The Echidna Circuit Walk is a scenic 3 kilometre loop trail located within Onkaparinga River National Park, South Australia. Classified as grade 2, this path is suitable for most walkers and takes roughly 1.5 hours to complete. Winding through attractive pink gum, grey box and sheoak bushland, the trail traverses moderate slopes offering glimpses of seasonal wildflowers, including orchids, during winter and spring. Hikers can also expect to encounter historical ruins and scenic outlooks over the gorge, providing a rewarding workout alongside the natural beauty.
The starting point for the Echidna Circuit Walk is a small carpark situated beside Piggott Range Road at Gate 12. This trail conveniently connects with the neighbouring Nature Hike, allowing for a longer 7 kilometre adventure for those seeking a more extended exploration of the park.
For more information on this hiking trail, please visit Walking SA
Total distance: 2955 m
Max elevation: 280 m
Min elevation: 219 m
Total climbing: 93 m
Total descent: -93 m
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Accessing the Echidna Circuit Walk is straightforward. The trailhead is located at a small roadside carpark beside Gate 12 on Piggott Range Road within Onkaparinga River National Park. For those travelling from Adelaide, follow the M1 Freeway south towards Stirling/Mount Barker Road (B33). Continue for approximately 40 kilometres until the Sturt Valley Road turnoff. Take Sturt Valley Road until it intersects Ironbank Road. Turn left and proceed onto Cherry Gardens Road. Turn left again onto Main Road and then take a slight right onto Sugarloaf Road. A sharp left turn leads to Chandlers Hill Road, followed by a final right turn onto Grants Gully Road. Your destination, Piggott Range Road, will be on the left. Locate Gate 12 and the carpark will be conveniently situated beside it.
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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 Onkaparinga River National Park's Rugged Beauty. Onkaparinga River National Park offers a diverse range of adventures. Hike to clifftops for stunning views or descend to permanent rock pools teeming with life. Witness the rugged ridges and the dramatic Onkaparinga Gorge, a haven for native vegetation. Spot koalas, kangaroos, birds, and maybe even an echidna.
Discover the park's rich history. Explore heritage-listed huts and ruins of 1880s houses, remnants of the area's past as farmland. Shared trails welcome mountain bikers and horse riders.
Located just 35km south of Adelaide, the park caters to all interests. Explore the main walking trails on the north side of the gorge, accessible via Piggott Range Road. Public transport is also available from Adelaide's city center.
Choose a scenic spot by the river or enjoy a more formal picnic area with amenities, barbecues, and stunning views. The area near gate 25 offers a shaded picnic ground with shelters, perfect for a relaxing meal. Nearby wineries provide the opportunity to pair your picnic with a delicious South Australian red wine.
The Pink Gum Campground at the park's eastern end provides 11 campsites, including caravan-friendly options. Amenities include toilets, washing facilities, and fire pits (usable outside fire ban seasons).
Important Note: The park closes on days of Catastrophic Fire Danger and may also be closed on days of Extreme Fire Danger. Please check fire danger ratings before visiting.
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.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
