Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Monarto Conservation Park with the Monarto Loop Walk. This easy 1.2-kilometre loop trail, suitable for walkers of most fitness levels, takes approximately 45 minutes to complete (though birdwatching enthusiasts might take longer!).
Located in the park's northeastern corner, the well-marked trail winds through remnant mallee woodland, dry heathland, native pines, and broombush thickets. These diverse ecosystems represent the pre-European landscape of the area and provide valuable habitat for local fauna. Keep your eyes peeled for the park's vibrant flora – with something blooming year-round, there's always a colourful display to enjoy.
The abundance of birdlife makes this walk a favourite among birdwatchers. The specific species you encounter may vary depending on the season and what's currently in flower, so be sure to bring your binoculars and a keen eye.
This nature trail, constructed by the Friends of the Ferries McDonald and Monarto Conservation Parks, offers a delightful introduction to the park's diverse ecosystems and rich wildlife.
For more information on this hiking trail, please visit Walking SA
Total distance: 1164 m
Max elevation: 134 m
Min elevation: 119 m
Total climbing: 17 m
Total descent: -17 m
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Closest towns to this walk: Callington, Cowirra, Murray Bridge, Tailem Bend
Getting to the trailhead in Monarto Conservation Park.
Accessing Monarto Conservation Park is straightforward. By car, simply head east from Adelaide on the South Eastern Freeway (M1) towards Murray Bridge. After approximately 60 kilometres, you’ll see a left turn for Monarto South. Take this exit and turn right onto Ferries-McDonald Road. Follow this road south for 3 kilometres, where you’ll find a carpark and the starting point for a walking trail into the park.
Nestled roughly an hour's drive east of Adelaide, Monarto Conservation Park offers a tranquil escape into a semi-arid landscape. Located in the Murray Plains rain shadow of the Southern Mount Lofty Ranges, the park receives less than half the annual rainfall of Adelaide, creating a stark contrast to the nearby hills. Hints of its geological history are evident in the sandy ridges, remnants of an ancient ocean bed.
Monarto Conservation Park is a haven for birdwatchers. The thickets of mallee woodland and dry heathland provide the perfect habitat for a diverse array of avian species. Keep an eye out for the southern scrub-robin, the shy heathwren, or the spotted harrier hovering overhead. Other recorded species include the purple-gaped honeyeater, spotted pardalote, malleefowl, weebill, and white-browed babbler.
Spring bursts with color as the mallee species come into bloom. Beyond the visual spectacle, the park's diverse vegetation communities – dry heathland, native pines, and broombush thickets – represent the pre-European landscape and provide vital habitat for larger animals like western grey kangaroos and native marsupial mice. You might even encounter ground-dwelling spiders or various bat species during your visit. For the keen observer, the walking trails offer the opportunity to spot over 25 different fungi species during springtime.
Monarto Conservation Park is a great destination for those seeking a taste of nature close to Adelaide. With its network of walking trails and diverse wildlife, the park caters to all levels of hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Looking for hikes and trails in Monarto Conservation Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.
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Mark Oliphant Conservation Park
Grade 2 (Easy) -Â
A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the
AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.
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.
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.
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
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.
