Your guide to the Moralana Scenic Drive

by Katie Salomon

posted on September 27, 2023

Looking to hit the dusty red trails of the Aussie outback? Nestled within the heart of the Flinders Ranges lies the Moralana Scenic Drive, a dirt road linking Hawker to Parachilna Road and the Hawker to Wilpena Road. This route will take you on a quintessential Aussie outback experience with red dust trails, dry creek beds lined with gum trees, and a vast, clear blue sky.

This beautifully scenic drive is nothing short of extraordinary. So, grab your sense of adventure and your keys to tackle this must-try road trip in South Australia.

Moralana Scenic Drive: An overview

If you’re gearing up for a memorable outback adventure, the Moralana Scenic Drive should be at the top of your list. Let’s look at some of the key details you’ll want to know before hitting the road.

• How long is the Moralana Scenic Drive? The Moralana Scenic Drive covers a distance of 28 kilometres.
• When is the best time to go? Planning your trip to Moralana Scenic Drive from late winter to spring will offer the best driving conditions. Be sure to check the weather forecasts before you embark, and avoid mild to very wet weather conditions, as there are a few creek crossings that can flood, and the road is typically closed during heavy rain.
• Drive difficulty: This road is an adventure enthusiast’s dream as it is entirely unpaved, adding an extra layer of excitement to your journey. However, the dirt track is well formed, meaning you won’t necessarily need to be in a 4WD to enjoy this route.
• How long does the drive take? Prepare to spend approximately 1.5 hours navigating the twists and turns of the Moralana Scenic Drive. Allow extra time to explore and take in the truly stunning landscapes around the drive.

What is Moralana Scenic Drive?

Moralana Scenic Drive (also known as Moralana Gorge Road) meanders through the awe-inspiring Flinders Ranges, South Australia’s largest mountain ranges. Stretching over 430 kilometres from Port Pirie to Lake Callabonna, these ranges have been cherished by the Adnyamathanha Aboriginal people and continue to hold profound cultural importance to the region.

The most well-known landmark in the area is Wilpena Pound / Ikara, a formation that creates a natural amphitheatre covering. Did you know this landmark is 300 metres higher and a whopping eight times larger than Uluru?

The Flinder Ranges include several national parks, the largest being the Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park, as well as other protected areas.

Tip from the author: The area is of great geological and palaeontological significance. If you’re lucky, you might spot some of the oldest fossil evidence of animal life.

While the Flinders Ranges are a captivating destination in their own right, the Moralana Scenic Drive is one of the best drives in the region, and the landscapes are not to be missed.

Where is Moralana Scenic Drive?

Moralana Scenic Drive is located within the awe-inspiring Flinders Ranges of South Australia, a land of captivating natural beauty and rich cultural history. These magnificent ranges, stretching over 430 kilometres from Port Pirie to Lake Callabonna, begin approximately 200 kilometres north of Adelaide.

The Moralana Scenic Drive lies further into the Flinders Ranges area. It is about 425 kilometres north of Adelaide’s CBD, making it a feasible day trip for adventurers seeking an escape into the heart of the outback.

If you start the journey from Adelaide CBD, the drive will take just under five hours to get to.

How to get there

Begin your Moralana Scenic Drive adventure in Hawker, a charming outback town that serves as the starting point for this remarkable journey. From there, follow the unsealed road as it winds through the Ranges.

To find the start of the drive, head approximately 23 kilometres north of Hawker on Wilpena Road. This scenic route takes you through Arkaba Station and Merna Mora Station, between the Elder Range and Wilpena Pound.

There are two signposted turnoffs to choose from: one about 23 kilometres from Hawker on Wilpena Road and the other 45 kilometres along Hawker to Parachilna Road, right across from the entrance gate to Merna Mora Station.

Around 15 kilometres into the drive, you’ll spot a signpost leading to Black Gap Lookout. A short two-kilometre drive will take you to a wonderful vantage point, offering panoramic views of Wilpena’s rugged rim to the north and the Red and Elder Range to the south. Below the lookout lies a picturesque gorge, perfect for a picnic lunch.

Tip from the author: You may also come across markers for the Heysen Trail, connecting Hawker to Wilpena. Rest assured, the road is unpaved but well-maintained, and a 4WD vehicle is not necessary to enjoy this adventure.

Expert tips before you embark

Before you hit the trail on Moralana Scenic Drive, here are some expert tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey:

• Wildlife Awareness: Keep an eye out for sheep and the various wildlife that call this region home. Kangaroos, emus, reptiles, and a variety of birdlife, including the majestic wedge-tailed eagle, may cross your path.
• Weather and Timing: Plan your trip from late winter to spring (August to November) for the best experience. Check the weather forecast before starting your journey and avoid travelling during wet weather, as the road can become treacherous when wet. Always stop, walk, and assess road conditions if you’re uncertain.
• Driving Conditions: While Moralana Scenic Drive is an unpaved road, it’s well-maintained, and you don’t need a 4WD vehicle to navigate it. However, exercise caution, especially after rain.
• Essentials to Bring: Ensure you have an ample supply of water, food, and petrol, as mobile reception is virtually non-existent along the route. It’s best to be self-sufficient during your journey.
• Be aware of limited phone reception: Consider bringing a PLB (personal locator beacon) with you. This safety item can alert the search and rescue crew and notify them of your estimated location should you run into some trouble.
• Observe Signs: Pay close attention to signs and adhere to any indicated conditions along the way. These signs provide valuable information to enhance your safety and protect the environment.
• Camping along the Maralana Scenic Drive: If you wish to extend your adventure, consider camping at Red Range Campsite. This picturesque spot offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in the serene outback surroundings. Remember to bring your camping gear and provisions for an overnight stay in this remote area.

By following these expert tips, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your Moralana Scenic Drive adventure while ensuring a safe and memorable journey through the stunning Flinders Ranges.

Sights you’ll see along the drive

Get ready for a jaw-dropping journey along the Moralana Scenic Drive! Here are some must-see sights.

Elder Range (and Red Range)

These colossal rocks have quite a cultural background; not only were loved by the famous artist Sir Hans Heysen, but the local Aboriginal people called the Elder Range “Urdlu Warlpunha,” which means kangaroo bones and serves as a dreamtime story about a witch doctor singing a song atop the range while sorting his kangaroo bones in the moonlight.

Plus, don’t forget to check out the red hues of the Elder Range from the lookout.

Mt. Aleck

Looking for a spot to climb the Flinders Ranges? Mount Aleck is your go-to spot. This peak stands tall at 1,078 meters and offers multi-day climbing adventures that’ll get your heart racing.

Heysen Trail (Hawker to Wilpena)

The Heysen Trail is a 1,200-kilometre epic walk. It starts at Cape Jervis, taking you through stunning coastal areas, native bushland, rugged gorges, pine forests and more. The path also meanders through the rolling hills and rural landscapes of the Fleurieu Peninsula and MtLofty Ranges.

Then, wander past Mt Bryan and cross over to the rugged peaks and valleys of the Flinders Ranges before ending the journey at Parachilna Gorge.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned walker, this trail has something for everyone. Conquer the whole thing or do parts of the track for a shorter walk. If you plan a multi-day hike on the Heysen Trail, remember to plan your stops in advance and find out where to refill on essentials like water and food.

Best part? It’s free, though there might be fees for camping in certain areas.

Wilpena Pound (Ikara)

Discover the awe-inspiring Wilpena Pound, also known as Ikara, a geological wonder cradled by ancient mountain ranges.

You can camp under the stars at Rawnsley Park Station and wake at dawn to adventure through the ancient peeks of 800-million-year-old Wilpena Pound. Or take a scenic flight to appreciate its grandeur from above. You can explore its cultural significance with Aboriginal Cultural Tours.

Bridle Gap

For an awesome undulating hike, head to Bridle Gap. This 18.6km return trail is a fantastic part of the Heysen Trail, with beautiful views and great birdwatching opportunities. Pass through the Pound Gap and Hills Homestead. This one is great for bird spotters and serves as the perfect spot to observe local wrens, robins, parrots and more.

Tip from the author: Expect to take six hours to complete the return journey, or head out and turn back when you’re ready to make a shorter walk of the trail.

Start the hike from the Wilpena Visitor Centre complex.

Merna Mora Station

Merna Mora is a vast sheep and cattle station and is a great tourist stop to learn more about life in the outback, with tag-along tours available.

Plus, with visitor rooms, bush camping, and a communal kitchen, this is a great place to rest your head along the Moralana Scenic Drive, no matter your style.

Whether you’re pulling in on your ride from Hawker to Rawnsley and Wilpena, bushwalking from Bridle Gap and Wilpena Pound, or driving in from the Moralana trail, this is your pitstop for history and adventure.

Black Gap Lookout

Approximately 15 kilometres into your journey along the Moralana Scenic Drive, you’ll stumble upon a signpost directing you to Black Gap Lookout. This is a detour you don’t want to miss.

A brief two-kilometre drive will transport you to this scenic vantage point, where you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Wilpena’s rugged northern rim and the majestic Red and Elder Ranges to the south. Nestled below the lookout, you’ll discover a charming gorge, an idyllic spot for a leisurely picnic lunch.

Moralana Creek

Moralana Creek, in the eastern part of South Australia, is located below Mount Ide. This rest area along The Outback Highway is a spacious gravel spot with limited shade. While taking a break from driving, you can soak in the views of distant mountains and savour a moment of tranquillity.

Arkaba Station

Arkaba Conservancy, a Wild Bush Luxury property in the Flinders Ranges, is a hidden gem you shouldn’t miss. Arkaba Station, nestled about 20 kilometres northeast of Hawker, is a part-perpetual lease and part-freehold property, boasting sandstone bluffs, open plains, creek beds, and the natural amphitheatre of Wilpena Pound. “Arkaba” is believed to mean “hidden waters” in the local Adnyamathanha language.

This remote 63,000-acre private wildlife conservancy accommodates only ten guests at a time, so book ahead. It’s a sanctuary dedicated to conserving Australia’s unique wildlife and birds. Expert field guides will immerse you in the story of the bush as you encounter abundant wildlife on safaris through ancient landscapes.

The Southern Flinders

Just a two-hour drive from Adelaide, the Southern Flinders region feels like a world away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

This vast area stretches from Spalding and Yacka in the south to Orroroo and Carrieton in the north, with Port Pirie and Port Germein marking the western edge and Peterborough to the east. Discover quaint country towns with intriguing histories, art galleries, and charming bakeries. Explore scenic wineries, hiking trails, and biking routes amidst stunning landscapes. Let the kids enjoy water activities, wildlife spotting, and adventure in Mount Remarkable National Park and Bundaleer Forest. Take on a segment of the renowned Heysen Trail for a thrilling hike or explore cycling and 4WD tracks.

Make sure you plan plenty of pitstops on your way to or from the Moralana Scenic Drive.

The William Greig Evans Memorial

This memorial honours South Australian surveyor William Greig Evans, who surveyed the Hundred of Moralana in 1895. Located along The Outback Highway (B83), about one kilometre south of the Moralana Scenic Drive Junction at Merna Mora Station in the Flinders Ranges, it’s a historical gem you’ll encounter midway along the Moralana Scenic Drive.

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure? With Turo’s pickup options available for car hire in Adelaide, your journey to the Moralana Scenic Drive and the captivating Flinders Ranges awaits. Get behind the wheel and discover the outback’s hidden gems, where red dust meets ancient landscapes, and every turn reveals a new wonder.

Are you an Adelaide local looking to rent your car out, build a car-sharing business and earn an income from your wheels? Find out more about listing your car on Turo.

Katie Salomon

Katie is an experienced traveller and copywriter based in Sydney, Australia. She’s always on the hunt for off-the-beaten-track destinations and hidden gems, whether it's searching for the best Koshari in the bustling streets of Egypt or spending a night under the stars at Mount Cook. In her spare time, you’ll find her heading out, probably in FNQ, on her next road trip (#vanlife), ultra-light hiking her way to the perfect ridge top for the night, or being a passenger princess through rolling green hills - can someone pass the aux?

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