5 Day Itinerary Northern Flinders Ranges
Suggested Itinerary
5 days from Adelaide
Venture into the heart of the Northern Flinders Ranges with a few nights in Quorn, Wilpena Pound and a farm stay on a working sheep station.
Take unforgettable 4WD tracks, step back in time on Quorn’s iconic heritage railway, and find a deeper connection to the region on cultural tours hosted by the First Nations Adnyamathanha people, the Traditional Owners of Ikara-Flinders Ranges.
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Adelaide to Quorn and an afternoon of gentle scenic trails
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Ride on Quorn's iconic heritage railway and venture into Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park
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Glamp at Wilpena Pound Resort and explore ancient secrets with an Adnyamathanha Yura (guide)
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An authentic farm stay and unforgettable 4WD trails at SkyTrek Willow Springs Station
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Return to Adelaide via Hawker for lunch
Day 1: Adelaide to Quorn
The fastest route from Adelaide to Quorn is along the National Highway A1 through Port Pirie. Aim to arrive in Quorn by lunchtime, allowing 3.5 - 4 hours for a direct drive. This quaint heritage town has a range of popular cafes and beautiful old pubs, so you will have several places to find a delicious country lunch.
Quorn is a popular stop along the Heyson and Mawson Trails thanks to the convenient town facilities and proximity to local attractions. From the centre of town it’s an easy 20-30 minute drive to stunning locations such as Warren Gorge, Dutchmen’s Stern or Argadells.
Return to Quorn to catch the Silo Light Show, a stunning audiovisual display that runs for free every night from sunset.
Aussie Travel Code Tip: Travel with a satellite phone and always keep someone informed of your plans.
These locations are so easy to access that they may not feel remote, but they are unlikely to have mobile reception. In case of emergency or vehicle breakdown, it will be too far to walk to get help.
Day 2: Quorn - Pichi Richi Railway
First established in 1878, Pichi Richi Railway is an award-winning tourism experience on a fully restored steam or diesel train. This impressive heritage rail experience runs between Quorn and Port Augusta, sharing wonderful stories from its long and interesting history while passengers enjoy the picturesque journey.
Once you return to Quorn, refuel and stop by the IGA to pick up supplies before heading to Wilpena Pound Resort, roughly 1.5 hours north.
Aussie Travel Code Tip: We’re heading into remote areas now so always travel with a satellite phone, some non-perishable food items and a minimum of 6L of drinking water per person, per day.
The magnificent Ikara Wilpena Pound is the jewel in the crown of the Flinders Ranges. The First Nations Adnyamathanha people are the Traditional Owners of Ikara-Flinders National Park, and proudly share insights into Adnyamathanha culture by offering award-winning tourism experiences. Wilpena Pound Resort offers the only accommodation within the National Park, including resort rooms, camping sites or glamping at the Ikara Safari Camp.
Aim to arrive at the Resort in time for the daily Welcome to Country ceremony held by an Adnyamathanha Yura (guide) in the traditional Yura Ngawarla language with English interpretation. Check the upcoming schedule on the Wilpena Pound website.
Day 3: Wilpena Pound - Aboriginal Cultural Tours
See the magnificent view of this ancient mountain range from the air on a scenic flight across the awe-inspiring expanse of Adnyamathanha Country.
Many self-guided trails are available throughout Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park, but for the best experience it is recommended to explore the region on a tour with an Adnyamathanha Yura (guide). On certain tours your Yura will invite you to access precious locations that are otherwise closed to the general public. See ancient Aboriginal rock carvings, discover fossils and geological wonders dating back millions of years, and hear stories and insights that can only be shared by an Adnyamathanha elder.
From Wilpena Pound Resort, head half an hour east to SkyTrek Willow Springs Station for an adventurous farmstay at a working sheep station.
Day 4: SkyTrek Willow Springs
Willow Springs Station is home to SkyTrek, one of the best 4WD tracks in the Flinders Ranges. Both beginners and experienced drivers alike will have a blast on this self-drive track. Allow around 7 hours to take a fun and scenic drive through the working sheep station and into the Flinders Ranges. See an abundance of native wildlife, stop by tranquil natural water holes and climb a few hills to be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of the surrounding ranges.
Day 5: Adelaide via Hawker
Start the drive back towards the city with one last stop in Hawker.
Drop in to the amazing Flinders Food Co, a crowd favourite for delicious Aussie-inspired gourmet food, great coffee, cocktails and sweets.
Visit the Jeff Morgan Gallery to see astonishingly lifelike murals by local oil painter, Jeff Morgan.
From Hawker, the drive back to Adelaide will take around 4.5 hours along the B80/RM Williams Way.