The best hiking trails in South Australia

525 Hiking Trails

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Adelaide Adelaide City Adelaide Hills Alexandrina Arno Bay Barossa Barunga West Beachport Berri and Barmera Burnside Campbelltown Charles Sturt City of Onkaparinga City of Victor Harbor Clare and Gilbert Valleys Cleve Coffin Bay Coorong Crafers Crystal Brook Elliston Flinders Ranges Franklin Harbour Gawler Holdfast Bay Kangaroo Island Kingston Light Lower Eyre Peninsula Loxton Waikerie Lyndoch Mallala Marion Melrose Mid Murray Mitcham Mount Barker Mount Gambier Mount Pleasant Mount Remarkable Murray Bridge Naracoorte Lucindale Northern Areas Norton Summit of Elliston of Robe Onkaparinga Pastoral Unincorporated Area Penola Playford Port Adelaide Enfield Port Augusta Port Augusta City Port Pirie City and Dists Port Pirie Regional Renmark Paringa Robe Salisbury Southend Tatiara Tea Tree Gully The Barossa The Berri Barmera The Coorong The Corporation of the City of Whyalla The Flinders Ranges The of Cleve The of Grant The of Lower Eyre Peninsula The of Loxton Waikerie The of Yankalilla The Rural City of Murray Bridge Victor Harbor Wakefield Wattle Range West Torrens Wilmington Yankalilla Yorke Peninsula Yunta
South Australia Static Map Photo 1 Photo 1 Photo 1 Photo 1

"Discover South Australia's diverse landscapes, from Flinders Ranges' rugged beauty to Kangaroo Island's coastal splendor."

Embark on an unforgettable adventure in South Australia, where diverse landscapes await every hiker. Traverse the rugged beauty of the Flinders Ranges, where ancient rock formations and vibrant wildlife captivate the soul. Wander through the lush vineyards of the Barossa Valley, or explore the coastal splendor of Kangaroo Island, where pristine beaches meet dense bushland. Each trail offers a unique tapestry of nature, history, and culture, promising an inspiring journey for all who tread its paths.

Most popular trails

1

Difficult

Mawson Trail

Tea Tree Gully, South Australia · star 4.0 (4) · 885.2 km · Est. 1 mth 7 day

2

Difficult

Heysen Trail

Yankalilla, South Australia · star 5.0 (3) · 1096.4 km · Est. 1 mth 18 day

3

Medium

Kidman Trail

Light, South Australia · star 4.0 (2) · 260.1 km · Est. 11 day

4

Difficult

Yurrebilla Trail

Mitcham, South Australia · star 4.0 (8) · 55.0 km · Est. 2 day

5

Medium

Lavender Federation Trail

Murray Bridge, South Australia · star 5.0 (7) · 317.3 km · Est. 13 day

6

Easy

River Torrens Linear Park

Tea Tree Gully, South Australia · star 0.0 (0) · 32.2 km · Est. 1 day 1 hrs

7

Medium

Coast To Vines Rail Trail and Shiraz Trail

Onkaparinga, South Australia · star 5.0 (3) · 38.0 km · Est. 1 day 3 hrs

8

Medium

Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail

Kangaroo Island, South Australia · star 5.0 (8) · 55.3 km · Est. 2 day

9

Medium

Hallett Cove Boardwalk

Marion, South Australia · star 0.0 (0) · 5.3 km · Est. 1 hrs 13 min

10

Medium

Parnkalla Trail

Lower Eyre Peninsula, South Australia · star 5.0 (5) · 36.3 km · Est. 1 day 2 hrs

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FAQs about hiking in South Australia

What is the climate like for hiking in South Australia?

South Australia's climate is marked by hot, dry summers and mild winters. Therefore, spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are ideal for hiking, with comfortable temperatures. However, beware of occasional heatwaves in autumn.
The coastal regions stay relatively cool in summer, offering a respite. Ensure you're prepared for sudden weather changes, particularly in the Adelaide Hills.
Winter hiking can be rewarding but also challenging due to rainfall and lower temperatures, particularly in the Flinders Ranges. Always check weather forecasts via the Bureau of Meteorology.

Do I need a permit to hike in South Australia?

In South Australia, hiking permits may be required for national parks or specific trails. Permits are usually obtained through the Department of Environment and Water's website. Some trails or areas may require booking in advance due to limited access. Always check the official website for the latest information.

Is wild camping allowed in South Australia?

Wild camping in South Australia is largely regulated, especially within national parks where designated campsites are provided. Restrictions vary by region and season, so hikers are advised to consult with local park authorities. More information is available on the https://australianhiker.com.au/advice/wild-camping-for-hikers/.

Are there mountain rescue services in South Australia?

In South Australia, the South Australia Police (SAPOL) and the State Emergency Service (SES) respond to mountain rescue emergencies. If hikers find themselves in an emergency, they should dial 000 immediately. For more safety tips, hikers should consult the SAPOL website.

Are there dangerous plants in South Australia?

In South Australia, hikers will encounter diverse flora, including Eucalyptus woodlands and saltbush shrublands. Certain areas like Kangaroo Island have unique vegetation, such as mallee. Hikers should respect these delicate ecosystems. For more information, refer to the https://www.environment.sa.gov.au/topics/science/science-research/state-herbarium/resources/publications/flora-of-sa.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in South Australia?

South Australia offers rich wildlife encounters to hikers, from kangaroos in the Flinders Ranges to sea lions on Kangaroo Island. However, be cautious of venomous creatures like the redback spider or brown snake. To learn more about local fauna, visit https://www.greenadelaide.sa.gov.au/discover/pest-animals.

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