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Environment

Mambray Creek to Alligator Gorge Hike

Mambray Creek to Alligator Gorge Hike

14.6 km oneway

5 h to 2 days

Starting from the Mambray Creek car park at the end of Park Road, Mount Remarkable National Park, this walk takes you to Alligator Gorge via the Mambray Creek, Hidden Gorge and Kingfisher tracks. This challenging hike follows the course of the Alligator and Mambray creeks, which are a series of rocky beds and water holes, exploring the river red gum and native pine forests that line the creeks. The hike begins near the Mambray Creek Campground, winding along Mambray Creek past pools of permanent water, then follows the Hidden Gorge Track along Alligator Creek to the Hidden Gorge Campsite. The hike continues along Alligator Creek, following the Kingfisher Track past the Red Cliffs and the Blue Gum Flat Picnic Area, ending at the Alligator Gorge car park. This route can either be done one-way, leaving a car or arranging a lift at the Alligator Gorge car park, or as a return walk, staying overnight at Longhill Camp. This hike consists of gently undulating walking tails, suitable for moderate fitness levels, with rocky gorge sections, so sturdy footwear is essential. Dogs are not permitted in this park. 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

Wanna Dunes to Sleaford Mere

Wanna Dunes to Sleaford Mere

14.6 km oneway

4 h to 5 h

Starting from the intersection of Wanna Road and the Pillie Hut Powerline Track, Lincoln National Park, this walk takes you to Sleaford Mere. This challenging bushwalk initially meanders through inland low mallee woodland, climbing to a vantage point with panoramic views over the park before reaching the Brian Clarke Hut, an excellent camp shelter for bushwalkers. From there, the walk continues over the massive, wind-sculpted sand dunes of the Sleaford-Wanna dune system, then follows the Sleaford Bay coastline towards Sleaford Mere, passing across pristine white sandy beaches and along rugged limestone cliffs, with breathtaking views of the exposed Southern Ocean. The walk is part of the Investigator Trail, a long-distance walking trail consisting of several shorter connected trails within Lincoln National Park. Sleaford Bay has exposed, hazardous waters with large waves and dangerous rips, and is popular for surfing but not safe for swimming. This walk consists of wide and narrow walking trails and fire tracks, with uneven natural surfaces, compacted natural surfaces, sandy surfaces and short steep hills, suitable for moderate fitness levels, and can be done in either direction. 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

Birdwatching

Environment

Hallett Cove to Brighton via the Marion Coastal Trail

Hallett Cove to Brighton via the Marion Coastal Trail

14.7 km return

4 h 30 min to 7 h

Starting from the Boatshed Café car park on Heron Way, Hallett Cove, this walk leads to Brighton via the Coastal Walking Trail. Experience the unique environment along this section of Adelaide’s coastline, walking along the well-maintained boardwalk that winds its way over spectacular rugged cliffs. The scenery is stunning throughout, and there are access points to the variety of beaches along the coast. There are amazing views over the sea and the Adelaide coastline, and if you're lucky you may see dolphins and seals basking in the water. Interpretive signs along the way detail the area's unique geology and sea life. The trail mostly consists of boardwalk, steps and pathways. The numerous sets of stairs descending and ascending the steep gullies make for a decent workout, and require a moderate level of fitness. Water is available from several drinking water fountains, and there are also two toilets and two cafés 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

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

Lower & Upper Waterfall from Mitcham

Lower & Upper Waterfall from Mitcham

15.9 km circuit

5 h to 7 h 30 min

Starting from the intersection of Northbrook Avenue and Chelmsford Avenue, Mitcham, this walk gives you a good taste of Brownhill Creek Recreation Park. This track has a good balance of elevation and breathtaking scenery. Visitors can admire the magnificent 300+ years old river red gums. This place is a beautiful spot to visit in winter, especially after rainfall. The creek flows in full force, and the waterfall cascades down, creating a refreshing and peaceful atmosphere. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash. Kaurna Aboriginal People used to camp, gather and hunt here. The valley slopes are covered in blue gum trees, while the park also is home to a threatened ecosystem of greybox grassy woodland. 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 Onkaparinga Valley Road, Oakbank, this walk takes you to Mount Torrens via the Amy Gillett Bikeway. The Amy Gillett Bikeway is a shared-use path for walkers, cyclists and horse riders that connects the towns of Oakbank, Woodside, Charleston and Mount Torrens, providing a lovely way to spend a day in the Adelaide Hills. Named after Australian professional cyclist Amy Gillett, the bikeway follows the former Mount Pleasant railway line through undulating hillsides, passing small towns nestled between vineyards and farmland, with a wide array of shops and interesting places to visit along the way. The bikeway is popular with both serious and casual cyclists, featuring an excellent sealed surface, gentle gradient and several seats for rest stops, and is also great for walks or family-friendly bike rides in shorter sections. This trail consists of gently sloping bitumen paths, suitable for all bike types and fitness levels, and can be comfortably started from either end. Keep a lookout for the blue 'Amy Gillett Bikeway' signs along the route, and watch out for traffic at the road crossings. 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

Amy Gillett Bikeway

16 km oneway

4 h to 7 h

3 h 15 min to 8 h 30 min

Environment

Starting from the car park at the end of Park Road, Wilmington, this walk takes you on a circuit within Mount Remarkable National Park via the Mambray Creek and Hidden Gorge tracks. The hike begins near the Mambray Creek Campground, winding through native pine forest lining Mambray Creek, past pools of permanent water. The trail passes the Hidden Gorge Campsite before entering the ever-narrowing Hidden Gorge, where you’ll walk between steep red-rock cliff walls. You can spend a night at this great spot next to the creek and make this a multi-day walk. Follow the track up to the Battery, and enjoy panoramic views over Spencer Gulf on one side and Mount Remarkable summit on the other side. Maps are available at the trailhead, and the path is well signed. Keep a lookout for small blue arrows along the way that are nailed onto rocks and trees. There are also metal poles at roughly 500m intervals that state the remaining distance on the hike. The parking area has plenty of space with public toilets and barbeques, making it perfect for a family trip. Although 17km may sound long, the first half of the trail is relatively flat aside from a few hops over the creek. The second half is a slow incline to the ridge, where it flattens out again along the top before hitting a steady decline back towards the car park. Sturdy walking shoes are recommended, and walking poles may be helpful for the numerous creek crossings 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

Hidden Gorge Circuit

16.9 km circuit

5 h, 8 h to 2 days

Environment

Starting from the Bunyeroo car park on Bunyeroo Road, Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park, this walk takes you to the Wilpena Pound Visitor Centre via the Wilcolo Track. This hike follows a section of the Heysen and Mawson Trails alongside Wilcolo Creek between the ABC and Heysen Ranges, passing through white cypress pine woodland and tall river red gums, with stunning views of Wilpena Pound and the surrounding peaks. A diverse range of birds and animals can be seen along the way, including parrots, robins, wrens, eagles, emus, echidnas, kangaroos and rare yellow-footed rock wallabies. Before reaching the Wilpena Pound Visitor Centre, the hike passes the Wilcolo Campground, which sits among native pines, river red gums and wattles, offering picturesque camping options and toilet facilities. The hike also passes the Old Wilpena Station, one of South Australia's most significant pastoral settlements, displaying restored farm buildings, including an 1864 blacksmith's cottage. This loop consists of gently undulating fire tracks, with some uneven natural surfaces and creek crossings, suitable for average 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

Wilcolo Track

17.4 km oneway

4 h to 6 h

Environment

Starting near the Wilpena Pound Visitor Centre at the end of Wilpena Road, Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park, this walk takes you to Bridle Gap and back via the Pound Gap Track, Wilpena Pound Hiking Track and Bridle Gap Hike. Experience a section of the iconic Heysen Trail on this hike to Bridle Gap, a high saddle on the south-western escarpment edge of Wilpena Pound, passing through mallee, native pine and heath with an abundance of native birdlife. The hike follows a gently undulating track through the Pound Gap, passing the historic Hills Homestead, where early pastoralists lived while using the Pound as a natural corral for farming and grazing stock. The track remains relatively flat as it continues across the floor of the Pound before climbing the Wilpena Pound Range to Bridle Gap, providing panoramic views of the Bunbinyunna, Elder and Red Ranges. This hike consists of well-marked fire tracks and walking trails, suitable for moderate fitness levels, with some short steep hills. Dogs are not permitted in this park. 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

Bridle Gap Hike

18.2 km return

4 h to 6 h

Environment

Long Beach via Yangie Track

Long Beach via Yangie Track

18.2 km return

4 h to 6 h

Starting from the Yangie Bay Campground at the end of Coffin Road, Coffin Bay National Park, this walk takes you to Long Beach and back via the Long Beach Hike. Located within Coffin Bay National Park on South Australia's Eyre Peninsula, the sheltered waters of Yangie Bay offer an ideal place for canoeing and provide a spectacular backdrop to the Yangie Bay Campground, the starting point for several walking trails, accessible to all vehicles and suitable for caravans. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including emus, goannas and kangaroos, as well as seabirds such as albatrosses, ospreys, petrels and white-bellied sea eagles. This moderately challenging hike follows sandy trails through coastal mallee, vegetated sand dunes and samphire flats, offering excellent views of Yangie Bay and Yangie Island. The trail heads slightly inland before emerging at the aptly named Long Beach, an extensive white sand beach that provides a fantastic spot to enjoy the sunset over Coffin Bay, with calm and shallow waters that are suitable for swimming and paddling. This walk consists of sandy, gently undulating walking trails, with some overgrown sections, suitable for average 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

Hahndorf to Bridgewater Circuit

Hahndorf to Bridgewater Circuit

18.4 km circuit

5 h to 8 h 30 min

Starting from the Pioneer Memorial Gardens on Mount Barker Road, Hahndorf, this walk takes you on an 18km circuit past Bridgewater. The walk mainly follows country roads, laneways and bush tracks through a delightful section of the Adelaide Hills with historic homes, deciduous trees and native bushland. Along the way, you'll go past the great artist Sir Hans Heysen's home, The Cedars. Many of his original works of art can be seen on display in the house and the nearby studio. Some sections of the trail are slightly technical, and there are a couple of river crossings along the way which may be slippery after recent rainfall. This is a long walk, best suited for reasonably fit and experienced walkers. 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

Bus

Starting from the Kersbrook Public Hall car park on James Crescent, Kersbrook, this walk takes you on a circuit around the area north of Kersbrook via the Simpson Loop. Following the quiet country lanes and tracks north of the rural town of Kersbrook, the Simpson Loop passes through areas usually only used by locals, with good views over the surrounding ridgetops, rolling hills and farmland, where plenty of grazing cattle, sheep, horses and alpacas can be seen. The Kersbrook Public Hall is the trailhead for most of the Mount Lofty Ranges Trails, with toilet facilities and a large sign detailing the trails in the area. The Simpson Loop is mostly part of the Kersbrook Horse Trail network and is identified with yellow and black trail markers. This loop consists of wide shared-use fire tracks and dirt roads, with some short steep hills, suitable for walkers and cyclists of average fitness levels. When on private farmland, stay close to the fence line and leave the gates as you found them. 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

Simpson Loop

19.5 km circuit

4 h to 6 h

Environment

Rural

Wilpena Pound and Saint Mary Peak Circuit

Wilpena Pound and Saint Mary Peak Circuit

19.7 km circuit

6 h 30 min to 10 h

Starting near the Wilpena Pound Resort at the end of Wilpena Road, Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park, this circuit walk takes you to the summit of Saint Mary Peak via the Outside, Inside and Pound Gap tracks. From the summit, walkers are rewarded with outstanding panoramic views of the Flinders Ranges, Aroona Valley, and the salt plains to the west. Wilpena Pound has a wide variety of flora and fauna. The pound is home to Sturt's desert pea, river gums, mallee, acacia and casuarinas. This hike offers a challenge for enthusiastic bushwalkers with steep climbs and rugged terrain. The directions are often marked in very subtle hard-to-spot ways, such as faded arrows scratched into the rocks. The last kilometres to the peak involve a lot of rock scrambling, but the view makes the effort worthwhile. 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 Sensation Beach Campground on the Misery Track, Coffin Bay National Park, this walk takes you to the coastline of Boarding House Bay and back via the Boarding House Bay Hike. This hike starts from the trailhead at the Sensation Beach Campground, which is accessible only by 4WD through Coffin Bay National Park, and follows old vehicle tracks through the spectacular landscape of the Whidbey Wilderness Area. The trail passes through coastal heath, samphire flats and mallee woodlands before reaching the rugged coastline of Boarding House Bay, which offers stunning views of cliffs, beaches and offshore reefs. From there, walkers can return via the same route or continue along the coastline to the southern headland, which offers excellent views of Point Whidbey. Swimming along this coast isn't advisable due to persistent waves, rocks, reefs and strong rips. This walk consists of gently undulating fire tracks, with some uneven natural surfaces, suitable for average 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

Boarding House Bay

21.5 km return

6 h to 8 h

Birdwatching

Environment