Flinders Ranges Overview

The Flinders Ranges may not be the Himalayas or the Andes, but these ancient peaks belong in the pantheon of awe-inspiring ranges. The main road (Hwy. 47) drifts between kangaroo-filled flatlands and sagebrush-covered hills, while dirt-tracks (4WD-only) carve through timeless gorges. The Flinders are most popular from April to October, when the nights are chilly and the days sunny. It’s hot in summer, but for hardcore hikers or drivers with A/C, it’s a worthwhile trip. The Ranges begin at the northern end of the Gulf of St. Vincent and continue 400km into South Australia’s northern Outback, ending near Mt. Hopeless. Towns and attractions in the region are listed from south to north, as they would be encountered if driving from Adelaide.

Traveling Through The Flinders Ranges. Before setting out on the unsealed roads of the Northern Flinders and the outback tracks, check road conditions. The website www.transport.sa.gov.au/quicklinks/northern_roads/northern.asp has current road maps, showing closures, warnings, and 4WD only. Alternatively, call the Road Conditions Hotline (☎1300 361 033). Before hiking, listen to AM 639 for fire warnings.

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