Platypus Waterholes Walk

Looking for trails open after the bushfires?

5 Feb 2020: Kangaroo Island was devasted by bushfire in January 2020. Some parks and trails remain closed. View our article of 13 walking trails open post-bushfire.

Walking Trail Facts
Distance
4.7 km circuit
Duration
2 hours return
Suitable for
Walking, Wheelchair Accessible, Hiking
Trail Class
Grade 1, Easy Walk
Park (national park, conservation park, forest, reserve)
Flinders Chase National Park
Region
Kangaroo Island
Trail manager
National Parks and Wildlife Service South Australia
Download maps & GPS files
  1. 1 map PDF
  2. 2 GPS files
  3. 1 website link
Jump to Downloads section
Photos
17 photos
Travel options
  1. Car
Platypus Waterholes Walk

About the Walking Trail

Platypus are rare in South Australia, but with some patience you might be in with a chance of seeing some on this walk. With viewing platforms scattered around the waterholes you can sit quietly and wait to spot the movement of a platypus. Dawn and dusk are the best times to catch a glimpse of one.

The walk begins from the Flinders Chase Visitor Centre and passes the Black Swamp Lookout shelter and through Black Swamp.

Birdlife, kangaroos, wallabies, geese, echidnas and goannas are regularly seen on this walk.

A shorter walk, can be accessed from the trailhead off Shackle Road.

The trail is suitable for those with mobility issues, including wheelchair users and prams. You can start at the main trailhead at the Flinders Chase Visitor Centre or from the off Shackle Road.

Although this walk is marked as being Wheelchair Accessible, some people may require assistance.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service SA Accessibility webpage has useful information about accessibility within national parks, including specific details about accessible parks, trails, picnic grounds, carparking and toilets.

Downloads

Download KML/KMZ file
Download GPX file

Photos