Horsnell Gully /Giles CP (Grade 3)

Please note: This is not an easy Trail Starter Hike.  Read below for all details before you book on this hike.

We will hike into Horsnell Gully and Giles Conservation Park to explore the Giles Ruins and look out for koalas along the way.  This is an out and back hike of 9km.  We will follow part of the Heysen Trail.

Meet at 8.15am for briefing, 8.30am start.

This is classified as a Grade 3, Moderate hike. According to the walking track grading system, this means it is suitable for most ages and fitness levels.  Tracks may have short steep hill sections, a rough surface and many steps.

On this hike there are 2 major up sections, along with 2 major down sections as well as some undulations, a small creek crossing (no wet feet though), some fire track sections and narrow rocky path sections.

We should complete the hike in 3 1/2 to 4 hours.  Including time for morning tea at the Giles Ruins. Bring something to eat and drink for your morning tea. No facilities are accessible on this hike.

As we will be hiking in the first week of Spring, the weather can be unpredictable so please be prepared for anything, including warmer weather.  Always bring with you at least 2-3 litres of water, there is no access to water during this hike.

Potential hazards: Snakes are more active during Spring, hence a good idea to have in your first aid kit a compression bandage/snake bandage.  Warm weather – bring plenty of water, wear a sun hat, sunscreen and clothing layers so you can cool down as needed.                                                Slippery/Rocky paths – be careful with your footing and wear appropriate shoes to ensure good grip.

Group Hiking etiquette – we hike single file when on a narrow trail in order to be careful of the delicate flora that often borders trails, we try to designate a “tail ender” who stays at the back of the group in order to make sure nobody gets lost or hurt without anyone knowing, we may have to slow down or speed up to create a median speed that is bearable for everyone, we adhere to “leave no trace” principles (take out what you bring in, including toilet paper), be courteous of others, do not go ahead of the nominated leader, be aware of who is hiking in front of and behind you, if you cannot see anyone behind you, stop and wait for them to catch up, this ensures everyone is within sight of each other.

BIOSECURITY MEASURES – Please ensure you thoroughly clean your footwear, clothing, walking poles and other equipment before and after each walk to remove all seeds, dirt and other debris. Removed seeds should be bagged and disposed in a ‘to landfill’ garbage bin.