Adelaide is sorely underrated when it comes to the best hiking spots in Australia. With countless killer walks both close to Adelaide city and a bit further afield, here’s our roundup of the best Adelaide hikes for all levels.


We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the Countries on which these adventures take place who have occupied and cared for these lands, waters, and their inhabitants for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

The Adelaide region (and South Australia in general) is chock-full of bangin’ walks – from the popular Onkaparinga Gorge River hike to the Great Southern Ocean Walk, the Heysen Trail and beyond. 

Read more: Remember to leave no trace

Whether you’re an avid hiker looking for some challenging trails further out bush, or after an easy walk close to Adelaide CBD, this list of the best Adelaide hikes will sort you out. So, lace up your hiking boots, slap on the sunscreen, and let’s go go go!

Make sure to check the National Parks & Wildlife Service South Australia Closures & Alerts page for the latest updates on each of these trails before you head out.

Jump to Section

Best Adelaide Hikes

1. Coastal Park Trail (Moana to Port Noarlunga South)

Nearest Town: Port Noarlunga / Moana
Distance: 8.4 km (return)
Time: 2-3 hours
Dog friendly: Yes (on leash)

The Coastal Park Trail from Moana to Port Noarlunga South is a picturesque 7.5km section of a much longer coastal path (60km in total) that showcases South Australia’s stunning shoreline. It’s one of the best day hikes close to Adelaide CBD, and you’ll find it can get pretty packed on the weekend – so well worth rising and shining early to beat the crowds. 

Well-marked and easy to navigate, the path offers breathtaking views of the ocean, cliffs, and local wildlife (it’s pretty common to spot dolphins or seals along the way). 

Ending in the quaint Port Noarlunga South, the Coastal Park Trail definitely shows off South Australia’s coastal beauty. Whether you’re a local rediscovering your backyard or a visitor, this trail is one to add to your never-ending list. 

 

Port Noarlunga | Photo by Trent Martin Photograph

2. Alligator Gorge Ring Route

Nearest Town: Wilmington
Distance: 8.9km
Time: 3.5 hours
Dog-friendly: No

A short 3.5-hour drive from Adelaide, Mount Remarkable National Park is a gateway to the scenic wonders of the Flinders Ranges. The park has countless great walks, but for the most breathtaking scenery, I’d recommend the Alligator Gorge Ring Route.

The 9km hike begins with a descent of around 300 steps, winding its way through the dramatic Alligator Gorge, renowned for its ancient rock formations, deep gorges, and unique flora and fauna. Walking this route really does feel like stepping into another world, with narrow passages between towering red cliffs and layered rock formations. 

One of the highlights of the Ring Route is the Narrows, a small passage through the gorge that’s both awe-inspiring and a bit of a squeeze!

Grab a guide book: Best Walks of the Flinders Ranges (Enter WAE15 at checkout for 15% off!)

 

Get Swallowed Up in Alligator Gorge: An Overnight Backpacking Route in South Australia, Taylor Bell, SA, Mount Remarkable National Park, Overnight Hiking, Gorge, water, reflection

Alligator Gorge | @disco_steww

3. Onkaparinga Gorge River Hike

Nearest Town: Blewitt Springs
Distance: 4.2km
Time: 2.5 hours
Dog-friendly: No

The Onkaparinga Gorge River Hike in the Onkaparinga River National Park is an absolute must-do for those who appreciate a quick but moderately challenging hike without venturing too far from Adelaide (about 45 minutes by car).

Taking around 2-3 hours to complete, the path takes you along the Gorge River, through towering cliffs, and into lush, wooded areas. The highlight of the Onkaparinga Gorge River Hike is the stunning views of the gorge, but honestly, the river is equally as impressive, carving through ancient rock and creating dramatic landscapes that are a naturalist’s dream.

Accessible yet still wonderfully remote, the Onkaparinga Gorge River Hike offers some serious wilderness therapy without having to drive hours out of the city. 

4. The River Torrens Linear Trail, West Beach to Adelaide CBD

Nearest Town: Athelstone
Distance: 46km
Time: Varies
Dog-friendly: Yes (on leash)

Want to explore the best of Adelaide on foot? The River Torrens Linear Park trail is your go-to. It’s a favourite for a reason, taking you from the scenic Adelaide foothills, weaving through the heart of the CBD, and ending up at the beautiful coast, offering all of Adelaide’s best bits in one go.

The route itself is pretty long, roughly 46km, but don’t worry if you’re not up for covering the whole distance in one shot. There are plenty of spots along the trail where you can jump on or off, making it easy to tailor the walk to just how far you want to go.

 

River Torrens in the heart of Adelaide | Photo by Ben Goode

5. Three Falls Grand Hike

Nearest Town: Teringie
Distance: 7.3km
Time: 3.5 hours
Dog-friendly: No

If you’re feeling a little adventurous and ready to level up from the more relaxed First Falls Walk in Morialta Conservation Park, the Three Falls Grand Hike is the one for you. This trail offers a bit more of a challenge but rewards you with the stunning beauty of Morialta Gorge’s three waterfalls.

Following the trail markers, you’ll journey past First Falls, take a slight detour to Second Falls, and then onto Third Falls, each offering its own spectacular view of the gorge’s rugged cliffs and lush grasslands.

The hike traces Fourth Creek, adding a bit of a climb but nothing too daunting. It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.

 

Morialta Has Three Magical Waterfalls to Explore in One Epic Hike, Cara Van Wyk. Butterfly, Morialta Conservation Park, Waterfall, Third Falls

Third Falls at Morialta Conservation Park | Photo by Cara Van Wyk

Nearby Accommodation

6. The Marion Coastal Walk (Hallett Cove Boardwalk)

Nearest Town: Marion
Distance: 5.1km (one way)
Time: 2 hours
Dog-friendly: Yes (on leash)

If you love your hikes paired with dramatic coastal views, you’ll no doubt find the Hallett Cove Boardwalk (part of the Marion Coastal Trail) to be super special. Stretching from Marino Esplanade to Hallett Cove, it’s about a two-hour trek one way, but time flies when you’re soaking up the gorgeous coastal vistas.

If you’re keen for a bit more, there’s an extra loop you can tack on – the 2km Glacial Hike in Hallett Cove Conservation Park. It’s a side trip that’s absolutely worth it, especially to check out the famous Sugarloaf formation.

 

The Sugarloaf in Hallett Cove Conservation Park | Photo by Cale Matthews

7. Sugarloaf Circuit

Nearest Town: Beaufort
Distance: 15km
Time: 6 hours
Dog-friendly: No

The Sugarloaf Circuit is a fantastic spot for nature lovers, especially if you’re excited about seeing koalas, kangaroos, and birds in their natural habitat. This scenic route starts at Waterfall Gully Road, where you can park your car before heading out on your adventure.

The journey takes you through the Chambers Gully Track, leading to the Sugarloaf Circuit. It’s already a rewarding hike, but if you’re in the mood for a bit more exploration, you can extend your walk to include a visit to the Long Ridge Lookout. This detour offers incredible panoramic views over Adelaide City and Glenelg, making the extra steps well worth it.

8. Wild South Coast Way, Fleurieu Peninsula

Nearest Town: Cape Jervis
Distance: 74km
Time: 5 days
Dog-friendly: No

The Wild South Coast Way on the Fleurieu Peninsula is a fantastic way to see some of the most beautiful spots in South Australia. It’s a path that starts at Cape Jervis (where you catch the ferry to Kangaroo Island) and stretches all the way to Victor Harbor, covering about 74km of stunning coastlines, forests, and beaches.

The trail traverses a variety of epic landscapes, from coastal beauties like Blowhole Beach and Waitpinga Beach, to the hilly, bushy areas of Deep Creek Conservation Park and Newland Head Conservation Park.

Not to mention the animals you’ll likely come across, like kangaroos, echidnas, and heaps of different birds like Brown falcons and emu-wrens. It’s just pure gorgeousness. 

 

The Wild Coast Way: A 5 Day Teaser for the Heysen Trail, Emily Dallas, deep creek conservation park, ocean cliffs

Welcome to Deep Creek Conservation Park! | @dallasfly

9. Mount Remarkable Summit Hike, Flinders Ranges

Nearest Town: Melrose
Distance: 13.7km
Time: 4.5 hours
Dog-friendly: No

If you’re someone who feels like a hike isn’t complete without a summit, then the Mount Remarkable Summit Hike in the breathtaking Flinders Ranges is for you. It’s doable for most hikers, with the trail striking a nice balance between challenging and enjoyable (just a few rocky paths and steep sections that demand a bit of grit).

 Along the trail, you’ll likely spot some kangaroos hopping around, along with rock wallabies, echidnas, goannas, and emus roaming about. Bird lovers will have a field day too, with 117 different kinds of native birds to look out for.

Once you reach the summit (960m), you’re greeted with an incredible vista overlooking Willochra Plain and Spencer Gulf. It’s a great day hike for those keen to immerse themselves in the stunning natural beauty of South Australia.

Want something longer? Mount Remarkable Multi-Day Hike

 

Red Dirt and a 2WD? It’s Possible on the Explorer’s Way in South Australia, Joshua West, AVID SA

Mt Remarkable, Melrose | @trekkingwest

10. Yellowtail Loop (Anstey Hill Loop)

Nearest Town: Anstey Hill Recreation Park
Distance: 7.5 km circuit
Time: 2-3 hours
Dog-friendly: Yes (on leash)

The Yellowtail Loop in Anstey Hill Recreation Park is an easy day hike with some pretty fascinating history attached to it. On the trail, you’ll come across remnants of the old Newmans Nursery, a once-bustling plant hub that was damaged by floods in 1912. Despite the damage, you can still spot some of the old buildings and glasshouses.

This walk is perfect for nature lovers and history buffs alike. Keep an eye out for local fauna like the superb fairywren, Western grey kangaroos, and maybe even a sleepy koala. Although there are a few uphill sections, it’s certainly a doable hike for most levels of fitness.

11. Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty

Nearest Town: Beaumont
Distance: 7.8km return
Time: 3.5 hours
Dog-friendly: No

The Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty hike is one of Adelaide’s most popular walks. It’s basically Adelaide’s version of the Bondi to Bronte coastal walk. Starting from the Waterfall Gully car park, this moderately challenging hike will take you to Mount Lofty and back via the Waterfall Gully Track.

The hike is well known for its diverse wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for kangaroos, koalas, lizards, and birds – you might even spot an echidna or a rare Southern brown bandicoot if you’re lucky! When you reach the top of Mount Lofty, get ready for some seriously breathtaking views of the Adelaide plains and Gulf St Vincent.

 

Mount Lofty | Photo by Megan Crabb

FAQs Adelaide Hikes

Is Adelaide good for hiking?

You betcha! Adelaide is fantastic for hiking. It’s got a mix of everything – from coastal views that’ll leave you speechless to adventures through the Adelaide Hills where the scenery is equally mind-blowing. If you’re after a variety of trails that cover everything from easy walks to more challenging hikes, Adelaide’s got you covered.

What is the longest walking trail in South Australia?

The Heysen Trail is a massive 1,200km trek that’s the ultimate South Australian adventure. It slices through an insane variety of sceneries – from beachy coastlines and deep forests to epic gorges and amazing vineyards. Whether you’re in it for a short jaunt or the long haul, this trail has got something for everyone. It’s a hiker’s dream, offering up all the wild beauty of South Australia on a single path​. 

What are the best dog-friendly walks in Adelaide?

Glad you asked – we’ve got a whole article on the best dog friendly hikes and walks in Adelaide! From Waterfall Hike in Belair National Park to Viaduct Loop Track, to the Devils Nose Track Loop and beyond, there are plenty of hiking trails in Adelaide to take your beloved pooch.

Tell Us YOUR Fave Adelaide Hikes

We wanna know: did we include your favourite Adelaide walk/hike? If not, tell us about it! Where do you love to hike? Share the love and let us and our dear WAE community know!

And, if you loved this article, please be sure to share it with your friends too so we can get more people out and about exploring all the beautiful walking trails Adelaide has to offer.

More Adelaide Adventures

 

Feature image by @disco_steww

We’ve shared these recommendations because we genuinely rate them and want you to enjoy them too. Our writers use a mix of personal experience and research to compile these lists, and they’re also encouraged to be honest when things aren’t up to scratch. For more information on our approach, check out our Editorial Standards.