Trail Fast Facts
Glacial Circuit is a 2km, grade 3 hike in Hallett Cove Conservation Park, South Australia. This hike typically takes 1.25 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
The Hallett Cove Conservation Park offers a captivating 2km loop hike that delves into the park's remarkable geological past. Interpretive signs positioned along the trail provide insightful explanations of the various geological features you'll encounter.
The hike traverses the park's clifftops, which were once the base of a vast glacial lake that melted a staggering 270 million years ago. Evidence of this ancient event is visible in the form of scattered boulders and sedimentary deposits. Notably, the exposed glacial pavement on the clifftops bears the distinct scrape marks left by glaciers as they moved across the landscape. This exceptional geological feature is recognised as the most significant record of Permian glaciation in Australia, holding international importance.
The convenient starting point for this insightful hike is the carpark and cafe located at Hallett Cove Beach, accessible by following Heron Way to its southern end.
Track Grade
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 49 m
Min elevation: 11 m
Total climbing: 73 m
Total descent: -72 m
Trail Location (trailhead)
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Getting there
Situated 22km south of Adelaide, Hallett Cove Conservation Park is readily accessible. Public transport options are available from Adelaide city center, but many visitors choose to drive. For those arriving by car, navigate to the southern entrance of the park and follow signs for the Boatshed Cafe and Coastal Walking Trail. This will lead you to the carpark where the interpretive walking trail commences.
Photo gallery
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About the region
Hallett Cove Conservation Park offers a unique blend of geological wonders, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. An interpretive walking trail guides visitors through the park's fascinating history, showcasing evidence of an ancient Australian ice age that occurred a staggering 280 million years ago. The park's northern clifftops boast exceptional glacial pavements, recognised as the most significant record of Permian glaciation in Australia and holding international importance.
Beyond its geological significance, Hallett Cove is a haven for both leisure and exploration. The park's pristine beach beckons swimmers year-round. Each season presents a captivating display of the park's resilience. Spring awakens the landscape with vibrant wildflowers, while summer reveals the contrasting beauty of the rugged Adelaide coastline. Autumn sees a resurgence of plant life, accompanied by a vibrant display of birdlife. Winter transforms the beach with dramatic storms, sculpting the coastline with ever-changing landscapes.
The park holds deep cultural significance, evidenced by the discovery of over 1,700 Aboriginal stone implements dating back to 1934. These artifacts are now part of the South Australian Museum collection, offering a glimpse into the area's rich human history.
Conservation efforts are ongoing, with the Friends Group actively planting local native species to restore the park's natural vegetation. The coastal zone thrives with salt-tolerant plants like ruby saltbush, common boobialla, and native grasses. The diverse Amphitheatre slopes boast coastal heath, while areas beyond gradually give way to open scrubland with melaleucas, eucalypts, and pittosporums.
Wildlife flourishes within the park's diverse ecosystems. Waterfall Creek provides a habitat for various frog species. Throughout the park, visitors may encounter lizards, skinks, and even the eastern brown snake. The skies come alive with colorful birdsong, from the vibrant superb fairy-wrens and honeyeaters to kestrels, shorebirds, and seabirds.
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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.