Walkers follow road, it was a sign I came to know well. A random conversation one evening led me to a 1200km journey along the longest dedicated walking trail in Australia.
At the time, I did not know that I would spend almost every weekend looking for red and white playing card sized signs attached to wooden posts, trees and fences, on what is not just any track but an ever-changing path which makes up the iconic Heysen Trail.
Watching the distant ranges and changing landscapes from a car or train is an enjoyable way to see South Australia but it isn’t the same as pulling on the hiking boots, loading on the backpack and getting two feet on the trail. Many who have “done” the Heysen Trail return to repeat favourite sections of the trail finding an entirely new adventure. While the majestic gums and rugged ranges will be the same, the seasons change the colours of the landscape, from the lush greenery of the winter to the emerging wildflowers of spring, there is always something new to see.
