Arkaroo Rock Flinders Ranges

Wander * Explore * Discover
Jun 22, 2022
3 min read

Updated: 6 hours ago

Arkaroo Rock Flinders Ranges

Arkaroo Rock is one of the most powerful and moving places to visit in the Flinders Ranges in South Australia. Located in Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park, near Wilpena Pound, this culturally significant rock art site offers visitors a rare opportunity to connect with thousands of years of Aboriginal history while enjoying a beautiful and rewarding bushwalk.

More than just a scenic lookout, Arkaroo Rock is a place of storytelling, reflection and deep respect for the land and its traditional custodians, the Adnyamathanha people.

The walk to Arkaroo Rock is gentle enough for most visitors, yet meaningful enough to leave a lasting impression long after you return to your vehicle. The Akurra Adnya (Arkaroo Rock) walk is a popular walking trail, and along it, you will see some of the best examples of Adnyamathanha rock art.

Arkaroo Rock Walk - 3-kilometre Circuit - 2 Hours - Moderate

The Arkaroo Rock Loop Walk is one of the most enjoyable short hikes in the Flinders Ranges. The track begins at the Arkaroo Rock car park, where you will see informative signs about Arkaroo Rock. There are also toilets and picnic tables.

The walking track begins as a red dirt path that gradually heads uphill through dense bush. There are lovely views of the walls of Wilpena Pound and the surrounding mountain ranges. The path gets a bit rockier and steeper as you continue uphill, but there are several seats to rest and enjoy the views.

When you are near Arkaroo Rock, you will see a massive rock on the path; after admiring this, turn left and follow the path approximately 200 metres to the Arkaroo Rock viewing area.

At Arkaroo Rock, there is a wooden viewing platform with a bench to sit and appreciate the Aboriginal art.

Arkaroo Rock (also known as Akurra Adnya) is an important Aboriginal rock shelter featuring ochre and charcoal paintings believed to be around 6,000 years old. The artwork represents creation stories and spiritual beliefs linked to the Akurra serpent beings, who are said to have shaped Wilpena Pound and the surrounding landscape.

Today, the site is carefully protected, with a viewing screen that allows visitors to appreciate the art without causing damage. Interpretive signage explains the cultural significance. This area holds great significance to the Adnyamathanha people, so please be respectful.

After leaving the rock shelter, the track continues along a ridge with sweeping views over the surrounding plains and ranges. This section is especially beautiful in late afternoon light, when the rocks glow warm, and the shadows stretch across the valleys.

Note: A National Parks Pass is Required

A National Parks Pass is required to access the Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park and can be purchased online. Click here for your National Parks Pass or you can purchase one at the Wilpena Pound Visitor's Centre.

You will need to get your National Parks Pass before you arrive, as there is limited phone and internet access in this area.

Best Time to Visit Arkaroo Rock

The best seasons to visit are autumn, winter and spring, when temperatures are mild, and walking is more comfortable. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light and a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere. Summer walks are possible but should be done early in the day with plenty of water and sun protection.

Where Is Arkaroo Rock?

Arkaroo Rock is located within Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park, not far from Wilpena Pound. Access is via a well-signed, unsealed road leading to a dedicated car park and trailhead. A park entry pass is required to enter the national park.

The drive itself is part of the experience, with classic Flinders scenery, open plains and rugged mountain backdrops along the way.

Directions to Arkaroo Rock Carpark

From Wilpena Pound, head north-east for 50 metres towards Wilpena Road, then continue along Wilpena Road for 180 metres. Continue onto Hawker-Wilpena Road and drive for 3.8 kilometres.

Then turn right onto Flinders Ranges Way and drive for 10.4 kilometres. Turn right onto Arkaroo Rock Road and follow this for 1.6 kilometres until you reach the car parking area.