Brachina Gorge

The basics

Many travelers explore the Brachina Gorge and the Flinders Ranges independently, self-driving the geological trail from a base in either Hawker or Wilpena Pound. Alternatively, visit as part of a multi-day tour of the Flinders Ranges, generally by 4WD or on foot, with round-trip transfers direct from Adelaide—the city is at least a 5-hour drive, which means it’s too far for a day trip. Most tours include the gorge in itineraries that also visit sights like the Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary and the Wangara Lookout.

Things to know before you go

• The Brachina Gorge is a good choice for geology fans, hikers, and nature lovers.
• Independent travelers will need to buy a park pass for their vehicle in advance.
• The trail is usually manageable in a 2WD vehicle but you’ll need a 4WD after rain.
• The trail has not yet been adapted for travelers who use wheelchairs, and bathrooms are drop toilets without disabled access.

How to get there

The Brachina Gorge is in the Flinders Ranges, within the Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park. It’s about a 290-mile (470-kilometer) drive north of Adelaide, or an hour’s drive from Hawker or the Wilpena Pound Resort. There’s no public transit so your options are self-driving or joining a tour.

When to get there

South Australia’s scorching summers often bring fire risk and trail closures, so many travelers opt to visit during the winter—June through August—although spring and fall can also be good times to appreciate the gorge. The wallabies are most active around sunset.

Brachina Gorge Geological Trail

The Brachina Gorge Geological Trail takes travelers on a journey through 130 million years of geological history over a 12.5-mile (20-kilometer) drive. Signs highlight the stories that layers in the rock tell: trilobite fossils, layers of quartzite hurled in the air when a meteorite struck, and the powerful forces that shaped the gorge itself. Most travelers self-drive the trail.