Hills Homestead, South Australia - History and Scenic Views in Wilpena Pound, Flinders Ranges

Wander * Explore * Discover
Jul 9, 2022
3 min read

Updated: 3 days ago

Hills Homestead, South Australia - History and Scenic Views in Wilpena Pound, Flinders Ranges

The Hills Homestead Walk is one of the most popular and accessible walking trails in the Wilpena Pound area, offering a wonderful introduction to both the natural beauty and history of the Flinders Ranges. Starting near the Wilpena Pound Visitor Centre, this gentle walk follows Wilpena Creek through river red gums and open woodland before reaching the historic Hills Homestead. For those who continue a little further, the Wangara Lookouts provide breathtaking panoramic views across Wilpena Pound’s dramatic peaks and valleys.

Set within Ikara–Flinders Ranges National Park, Wilpena Pound is a vast natural amphitheatre renowned for its rugged scenery, deep cultural significance and abundant wildlife. It’s one of South Australia’s most iconic landscapes and a must-visit destination for walkers, photographers and anyone wanting to connect with the ancient heart of the Flinders.

Hills Homestead Walk Overview

Distance: 6.6 kilometres return - Time: Approximately 2 hours - Grade: Easy

The walk begins near the Wilpena Pound Visitor Centre and follows a well-defined track suitable for most ages and fitness levels.

Walking Through Wilpena Pound

From the trailhead, the track follows the road through Pound Gap and along the edge of Wilpena Creek, offering peaceful scenery and plenty of shade. Tall river red gums and pine trees line the path, creating a cool, tranquil atmosphere — especially welcome on warmer days.

Along the way, several information boards provide insight into the natural and cultural history of the area. One of the highlights early in the walk is the waterhole, a calm and reflective spot where you can pause on a nearby seat and enjoy the stillness of the creek.

Sliding Rock and the Creek Crossing

Continuing along the trail, you’ll pass another information shelter before reaching Sliding Rock, a smooth rock formation beside the creek. Here, the path splits, giving you the option to walk beneath Sliding Rock or take the higher track above it.

Wildlife sightings are common in this area, so keep an eye out for kangaroos, wallabies and echidnas moving quietly through the bush. After Sliding Rock, the track crosses Wilpena Creek via a wooden boardwalk before climbing a short, steeper section toward Hills Homestead.

Hills Homestead and Its Story

At Hills Homestead, you’ll find toilets, picnic tables and a collection of old relics that hint at the site’s past. While the homestead itself is not open to enter, interpretive signage tells the story of the original European settlers who lived here and the immense challenges they faced trying to survive in such a harsh and remote environment.

This part of the walk offers a powerful reminder of early pastoral life in the Flinders Ranges and adds a meaningful historical layer to the journey. From here, the track continues past an Adnyamathanha sculpture, acknowledging the deep cultural connection the Traditional Custodians have with this landscape.

Wangara Lookouts

Beyond Hills Homestead, the trail leads to the Wangara Lookouts, where the scenery opens up dramatically.

Lower Wangara Lookout: Approximately 300 metres beyond the homestead
Upper Wangara Lookout: A further 300 metres uphill

Both lookouts offer stunning panoramic views across the rugged interior of Wilpena Pound. The track to the lookouts is steep and rocky, so sturdy footwear and care are recommended — but the sweeping views across the natural amphitheatre make the effort well worth it.

Important Information Before You Go

A National Parks Pass is required to enter Ikara–Flinders Ranges National Park, including Wilpena Pound and the Hills Homestead Walk. Passes can be purchased online or at the Wilpena Pound Visitor Centre. It’s best to organise your pass before arriving, as phone and internet reception in the area can be limited.

👉 Click here to organise your National Park Pass

Best Time to Visit Hills Homestead

The Hills Homestead Walk can be enjoyed year-round, but autumn and spring offer the most comfortable conditions, with mild temperatures and vibrant scenery. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal during warmer months, providing cooler temperatures and beautiful light.

Winter brings cooler days and crisp, clear skies, often with fewer people on the trail. No matter the season, be sure to carry plenty of water, wear sun protection and take breaks as needed.

Why Hills Homestead Is Worth the Walk

The Hills Homestead Walk is a perfect blend of scenery, history and accessibility. Whether you stop at the homestead or continue to the Wangara Lookouts, the walk offers insight into the lives of early settlers, deep cultural connections and some of the most iconic views in the Flinders Ranges. It’s an easy yet rewarding experience that captures the essence of Wilpena Pound and is well worth including on any Flinders Ranges itinerary.