Description
Safely complete the final 85km of the Heysen Trail in the Northern Flinders Ranges
7 DAYS | 6 NIGHTS
Challenge | Discover | Fulfil
Overview
Flinders Ranges Heysen Trail Adventure
Black Gap to Parachilna (85km)
Join Big Heart Adventures as we capture the artful beauty and challenge of the Heysen Trail in Adnyamathanha Country.
This ultimate walking holiday in the Flinders, takes you through Ikara Wilpena Pound, past St Mary Peak, to Bunyeroo, Brachina, Aroona, and up to remote Parachilna. In recognition of Sir Hans Heysen this adventure showcases walking and art. Experience why the Flinders Ranges inspired Hans and why modern day landscape artists continue to paint these stunning landscapes.
You will walk pack-free (daypacks only) along the final 5 northern sections of the iconic Heysen Trail. These sections are remote, so you will be walking through spectacular landscapes less visited. End to End Heysen Trail walkers comment these sections are some of the most rewarding, so here is your chance to experience that feeling.
Included is guaranteed connections to nature, stunning scenery, transport and trail transfers, freshly cooked meals and comfortable single room nearby accommodation every night – every traveller has their own bedroom on this adventure.
The campfires and glowing outback skies await on this 7 day ultimate walking adventure.
Professionally led by our qualified and experienced adventure leaders.
Itinerary
Day 1 | Depart Adelaide
Leaving Adelaide this morning, we head north in our comfortable bus to Port Wakefield for morning tea. Then we cross the Flinders Ranges via the wonderful Pichi Richi Pass to Quorn, a pretty outback town and popular filming location. Here, you can grab some supplies prior to lunch.
Continuing further north, we arrive at The Jeff Morgan Gallery. A chance to stretch your legs and connect with this gorgeous country through huge 360 degree panoramic paintings of the Flinders. Here, we will demonstrate the trail sections you will walk. Then we continue north to our peaceful accommodation at Willow Springs.
Meals Included: Lunch, 2 Course Dinner
Walking Distance:
Day 2 | Heysen Trail (Black Gap to Wilpena)
After breakfast, its a scenic drive to our walks starting point at Black Gap. On the way we visit a special tree that has inspired photographers for almost 100 years.
Our hike today follows the Heysen Trail up and over Bridle Gap into the spectacular Wilpena Pound. The views are amazing. Lunch will be enjoyed along the way and we have a chance to visit the Wilpena resort café and store.
Dinner during sunset will be provided when we return to our accommodation.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Trail Snacks, 2 Course Dinner
Walking Distance: 15km
Day 3 | Heysen Trail (Wilpena to Bunyeroo)
Returning to Wilpena Pound, we continue our hike on the Heysen Trail. Today, we venture north between the ABC Range and Heysen Range on a gentle descent, before crossing the range and down into Bunyeroo Valley. The final climb provides spectacular views as we pass through habitat of yellow footed rock wallabies to our days destination at Yanyanna Hut.
We return to our quarters to enjoy dinner and a night gazing up at the sky.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Trail Snacks, 2 Course Dinner
Walking Distance: 23km
Day 4 | Heysen Trail (Bunyeroo to Trezona)
This morning you can sleep-in as we will start our walk a little later.
Returning to Yanyanna Hut we continue northwards on the Heysen Trail to the Trezona Range. Passing the old Elatina Hut and mine ruins. With the landscape changing we will share with you the geology of the region during our drive.
This afternoon we return to our new accommodation further north.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Trail Snacks, 2 Course Dinner
Walking Distance: 12km
Day 5 | Heysen Trail (Trezona to Aroona)
Our hike today passes the Ediacaran Golden Spike geological site (the only Golden Spike in the southern hemisphere) then runs between the Trezona Range to the east, and the ABC Range on our left. Its a steady ascent towards the top of the range before reaching Aroona Hut ruin. This hut was used by Hans Heysen when he visited this area to paint.
We return to our accommodation to relax and unwind at sunset with a delicious nibbles platter and sumptuous dinner.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Trail Snacks, Nibble Platter, Dinner
Walking Distance: 16km
Day 6 | Heysen Trail (Aroona to Parachilna)
Today is our final hike on the Heysen Trail in the Flinders Ranges.
Beginning at Aroona Hut, we follow the valley between the Heysen Range and the ABC Range. Crossing the Taringa Saddle we make our way down to Parachilna Creek. This creek marks the end point of the Heysen Trail. Our vehicle will be waiting here at the trail-head for us.
Returning to our accommodation to freshen up, its then off to the historic Blinman Hotel to celebrate over dinner.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Trail Snacks, 2 Course Dinner
Walking Distance: 18km
Day 7 | Return to Adelaide
Today we farewell the northern landscapes as we head south.
Leaving the Flinders Ranges, we journey back to Adelaide with morning tea in Quorn and lunch in Melrose. The drive this afternoon is scenic and will include opportunities to stretch your legs and grab a refreshment. We stop to admire some wonderful Silo Art, and pass through the picturesque Clare Valley wine region, before arriving back in Adelaide at around 5pm.
We provide multiple drop off points including most CBD hotels dependent on traffic.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Trail Snacks
Walking Distance: n/a
Need To Know
Inclusions
Travel
- Comfortable private bus transport
- 4WD vehicle trail transfers
Meals
- All meals and snacks as per the itinerary
- 2 course dinners
- B x 6 | L x 6 | D x 6
Accommodation
- Willow Springs Station
- Alpana Station or Gum Creek Station
- 6 nights single bedrooms (shared bathrooms)
Activities
- Professionally guided walks
- Nature connection activities on trail
- Jeff Morgan art gallery showcasing painted Flinders panoramas
- Heysen Trail (final 5 northern sections, 85km)
Safety
- Each trip has 2 Guides/Leaders
- Group First Aid kit and emergency communication device
- Leaders certified in Remote Area/Wilderness First Aid
- Qualified Bushwalking Leaders
Environmental
- Small group guided experience
- Leave No Trace principles
- Invitations to connect with nature
- Reduce waste through recycling, reusing and composting
- National Park entry fees
Big Heart Extras
- Big Heart Adventures designed ioMerino hiking top
- Big Heart Adventures designed head sock
- Big Heart Adventures journal
- 4 pre-departure training walks and or training program (trip specific)
- Discounts for pre-departure purchases at Exurbia
- A charity contribution to our Give Back program
Exclusions
- Comprehensive Travel Insurance
- Meals and drinks not stated on itinerary
- Items of a personal nature
Trail Notes
We grade the overall walking on this itinerary as MODERATE-CHALLENGING
(see our grading system)
This grading is provided as general advice only, and is based on our assessment and also feedback from past participants. Please consider your level of fitness and experience in regard to this rating, and if you’re unsure please contact us for more information
Black Gap to Wilpena
Distance: 15km
Elevation Gain: 400m
Elevation Loss: 250m
Wilpena to Bunyeroo
Distance: 23km
Elevation Gain: 450m
Elevation Loss: 550m
Bunyeroo to Trezona
Distance: 12km
Elevation Gain: 125m
Elevation Loss: 200m
Trezona to Aroona
Distance: 16km
Elevation Gain: 325m
Elevation Loss: 300m
Aroona to Parachilna
Distance: 18km
Elevation Gain: 275m
Elevation Loss: 400m
Why choose us
10 REASONS TO WALK WITH US
Realistic Itineraries
we want you to love and be inspired by the Flinders Ranges and the Heysen Trail. This tour itinerary is well-designed and realistic, allowing you to complete the full itinerary ….. we don’t over sell and under deliver
Be Fulfilled
this itinerary is designed to maximise your awe and leave you fulfilled. You will walk every step of the Heysen Trail from Black Gap on Moralana Drive to the end of the Heysen Trail at Parachilna Creek. We’ve planned this itinerary so you get the full experience and time to relax ….. you won’t leave feeling unfulfilled
Nature Connection
we want you to feel de-stressed and re-energised. So, our guides are also nature facilitators with skills to immerse you with your surrounds. Not only do we safely guide you and share our knowledge, we also provide invitations for you to slow down and connect deeper with nature whilst walking the trail (included activities such as an introduction to Shinrin-yoku ‘Forest Bathing’ ) <learn more about Forest Bathing here> ….. we’re pioneers of hiking with deep nature immersion
Group Fitness
we want you to succeed and maximise your enjoyment, so pre-tour training walks, training programs, and group chats online are provided leading up to your walking tour (included as part of the tour price). These will assist you to practice on terrain that you are likely to encounter, meet your guides and other group members, ask questions on what to expect, receive advice on the trail, travel, and the destination, and gauge your level of fitness. Many people underestimate the difficulty of walking this trail and end up under-prepared and unfulfilled ….. so we invest in your preparation
Meaningful Moments
we will bring your Heysen Trail experience alive ….. a guide book, phone App, and interstate companies can’t do this as well as a local South Australian tour operator like us
Flexibility (2 guides)
our departures have 2 experienced guides. Having 2 guides means we can better cater for group dynamics and individual needs. Factors such as walking pace, injuries and incidents can mean changes to the itinerary become necessary, and if there was only 1 guide then these changes will impact on your expectations and your level of enjoyment ….. avoiding this is why we always have 2 guides
Safety
our wilderness trained guides from Adelaide carry comprehensive group first-aid kits, satellite communication devices, and safety equipment. In addition, safety procedures are in place, and constant communication is undertaken with local emergency services. There isn’t mobile phone coverage along sections of this trail ….. so for your safety, we always have multiple communication devices
Timing
we go at the best time of the year for comfortable walking conditions. We can’t guarantee perfect weather everyday, but you can book with confidence
Small Groups
a maximum of 6 only on each departure. Meaning, it’s better for the environment, you get your own bedroom each night, and you won’t feel like you’re just a number in the crowd
Travel Assistance
our in-house travel specialists can assist you with travel insurance. If you’re arriving from interstate or from international destinations we can also package any accommodation, flights, and add-ons in addition to this tour. Package your Heysen Trail walk with us and save stress, time and money
Packing List
A detailed packing list is provided prior to travel
- Gear you will need:
- Rainproof jacket and pants
- Daypack (35 litre approx.)
- Water bottles/hydration kit (min 2Ltrs)
- Personal medications
- Clothing suitable for walking that is quick drying and breathable – consider merino/synthetic clothing
- Sun protection such as hat, sunglasses and suncream, insect repellent
- Sleeping attire
Accessibility
There are stairs, uneven surfaces and moving luggage to and from accommodation, plus walking bush trails on this trip. Please talk to us about your accessibility needs before booking
Details
- Type: All Genders Guided
- Adventure: Flinders Ranges Heysen Trail Adventure
- Destination: Flinders Ranges, South Australia
- Traditional Country: Adnyamathanha
- Group Size: Max 6 plus leaders
Fitness Requirement
- A good level of fitness is required to walk the trails on this trip
- You will be walking pack free (day packs only)
- You will walk on a variety of surfaces including undulating trails, steep sections, rock scrambling, and loose ground
- Our longest walking day is 23km and we walk 5 consecutive days on this adventure
- Trip rating: Moderate-challenging
Important Information
- *Eligible Past Traveller Discount applies if you’ve travelled with us on any of our guided tours which were 5 days duration or longer
- Read terms and conditions before booking
- Itinerary and price subject to change at any time
- Travel Insurance is recommended. Get a quote from Covermore or Go Insurance
- Note weather, group member welfare and a range of circumstances outside our control can mean last minute changes to our itinerary are necessary once on tour
- We only offer solo room use on this trip so everyone gets their own sleeping space
- Please contact us before booking any flights. Depending on flight arrival and departure times extra nights accommodation may be required at own expense
- A minimum number of travellers are required for this trip to depart so ask someone to join you. If minimum numbers aren’t reached, we may decide to still go or we will provide a full refund
- Training walks start 6 weeks prior to departure. We recommend you attend these walks to maximise your enjoyment and for the groups welfare when away
- If this trip departs during Fire Ban Season – last minute changes to our itinerary or walking days may be required for safety reasons
- Rooming is single bedrooms with shared bathrooms
- Private transport to and from the Flinders Ranges is included from Adelaide, with multiple pick up points available in transit between Adelaide and Hawker
- Private transport in the Flinders Ranges plus daily trail transfers is included in 4WD vehicle. Unsealed roads in this region can close to all vehicles after heavy rain. At times, these roads may also be restricted to certain vehicle type use only.
- If you have additional needs please connect with us, we’re committed to being inclusive and accessible
Adventure Leaders
Our team is qualified, experienced and super friendly. We will ensure you have a fun and connecting adventure. Leaders are certified in Remote or Wilderness First-Aid. All leaders carry a group first-aid kit, emergency communications device, emergency documentation and equipment.
