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Kanyaka Ruins Flinders Ranges
- Wander * Explore * Discover
- Jul 2, 2022
- 2 min read
Updated: 3 hours ago
Kanyaka Ruins Flinders Ranges
The Kanyaka Ruins in South Australia’s Flinders Ranges offer one of the most atmospheric and evocative experiences in the Outback. Nestled off the Flinders Ranges Way between Quorn and Hawker, this sprawling 19th‑century sheep and cattle station was, in its heyday, one of the largest pastoral runs in the southern Flinders. Today, the dramatic stone remnants tell a story of ambition, hardship, community and the harsh realities of life in the early bush
The Kanyaka station was established in 1852, and this sheep and cattle station covered 945 square kilometres. Kanaya Station was one of the largest stations in the area and employed more than 70 families, with a large homestead, workers' cottages, stables and shearing shed. Many of the buildings were built from local stone, and the remains you can see today are in relatively good condition.
A devastating drought occurred from 1864 to 1867, and more than 20 000 sheep perished. The station was eventually abandoned in 1888 due to the intense heat and lack of water. The name Kanyaka is believed to have come from the Aboriginal meaning 'place of stone'.
Visit the Kanyaka Ruins
The Kanyaka Ruins are free to explore and easily accessible from the Quorn–Hawker Road, with a short gravel turn‑off leading to the main homestead remains. A picnic area and carpark make it a great stop on a day trip through the Flinders Ranges. Bring water, sun protection and sturdy walking shoes.
Notes
No toilets are available, and there is limited phone and internet access in this area.
Directions to Kanyaka Ruins
You will find Kanyaka Ruins along the main Quorn to Hawker Road; they are well signposted. They are approximately 40 kilometres north of Quorn and 12 kilometres south of Hawker.
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