After a tough start to the year, the Southern Flinders Ranges are bouncing back. And Mount Remarkable National Park is once again welcoming 4X4ers, hikers and campers. Following the devastation caused by the Wilmington Fire, more sections of this outback gem have reopened, offering a mix of accessible adventures and remote serenity that’s hard to beat.
For those chasing rugged gorges and red rock cliffs without the crowds of the big-name parks, Mount Remarkable is a bit of a secret weapon, especially now that key areas are back on the table.
What’s Open Now?
The big news is that Alligator Gorge has reopened (though the North Alligator walk past The Terraces remains off-limits for now). This area is a proper postcard shot of the Aussie bush, with red cliffs, twisted gums, and pools that mirror the sky. Just a heads-up though, the gorge may look different post-fire, so manage expectations. Still stunning, just in recovery mode.
Backpacker campsites are also back in business, with the exception of Longhill, Eaglehawk and Stony Creek, which are staying closed a bit longer. And for hikers? You’re good to go on park management tracks and the Mount Remarkable section of the Heysen Trail, which threads its way through some seriously under-rated terrain.
What Wasn’t Affected?
Some sections of the park weren’t hit by the fire and have remained open the whole time. If you’re planning a trip soon, these are a safe bet:
- Mambray Creek and Baroota campgrounds
- Hidden Gorge Hike
- Mambray Valley Hike
- Davey’s Gully Hike (west side)
- Remarkable Epic Trail
- Willowie Trails and the Summit Hike (east side)
That’s a solid spread of day hikes and overnighters, all within easy striking distance of a 4X4 basecamp setup.
Why It Matters to 4X4ers
This isn’t just about reopening gates, it’s about discovering a part of South Australia that still flies under the radar. While places like the Flinders Ranges and Gawler Ranges get the bulk of the press, Mount Remarkable is a cracker of a detour, especially if you’re heading north from Adelaide and want to avoid the highway drag.
Fire recovery can be a long slog, but the park authorities have moved quickly to get things safe and accessible again. If you’re planning a trip this season, it’s a good chance to see how the bush bounces back, and to support the local communities around Melrose and Wilmington who’ve done it tough.
Plan Your Visit
For the latest closures and conditions, check in with the National Parks SA website before heading out. Fire-affected areas can change quickly depending on clean-up work, weather, and safety assessments.
