Trail summary
Hike overview
The Bandicoot Circuit is a moderately challenging 3.1-kilometer hike located within Mark Oliphant Conservation Park, South Australia. This 1.5-hour loop trail features steeper sections that provide a bit more exertion for walkers.
Following a clockwise direction, the Bandicoot Circuit begins with a well-marked and easy-to-follow walking trail that winds through the park's forest. Be aware that a portion of the trail, roughly 650 meters, utilises the quiet dirt Evans Drive. Both the entrance and exit points for this section are clearly marked to avoid confusion. Resist the allure of any indistinct side trails that may branch off from the road, as they likely lead to dead ends.
Begin your hike by heading clockwise from the carpark at Gate 1 on Scott Creek Road. Follow Loftia Track, a fire track, past the oval and shelter. You'll encounter the Bandicoot Trail about 100 meters after the junction with Nioka Track.
Tips
- Dogs are not perÂmitÂted in this park.
- There are no facilÂiÂties in the park. Please ensure you carÂry sufÂfiÂcient water, food and supÂplies for your entire visÂit.
- It is also a good idea to let a responÂsiÂble perÂson know of your intendÂed moveÂments and when you expect to return.
- This park is closed on days of CatÂaÂstrophÂic Fire DanÂger and may also be closed on days of Extreme Fire Danger.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 471 m
Min elevation: 375 m
Total climbing: 105 m
Total descent: -105 m
Getting there
Closest towns to this walk: Mannum, Murray Bridge, Swan Reach, Palmer, Callington
How to get to Mark Oliphant Conservation ParkThe Bandicoot Circuit Walk is accessible from Adelaide via the South-Eastern Freeway, approximately 22 kilometers southeast of the city. The hike begins at Gate 1 on Scott Creek Road, which serves as the trailhead for this specific circuit.
Photo gallery
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About the region
The Mark Oliphant Conservation Park, named after former state Governor Sir Mark Oliphant for his conservation efforts, offers a haven for bushwalkers with its scenic forest landscapes. Keep an eye out for the park's abundant birdlife, including the scarlet robin, golden whistler, and Adelaide rosellas. The park holds particular significance as a critical habitat for the nationally endangered southern brown bandicoot.
Prior to European settlement, the area served as a vital source of food, shelter, and wood for the Kaurna people. It also functioned as a major pathway connecting the hills and plains.
Messmate stringybark and brown stringybark dominate the park's forest canopy. A rare stand of candlebark gums, known for their white bark and limited to high-rainfall regions of the Adelaide Hills, can be found near the oval. Scattered pockets of pink gum, manna gum, and blue gum also contribute to the park's diverse flora. The forest understory boasts a vibrant display of spring-flowering shrubs like myrtle-leaved wattle, beaked hakea, and large-leaved bush-pea. While bushfires in 1980 and 1995 impacted the park's plant life, weeds pose the most significant current threat.
The park provides refuge for elusive creatures such as the southern brown bandicoot and yellow-footed antechinus, alongside various lizard, snake, and frog species. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting the superb fairy-wren, scarlet robin, golden whistler, Adelaide rosella, and numerous honeyeater species. While invertebrates represent the park's most abundant and diverse animal group, their small size makes them less conspicuous. Visitors are encouraged to take a closer look to appreciate the fascinating shapes, colors, and behaviors of ants, beetles, and butterflies.
Similar trails nearby
Looking for hikes and trails in Mark Oliphant Conservation Park or nearby? Try these similar graded walks.
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.
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.
Let someone know
Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure
Suggest an edit
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
Acknowledgement of Country
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.