Trail Fast Facts
Echidna Circuit is a 3.5km, grade 2 hike in Onkaparinga River National Park, South Australia. This hike typically takes 1.5 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
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.
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.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 280 m
Min elevation: 219 m
Total climbing: 93 m
Total descent: -93 m
Trail Location (trailhead)
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Getting there
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.
Photo gallery
If you have any photos from this hike and are happy to share them, please upload your .jpg files here.
Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
About the region
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.
Similar trails nearby
Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Let someone know
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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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.