Lavender Federation Trail (325km)

The Lavender Federation Trail commences at Sturt Reserve in Murray Bridge, on the banks of the Murray River. The trail initially winds past historic buildings, restored riverboats, and important wetlands.

On the outskirts of Murray Bridge lies Rocky Gully Reserve, boasting spectacular gorges teeming with native flora and fauna. Here, the trail connects with the Kinchina Conservation Park trails. Continuing west, you'll pass Monarto Zoo, an open-range Bio Park offering glimpses of exotic animals.

The trail's highlight awaits at the summit of Mount Beevor, where panoramic views encompass the Southern Ocean, Murray River, Mount Lofty, and Mount Barker. From here, a short detour via a spur trail leads to Diggers Rest north of Harrogate.

The main trail continues to Tungkillo, traversing quiet back roads and crossing creeks with the possibility of spotting kangaroos. A delightful 13-kilometre loop trail north of Tungkillo offers a day walk through scenic rocky outcrops and open grazing land.

The trail meanders onwards towards Springton, showcasing rocky outcrops and undulating landscapes. As you enter the Barossa Valley, vineyards come into view. The Springton Loop Trail, featuring the Herbig Tree, is a worthwhile detour and connects to the Sanderston Trail.

Further north, the main trail reaches Keyneton, with a spur trail providing access to this charming town. At Eden Valley, an 18-kilometre loop trail rejoins the main track, offering a scenic day walk through rolling hills. Continuing through picturesque countryside, the trail intersects with the Moculta Loop Trail, which follows the main trail to the unique Shannon Mausoleum.

A spur trail leads north into historic Truro, passing the old copper mine site. The main trail then enters private land, granting access to the beautiful Munchenberg Gorge with its permanent springs and reflective water pools. Crossing the Sturt Highway, the trail traverses open grazing land before reaching an unexpected gorge with permanent water and a waterfall, leading to the delightful township of Dutton. Here, a short spur trail takes you to the 1870s Church precinct.

The landscape transitions from grazing lands to rolling hills, culminating in Leake Lookout, a 527-metre peak offering stunning panoramic views.

Eudunda, the birthplace of famed author Colin Thiele, is a historic town catering to all travellers' needs. Northwards, a defunct railway corridor to Hampden boasts scenic vistas. Travelling the elevated 150-metre trail with easterly views, you'll encounter the 14-kilometre Point Pass loop trail before arriving at Inspiration Point. A spur trail leads into Robertstown, providing access to meals, camping, and accommodation.

From Inspiration Point, the trail initially follows the ridge line overlooking Brady Creek Gap to the east and the Tothill Ranges to the west. Passing Peppermint Springs, you'll reach Webb Gap, where the Lavender Federation Trail meets the famous Heysen Trail.

Following a shared section with the Heysen Trail across the scenic Tothill Range and along a ridge near wind turbines, the trail arrives at Waterloo, home of Tom Kruse, the legendary outback mailman. A delightful tree-lined avenue leads to Manoora, where remnants of a once-significant railway town are still visible.

The trail continues onwards to Mintaro, where the Martindale Hall, famed for its role in the movie "Picnic at Hanging Rock," awaits. The 1850s heritage township of Mintaro is a treasure for those who choose to linger.

The trail's serpentine path over rolling hills follows a section of the historic 1800s wagon trail "Gulf Road," rewarding walkers with spectacular views of wind turbines to the east and Gulf St Vincent to the west, while passing Mount Horrocks along the way. The trail ultimately delivers you to the Clare Valley at Watervale.

At Watervale, a 6.5-kilometre section shared with the Riesling Trail leads past Penwortham. Leaving the Riesling Trail, the trail heads west through vineyard-studded countryside, eventually reaching the spectacular views offered in Spring Gully Conservation Park and Neagles Rock Reserve. Finally, the trail concludes at its designated end point, marked by a sign on Lennon Street in Clare, the heart of the Clare Valley.

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