Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore the natural beauty of South Australia on the Themeda Circuit, a 3.6km moderate hike located in Mount Osmond Reserve, just a stone's throw from Glen Osmond. Start and end at Hayward Drive, winding your way up steep hills and along serene Gleeson Ridge, taking in the unique combination of terrains. Keep an eye out for cyclists on shared paths and enjoy the well-marked trails of the Burnside Walks network. With a duration of about 1.5 hours, it's a perfect outing for those seeking an adventurous yet manageable bushwalk.

Length:

3.6km

Duration:

1.5 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 362m

Min elevation: 223m

Total Ascent: 238m

Start: Hayward Drive

End: Hayward Drive

Mount Osmond Reserve

South Australia

Nearby town: Glen Osmond

From state capital: 8.2km

Latitude: -34.955742059009545

Longitude: 138.6583909609618

Overview

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Hike overview

The Themeda Circuit offers a moderately challenging 3.6-kilometer exploration within Mount Osmond Reserve, South Australia. This grade 3 hike, suitable for most walkers, takes approximately 1.5 hours to complete and traverses a combination of terrains.

Beginning at the intersection of Sherwood Terrace, Caithness Avenue, and Hayward Drive, the circuit initially follows a single-track walking trail off Hayward Drive. This section winds its way up a steep hill using a series of switchbacks before entering Mount Osmond Reserve proper. The trail then progresses along Gleeson Ridge until meeting the Old Bullock Track. Finally, the descent utilises a fire track, leading you back to the starting point in Themeda Reserve.

It's important to note that some sections of this trail are shared with cyclists. Be aware of your surroundings and practice courtesy while navigating these shared pathways.

The Themeda Circuit forms part of the Burnside Walks network, a collection of well-marked trails across the reserve. Regular signage and numbered checkpoints ensure easy route following, further supported by a detailed walking map available for reference.

For more information on this hiking trail, please visit Walking SA

Track grade

Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.

Walk map and GPX file
Burnside Walks C - Themeda Circuit (3.6km)

Total distance: 3597 m
Max elevation: 362 m
Min elevation: 223 m
Total climbing: 238 m
Total descent: -236 m

Gallery

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Mount Osmond Reserve.

Reaching Mount Osmond Reserve is convenient by car or public transport. If you’re driving, several routes take approximately 16 minutes from Adelaide’s city center. Public transport options are also available, though may require some walking from the nearest bus stop. For the most up-to-date public transport information, consult Adelaide Metro’s website or app before your visit. Parking is available in the roadside areas near 12 Hayward Drive, Mt Osmond.

Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

Situated just 8 kilometers southeast of Adelaide, Mount Osmond Reserve offers a welcome escape into nature. Managed by the City of Burnside, this open space reserve boasts a network of walking trails that cater to hikers and cyclists of varying abilities.

Several access points are conveniently located around the reserve. These include Gate 1 on Waterfall Gully Road, Gate 2 on Dashwood Road, Gate 3 on Hayward Drive, and Gate 4 on Old Bullock Track (accessible from Mount Barker Road). Notably, Gate 4 also provides a connection to Cleland National Park, Eagle on the Hill, and Measday's Lookout. Additional access points, like the one on Greenhill Road, are available depending on your chosen walking or cycling route.

The land comprising Mount Osmond Reserve holds deep significance for the Kaurna people, the traditional custodians of this area. Their ongoing connection to this land is acknowledged and respected.

Prior to European settlement, the Mount Osmond area served agricultural purposes. While the steep slopes weren't ideal for crops, they provided suitable grazing land for livestock. Additionally, some quarrying activities were undertaken in the vicinity.

Interestingly, the Mount Osmond Reserve was originally acquired by the Highways Department in the 1940s for a planned arterial road. However, since the late 1980s, it has been managed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service South Australia (NPWSA) on behalf of the Department for Planning. Recognizing its importance as a scenic link between Beaumont, Mount Lofty, Cleland National Park, and the Mount Osmond Golf Course, the area was ultimately preserved as open space for all to enjoy.

Find a place to stay

Find Accommodation

Wondering where to stay near this hike? Find accommodation close to the trailhead — hotels, cabins and campgrounds nearby. Click the button to view the interactive map.

Closest towns to this walk: Aldgate, Burnside, Crafers, Eastwood, Erindale, Glen Osmond, Glenside, Glenunga, Hazelwood Park, Kensington, Kensington Gardens, Kensington Park, Leawood Gardens, Mount Lofty, Norwood, St Georges, Stirling, Toorak Gardens

Let someone know

Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Mount Osmond Reserve? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.

Packing checklists

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.

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Burnside Walks C - Themeda Circuit (3.6km)

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Acknowledgement of Country

Burnside walks c - themeda circuit (3. 6km)

Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Track grade

Walk map and GPX file
Burnside Walks C - Themeda Circuit (3.6km)