Walking Trails of Maria Island
Maria Island offers a variety of walking trails, each providing a unique experience of the island's natural beauty and historical significance. Here is an overview of the available walks:
Darlington Township Walk
Distance: 1 km
Duration: 1-2 hours
Grade: Moderate
Explore the fascinating Darlington Township with a self-guided tour. This walk takes you through buildings and ruins, offering insights into the island's history from convict stations to entrepreneurial ventures. Sturdy footwear is recommended due to uneven terrain.
Bishop And Clerk
Distance: 11 km return
Duration: 4-5 hours
Grade: Difficult
This challenging walk provides exhilarating views from the summit of the Bishop and Clerk. The trail involves steep sections and rock scrambling, making it suitable for experienced walkers. The summit offers magnificent views but should be avoided in windy conditions.
Encampment Cove Walk
Distance: 13 km one way
Duration: 4 hours
Grade: Moderate
Visit the ruins of a 1920s home at Encampment Cove. This area is ideal for camping and exploring the southern section of the island. During rock lobster season, the campground can be busy. A short walk from Encampment Cove leads to the Long Point Probation Station ruins.
Fossil Cliffs
Distance: 4.5 km circuit
Duration: 1.5-2.5 hours
Grade: Moderate
This walk leads to the stunning Fossil Cliffs, offering a glimpse into ancient history with its fossil-rich rock strata. The cliffs were once mined for cement due to their lime-rich composition. Bicycles are allowed on the track but not on the fossil platform.
Frenchs Farm Walk
Distance: 11 km one way
Duration: 3 hours
Grade: Difficult
Reach Frenchs Farm via the coast or inland track. Explore the old farmhouse and shearing shed. From here, it's another hour to McRaes Isthmus with its beautiful beaches. The track can be sandy and slow for bicycles.
Hills Walk
Distance: 2 km return
Duration: 1-2 hours
Grade: Difficult
Discover the hills surrounding Darlington Settlement, exploring ruins such as the Convict Hospital and Grand Hotel. Enjoy views of Darlington Township and Bay. Ensure you have enough time to catch the ferry back to Triabunna.
Mount Maria Walk
Distance: 16 km return
Duration: 8 hours
Grade: Difficult
Climb to the highest point on the island, Mount Maria, for sweeping views. The trail starts gently but requires scrambling over boulders near the summit. Adequate clothing, sturdy shoes, and supplies are essential for this demanding hike.