8 breathtaking walking trails in SA

Posted 29 August, 2018 Clair Morton

From leisurely strolls past tumbling waterfalls to steep hikes through bushland, there are hundreds of places to connect with South Australia’s natural beauty. These walks are sure to take your breath away, and not always because of their difficulty.

 

Hallett Cove Boardwalk

Length: 5km each way Difficulty: Moderate Also known as the Marion Coastal Walking Trail, the well-trodden clifftop walk from Marino to Hallett Cove should be on everyone’s walking bucket list. There are lots of steps along the way, but if you start at Marino you can reward yourself with refreshments at Boatshed Café at the end. It’s a great place to recharge your batteries, and should provide enough fuel for the return journey if you plan to do a round trip. At Hallett Cove, it’s also worth a quick detour from the trail to the Sugarloaf, a colourful sand and clay formation that dates back about 280 million years.

 

Blue Lake Circuit, Mt Gambier

Length: 3.6km circuit Difficulty: Easy Flat terrain and picturesque lookouts make this walk around the edge of Mt Gambier’s Blue Lake perfect for people of all ages, and dogs too. The trail’s even lit at night-time, so don’t let the lack of sun stop you. For something a little more difficult, try the 1.3km hike from the carpark to Mt Schank’s crater rim.

 

 

Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty

Length: 7.8km return Difficulty: Hard The hike up to Mount Lofty summit is often thought of as a rite of passage for South Aussies, especially those who live around Adelaide. Even from the Waterfall Gully carpark, it’s easy to see why. The First Falls lookout at the beginning of the track – one of six waterfalls along the way – is a promise that this climb is going to be worth the effort. And with the stunning views of Adelaide on the way up, it’s safe to say it keeps that promise. If you just can’t bear to walk back down once you’ve reached the top, you can always tear down the mountain on a bike with Escapegoat Tours.  

Mannum Waterfalls, Mannum 

Length: 3km Difficulty: Moderate/hard Near the River Murray is a secluded walking trail that follows Reedy Creek to the Mannum Waterfalls. Wedge-tailed eagles and kangaroos are just some of the wildlife you might encounter, and there are a few impressive rock formations along the way. If there’s been recent rain, there’s usually more than one waterfall too. Make sure you have plenty of water, snacks and sunscreen.

 

 

Sturt Gorge loop, Flagstaff Hill 

Length: 7km circuit Difficulty: Hard Weaving in and out of several different trails in the beautiful Sturt Gorge Conservation Park, the Sturt Gorge loop is a walk you don’t have to leave the dog at home for – as long as it’s on a leash. You’ll find waterfalls, creeks and rocky outcrops, with a few water crossings along the way. Because of this, it’s probably best to avoid the trail after heavy rain.