Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 164m
Min elevation: 88m
Total Ascent: 86m
Hike overview
The Mai Tappa Circuit, a 2.8-kilometer grade 3 hike within Cobbler Creek Recreation Park, South Australia, translates to "food pathway" in the Kaurna language. This aptly named trail delves into Kaurna culture, highlighting the traditional use of plants for food, medicine, and textiles, as well as the significance of local animals in their lives. An interpretive brochure, downloadable in advance, provides further enrichment on the cultural aspects of the trail.
The circuit begins at the Cobbler Creek MTB car park in Salisbury East and follows a stream, offering a representative sample of the park's diverse landscapes. Hikers will encounter scenic views of Kaurna country, with views ranging from tree-filled gullies to rolling hills. While dogs are permitted on the track, they must be kept on leash at all times. Be aware that the path can be narrow and rocky in sections, and becomes slippery when wet. Cyclists are not permitted on the Mai Tappa Circuit.
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.
Walk map and GPX file
Max elevation: 164 m
Min elevation: 88 m
Total climbing: 86 m
Total descent: -88 m
GPX files, maps and content are copyright Trail Hiking Australia. Not to be copied, redistributed or uploaded to other platforms including AllTrails.
Explore safely
Planning this hike? Most incidents develop before you even start. Safe outcomes depend on how navigation, hydration, environment, load and judgement work together. Small oversights can compound quickly in Australian conditions. See how it happens in the Hiking Safety Systems Foundations. Then use the Hiking Safety Systems, planning calculators, and make sure a trusted contact has your trip plan before heading out.
Leave a trip plan
Before you go, complete a trip intentions form and share it with a trusted contact. Agree on a Late-Back Time and ask them to call 000 (Police) if you have not checked in. A clear trip plan is one of the simplest and most effective safety steps you can take.
Planning checklists
Download the hiking preparation and safety checklists before leaving home to help you think through your plans. They help ensure important considerations are not overlooked and support safer decision-making on the trail.
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Cobbler Creek Recreation Park.
The starting point for this walk is the Cobbler Creek MTB Carpark. Located just 19 kilometers north of Adelaide, Cobbler Creek Recreation Park sits between the suburbs of Salisbury and Golden Grove. The park’s main entrance and car park can be found at the intersection of Bridge and Smith Roads in Salisbury East. While access points exist on both sides of The Grove Way, which bisects the park, it’s important to be cautious of traffic when entering or exiting.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Accommodation nearby
Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: Golden Grove, Mawson Lakes, Modbury, Parafield Gardens, Paralowie, Salisbury, Tea Tree Gully
About the region
Tucked away between Golden Grove and Salisbury, this park offers a multifaceted escape. Perfect as an introduction to the Australian bush, it provides a peaceful haven to unwind from city life. Whether you're a walker seeking a scenic stroll or a budding mountain bike rider eager for adventure, the park caters to diverse interests.
Purpose-built trails cater to beginner and intermediate mountain bike riders, with challenging sections to test even experienced cyclists. A dedicated pump track allows children to practice their skills while adults tackle the bike jumps.
For family gatherings, the park provides a designated grassy area with gas barbecues permitted (excluding total fire ban days). The Kites and Kestrels adventure playground offers endless fun for children, featuring an enjoyable flying fox and climbing structures inspired by raptor nests.
Tranquility seekers will find solace in the park's serene environment. Trails meander through peaceful creeks lined with River Red Gums, woodlands alive with birdsong, and ridge tops boasting panoramic views across the Adelaide plains.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Cobbler Creek Recreation Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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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.





