The Heysen Walking Trail

The Heysen Walking Trail is Australia’s longest walking trail and winds through the wonderfully diverse terrain of the Adelaide Hills, Flinders and Mt Lofty Ranges, continuing through the rolling hills of Fleurieu Peninsula and on to the south coast and Cape Jervis with its stunning sea cliffs and beautiful beaches.

Meandering through some of the most beautiful and in places rugged parts of the country, the Heysen Trail extends 1,200 kilometers. Whether you’re after a short walk or ready to take on the full 60 day journey across the entire path, this is a great walking trail with something for everyone.

There are many state forests, reserves and national parks along the trail and the natural environment is perfect for bird watching, photography and an excellent place to enjoy the abundant plant and wildlife. At one point the Heysen follows the main street in the quaint village of Tanunda. A brief detour from the Heysen onto the Tanunda Loop Walk will take hikers past two cellar doors for those who may be interested in sampling some of the area’s wines.

The Heysen Trail is closed for summer during fire season however some parts of the trail that follow public roads or in areas through national forests or reserves are open year-round. When hiking the trail it is always a good idea to have a map of the route however guided tours are also available and conducted by The Friends of the Heysen Trail. As this is a trail dedicated to the enjoyment of walkers and hikers, dogs, horses and bicycles are not allowed on the trail.