Coming to Mount Gambier, South Australia on Easter weekend of 2018 is certainly one to remember. Mount Gambier is actioned pack with so many thing to do in the town of Mount Gambier and surrounds. It was simply not possible to fit in all the amazing places on offer in a 4 day weekend, however there was some key places we visited that stood out for us and one of those was Mount Schank. Mount Schank is a dormant volcanic crater that is not only great for fitness but the views of the countryside are incredible.
Where to find Mount Schank
Drive the Riddich Highway south of Mount Gambier for approx 15km and take the turn to Mount Schank Volcanic Crater. There is a small parking bay with onsite toilet faculties available.
History of Mount Schank
Mount Schank was sighted by James Grant in 1800 on board the Lady Nelson Ship. The Mount Schank volcano erupted about 5000 years ago. It is a basic ash cone and the base of the crater does not extend below the water table, hence no crater lake.
Why you should visit Mount Schank
If your looking for a workout we challenge you to take the 900m steep uphill trek to the crater rim. Seriously don’t be put off by the steep track up as the views on the Mount Schank walk are so rewarding. Seating is available on the way up for you to rest and admire the panaramoic views of the coast and country. We took our time walking up to the summit and there was some key sections Wayno challenged himself and ran up.
When you reach the summit, there is no Crater Lake, just a vast spread of bushland. Once your at the summit walk thenrim, though the exposed situation can be treacherous in gusty weather. The journey to the bottom of the crater is for the more confident hiker, its well marked and sign posted.
Throughout the walking trail there are numerous information boards which boast information about the history and walking trails of Mount Schank.
What to bring to Mount Schank
BBQ facilities and a picinic table are available on site so you can bring your feast to cook up. Highly recommend bringing plenty of water to keep you hydrated. You will surely need it! As well as comfortable walking/hiking shoes. Walking in thongs/flip flops isn’t going to cut it!
Other awesome places to visit in Mount Gambier and surrounds
Mount Gambier has some AMAZING tourist attractions to visit, there is so many things to do in Mount Gambier and surrounds. Here are some of the places we visited and there is so much more to this list!
–Umperstone Sinkhole – A lush sunken garden has to be seen to be believed. Appreciate the size and depth from the various viewing platforms at the top of the sinkhole.
–Big Blue Lake – Situated in one of the the three extinct volcanic craters. Beautiful all year round, with walking trail available around the top of the crater wall.
–Little Blue Lake – Located South of Mount Gambier, this is one of the many popular water filled sinkholes available for swimming.
–Piccaninnie Ponds – A diving sinkhole for the trained and experienced diver, with crystal clear water.
– Engelbrecht Cave – Underneath Mount Gambier is this unique Cave. Take a guided tour to learn about the underground water system. We did this tour and it was interesting, however we felt it wasn’t value for money.
Where to stay when visiting Mount Gambier
There is ample accomodation in Mount Gambier to suit all budgets. We stayed in our Camper Trailer at the Big 4 Blue Lake Holiday Park as we were on a budget and we wanted to make use of our Camper. After all, thats what we purchased it for!
We love to use booking.com to find all our accomodation options if we are not in our camper trailer. Search all available accomodation here at booking.com
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