Best hikes near Adelaide
South Australia is renowned for its natural beauty and sweeping landscapes. As we enter the cooler months, there has never been a better time to dust off your walking boots and explore by foot.
We’ve compiled a list of our top 5 favourite hikes so you can get out there and enjoy all the beauty nature has to offer in Adelaide and surrounds, from easier well- loved walks to those harder and more off the beaten track.
One day hikes
First Falls Valley
If you’re looking for a beginners’ hike, the First Falls Valley walk is a good place to start. The walk is located in Morialta Conservation Park and will take you down to Morialta Gorge. It promises plenty of lush scenery including waterfalls, cliffs and the opportunity to spot wildlife and at 45 minutes for a return car trip from Adelaide, it’s a good way to get started.
Travel time from Adelaide: 25 minutes
Length: 1.7km/
Time: 45 minutes return
Difficulty: Easy
The Marion Coastal Walk
If you are looking for a challenging walk, paired with some epic views of Adelaide’s coastline, the Marion Coastal Walk should be top of your weekend to- do list.
Following the Hallett Cove Boardwalk between Marino and Hallett Cove, this walk boasts magnificent views from rocky cliffs and reef platforms. Be sure to wear sturdy walking shoes as this hike involves many steep ascending and descending staircases that are perfect if you are looking for a robust cardio workout.
Travel time from Adelaide: 35 minutes
Distance: 10.2km return/
Time: 4 hours
Difficulty: Medium/Hard
Overnight hikes
Hidden Gorge Hike, Mambray Creek
If you are looking to really stretch your legs the 18km Hidden Gorge Hike in Mount Remarkable National Park is worth checking out. Although it’s a longer walk, it’s mainly flat with a gradual incline to the peak, making it accessible for many levels of hiking experience.
The walk has some amazing views of both Spencer Gulf as well as the Mount Remarkable Summit and features native pine forest and creeks. If you’d like to make a weekend of your hike, camping is available at Hidden Camp.
Travel time from Adelaide: 3 hours
Distance: 18km
Time: 7 hours return
Difficulty: Medium
Aaron Creek Circuit Hike
This hike is great if you are new to overnight hiking or want to choose a trail that is appropriate to take your kids along. Located in Deep Creek Conservation Park, the trail can be done either as a 3 hour return trip or as a two day half day hike with an overnight stay at Eagle Waterhole Campsite.
The trail passes through grasslands (if you’re lucky you may spot some Kangaroos!) before descending into the bushlands of Aaron Creek (think tall gums and freshly scented wattle). It’s best to do this walk in the cooler months as the park will be closed on days where the fire danger level is deemed extreme.
Travel time from Adelaide: 1.5 hours
Distance: 6 km return
Time: 3 hours or two half day hikes
Difficulty: Medium
Dog friendly hikes
Belair Waterfall Hike Circuit
If you’re looking to take your four-legged friend along for the adventure the Belair Waterfall Hike Circuit may be the one for you! This popular walk, located in Belair national park, is suitable for all skill levels and includes a majestic waterfall.
Travel time from Adelaide: 30 minutes
Distance: 6.4km return
Time: 3 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Dogs allowed on leash
Need to borrow a car for your weekend hike adventure? View cars near you.
