Our 7 best scenic trails
Across sandy dunes, through cool forests and over red-rock outback, South Australia’s walking and hiking trails are incredibly diverse.
Our state boasts over 800 tracks, from short suburban walks to major multi-day bush hikes, suiting everyone from the casual dog-walker to the advanced off-grid trekker.
As the days get warmer and brighter, take the first step and feel the pull of some of SA’s most scenic rambles.
1. Alligator Gorge Ring Route
Flinders Ranges
Despite its name, there are no alligators on this hike in the Flinders Ranges, and the reptile you may spot is a lace monitor lizard, which can grow up to two metres long. The 8.9km circuit winds its way through the Narrows gorge corridor and climbs the natural stair-like platforms of The Terraces. Visit during spring to see the wildflowers in bloom.
2. Wetlands Loop Trail
Adelaide and surrounds
Reachable by public transport, follow this flat, peaceful 4.5km boardwalk trail along the Onkaparinga River. Home to locals like yellow-tailed black cockatoos, jumping mullet and barking geckos, the trail accommodates prams and bicycles, with most sections wheelchair accessible. Want more? The national park boasts 16 varied trails.
3. Mannum Waterfalls
Mid Murray
This short but undulating 3km trail along Reedy Creek is best visited after winter or spring rains, when the waterfalls flow and fill the pools. As well as clear paths, the intrepid hike includes challenges like scrambling over rocks and crossing slippery creeks, so sturdy shoes are a must. Start at the lower car park, which offers picnic tables and toilets, or begin at the upper car park for a more challenging conclusion.
4. Emu Wren Hike
Fleurieu Peninsula
Within Cox Scrub Conservation Park, this circuit combines the Quarry and Stringybark tracks through dry-heath habitat known for its birdlife. Try spotting the critically endangered southern emu-wren, named for its long, wispy tail feathers and not for being emu-sized. The sandy tracks and gentle hills make this a rewarding but achievable 11km bushwalk, with the chance to add a rare sighting to your birdwatching list.
5. Investigator Trail
Eyre Peninsula
Really get to know the Lincoln National Park by taking on the four-to-five-day, 89km Investigator Trail circuit. Mostly flat and easy walking, the trail winds along coastal heath, mallee and sandy beaches. You can tackle the full route while camping, or break it into shorter day walks along various sections. Not ready to end your hike on the Eyre Peninsula? From here, it’s another 26km along the Parnkalla Trail to Port Lincoln.
6. Mack Creek Hike
Adelaide Hills
If your hiking partner is an energetic pooch, this 7.5km loop in the Para Wirra Conservation Park is just the trail to challenge you both. Expect uneven ground and breathtaking climbs as the walk passes native orchids and wildflowers blooming in late winter and spring. The Mack Creek, lined with river red gums filtering light onto the ferns and lichens below, is spectacular, but slippery to cross after it rains.
7. Lavender Federation Trail
Murraylands to Clare
Experience small-town South Australia at a walking pace. Named after Terry ‘Mr Bushwalking’ Lavender OAM, this 325km one-way trail takes an experienced walker 14 to 16 days to complete, though it can be broken into smaller sections and spur tracks. Listen for the lions as you pass Monarto Safari Park, and watch the landscapes morph from wide river plains into vineyard country, passing through small, friendly communities along the way.