Lifestyle

The best walking trails in the Adelaide Hills

There’s a reason why people call the Adelaide Hills a lifestyle location. Take your pick of world-class wineries, extraordinary eateries, rolling hills, and stunning drives. With dozens of charming towns, each with their own personality and pace, you can explore somewhere new every weekend. 

The best way to plan your little day trips? Pair physical activity with a restaurant or café you want to try. Start with a walk, then grab breakfast or lunch at one of the hundreds of establishments that makes this region one of South Australia’s top food scenes. 

The Hills has over 100 individual walking trails worth exploring. Let’s walk through some of the well-known and secret trails, here in the Hills. 

More secret walking trails 

  • Aldgate Valley Nature Walk 
    Named the Valley of the Bandicoots, this is a special trail where you want to take your time. You’ll feel like nature’s guest, rather than one of many weekend walkers. 

  • Waite Conservation Reserve 
    This one’s in the foothills but worth the trek with its spectacular city view. Take the Reserve Loop. 

  • Kidman Trail 
    Explore the Adelaide Hills section of the scenic Kidman Trail at Kuitpo Forest. This trail is more rugged and quiet, getting you close to nature. There’s a secluded cellar door scene in Kuitpo that you won’t want to miss – maybe an afternoon walk is better. 

  • Rhododendron Trail, Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens 
    If you’ve seen those autumn in the Adelaide Hills aerial shots (that look fake but they’re not), it’s likely taken from this here. The Rhododendron Trail is spectacular in every season. 

  • Amy Gillett Pathway 
    This 17-kilometre track attracts cyclists, horse riders, and walkers. It stretches from Oakbank to Mount Torrens, with picturesque views and pubs a-plenty, post-workout. 

Iconic trails 

  • Waterfall Gully / Mount Lofty 
    This one needs no introduction. It’s an SA gem for good reason. This track gets busy on the weekends, so if you’re doing it, start early. 

  • Morialta 
    Also, a SA favourite, Morialta is a must do. The waterfall is so scenic, especially after a good downpour. Third Falls, First Falls, and Fourth Creek Walk are popular trails. 

  • Heysen Trail 
    This majestic 1,200-kilometre trail spans from the Fleurieu to the Flinders. Can you believe it? Follow a part of it in Mylor, Hahndorf, Mount George, Picadilly, Morialta or Cuddlee Creek. For a detailed map, check out Friends of Heysen. For day trips, pick from one of the 17 short walks. 

You have all of this, just 30 minutes from the city and less than an hour from the sea. This is Adelaide Hills living. There’s nowhere like it.