Friends of the Heysen Trail

Onkaparinga Gorge
2015-10-18
Lovely loop walk giving good views of Onkaparinga Gorge and surrounding farm land. All undulating but no steep sections. Is slippery when wet. Good shoes recomended.

Lavender Federation Trail Keyneton to Truro
2015-10-11
Sorry for posting these details late – have been ill for two weeks.

This should be a nice walk to finish our season. Walk distance is close to 21.5 kms. Could not make it any shorter because first walk next year has access issues and needs to be 21/22 kms.

Countryside will be different from what we have seen so far. There will be more open paddocks and cropping. There will be few undulations and dirt road/farm access tracks will dominate. Don’t forget to oil the hip joints!

The panorama should be green fields and more intense farming. We will see more evidence of vineyards.

If you intend to stay on after the walk has finished bring a chair and some refreshments.

Webb Gap to Old Burra Road to Worlds End
2015-10-10 - 2015-10-11
SATURDAY 10 October

The trail continues along the Tothill Range, providing expansive views over surrounding farmland and Apoinga Lagoon. A sharp climb after Huppatz Hut provides us with a taste of things to come in future walks.

SUNDAY 11 October

A short walk across paddocks to the crossing of the Morgan-Whyalla pipeline is followed by an interesting walk through an area of the Halleluja Hills before reaching Worlds End Road. Once off this road, we finish the day’s walking near the Burra Gorge Campground.

SATURDAY EVENING MEAL – The Farrell Flat Management Committee will cater for the meal at the Farrell Flat Hall. They are fundraising committee towards local events. The cost will be $30.00 per head with alternate meal drops of Beef or Pork and sweets sticky date pudding or apple crumble. Please help us support this small community by booking in for the meal. (I have eaten here twice and it has been lovely)

NOTE – If you wish to walk on only one day, please contact the FOHT office to register for that day. The online registering system will only allow you to register for both walking days.

NOTE – Bookings close earlier than normal due to catering requirements.

Tugwell Road to Inman Valley
2015-10-04
This section follows country roads, farm fence lines and attractive road reserves. Native orchids, grass trees, abundant birdlife and classic Fleurieu farmland views make this a walk to remember.

McLaren Flat
2015-10-04
This is a beautiful walk which leads us through two reserves – Manning and Blewitt Springs, with native flora in flower this time of the year. We also get lovely view of the surrounding vineyards.

This walk should take approximately 3 hours. Tea and Coffee will be provided at the end of the walk.

You may wish to visit Woodstock winery after our walk for lunch or a wine tasting.

Montacute (Mount Misery)
2015-10-04
Montacute Conservation Park and Cudlee Creek forestry area are very hilly places. Walkers should be prepared for up and down hills and if wet weather is forecast, slippery conditions as well.

The walk incorporates a steep climb to Mount Misery with wonderful views over the Kangaroo Creek reservoir and Adelaide plains.

This is a demanding walk. Walk distance 16. 4 km and will take 5 to 5.30 hours.

Bring extra water, ideally you should carry 2- 3 litres of water for this walk.

At the end of the walk we can have a well deserved break at the Anderson Hill Winery where we can eat pizza, cheese and of course sample the local wine.

Kangaroo Island Adventure
2015-10-02 - 2015-10-05
NOTE – if you want to be on a list in case of a cancellation, then please email your details to heysenKI.2015@mail.com

If an opportunity arises, then you will be contacted.

Join a fun-filled bus of hikers heading off to spend 3 nights on Kangaroo Island. A guided and catered weekend in Dormitory accommodation. Three walks,one each day, will allow time to enjoy the varied scenery, flora and fauna of this special island. Plus a pub dinner is included.

Cox's scrub
2015-09-27
This is a gentle bushland walk which was used for farming and bee keeping so their should be an abundance of wild flowers.

Their are sugar gums planted that are not native to the area, these attract the bees and birds.

The tracks are sandy, which make a slower walk.

Mount Compass to Myponga to Inman Valley
2015-09-26 - 2015-09-27
The theme for the weekend is “CONES”.

Sat.26th: Beginning with a long, steady climb up Woodcone Road, we then enter cow country on our way to Mount Cone for views down to Victor Harbor. Generally following ridges, we get to the small but diverse Yulte Conservation Park before making our way down towards Myponga.

Sun.27th: We begin with pretty farmland and quiet country roads then climb towards Myponga Conservation Park for views and some testing undulations. More spectacular rural views as we approach Sugarloaf Hill before a steep descent down to gum-lined road walking into Inman Valley.

NOTE – If you wish to walk on only one day, please contact the FOHT office to register for that day. The online registering system will only allow you to register for both walking days.

EE George Quarry to Chlorinator based at Spalding
2015-09-26 - 2015-09-27
Saturday – Most of this section is spent walking south, initially along the crest of Brown Hill Range, following the remnants of an old 1840s stone wall (the longest in SA). It is quite an undulating walk, with little shelter from the elements, however the views make up for any discomfort. The last 5-6 km follow rural back roads to the main Spalding to Burra road.

Sunday – This is a very flat, but unique walk that follows the Freshwater intake channel for Bundaleer Reservoir, only leaving it for a few km to go through Spalding. Walkers will see some fascinating examples of engineering from the early 1900s.

NOTE – If you wish to walk on only one day, please contact the FOHT office to register for that day. The online registering system will only allow you to register for both walking days.

Cleland to Montacute Heights
2015-09-20
This spectacular section of the trail passes throuth the native bushland of Cleland, Horsnell Gully and Morialta Conservation Parks and along roadsides, providing frequent vistas over Adelaide and the Hills.

Mount Crawford
2015-09-20

Newland Head
2015-09-20
The flora and the scenery on this walk are spectacular.

It is just about my favourite spring walk and I am always delighted by the chance to see some rare coastal heath in flower.

There are magnificant views so dont forget camera &/or binoculars. Bring rain and wind protection as well as lunch, snacks and water.

This walk is about 13km but it is relatively flat and easy.

Broadview to Woolshed Flat to Quorn based in Quorn
2015-09-19 - 2015-09-20
SATURDAY 19 SEPTEMBER

This section of the trail climbs through grazing land and natural scrub to Mount Brown, where walkers are provided with spectacular views of the northern Spencer Gulf from the viewing tower. A pretty single file descent leads to Waukarie Creek and a classic Flinders Ranges creek walk.

SUNDAY 20 SEPTEMBER

A steady climb to start the day takes walkers to the top of the range and views over Pichi Richi Pass. After following the ridgeline for a few kilometres the trail descends into the pass again. The Trail follows the historic Pichi Richi railway line, passing the remnants of deserted sidings and settlements.

THEME – ‘Q’

NOTE – If you wish to walk on only one day, please contact the FOHT office to register for that day. The online registering system will only allow you to register for both walking days.

Lavender Federation Trail Springton to Keyneton
2015-09-13
Farm land, rocky outcrops and a few undulations. Eden Valley district has Olive Groves and vineyards and old copper mines are evident.

We pass Moculta settled in the 1850s by German immigrants with its heritage reflected in the buildings still remaining from those early times.

Keyneton is a pretty country village dating from the late 19th century. This village is named after the English Pastoralist, Joseph Keynes with many of his descendants still living in the area.

Ambers Gully
2015-09-13
A great walk to test the skills, with several sharp undulations. See the best of the Black Hill Conservation Park in a morning walk, being rewarded very quickly with magnificent views of Adelaide. Previous walks in this area have yielded kangaroo’s, koalas and an echidna.

Some recent uphill walking prior to participating would be an advantage.

Walk through the Sugar Loaves, then a steep track down to Ghost Tree Gully and up the Summit Link trail. Downhill from here, meandering along the Ambers Gully track, to the car park.

Should be comfortable 3 Â½ hours, but have allowed plenty of time for the ups.

Meal after at Cafe Primo, Dernancourt Shopping Centre, Lower North East Road, Dernancourt optional. Please let me know if you would like a meal in the notes, as being Sunday lunch, we may need to book a table.

Waitpinga to Tugwell Road
2015-09-06
One of the most spectacular sections of the Trail, walkers follow sandy tracks through the coastal scrub of Newland Head Conservation Park, and dramatic clifftops towards Victor Harbor. Here whales have been sighted, as well as seals, dolphins and the endangered white bellied sea eagle. At Kings Beach the Trail leaves the coast following roads and an uncleared road reserve to begin the long journey north.

Mount Lofty
2015-09-06
The first half of this walk essentially follows a contour line around the west face of Mount Lofty before it descends into Piccadilly Valley. There are good views across the City at some points and many interesting plants amongst the native veg. The return leg will take us up through the Rhododendron Gully in the Botanic Gardens.

Thomas Hill
2015-09-06
See one of the prettiest areas of the Adelaide Hills, so close to Adelaide. This is a loop walk around the Montacute Conservation Park and will be predominately along fire tracks, but provide magnificent views of the Kangaroo Creek and Millbrook Reservoirs, plus the summit of Mt Misery.

In total we will walk 16.8km however allow between 6 Â½ – 7 hours. There are two extensive uphill sections, so above average fitness will be necessary to comfortably complete the walk.

Hazards:

– Moss on tracks in the pine forest and wet clay on Mt Misery may be very slippery.

– Bikes

Kookaburras and kangaroos almost guaranteed, plus the odd echidna.

Expect 80% undulations.

Coffee, scones and medicinal alcohol at The Cudlee CafÃ© after the walk, a great way to catch up on the latest gossip.

Mt Lofty Botanic Loop
2015-08-30
This walk will take in the Heysen Mount Lofty loop and Cleland tracks.

Mylor Nature Trail
2015-08-30
This walk will initially take us along a narrow bush track which leads through the Valley of the Bandicoots wildlife corridor. The return leg follows part of The Heysen Trail. Amongst the understory of the woodland stretches expect to see a good selection of native plants in full bloom at this time of year. At the end of the walk, for those interested, Mylor Harvest CafÃ© is a popular destination for freshly prepared light meals, tea, coffee & cakes.

Alligator Gorge Road to Broadview based in Quorn
2015-08-29 - 2015-08-30
These walks will be done out of sequence so that the longer day can be walked on Saturday.

SATURDAY 29 AUGUST

This is a tough walk starting with a climb out of Horrocks Pass to the ridge, then an undulating walk over exposed gibber littered hills. Walkers are rewarded though with views over the Willochra Plain.

SUNDAY 30 AUGUST

The trail initially leads over Lavender Peak to picturesque Stony Creek campsite. From there, tracks, back roads and a busy highway take walkers to the memorial to explorer John Horrocks.

THEME – Trains

NOTE – If you wish to walk on only one day, please contact the FOHT office to register for that day. The online registering system will only allow you to register for both walking days.

Gandy's Gully Roller Coaster
2015-08-23
this walk will be hard with numerous climbs & descents, some people will know of the tracks.

Hale Conservation Park
2015-08-23
This walk is in a spectacularly beautiful area. The underlying Algate sandstone was laid down about 800 million years ago and it supports a lovely heath which should be close to it’s best in late August. We will pass an old mica mine and perhaps the waterfall may be flowing. If we are lucky we may see some echidnas and other critters. We will follow the the circuit walk of 4km and also take a spur track to increase the distance to about 10km.

Old Wonoka to Parachilna Trailhead
2015-08-22 - 2015-08-30
IMPORTANT NOTE

This is a multi-day walk. Registration requires payment of the END TO END EXTENDED WALK FEE. Accommodation and meal costs are not included. Those registering are invited to travel on the bus, at no extra cost, from Adelaide to Rawnsley Park Station (Friday 21 August, departing 9.00 am) and return to Adelaide (Sunday 30 August). If you choose to drive your own vehicle to the base location at Rawnsley Park the fee remains the same. Please note that there are no other fee options for this multi-day event. Accommodation and meal arrangements are the responsibility of each person registering. Group meals are planned for Monday 24 August (byo BBQ), Wednesday 26 August (informal byo BBQ), Friday 28 August (leftovers night) and Saturday 29 August (celebration dinner).

If you are unable to walk for the specified 7 walk days comprising this multi-day event and you still wish to register, contact the Friends’ office during operating hours.

End to End 5 commenced walking the Heysen Trail on Sunday 16 May 2010 with 39 walkers. This is the final set of walks ending at the Parachilna Trailhead on Saturday 29 August 2015.

(All map numbers provided are taken from the Northern Guide, Heysen Trail, Spalding to Parachilna Gorge, Book 2, May 2010.)

BASE LOCATION:

Rawnsley Park Station http://www.rawnsleypark.com.au/

FRIDAY 21 AUGUST

For those travelling by bus, the departure time is 9.00 am from the Central Bus Station, 85 Franklin Street, Adelaide. Please be at the bus station at 8.30 am for loading.

SATURDAY 22 AUGUST (WALK 1 – Old Wonoka to Mt Little Stn)

A classic Flinders Ranges creek walk, the whole day is spent in Wonoka Creek which has been the site of a couple of major floods in recent years.

SUNDAY 23 AUGUST (WALK 2 – Mt Little Stn to Moralana Dr)

This long section of the Trail (just over 30 kms) follows picturesque Mernmerna Creek and Slaty Creek to the Red Range campsite. After which it becomes a pretty walk with gentle undulations, along creeklines and through native pine woodlands, in the shadow of Elder Range and Mt Aleck.

MONDAY 24 AUGUST (WALK 3 – Moralana Dr to Wilpena )

This is one of the very special walks of the Trail, starting with a pretty creek walk through Black Gap, before climbing the Pound Range to Bridle Gap, where a look back provides spectacular views of Elder Range. Entering Flinders Range National Park, it is a pleasant stroll across Wilpena Pound to complete the day.

TUESDAY 25 AUGUST (WALK 4 – Wilpena to Bunyeroo)

This walk is entirely within the Flinders Ranges National Park with much of the day spent following the Wilcolo Track between the ABC range and the towering peaks of Wilpena Pound.

WEDNESDAY 26 AUGUST (REST DAY)

THURSDAY 27 AUGUST (WALK 5 – Bunyeroo to Trezona)

In this section walkers climb from Bunyeroo Valley, up to Yanyanna Hut, passing several vantage points along the way that provide superb photo opportunities of the ranges behind. Continuing along Yanyanna Track, the trail passes old settlers’ huts before entering the geologically significant Trezona area.

FRIDAY 28 JUNE (WALK 6 – Trezona to Aroona Hut)

This section starts with a pleasant walk along Brachina and Enorama creeks past the Golden Spike and other significant geological sites, before climbing to cross the ABC Range, where spectacular views of the Heysen Range unfold.

SATURDAY 29 AUGUST (WALK 7 – Aroona Hut to Parachilna)

This final section of the trail follows Aroona Valley to the watershed dividing it from the Parachilna Creek catchment to the north. It then follows the valley between ABC Range and Heysen Range, past abandoned mines to the final stile at the Parachilna Trailhead. This walk is a pleasant amble, perfect for reflecting on the years and kilometres taken to get here, and the friendships made along the way.

There will be celebration at the end of the walk followed by a celebration dinner at Rawnsley Park. Dress is ‘dressy casual’.

SUNDAY 30 AUGUST

Bus returns to Adelaide leaving Rawnsley Park at 8.30 am.

THEME

We’ve seen a lot of red arrows along the way. They’ve been in all sorts of places and a constant companion. At times they’ve been hard to find but their presence has given us a means to achieve our way in relative safety. The theme is therefore RED ARROWS in honour of our markers for 1200 km along the Heysen Trail and the people who put them there.

Dashwood Gully Road to Kyeema to Mount Compass
2015-08-22 - 2015-08-23
The Theme for the weekend is MAGNIFICENT

Sat.22nd: A surprisingly flat walk today taking us through Kuitpo forest and finishing with a stroll through the delightful Kyeema Conservation Park.

Sun.23rd: Back into the lumpy stuff with some ups and downs and a fair amount of road walking as we enter Mt.Magnificent Conservation Park (and a short, sharp climb to the summit for those that are keen). Next we have a short, steep walk down thru Finniss Conservation Park before more roads to the dairy-cow country approaching Mt.Compass

NOTE – If you wish to walk on only one day, please contact the FOHT office to register for that day. The online registering system will only allow you to register for both walking days.

Dares Hill Summit Road to EE George Quarry based at Burra
2015-08-22 - 2015-08-23
Saturday – 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.

Sunday – A gently undulating walk, mainly along rural back roads and road reserves. The seasonally changing hues of the surrounding farmland make this a unique and pleasant walk.

NOTE – If you wish to walk on only one day, please contact the FOHT office to register for that day. The online registering system will only allow you to register for both walking days.

Mylor to Cleland
2015-08-16
Although the most populous section of the trail, it still retains a rural feel as walkers pass through the parks and bushland of Bridgewater, Mt George Conservation Park, Mt Lofty Botanic Gardens and Cleland Conservation Park.

Little Kaiser Stuhl Walk
2015-08-16
A walk in the Barossa Ranges near the Little Kaiserstuhl. Part of this walk is on the Heysen Trail.

Wirra Wirra Peaks
2015-08-16
The walk will take about 5 hours walk time for 19 km.Some steep sections but mostly on access roads and tracks. Some of the walk will take in parts of the Heysen Trail and morning tea at Freemans hut.

For the stayers drinks can be bought at the Williamstown Hotel around an open fire.
