike to the pristine Hanson Bay and delve into the fascinating Kelly Hill Caves. This unforgettable experience offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, diverse wildlife encounters, and historical exploration.
Please don’t copy GPX files or content from this site to AllTrails or other platforms. Each trail has been personally mapped, documented, and refined to support Australia’s bushwalking and hiking community. While some details come from land managers, every listing reflects significant personal effort. This is a free, community-driven initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.
Total distance: 7137 m
Max elevation: 62 m
Min elevation: 11 m
Total climbing: 151 m
Total descent: -132 m
Getting to the trailhead: Flinders Chase National Park.
KanÂgaÂroo Island is just 35 minÂutes by air from AdeÂlaide AirÂport to Kingscote on KanÂgaÂroo Island, or 2.5 hours by coach plus 1 hour by ferÂry from AdeÂlaide. It’s then a 1.5 to 2 hour driÂve to the start of the KanÂgaÂroo Island WilderÂness Trail in Flinders Chase NationÂal Park.
You can travÂel in the comÂfort of your own vehiÂcle from the mainÂland via the Sealink ferÂry and then on to Flinders Chase NationÂal Park, or you can pick up a rental car from Kingscote, Kingscote AirÂport or PenÂneshaw. LimÂitÂed numÂbers of cars are availÂable for hire on the island so advance bookÂings are recÂomÂmendÂed. A desÂigÂnatÂed car parkÂing area will be availÂable at Flinders Chase NationÂal Park VisÂiÂtor CenÂtre for indeÂpenÂdent walkers.
Closest towns to this walk: American River, Emu Bay, Kingscote, Parndana, Penneshaw, Seal Bay, Vivonne Bay
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.
Looking for more walks in or near Flinders Chase National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Kelly Hill Conservation Park
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Flinders Chase National Park
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Flinders Chase National Park
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Flinders Chase National Park
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.
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.
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.
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
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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5 Reviews on “KIWT - Day 5: Kelly Hill Section (7.5km)”
Another great days walking, again through easy bushland tracks.
Some magnificent views of the Grassland Lagoon as you head toward Kelly Hill Caves.
It’s a short walk in comparison to the previous days, so I suggest you take your time and soak it all in
… that is, of course, unless you are hankering for a shower and something fresh to eat. Then get a wiggle on and you’ll be clean, fed and rested by lunch time.