This section of the trail climbs through grazing land and natural scrub to Mount Brown, where after a very “testing” ascent, walkers are provided with spectacular views of the northern Spencer Gulf from the viewing tower. A pretty single file descent leads down to Waukarie Creek and a classic Flinders Ranges creek walk.
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Dutchmans Stern
This is a deceptively tough walk with a bit of everything – undulating fire tracks with spectacular views, a rocky gorge and a gibber strewn floodplain.
Curnows Hut
This is diverse walk through native scrub, Bundaleer pine forest and farmland. The ridgetops and testing climbs reward walkers with spectacular panoramic views.
Note that the re-route of the trail established in April 2021 to follow the Bundaleer Greenway has been removed. The original trail from Curnows Hut to New Campbell Hill has been reinstated.
Bowman Park
Following the closure of the trail along the Crystal Brook, north of Bowman Park, this section now commences with a road walk continuing along Bowman Park Road past Bowman Park, turning north east along Huddleston Road. The Trail then turns north up Head Road, continuing until Pipeline Road, which it then follows until reaching Head Road and following that to the Wilkins Highway and Hughes Gap. After Hughes Gap the Trail meets the southern most hills of the Flinders Ranges and the Trail gradually climbs to the top of the range to reveal views over Port Pirie and Spencer Gulf.
Murraytown
A leisurely walk, predominantly along lightly undulating back roads, this section provides pleasant vistas over the surrounding farmland and finishes in the shadow of Mt Remarkable.
Alligator Gorge Rd
The trail initially leads over Lavender Peak to picturesque Stony Creek campsite. From there, tracks, back roads and a walk next to a busy highway take walkers to the memorial to explorer John Horrocks.
Woolshed Flat
A steady climb to start the day takes walkers to the top of the range and views over Pichi Richi Pass. After descending into the pass again, the Trail follows the historic Pichi Richi railway line, passing the remnants of deserted sidings and settlements.
Quorn
This section of the trail passes the outskirts of Quorn before climbing gradually towards The Dutchmans Stern. Taking a detour off of the Heysen Trail to walk the 6 km Dutchmans Stern loop will provide a memorable highlight.
Newikie Creek
This section passes through Caroona Creek Conservation Park and Tourilie Gorge, which is one of the lesser known gems of the Trail. Look out for the remnants of an old bullock track cut through the gorge.
Dares Hill Summit Rd
The trail takes walkers past the historic Mt Bryan East School, before beginning the climb up Mt Bryan, which is the highest point of the Mt Lofty Ranges. Walkers are rewarded with panoramic views of the Mid-North from the summit and as they descend through grazing and farming land towards Hallett.