Trail Notes and Updates
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General Trail Notes
The times indicated on this site and the topographical maps are estimates only. They are based on an average walking speed of 4 km per hour. However, some sections may take longer due to the varying terrain, with an average walking speed as low as 2 km per hour.
The terrain includes beach walks with soft sand, dune climbs, rock hopping and detours for cyclists. Please base your walking/cycling times on your own fitness and ability.
When walkers are directed inland from a beach section, the trail markers are positioned above the high tide mark to avoid damage from the sea. Please be aware and keep a look out for these markers. Check tide times before planning beach walking sections.
Maintenance
Yorke Peninsula Council monitor the trail, but please report any maintenance issues (not mentioned in trail notes below) to
Cyclists
For small sections, the cycle trail follows some of the main sealed highways. These are noted below according to maps.
At times of the year (mainly summer and autumn), some off-road sections can be soft and it may be easier to walk your bike. An alternative is to follow local unsealed roads - these alternative routes are not marked on the maps.
In certain sections, a metal access stile has been installed to prevent unauthorised off-road vehicle access. This is to protect the sensitive coastal environments from the degradation these vehicles cause. If cycling, you will need to lift your bike over the stile to continue your journey.
Trail Notes by Map Number
MAP 1 - Port Wakefield to Port Clinton
General - During wet weather, the trail can become waterlogged north of Port Wakefield.
Walkers - Walkers are advised to follow the railway line, from the bridge, until reconnecting with the Yorke Highway.
Cyclists - It is recommended after/before crossing the Wakefield River via bridge, follow the Copper Coast and Yorke Highways (via Annie Watt Road and Ketch Road) through to Port Arthur.
MAP 2 - Port Clinton to Pine Point
General - Just north of James Well there is a section where the trail enters a deep and sandy gully. Both walkers and cyclists may find this section difficult. Council will investigate options to address the difficulties experienced here. An alternative route for cyclists (when travelling south from Ardrossan) is, when at Parara Road, to continue along Yorke Highway and enter the settlement of James Well via James Well Road.
A small section of trail, approximately 1.5km south of Rogues Point and 3.5km north of Pine Point across Crown Land, is yet to have a formed trail constructed. This section is planned for completion in the near future.
South of Parara heading towards Pine Point there are two steep descents to be aware of when walking and cycling. Work to improve this section of the trail is expected to commence in 2025.
Walkers - Walkers can choose to continue along the trail between these points (1.5km south of Rogues Point and 3.5km north of Pine Point) however when the formed trail ceases they will need to follow the fence line until the formed trail recommences. This unformed section is estimated to be 1.8km and does contain some gully crossings.
Cyclists - In order to complete the section, cyclists will need to divert to the Yorke Highway between Rogues Point and Pine Point. See picture maps here To avoid both this section and the sandy gully mentioned above, cyclists should divert to Yorke Highway between Parara Road (south of Ardrossan) and Pine Point.
MAP 3 - Pine Point to Stansbury
Cyclists - The cycling route follows the main sealed highway (St Vincent Highway) for small sections of the Trail. These included - between Point Point and Port Julia (approx. 9.5km), from Port Vincent to Devil Gully, south of Port Vincent (approx. 3.5km) and from Devil Gully to Beach Hut (approx. 2km).
MAP 4 - Stansbury to Port Moorowie
Cyclists - the cycling route follows the main sealed highway (St Vincent Highway) for small sections of the Trail. This occurs at the Hayward Park Road and St Vincent Highway intersection.
There is a sand track from Sultana Point, south of Edithburgh, to Wattle Point - a distance of approximately 600m which may need to be walked. The Trail opens to an old four-wheel drive track suitable for riding at the end of this sand section. An alternative route is to return to the southern end of Edithburgh and follow Hilsea Road and Wattle Point Road to Heel Road.
The stretch between Boothill Station Road and Port Moorowie may be soft for approximately 2kms (towards the eastern end). An alternative route is to follow Boothill Station Road, New Honiton Road and Mceacherns Beach Road.
MAP 5 - Port Moorowie to Marion Bay
Walkers - The marker directing walkers from the beach into Point Davenport Conservation Park is placed above the high tide mark, so please keep a look out. If you reach the estuary, you have gone too far and will need to retrace your steps.
Parts of the trail passing Hillocks Drive are beach walk. Please make sure you follow the yellow Walk the Yorke Trail markers, as Hillocks Drive is privately owned property.
MAP 6 - Marion Bay to Gleesons Landing
Walkers - There is a section of shared trail through Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park, beginning from the Pondalowie Surf Break car park. This section of the track follows the gravel road through to Browns Beach and the start of the Gym Beach Hiking Trail (approx. 8 km). Vehicle traffic is limited to 40km/h, but walkers should remain wary of the traffic, especially during busy periods. In some places the dense roadside vegetation can prevent walkers from getting quickly off the roadway.
When walking from Gym Beach to Formby Bay (known to surfers as Baby Lizards), please look out for the marker indicating the climb up the sand dunes at the end of Gym Beach. If you come across a set of private access stairs, you have gone too far and will need to retrace your steps. The Trail remains atop of the sand dunes and headlands – the only beach walk is on Gym Beach. Whilst at times the other beaches may look appealing to walk on, they are not always accessible at both ends, and therefore are not the designated route. The markers on top of the sand dunes and headlands are to be used as a guide as there is no formed track (other than for a small section at Baby Lizards), so please pick your route carefully and do not tread on plants. Also please note, this strip of publicly-accessible Crown Land is narrow, so please take care not to enter private property.
The area between Formby Bay and Daly Heads (also known as the 'Dust Hole' and 'Baby Lizards') may have very soft and deep sands.
Cyclists - Browns Beach to Gym Beach may have some sandy parts though is reported as a good ride. An alternative route is to return to Marion Bay and follow the sealed Marion Bay Road, reconnecting with the Trail on this road. This would then require a diversion into Gym Beach following Gym Beach Road.
MAP 7 - Gleesons Landing to Point Turton
Walkers - Gleesons Landing to Swincers Rocks may have very soft and deep sands. High tide may also result in waves crashing high on the beach. It is recommended to time your walk with low tide.
Between Corny Point and The Pines there may be seaweed build up on the beach. As an alternative route, walkers may follow the marked inland cycling route.
Cyclists - Between Burners Beach and Point Turton, cyclists can follow the trail or the unsealed road.
MAP 8 - Point Turton to Port Rickaby
General - between Point Turton and Port Rickaby the trail follows tracks adjacent to the sealed road. Then for a small section, between Flaherty's Beach and Hardwicke Bay, cyclists follow the sealed highway. Walkers follow the beach. The map indicates cyclists can divert to Flaherty's Beach for sight-seeing. However, whilst Flaherty's Beach is open to vehicles and at times may be compact enough for cycling, the designated cycling route is inland.
Walkers - Hardwicke Bay to Cockle Beach (in particular) is rocky and at times of the year there is a lot of seaweed build up. You may choose to time your walk with low tide, which exposes firmer sand.
From Cockle Beach to Parsons Beach the designated walking trail is inland however there is the option to walk the beach. If taking the beach route option, be aware that Watsons Beach may at times have soft sand and weed build up. Low tide exposes firmer sand.
Cyclists - Between Cockle Beach and Parsons Beach, the trail follows an old four-wheel drive track of sandy soil that may be soft. Within this section, for approximately 2kms north of Watsons Beach Road, the trail is known to become grassy before becoming a two-wheel drive dirt track. An alternative route is to follow Cockle Beach Road, Mount Terrible Road, and Parsons Beach Road.
At times the trail, from Barkers Rocks to Port Rickaby, becomes sandy with natural sand movement from the dunes. Cyclists who do not wish to undertake sand riding can follow Barkers Rocks Road, the sealed Rickaby Road and Croser Road.
MAP 9 - Port Rickaby to Balgowan
Walkers - The beach immediately north of Port Rickaby may have seaweed build up for a short section.
The inland trail, between Balgowan and Moonta Bay, might be slippery when wet.
MAP 10 - Balgowan to Moonta Bay
Cyclists - Between The Gap and Moonta Bay, the cycling route has now been diverted inland (due to a number of factors - such as soft sand on tracks, vandalised markers, blind corners and vehicles. Cyclists now leave The Gap campground and follow Gap Road to the intersection with Nalyappa Road. Turn north and follow Nalyappa Road to the intersection with Coopers Beach Road, turning east. Continue to the intersection with Spencer Highway (a stretch of main sealed highway) and follow this into Moonta.
Walk the Yorke FAQ's
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Who are the First Nation People of Yorke Peninsula?
Yorke Peninsula Council acknowledges the Narungga (traditionally spelt Nharangga) people as the traditional custodians of the land through which the trail passes, and their deep spiritual, emotional, social and physical connection to Country. We pay respect to past, present and emerging Elders.
Narungga people have lived on Yorke Peninsula since the beginning of Dreaming or for at least 40,000 years. The coastline is dotted with many ancient and significant cultural sites.
Interpretative signage has been installed along the trail. Please take the time to explore this history and find out more about the Dreaming stories associated with various landforms and features. Please be respectful of sacred sites and places of significance and do not damage, trample or remove anything.
Is there mobile phone reception?
Mobile telephone coverage is not reliable or consistent along the trail. It is recommend for people to carry a PLB (Personal Locating Beacon) or similar on longer walks, particularly if they are walking on their own.
Triple Zero (000) is Australia's primary telephone number to call for assistance in life threatening or time critical emergency situations.
Dialling 112 directs you to the same Triple Zero (000) call service but does not give your call priority over Triple Zero (000).
112 is an international standard emergency number which can only be dialled on a digital mobile phone. It is accepted as a secondary international emergency number in some parts of the world, including Australia, and can be dialled in areas of GSM network coverage with the call automatically translated to that country's emergency number. It does not require a sim card or pin number to make the call, however phone coverage must be available (any carrier) for the call to proceed.
Where can I get WTY maps?
Maps are available from Yorke Peninsula Council offices located in Maitland, Minlaton and Yorketown. There are 10 differnt maps available - at $5.00 each or $45 for the whole set. Postage is and additional $5.00. Maps can also be ordered online here.
Are walking times accurate?
Walking times are based on an average walking speed of 4km per hour - what the average walker would expect to travel in good conditions - and are an estimate only. Some sections may take longer due to difficult terrain such as soft sand, dune climbing and rock hopping.
If you are new to bushwalking or the weather conditions deteriorate you can expect travel to take longer. Please base your allowed walking times on your own fitness, ability and weather conditions. Walk times can also be affected by seasonality. For instance - the sand might be softer in summer, tracks can get muddy during rain and seaweed often covers the beaches in winter. Walking after dark is not recommended.
Who are 'Friends of Walk the Yorke'?
The Friends group conduct regular walks of sections of the Trail. They can be contacted via their Facebook page. Walks will be cancelled if the predicted temperature at Maitland is 36C or more. Please bring food and water on walks.
What is a multi-use trail?
A multi-use trail means you may encounter different users – mainly hikers and cyclists. It is not suitable for any form of motorised transport. General trail courtesy asks that cyclists yield to hikers, although it is recommended that common sense prevail.
What transport is available?
YP Community Transport, a non-profit community transport network, has buses that travel between towns on Yorke Peninsula. Some of their route options may be of assistance in travelling to the Walk the Yorke Trail. See their brochure here.
Public Transport is minimal or unavailable on Yorke Peninsula. For those considering walking the whole trail, we recommend a support vehicle or team. If walking alone, stick to the eastern coast where towns and facilities are closer together.
Should I walk in summer?
Generally it is not recommended as the Peninsula experiences hot temperatures and the fire risk is greater. Although the coast may offer cooling breezes, there is little protection from the sun. Some of the shorter town walks can be quite enjoyable on cooler days even in summer. Even when walking in winter, always cover up and wear a hat and sunscreen.
Always check the weather and fire forecasts before going for a walk. If in doubt and the weather forecast is for hot (and windy) conditions, our recommendation is not to go walking. Fire can spread quickly in open bush and grassland.
Is water available on the track?
It is advisable to carry sufficient drinking water with you. The recommendation is for two litres of water for a full day's walk in cooler weather, and at least three litres if the temperature will be above 28 degrees. Water can be purchased in the various towns, including Ardrossan, Port Vincent, Stansbury, Edithburgh, Marion Bay, Corny Point, Point Turton, Port Rickaby, Port Victoria, Balgowan, and Moonta Bay.
There are rainwater tanks that depend on rainfall attached to the shelters along the track. We recommend using a water purifier before consuming.
Can I have a campfire during the Fire Danger Season?
No. Council does not permit campfires during the Fire Danger Season (November to April most years). Campfires are also banned in all national parks and forestry reserves during the Fire Danger Season. More information on campfires and cooking along the trail can be found here.
Is it safe to walk during severe, extreme or catastrophic fire danger ratings?
Your safety is your responsibility, and you need to be aware of current Fire Danger Ratings.
On high fire danger rated dates (very high, severe, extreme or catastrophic) all walkers are advised to consider their personal safety while on their planned walking route. You need to know your planned escape routes as many sections of the walk have no safe refuge.
During the fire season, over the warmer months of the year a Total Fire Ban day may be declared. This means that all activity that might start a fire must be stopped, including using portable liquid or gas fuel cooking stoves. During periods of hot and windy weather hikers should carry some food that does not need to be cooked in case a Total Fire Ban is called. Please check the CFS website regularly.
Do I need to purchase a bush camping permit?
Yorke Peninsula Council maintains 19 designated bush camp grounds on Yorke Peninsula. Walkers/cyclists without vehicles may camp for free at these campgrounds, but a permit is required for any support vehicles staying at a campground. Permits can be purchased online here
Walkers/cyclists without support vehicles may camp outside of town areas alongside the WTY Trail. All campers must abide by the LEAVE NO TRACE ethos. Camping is not allowed in conservation parks such as Wills Creek, Point Davenport and Levens Beach. Fees will apply if you camp in any privately owned campground.
There is camping available in Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park. Although an entry permit is not required for walkers into the park, campsites must be booked prior to camping. Innes National Park bookings are available here.
What accommodation options are available?
There is a variety of accommodation options available to the trail users.
There are caravan parks available in the towns of Port Clinton, Price, Ardrossan, Pine Point, Black Point, Port Vincent, Stansbury, Coobowie, Edithburgh, Marion Bay, Corny Point, Point Turton, Port Rickaby, Port Victoria, Balgowan and Moonta Bay.
Or contact one of the Yorke Peninsula accommodation providers.
What wildlife will I see?
The Peninsula's diverse range of natural habitats is home to a variety of wildlife. Animals you may see include emus, kangaroos, wallabies, wombats and possums. Bird species include wrens, crested bellbirds and penguins. In warmer weather, keep an eye out for reptiles such as lizards and snakes. The Australian bush is a natural place where wild animals live. Please stay on the track, watch your step and be alert.
Please respect the wildlife, do not follow or approach and do not feed the wildlife. Many birds such as the hooded plover use the beaches as a breeding area. Walking in their area can disturb the birds and their nest. To avoid this walk below the high tide mark on the hard sand.
Will I see snakes?
Snakes are shy animals and will usually get out of a walker's way rather than attack. Wearing sturdy boots and a pair of gaiters will protect your lower legs. If you see a snake, quietly step back and wait if necessary, until they go on their way. Most bites occur when people try to kill snakes (this is illegal). If a bite occurs keep the person at rest, lying down. Do not wash or cut the bitten area. Apply a firm pressure bandage (not a tourniquet) from the bite site, all the way down the limb then back up the limb. Death from snakebite is very uncommon. You do not need to catch or identify the snake as the same anti-venom is used for all snake bites.
It is advisable to carry a basic first aid kit. Hikers with allergies to bites and stings need to ensure they carry appropriate medication.
Are there any general safety guidelines I should follow?
- Prepare well
- Let someone know where you are going and when you plan to get there
- Have a plan so that your back up knows what to do if you do not make a scheduled contact
- Prepare a contingency plan in case of accident, emergency or severe weather event
- Carry a compass
- Keep hydrated (drink plenty of water)
- Be aware of the weather
- Dress for the conditions
- Carry an emergency kit
- Consider wearing a high visibility vest or clothing when near roads.
Certificates
If you have completed all (or even half) of Walk the Yorke and would like to apply for a certificate as a souvenir, you can download and application form here.
Maintenance
Any maintenance issues (not already listed in the trail notes) should be reported to your nearest Yorke Peninsula Council office (Maitland, Minlaton, Yorketown), or by calling 8832 0000 or by emailing
How do I provide feedback?
It's very important to us to know what users of the walking trail think. We're happy to hear any feedback, so don't hesitate to let us know by contacting us on 8832 0000 or via email
Walk the Yorke is monitored by Yorke Peninsula Council. However, if you discover any maintenance issues that are not listed in our Trail Notes, please report them via phone (08) 8832 0000, via email
Question not answered?
If you have further questions, please send and email to
Rules of the Trail
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Leave No Trace
These rules have been developed to promote responsible and courteous conduct on shared-use trails and purpose-built trail networks.
Walking the Yorke
• Stay on the marked trail
• Cyclists should give way to walkers
• Take all rubbish with you. Do not bury along the trail.
• Leave gates as you find them. Use stiles when provided
• Move quietly near stock and wildlife
• Respect the privacy of others, including other walkers and landowners
• Respect Aboriginal culture and country
• Do not trespass on private land
• Help keep the water sources clean. Carry drinking water with you.
• Observe fire bans
• Do not disturb native flowers or other vegetation
• Camp only in designated campgrounds
Keep on track
Try to minimise your impact with every step you take.
Always walk in the centre of the track and be prepared to walk through the mud. Attempting to skirt around bogs only makes them bigger and causes more environmental damage.
Please walk below the high tide mark, when on beaches, to reduce danger to shore-nesting bird like the endangered Hooded Plover.
Shorebirds nest from early Spring to late March.
Walk the Yorke
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Meander through samphire flats and mangroves; wander through native vegetation, a haven for bird lovers; spot dolphins having fun playing in the water. The trail includes views from rugged cliffs, strolls along pristine beaches and through secluded coves, windswept sand dunes, and historic lighthouses. It even gives a peek into some of Australia's most productive farming land.
Today, the trail is virtually complete, with infrastructure including trail markers, bollards, and bench seats. Shelters have rainwater tanks attached, and picnic settings are placed in picturesque spots. Interpretive signs have been installed at various locations along the way, telling stories of the local area. A number of Progress Associations and school students have been involved in the design of these signs. The Narungga people have also shared some of their Dreaming stories, providing a fascinating insight into their culture.
This project is supported by funding from the Australian Government, the South Australian Government, and Yorke Peninsula Council.