South Australia is home to some of the most breathtaking hiking trails, ranging from coastal cliffs and rugged outback terrain to lush forests and waterfalls.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a scenic stroll, there’s something for everyone. We always throw around trails like Mount Lofty and Morialta but maybe it’s time to see a few more.
Here are ten of the best trails to explore in South Australia.
1. Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty Summit
📍 Distance: 7.9 km (return) | ⏳ Time: 3 hours |
One of Adelaide’s most popular hikes, this steep but rewarding trail leads from Waterfall Gully to the highest point in the Adelaide Hills—Mount Lofty Summit. The trail is well-paved and offers stunning views, especially at sunrise or sunset. However, this is Adelaide’s worst kept secret. You’re bound to bump into someone you know! At the summit, you’ll find a panoramic view of Adelaide. Remember if you don’t take a photo at the top, did you even do “Lofty”.
2. Belair Waterfall Hike Circuit
📍 Distance: 6.4 km | ⏳ Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Located in Belair National Park, this trail takes you through scenic bushland, past waterfalls, and under an old railway tunnel. Keep an eye out for kangaroos, koalas, and emus along the way. It’s particularly beautiful in spring when wildflowers are in bloom.
3. Morialta Falls Loop
📍 Distance: 7.3 km | ⏳ Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Morialta Conservation Park is famous for its waterfalls and dramatic cliffs. This loop takes you past First, Second, and Third Falls, offering plenty of photo opportunities. You’ll find plenty of lookouts with breathtaking views over the valley. There are many trails to choose from so you will be spoilt for choice!
4. Deep Creek Circuit Hike
📍 Distance: 10.6 km | ⏳ Time: 4 hours
For a true wilderness experience, Deep Creek Conservation Park is a must-visit. This circuit offers rugged coastal views, dense bushland, and a chance to spot kangaroos, echidnas, and birdlife. The challenging terrain makes this an excellent choice for experienced hikers.
5. Wilpena Pound to Saint Mary Peak Loop
📍 Distance: 17.2 km | ⏳ Time: 5 hours
Located in the Flinders Ranges, this trail provides some of the most stunning outback scenery in Australia. While the Adnyamathanha people prefer visitors not to summit Saint Mary Peak, the Tanderra Saddle still offers spectacular views of the rugged landscape. If you love to hike, and love a scenic trail, Arkaba Conservancy offers a 3 day hiking experience that is magical.
6. Chambers Gully to Mount Lofty Loop
📍 Distance: 15.3 km | ⏳ Time: ~4 hours 50 minutes
A less crowded alternative to the main Mount Lofty hike, this trail starts in Chambers Gully and winds through Cleland National Park. Expect plenty of koala sightings and beautiful forest scenery before reaching Mount Lofty Summit. Full disclosure, before hiking “Lofty” was a “thing” we accidentally walked this trail thinking it was the Mount Lofty Summit.
7. Wine Shanty Trail, Cleland National Park
📍 Distance: 10.5 km | ⏳ Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
This hidden gem within Cleland Conservation Park is a fantastic choice for those looking for a peaceful bushwalk. The trail takes you through eucalyptus forests, offering glimpses of wildlife such as blue wrens, koalas, and kangaroos.
8. Burnside Quarry and Chambers Gully Circuit
📍 Distance: 9.3 km | ⏳ Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
Perfect for those who enjoy history and nature, this circuit passes through the old Burnside Quarry and follows trails lined with native flora. The panoramic views over Adelaide make the climb well worth the effort.
9. Wangara Lookouts Walk (Wilpena Pound)
📍 Distance: 8 km | ⏳ Time: 2 hours
A great introduction to the Flinders Ranges, this trail starts at the Wilpena Pound Visitor Centre and leads to two breathtaking lookouts. The views inside Wilpena Pound are nothing short of spectacular, especially in the early morning or late afternoon light.
10. Brown Hill and Brown Hill Creek Loop
📍 Distance: 6.1 km | ⏳ Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
This trail offers a mix of gentle walking and some steeper sections leading to the summit of Brown Hill. Enjoy stunning city views and a peaceful stroll along Brown Hill Creek, which is shaded by towering gum trees.
