Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 557m
Min elevation: 519m
Total Ascent: 46m
Hike overview
Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Mount Lofty Botanic Garden with the Lakeside Loop. This easy (grade 2) 1-kilometre trail is perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering picturesque views of the Main Lake. Opened in 2015, the Lakeside Trail was specifically designed to be accessible for everyone, including young families with prams, the elderly, and visitors with disabilities.
As you meander around the loop, take note of the eight artworks thoughtfully placed along the path. Each piece explores a fundamental theme related to people, plants, and the environment. These artworks encourage visitors to contemplate the vital connection between humans and the natural world. For those with vision impairments, each artwork's message is thoughtfully translated into Braille, ensuring an inclusive experience for all.
Gallery
Got some great shots from this hike? Upload your photos here to inspire others and show off the beauty of the trail!
Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You can be credited for your contributions, and you can request removal at any time.
Walk map and GPX file
Max elevation: 557 m
Min elevation: 519 m
Total climbing: 46 m
Total descent: -46 m
A note about sharing
Each trail on this site has been personally mapped and documented to support the hiking community across Australia. While some hike descriptions include information from land managers, every listing reflects significant personal work in curating, refining, and improving the details. Please don’t republish this content elsewhere (including AllTrails) without acknowledging Trail Hiking Australia as the source. This site is a free community initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.
Getting there
Closest towns to this walk: Aldgate, Bridgewater, Crafers, Lobethal, Stirling, Upper Sturt
Getting to the trailhead in Mount Lofty Botanic Garden.Easily accessible from Adelaide’s city center, Mount Lofty Botanic Garden is a short 25-minute drive via the Princes Highway and National Highway M1. Take the Crafers exit and follow the signs to the garden.
The garden boasts two entrances with car parks: the Upper Entrance on Mount Lofty Summit Road and the Lower Entrance on Lampert Road, accessed off Piccadilly Road. If you’re seeking the Main Lake and its accessible lakeside trail, the Lower Entrance is your best bet.
Public transport options are also available; check Adelaide Metro for details on services to the garden. While parking is plentiful, it can fill up on busy days. If you find the car parks full, consider exploring another nearby natural attraction and returning to the garden another time to avoid disappointment.
About the region
Immerse yourself in the beauty and diversity of cool-climate plants at the Mount Lofty Botanic Garden, located near Adelaide in the picturesque Adelaide Hills. Encompassing 97 hectares on the eastern slopes of Mount Lofty, the garden offers a haven for nature enthusiasts of all levels.
Explore a network of walking trails that meander through the gardens, each turn revealing a new botanical wonder. Fragrant blooms burst with color, while the dramatic hillside setting adds a sense of grandeur. Whether you're a seasoned botanist or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll, Mount Lofty Botanic Garden offers something for everyone.
Lose yourself in the tranquil beauty of the garden gullies, or marvel at the panoramic views that stretch across Piccadilly Valley. Thematic collections showcase a variety of cool-climate plants, including vibrant displays of roses, rhododendrons, camellias, and magnolias. No matter your level of expertise, the Mount Lofty Botanic Garden promises a captivating exploration of the natural world.
Similar trails nearby
Looking for hikes and trails in Mount Lofty Botanic Garden or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.
Track grade
Grade 2 (Easy) -Â A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.
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.