Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Discover the beauty of South Australia with the challenging yet rewarding 15km Mount Lofty to Bridgewater hike on the Heysen Trail. Starting from the Mount Lofty Summit Carpark, this Grade 4 trail offers stunning views of the Piccadilly Valley, charming houses, Scout's Woodhouse Activity Centre, Stirling Golf Course, and ends at the historic Old Bridgewater Mill. Don't miss the whimsical Fairy Garden nestled within Deanery Reserve and the scenic Cox Creek along your journey. Be prepared for a 5-hour adventure that showcases the diverse landscapes of Australia's great outdoors.

Length:

15km

Duration:

5 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 699m

Min elevation: 392m

Total Ascent: 517m

Start: Mount Lofty Summit Carpark

End: Mount Lofty Summit Carpark

Mount George Conservation Park

South Australia

Nearby town: Cleland

From state capital: 17.3km

Latitude: -34.976403706146044

Longitude: 138.71001808701172

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Hike overview

A challenging yet rewarding hike awaits on the Mount Lofty to Bridgewater leg of the Heysen Trail. This 15-kilometre (grade 4) return journey, located within Mount George Conservation Park, South Australia, should take approximately 5 hours to complete. Hikers begin their trek at the Mount Lofty Summit Carpark.

The initial descent from the summit offers sweeping views over Piccadilly Valley, showcasing its sprawling orchards and vineyards. The trail then winds past charming Piccadilly houses before traversing the grounds of the Scout's Woodhouse Activity Centre and the Stirling Golf Course. Upon entering the dense forests of Mount George Conservation Park, hikers will pass through two tunnels before reaching the whimsical Fairy Garden nestled within Deanery Reserve. The final leg follows the scenic Cox Creek all the way to the historic Old Bridgewater Mill, marking the completion of the route.

It's important to note that this section is part of the much larger Heysen Trail, a 1,200-kilometre epic that stretches from Cape Jervis in the south to the Flinders Ranges in the north. While Bridgewater itself sits 175 kilometres from the southern trailhead at Cape Jervis, this specific 15-kilometre route offers a concentrated taste of the diverse landscapes the Heysen Trail has to offer.

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

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Walk map and GPX file

Mount Lofty to Bridgewater Hike (15km)

Total distance: 15092 m
Max elevation: 699 m
Min elevation: 392 m
Total climbing: 517 m
Total descent: -517 m

Getting there

Closest towns to this walk: Aldgate, Hahndorf, Little Para, Mount Barker, Nairne, Oakbank

Getting to the trailhead in Mount George Conservation Park.

Drivers can access the Mount Lofty to Bridgewater hike’s starting point at the Mount Lofty Summit Carpark. This carpark offers free parking, but be aware that spaces can fill up quickly, especially during peak times. Consider arriving early or utilizing alternative transportation if possible. The carpark is conveniently situated at the entrance to Mount Lofty Summit, making it easy to locate.

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

Nestled just 20 kilometres from Adelaide, Mount George Conservation Park offers a glimpse into the rich cultural and ecological heritage of the region. Traditionally the land of the Kaurna Peoples, the park's landscape reflects a fascinating past. While much of the surrounding area was cleared for agriculture in the 1840s, today the park flourishes thanks to ongoing conservation efforts and the area's cool winters. This unique combination fosters a remarkable variety of vegetation, with vibrant spring wildflowers adding a seasonal touch.

Exploration awaits in the form of numerous walking trails, catering to a range of fitness levels. Options range from leisurely 15-minute strolls to more challenging treks lasting up to 2 hours. Hikers can also enjoy a section of the renowned Heysen Trail that traverses the park. Mount George Conservation Park is conveniently divided into two zones. The recreation zone, located between Mount George Road and Cox Creek, welcomes leashed and controlled dogs.

The park itself offers a visual treat. Towering Mountain Gums greet visitors upon entering the recreation area. Keep your eyes peeled for colourful pea flowers, Correa shrubs clinging to the ground, and a delightful array of native orchids. The park teems with life, offering opportunities to spot a variety of birds like the Superb Wren, Red-browed Finch, White-throated Treecreeper, and Scarlet Robin. Keep an eye out for mammals and reptiles that also call this park home.

Similar trails nearby

Looking for hikes and trails in Mount George Conservation 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

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Mount Lofty to Bridgewater Hike (15km)

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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.

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file

Mount Lofty to Bridgewater Hike (15km)