Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience the rugged beauty of South Australia on the challenging 13.8km Brownhill Creek and Belair Circuit. Starting and ending at the Brown Hill Creek Carpark, this grade 4 hike takes you through the stunning landscapes of Brownhill Creek Recreation Park and Belair National Park. Just 10km from the CBD and near the town of Mitcham, it offers scenic views over the Adelaide Plains from Randell Park, a former quarry. Note to self, this circuit is best suited for experienced hikers.

Length:

13.8km

Duration:

4 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 388m

Min elevation: 110m

Total Ascent: 469m

Start: Brown Hill Creek Carpark

End: Brown Hill Creek Carpark

Brownhill Creek Recreation Park

South Australia

Nearby town: Mitcham

From state capital: 10km

Latitude: -34.98358350727929

Longitude: 138.62606763839725

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Hike overview

The Brownhill Creek and Belair Circuit is a challenging 13.8-kilometer loop hike suitable for experienced hikers (grade 4). Located in South Australia, the trail begins in Brownhill Creek Recreation Park and traverses the Brownhill Creek Valley. The initial leg winds through the park before ascending via the Yurrebilla Trail into Belair National Park.

Following the Yurrebilla Trail, hikers will pass the Belair Railway Station. Exiting the national park, the route transitions briefly to local roads and walking paths before reaching Randell Park, a former quarry. Here, hikers can enjoy scenic views overlooking the Adelaide Plains. While largely undeveloped, Randell Park offers a network of unmarked fire tracks and walking trails. As of mid-2017, the City of Mitcham is in the process of redeveloping the park, which may include upgrades to the trail infrastructure. Descending from Randell Park, the circuit concludes with a return to Brownhill Creek via the Mitcham Cemetery.

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

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Walk map and GPX file

Brownhill Creek & Belair Circuit Hike (13.8km)

Total distance: 13843 m
Max elevation: 388 m
Min elevation: 110 m
Total climbing: 469 m
Total descent: -468 m

Getting there

Closest towns to this walk: Adelaide, Aldgate, Brownhill Creek, Crafers, Glen Osmond, Goodwood, Mitcham, Stirling, Unley, Upper Sturt

Getting to the trailhead in Brownhill Creek Recreation Park.

Reaching Brownhill Creek Recreation Park is convenient for visitors by car or foot. Situated just 8 kilometers from Adelaide, the park is easily accessible. If you’re driving, follow Brownhill Creek Road until you reach the park entrance. Alternatively, for those seeking a more active approach, Northbrook Avenue offers a pedestrian and cyclist-friendly access point.

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

Nestled just 8 kilometers from Adelaide's city center, Brownhill Creek Recreation Park offers a welcome escape into nature. Encompassing 51 hectares, this scenic park provides a variety of recreational activities for visitors. Hike or bike along the trails, explore the park on horseback using the designated trail and fenced exercise area, or simply enjoy a picnic surrounded by the beauty of the natural environment.

Brownhill Creek, the park's namesake, winds its way through a steep valley adorned with majestic river red gums, some standing tall for over 300 years. Evidence suggests this area held significance for the Kaurna Aboriginal people, serving as a favored location for camping, hunting, and gathering.

The park boasts a diverse range of flora. Towering river red gums flank the creek, while blue gum woodlands carpet the valley slopes. Additionally, a small but threatened ecosystem of greybox grassy woodland finds refuge within the park's boundaries.

The natural beauty of Brownhill Creek Recreation Park extends beyond the flora. The creek valley serves as a vital wildlife corridor for over 40 species of birds and mammals. Kookaburras, bats, possums, water rats, frogs, and even the occasional koala call this park home. Notably, the park provides habitat for the nationally endangered southern brown bandicoot.

Similar trails nearby

Looking for hikes and trails in Brownhill Creek Recreation Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.

Track grade

Grade 4 (Hard) - Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.

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

Reviews

Brownhill Creek & Belair Circuit Hike (13.8km)

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Acknowledgement of Country

Brownhill creek & belair circuit hike (13. 8km)

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.

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file

Brownhill Creek & Belair Circuit Hike (13.8km)