Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 453m
Min elevation: 313m
Total Ascent: 251m
3,129 Total views
Hike overview
This 10.2km loop trail combines sections of the Heysen Trail with the Aldgate Valley Nature Walk, offering a journey through Mylor Conservation Park and the scenic Aldgate Valley. Classified as a moderate difficulty (grade 3) hike, it takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete.
The walk begins in Mylor, following the Aldgate Valley Nature Walk. This section winds through the Mylor Parklands before entering the natural bushland of the Aldgate Valley. The trail weaves through several reserves, including Kyle Road Nature Reserve, Nurrutti Reserve, and Aldgate Valley Reserve, offering opportunities to spot native wildlife like southern brown bandicoots, kangaroos, possums, echidnas, and even koalas.
Upon reaching the Stirling Cemetery, the route transitions to the Heysen Trail. This section of the Heysen Trail runs parallel to Aldgate-Mylor Road, but on a dedicated walking path separate from the traffic. Finally, the trail winds through the remnant woodland of Mylor Conservation Park, completing the loop back to the starting point.
Tips
- Mobile phone covÂerÂage can be patchy and unreÂliÂable in this park, espeÂcialÂly if you are in low-lying areas.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 453 m
Min elevation: 313 m
Total climbing: 251 m
Total descent: -251 m
Getting there
Closest towns to this walk: Mylor, Heathfield, Bridgewater, Aldgate, Stirling
How to get to Mylor Conservation ParkThe Mylor to Aldgate Hike begins at the Stock Road Carpark, located next to the Mylor Tennis and Netball Club in the Southern Mount Lofty Ranges. This carpark is situated roughly 15km southeast of Adelaide, making it an easily accessible escape from the city.
Photo gallery
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About the region
The Mylor Conservation Park stands as a refuge for native vegetation in an area largely cleared for agriculture and housing. Surrounding the park is a patchwork of remnant bushland connected by vegetation corridors, both on public and private land.
The park itself offers a glimpse into the Adelaide Hills' pre-European vegetation. Sunlight filters through the open canopy of stringybark trees, reaching the diverse understorey boasting over 150 plant species. Orchids, daisies, lilies, and a variety of shrubs thrive here, alongside five sundew species that supplement their diet by catching insects.
Despite its modest size of 50 hectares, the park provides habitat for a range of animals. Listen for the calls of rare songbirds, or catch a glimpse of an echidna or the threatened yellow-tailed black cockatoo. Kangaroos and koalas are also commonly spotted by visitors.
The significance of Mylor Conservation Park lies in its rich plant diversity and the animal life it supports, standing out within the fragmented and modified landscape of the Adelaide Hills. Tucked away in a quiet location off Whitehead Road, the park offers limited visitor facilities. While there are three car parking spaces near the road, toilets are unavailable within the park itself. Public toilets and additional car parking can be found at the nearby Mylor Oval. Hikers can access the park via the Heysen Trail, or choose to create a loop trail connecting to the Mylor Parklands or the Valley of the Bandicoots trail.
Similar trails nearby
Looking for hikes and trails in Mylor Conservation Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.
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.
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
Suggest an edit
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.
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.