3 of the best cycle trails in Adelaide
Posted 8 April, 2020
John Pedler and Samuel Smith
Just because we’re social distancing, doesn’t mean we have to skip exercise altogether.
While it’s vital we avoid social contact where possible, getting out for a bit of fresh air can do wonders for our physical and mental health.
The government currently advises all Australians to stay home where possible, but that doesn’t mean we have to cut out the essentials. As most of us know, this includes food shopping and buying medicinal supplies. It also includes physical activity.
The COVID-19 situation is constantly changing, but – providing you’re not required to self-isolate – you can still go outside to exercise at this stage.
Adelaide is full of beautiful cycling trails, meandering from the suburbs to the city and the sea.
If you’ve got a bike, now’s a great time to pump up its tyres, strap on your helmet and set off on a solitary cycle. Here are some of the best spots for a quick, cyclical escape.
Sturt River Linear Park Trail
The Sturt River Linear Park Trail stretches from the Southern Expressway, all the way through to Anzac Hwy, Novar Gardens. There’s also a short extension to Pine Ave, Novar Gardens.
A good place to start is Warriparinga, a wetland reserve behind the Marion Holiday Park, just off Sturt Rd. With its expansive lawns and hefty river red gums (one still bearing an ancient scar from its days providing utensils for the Kaurna people), it’s the perfect place to get a quick breath of fresh air, whether by bike or foot.
The Living Kaurna Cultural Centre, on the other side of the creek, is known for its walking tours and craft workshops. Though currently closed to the public, the surrounding area is worth a visit for its prolific birdlife. Cycle past, listening out for resident kookaburras who seem to find almost everything hilarious.
River Torrens Linear Park Trail
The River Torrens Linear Park is a national treasure. Cycle along the River Torrens from the Torrens Gorge Weir to the CBD or head west from the city to the river’s outflow at Henley Beach.
Hills to the city
Although the Linear Park trail passes by some of Adelaide’s busiest roads, there’s a sense that you’re not part of that world. There are few better places to feel like you’ve escaped from the city, while still close to home.
Starting in the foothills, the Linear Park Trail descends quickly before opening out into broad green parks graced with giant eucalypts, endless lawns and abundant birdlife. You might even spot a koala snoozing in Felixstow Reserve.
The scenery and vegetation changes along the way, from densely wooded areas and narrow gullies, to wide open reserves and manicured gardens. For much of the trip, you can choose to cycle along either side of the river – there are many opportunities to cross from one side to the other.
In the trail’s final stages, it squeezes past the zoo towards the beautifully kept Grundy Gardens, before arriving at Elder Park and Torrens Lake.
