Great local walks in SA this Spring

6 November 2023
Fill up your water bottle, grab the SPF 50+ and stock your picnic basket! Spring has landed, and it’s the ideal time to discover walking trails across our beautiful state.
couple walking with dogs

Whether you want a half hour brisk walk or need a decent hike, a local or not-so-local walk will have you feeling rejuvenated in a jiffy.

To inspire you to start your step count, we’ve put together a list of walking trails across South Australia.

Wadmore Park | Pulyonna Wirra

Set in the suburb of Athelstone, this network of walking trails runs through native trees, grasses and scrubland. With handy off-road parking, Wadmore Park features 7.4km of trails that connect Fifth Creek to the edges of Black Hill Conservation Park. Dogs are welcome and must be kept on the lead to help protect the 132 animal species and 266 plant species that call the park home.

Kids will love rock hopping across (or in) the creek during Winter and early Spring. You’ll feel like you’re far away from suburbia while only being a 20 minute drive from the city.

Discover Wadmore Park | Pulyonna Wirra

Burnside Historic Walking Trails

Spread across the City of Burnside are 10 walking trails where you can step back in time and discover historic sites in the suburbs. These self-guided walks take you to sites from the 1800s, including homes, stores and schools.

We recommend walking the suburb of Magill, where heritage buildings sit alongside cafes and restaurants - great for a quick stop to keep you energised and refreshed. Follow the guided map to learn how the suburb evolved, and discover the movers and shakers from the past.

Some historic trails are also available as interactive maps on a smartphone. Visit Burnside Historical Society for the full list.

Discover Burnside Historic Walking Trails

Walk the Yorke

Known for its peaceful coastline and big, open skies, the 'Walk the Yorke' offers an incredible range of walking trails on the Yorke Peninsula.

The 6km walk from coastal Coobowie to historic Edithburgh is recommended as an easy trail to start. This sealed trail hugs the coastline to reveal Instagram-worthy views of pristine beaches and cliffs along the way. Allow about 1.5 hours. Keep your eyes peeled for the many Australian and migratory birds that call this spot home.

Discover Walk the Yorke

Mannum Waterfalls

Just a 5 minute drive outside of Mannum lies the little known natural wonder of Mannum Waterfalls. Stunning when the creek is dry and fast flowing in Winter, Mannum Waterfalls is a rugged 2 to 3 hour adventure walk.

Rock-hop your way from the lower pools up to the crest of the waterfall. Moderate to steep, this 3km trail is bound by large granite rocks that build up to a crescendo of amazing scenery. Allow around 2 to 3 hours return. Picnics are recommended!

Discover Mannum Waterfalls

Encounter Bikeway

Don't let the name fool you! The Encounter Bikeway is a picturesque walking friendly and wheelchair accessible sealed trail. Starting at Victor Harbor and winding up in Goolwa, you can pick up the trail at Port Elliot and Middleton. With over 30km of track, choose your own adventure and distance depending on your time and fitness level.

Discover Encounter Bikeway

Lake McIntyre

Set in the lovely town of Millicent, Lake McIntyre offers a peaceful trundle along 1.3km of boardwalk. Suitable for people of all fitness levels and wheelchair accessible, the trail circuits the lake created in a former quarry. Look for wildlife as you walk, and duck into a bird hide to spot native and migratory birds along the way. When you’re done, enjoy lunch at one of the free sheltered barbecue and picnic areas. Open daily until dusk.

Discover Lake McIntyre

Neagles Rock Short Walk

This walk leading to a spectacular view from Neagles Rock Lookout is worth the short climb! Suitable for most ages and fitness levels, Neagles Rock walking trail is a well-shaded, 1km loop. It's one of six Clare Valley Short Walks.

Allow approximately 45 minutes as you meander up past grassy hills and rocky formations towards the lookout.

Discover Neagles Rock Short Walk

Want inspiration for more local walks? Visit your local council to find trails in your area.

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