Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary must be one of the most spectacular places on earth. Rolling countryside, epic mountains, rocks and rugged terrain combine to make a great destination for your next outback trip.
Located in the upper reaches of Ikara-Flinders Ranges (yep, the name has officially changed), allow for an 8-hour drive from Adelaide via Leigh Creek. Despite what you might think when you rock up outside the motel reception, you definitely don’t need a big accessory-packed 4WD to see the best bits of Arkaroola.
The family sedan should be more than capable. The road in from Leigh Creek can be rough near the start but usually gets better as you go along. Just know where your spare tyre is and how to change it!
There are multiple accommodation options to stay at Arkaroola, from lovely motel units to bush camping on a budget, and you can get a good feed at the restaurant and bar.
My Top 5 Things To Do:
1. Acacia Ridge Hike
If you do only one thing at Arkaroola, I reckon it has to be the 3-hour Acacia Ridge Hike. Walking along the ridge, which parallels the main road into Arkaroola, you see the Village dwarfed by the surrounding mountains.
The 556m summit has outstanding 360-degree views all the way out to Lake Frome. Rocky terrain so ensure that you have sturdy hiking boots.
The view from Acacia Ridge
2. Ridgetop Tour
A baptism of fire for those who’ve never been ‘proper’ 4WDing – some parts will make you wonder ‘can you really drive a vehicle up that?’. Not cheap for a big family, but definitely worth it for excellent local knowledge from tour guides and the view from Siller’s Lookout (only accessible on this tour, not in your own car). An experience you won’t forget in a hurry.
Sillers Lookout – Not a bad vantage point, I’m sure you’ll agree?
3. Tillite Gorge Walk
This relaxed walk takes you along the bed of Kingsmill Creek, shaded by big gum trees, until you reach spectacular Tillite Gorge. Ask for directions at the reception, and be sure to take a water bottle and hat.
Hiking the Tillite Gorge, along the bed of Kingsmill Creek
4. Sunset drive to Arkaroola Waterhole
If photography and wildlife spotting are your thing, then drive down to Arkaroola Waterhole around sunset. This is a favourite spot of the elusive Yellow-footed rock wallaby – be quiet and keep a sharp eye on the rocky cliff faces.
5. Flight with Doug
If you thought Arkaroola was good from the ground, then wait until you see it from the air! Owner and experienced pilot Doug Sprigg regularly conducts scenic flights over Arkaroola and Lake Frome.
As well as putting the meaning of ‘remote’ into perspective when you fly over the Village, you’ll receive a deeper understanding of the history, geology, flora and fauna of Arkaroola from Doug’s expert commentary.
Flying over Arkaroola with Mr Doug Sprigg. Look at those ripply hills.
There’s plenty more to see and do at Arkaroola and the nearby Gammon Ranges National Park. Pop into the Arkaroola reception, let them know where you’re going and ask for information about visiting the rest of the area.
Head to Snowys before you go to stock up on all your camping and travel equipment as well!
Have you visited Arkaroola? What would you add to this ‘to do’ list?
Chris frequently attempts more adventures than he really has time for.
we’re going again in 3 weeks (ie August 2023). This will be my wife and myself’s 2nd time by car and I’ve been there twice on motorcycle. It truly is a place you want to return to every 4/5 years or so
The drive to Paralana Hot Springs (if you like an adventure as it’s pretty rough or at least it was in September 2017) is worth doing. It’s also a pretty spot once you get there.
Definitely one to add to your list when visiting Arkaroola, Alan. – Cheers!
Hi,
Thanks for the tips. We are heading up there for 10 days at Easter in the Nissan Patrol and camper trailer. Looking forward to it immensely.. Cheers.
You’re welcome, Mark. I’m sure you’re going to have a great trip! From what I hear, it’s the sort of place you can go and spend a couple of weeks at – there is always something to see and do, and it’s ideal for just kicking back and relaxing.