List of Bushwalks in The District Council of Yankalilla

Starting from the car park near the Park Headquarters off Tapanappa Road, Deep Creek National Park, this walk takes you on a circuit through a remnant stringybark forest via the Stringybark Loop Walk. Deep Creek National Park protects the largest portion of remaining native vegetation on the Fleurieu Peninsula, providing habitat for a diverse range of native wildlife, including western grey kangaroos, short-beaked echidnas and over 100 bird species. This gentle, family-friendly walk winds through a magnificent old-growth stringybark forest that forms a shady canopy above delicate fungi, ferns and yakkas, with interpretive signs detailing the local environment and vegetation. The remnant stringybarks provide nesting hollows for a variety of birds, such as yellow-tailed black cockatoos and sulphur-crested cockatoos, and walkers may even spot an echidna along the way. The walk begins near the Stringybark Campground, which is suitable for tents, caravans, camper vans and camper trailers and has toilets, hot showers, picnic tables and fire pits. This loop consists of narrow, gently undulating walking trails, with uneven natural surfaces, suitable for most fitness levels. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Stringybark Loop Walk

880 m circuit

10 min to 15 min

Stringybark Loop Walk

Environment

Starting from the Stringybark Campground off Tapanappa Road, Deep Creek National Park, this walk takes you on a circuit through a remnant stringybark forest via the Forest Circuit Walk. Deep Creek National Park protects the largest portion of remaining native vegetation on the Fleurieu Peninsula, providing habitat for a diverse range of native wildlife, including western grey kangaroos, short-beaked echidnas and over 100 bird species. This gentle, family-friendly walk winds through a magnificent old-growth stringybark forest that forms a shady canopy above delicate fungi, ferns and yakkas. Fogs frequently settle amongst the trees during late summer and autumn. The remnant stringybarks provide nesting hollows for a variety of birds, such as yellow-tailed black cockatoos and sulphur-crested cockatoos, and walkers may even spot an echidna along the way. The walk begins at the Stringybark Campground, which is suitable for tents, caravans, camper vans and camper trailers and has toilets, hot showers, picnic tables and fire pits. This loop consists of wide, gently undulating walking trails, with compacted natural surfaces, suitable for most fitness levels. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Forest Circuit Walk

2.5 km circuit

30 min to 45 min

Environment

Deep Creek Waterfall from Tent Rock Road

Deep Creek Waterfall from Tent Rock Road

4 km return

1 h 30 min to 2 h

Starting from the Trig Campground on Tent Rock Road, Deep Creek National Park, this walk takes you to the Deep Creek Waterfall and back via the Deep Creek Waterfall Hike from Tent Rock Road. Deep Creek National Park protects the largest portion of remaining native vegetation on the Fleurieu Peninsula, providing habitat for a diverse range of native wildlife, including western grey kangaroos, short-beaked echidnas and over 100 bird species. This moderately challenging hike takes walkers down to Deep Creek Waterfall, a secluded waterfall and waterhole oasis nestled in the heart of the park, between the Trig Campground and the Tapanappa Lookout. There are spectacular bushland and coastal views along the way, with steep steps leading to the base of the waterfall towards the end. The waterfall generally only flows in winter and after rains, but the waterhole is permanent. The walk begins at the Trig Campground, which is suitable for tents, caravans, camper vans and camper trailers and has toilets, picnic shelters and fire pits. This hike consists of narrow walking trails, with uneven natural surfaces and short steep hills, suitable for moderate fitness levels. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

Starting from the Goondooloo Ridge Day Visitor Area off Blowhole Beach Road, Deep Creek National Park, this walk takes you to the Goondooloo Ridge Lookout and Picnic Area and back via the Goondooloo Ridge Walk. Deep Creek National Park protects the largest portion of remaining native vegetation on the Fleurieu Peninsula, providing habitat for a diverse range of native wildlife, including western grey kangaroos, short-beaked echidnas and over 100 bird species. This gentle, family-friendly walk meanders through revegetated and remnant native bushland to the newly-built lookout and picnic area at Goondooloo Ridge, which offers spectacular views of Aaron Creek Valley, Backstairs Passage and Kangaroo Island. On a clear day, the Cape Willoughby Lighthouse can be seen on the island's easternmost point. Kangaroos can often be seen grazing in the open fields or resting under eucalypts along the way. The walk begins at the Goondooloo Ridge Day Visitor Area, which has picnic tables and accessible toilets. This walk consists of wide, gently undulating walking trails, with compacted natural surfaces, suitable for all fitness levels, as well as prams and wheelchair users with assistance. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Goondooloo Ridge

4.2 km return

1 h to 1 h 30 min

Environment

Starting from the end of Hansen Street, Myponga, this circuit walk takes you along the edge of the Myponga Reservoir via the Myponga Reservoir Trail. Nestled near the township of Myponga on the stunning Fleurieu Peninsula, 60 kilometres south of Adelaide, is the Myponga Reservoir Reserve. The trail is ideal for walking, running and cycling, with room for families to enjoy a picnic. The trail follows the edge of the reservoir and takes you through open plains, forested areas and native vegetation, with towering gums lining much of the path. There are four dedicated lookout areas with scenic views, as well as numerous bench seats and picnic tables throughout the reserve providing rest spots. More than 120 bird species live in the area including some that enjoy life by the water and others that can be found inland. The reserve is also home to many grey kangaroos. The unsealed trail is a shared-use path for both cyclists and walkers, and is also suitable for prams. The trail is flat and the terrain undulates gently. If the reservoir is full, there may be some water across the trail. Be aware that dogs are not permitted in the reserve. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Myponga Reservoir Trail

4.5 km circuit

1 h 15 min to 2 h

Myponga Reservoir Trail

Environment

Spring Wildflower Circuit

Spring Wildflower Circuit

4.8 km circuit

1 h to 1 h 30 min

Starting from the Stringybark Campground off Tapanappa Road, Deep Creek National Park, this walk takes you on a circuit through a regenerating sclerophyll forest via the Spring Wildflower Walk. Deep Creek National Park protects the largest portion of remaining native vegetation on the Fleurieu Peninsula, providing habitat for a diverse range of native wildlife, including western grey kangaroos, short-beaked echidnas and over 100 bird species. This gentle, family-friendly walk meanders through a regenerating sclerophyll forest, passing along a section of the park's northwestern boundary, with glimpses of the surrounding farmland along the way. During late winter and early spring, a beautiful array of wildflowers can be seen in the forest. The walk begins at the Stringybark Campground, which is suitable for tents, caravans, camper vans and camper trailers and has toilets, hot showers, picnic tables and fire pits. This loop consists of wide, gently undulating walking trails, with compacted natural surfaces, suitable for most fitness levels. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

Rural

Marrano Creek and Blowhole Beach Circuit

Marrano Creek and Blowhole Beach Circuit

5 km circuit

2 h to 3 h

Starting from the Cobbler Hill Campground on Blowhole Beach Road, Deep Creek Conservation Park, this circuit walk takes you past Blowhole Beach via the Heysen Trail. Following the Heysen Trail from the back of the campground, the trail winds down a steep hill to Marrano Creek. After crossing the creek, the track heads past the Blowhole Beach and then steeply up again. Swimming is not recommended because of strong currents. If lucky, you might spot some kangaroos along the way. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Swim

Environment

Deep Creek Cove Hike from Trig Campground

Deep Creek Cove Hike from Trig Campground

5.9 km return

2 h to 3 h 30 min

Starting from the Trig Campground Carpark at the end of Tent Rock Road, Deep Creek, this walk leads to Deep Creek Cove and back via the Deep Creek Cove Hike. Situated on the southern coast of the Fleurieu Peninsula, not far from Cape Jervis, Deep Creek Conservation Park is famous for its spectacular coastline with rugged cliffs, protected coves and sweeping views of the Southern Ocean and Kangaroo Island. The trail starts from the picnic area and carpark at the far end of Trig Campground, leading to a secluded cove where Deep Creek meets the ocean. Enjoy stunning ocean views as you descend. The trail descends gradually, with a steep section at the end of the hike into the cove that requires some rock scrambling. Sturdy shoes are recommended, as there are some rough sections with loose rocks on the ground. There isn't much shade on the trail, so remember to bring sunscreen. There is good signage along the way, and facilities at Trig Campground include toilets and large picnic shelter. The campsites are spacious with plenty of trees to provide protection from the elements, and each campsite also has its own fire pit. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

Starting from the Goondooloo Ridge Day Visitor Area off Blowhole Beach Road, Deep Creek National Park, this walk takes you on a circuit past the Goondooloo Ridge Lookout and Picnic Area via the Aaron Creek Circuit Hike. Deep Creek National Park protects the largest portion of remaining native vegetation on the Fleurieu Peninsula, providing habitat for a diverse range of native wildlife, including western grey kangaroos, short-beaked echidnas and over 100 bird species. This moderately challenging hike initially meanders through revegetated and remnant native bushland past the Eagle Waterhole Campground, then descends through the eucalypt forest to Aaron Creek. After passing a small seasonal waterfall, the hike climbs past the newly-built lookout and picnic area at Goondooloo Ridge, which offers spectacular views of Aaron Creek Valley, Backstairs Passage and Kangaroo Island. On a clear day, the Cape Willoughby Lighthouse can be seen on the island's easternmost point. Kangaroos can often be seen grazing in the open fields or resting under eucalypts along the way. The walk begins at the Goondooloo Ridge Day Visitor Area, which has picnic tables and accessible toilets. This loop consists of wide and narrow walking trails, with compacted natural surfaces, uneven natural surfaces and short steep hills, suitable for moderate fitness levels. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Aaron Creek Circuit

6 km circuit

2 h to 3 h

Environment

Starting from the Goondooloo Ridge Day Visitor Area off Blowhole Beach Road, Deep Creek National Park, this walk takes you on a circuit past Aaron Creek Cove and the Goondooloo Ridge Lookout via the Aaron Creek Hike. Deep Creek National Park protects the largest portion of remaining native vegetation on the Fleurieu Peninsula, providing habitat for a diverse range of native wildlife, including western grey kangaroos, short-beaked echidnas and over 100 bird species. This challenging hike initially meanders through revegetated and remnant native bushland past the Eagle Waterhole Campground, then descends through eucalypt forest to Aaron Creek. An optional return side trip follows the creek towards the coast, ending with a steep rock scramble down to a small rocky cove. After passing a small seasonal waterfall, the hike climbs past the newly-built lookout and picnic area at Goondooloo Ridge, which offers spectacular views of Aaron Creek Valley, Backstairs Passage and Kangaroo Island. On a clear day, the Cape Willoughby Lighthouse can be seen on the island's easternmost point. The walk begins at the Goondooloo Ridge Day Visitor Area, which has picnic tables and accessible toilets. This loop consists of wide and narrow walking trails, with compacted natural surfaces, uneven natural surfaces, steep hills and rock scrambling sections, suitable for moderate fitness levels. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Aaron Creek Beach

6 km circuit

3 h to 4 h

Environment

Deep Creek Waterfall from Tapanappa Lookout

Deep Creek Waterfall from Tapanappa Lookout

6.8 km return

2 h to 3 h

Starting from the Gate 39 car park near the Tapanappa Lookout at the end of Tapanappa Road, Deep Creek National Park, this walk takes you to the Deep Creek Waterfall and back via the Deep Creek Waterfall Hike from Tapanappa Lookout. Deep Creek National Park protects the largest portion of remaining native vegetation on the Fleurieu Peninsula, providing habitat for a diverse range of native wildlife, including western grey kangaroos, short-beaked echidnas and over 100 bird species. This moderately challenging hike takes walkers down to Deep Creek Waterfall, a secluded waterfall and waterhole oasis nestled in the heart of the park, between the Trig Campground and the Tapanappa Lookout. There are spectacular bushland and coastal views along the way, with steep steps leading to the base of the waterfall towards the end. The waterfall generally only flows in winter and after rains, but the waterhole is permanent. The walk begins near the Tapanappa Campground, which is suitable for tents, small camper vans and camper trailers. The campground also has toilets, picnic shelters and fire pits. This hike consists of narrow walking trails, with uneven natural surfaces and short steep hills, suitable for moderate fitness levels. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

Starting from the Trig Campground car park at the end of Tent Rock Road, this circuit walk takes you past Deep Creek Waterfall and Deep Creek Cove via the Heysen Track. It starts by descending to the beautiful Deep Creek Waterfall. Although the waterfall generally only flows in winter and after rains, the waterhole is permanent. The hike traverses the valley through forested gullies, reaching Tapanappa Lookout with stunning views over the area. From the lookout, the hike descends steeply to the secluded Deep Creek Cove, where Deep Creek meets the ocean. The walk ends with a steep ascent back to the Trig Campground car park, providing fantastic ocean views along the way. The diversity of ecosystems throughout this circuit hike make it all the more enjoyable. From the Xanthorrhoea hillsides, the grassy hilltops, the humid valley nooks, and the stands of tall eucalypts, the ecosystems offer a variety that contrasts the cleared farmland further inland. Some parts of the trail are slightly overgrown, and there are some steep uphill rocky sections that can be pretty challenging. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Deep Creek Circuit

10.2 km circuit

4 h to 6 h

Environment

Ingalalla Falls, Kalamunda Native Forest Reserve and Mount Hayfield Loop

Ingalalla Falls, Kalamunda Native Forest Reserve and Mount Hayfield Loop

15.9 km circuit

3 h 30 min to 5 h

1 h 45 min to 2 h 30 min

Starting from the Ingalalla Falls car park off Hay Flat Road, Hay Flat, this walk takes you on a circuit around the Second Valley Forest Reserve past Ingalalla Falls, the Kalamunda Native Forest Reserve and Mount Hayfield. This challenging hike explores the natural creeks, waterfalls, pine forest plantations and native scrub within the Second Valley Forest Reserve. The hike begins with a short walk to Ingalalla Falls, following the creek upstream to the rock pools and waterfall, with several picnic tables dotted along the path. The hike continues to the north-eastern corner of the reserve, winding around the pine forest plantation, then heads west to the Kalamunda Native Forest Reserve, passing through the native scrub around Blackfellows Creek before climbing to the summit of Mount Hayfield. This loop consists mostly of fire tracks, suitable for moderate fitness levels, with some short steep hills. The tracks aren't well-signposted, so some sections may be unclear. The upper tiers of Ingalalla Falls are difficult to reach, as the trail is very steep and slippery. Dogs are allowed, but must be kept on a leash. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment