Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore the beauty of Kuitpo Forest Reserve on the Chookarloo Circuit Walk, a family-friendly 1.1km loop trail starting and ending at Chookarloo Campground, just 50.1km from Kuitpo, South Australia. This easy Grade 2 hike, typically completed in 45 minutes, takes you through shaded native scrub and pine forest, with the trail clearly marked for a stress-free stroll. It's an ideal escapade for all ages, offering an exciting natural playground for the kids and a shared path with the iconic Heysen Trail.

Length:

1.1km

Duration:

45 mins

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 334m

Min elevation: 321m

Total Ascent: 16m

Start: Chookarloo Campground

End: Chookarloo Campground

Kuitpo Forest Reserve

South Australia

Nearby town: Kuitpo

From state capital: 50.1km

Latitude: -35.20511500037039

Longitude: 138.7158787250519

Overview

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Hike overview

The Chookarloo Circuit Walk is a delightful 1.1-kilometre loop trail ideal for families visiting Kuitpo Forest Reserve, South Australia. Classified as grade 2, this short and easy hike is perfect for walkers of all ages, including children on bikes. The typical completion time is approximately 45 minutes.

The trail begins at the Chookarloo Campground, starting near one of the footbridges. It then delves into the cool, shaded embrace of the native scrub and pine forest surrounding the campground. This section of the trail is a favourite amongst children, offering opportunities for exploration and imaginative play amidst fallen trees and natural features.

Green and yellow markers guide walkers along the circuit, which also overlaps a portion of the famed 1,200-kilometre Heysen Trail. This family-friendly walk provides a lovely introduction to the beauty of Kuitpo Forest.

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

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Walk map and GPX file
Chookarloo Circuit Walk (1.1km)

Total distance: 1154 m
Max elevation: 334 m
Min elevation: 321 m
Total climbing: 16 m
Total descent: -16 m

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Kuitpo Forest Reserve.

Kuitpo Forest Reserve is conveniently located within the South Mount Lofty Ranges, just a 45-minute drive from Adelaide. Nestled near the township of Meadows, the reserve offers easy access for visitors. Drivers travelling from Adelaide have two main route options. The first involves following the Main South Road before turning off towards Clarendon and Meadows. Alternatively, motorists can take the South Eastern Freeway towards Hahndorf and then turn off for Echunga and Meadows.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Aldinga, Ashbourne, Clarendon, Hahndorf, Harrogate, Kangarilla, Kuitpo, Macclesfield, Meadows, Mount Compass, Willunga

About the region

Nestled in the Mount Lofty Ranges on Kaurna and Peramangk Country, Kuitpo Forest Reserve boasts a rich history. Established in 1898 as the first of many sustainable timber plantations in South Australia, it encompasses 3,600 hectares today. Over 60% (2,100 hectares) is dedicated to plantations, while the remaining area serves vital conservation purposes and provides recreational opportunities for the community.

Kuitpo Forest Reserve forms part of ForestrySA's broader Mount Lofty Ranges forest estate and is managed with a focus on responsible forestry practices. This ensures the ongoing health of native flora and fauna while allowing for sustainable timber production. The reserve also prioritises community use, making it a popular destination for recreation.

Kuitpo's proximity to Adelaide, just a one-hour drive away, further contributes to its popularity. Hundreds of thousands of visitors flock to the reserve each year to camp, enjoy unique hut-style accommodation, explore the trails on foot or bike, or participate in organized community events. Horse riding is another popular activity within the reserve.

Walking, cycling, and horse riding enthusiasts will find plenty to explore at Kuitpo Forest. The network includes four shared-use trails catering to various user groups and one shorter walking/cycling trail ideal for a leisurely outing.

Similar walks nearby

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

Track grade

Grade 2 (Easy) - 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

Reviews
Chookarloo Circuit Walk (1.1km)

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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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Chookarloo Circuit Walk (1.1km)