Morialta to River Torrens is a 13 km, grade 4 hike in Black Hill Conservation Park, South Australia. This hike, which should take around 4 hours to complete, is the fifth section of the Yurrebilla Trail. The trail winds through the scenic landscapes of Black Hill Conservation Park and Ambers Gully, offering a mix of challenging terrains and picturesque views.
As part of the 54 km Yurrebilla Trail, this section provides an engaging experience for hikers. The full Yurrebilla Trail can be walked in its entirety in 3 to 5 days and is divided into one full-day and four half-day sections. The trail features a variety of paths, from narrow single-person tracks to wider vehicle fire tracks, and it showcases many of the Adelaide Hills' top attractions. Highlights along the trail include Waterfall Gully, the Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens, Mount Lofty Summit, and Cleland Wildlife Park. Additionally, the trail connects to charming Hills towns such as Summertown, Crafers, and Norton Summit, as well as numerous wineries, pubs, and other local attractions.
This section promises a rewarding and scenic hike through some of South Australia's most captivating natural environments.
For more information on this hiking trail, please visit Walking SA
Total distance: 13446 m
Max elevation: 488 m
Min elevation: 114 m
Total climbing: 666 m
Total descent: -891 m
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That trailhead is in Moriatta Conservation Park, on route to Deep View Lookout. It is roughly a 27-minute drive from Adelaide via Kensington Road. The distance is approximately 13 kilometers. You can find directions on Google Maps.
Image: Walking SA
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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.
Black Hill Conservation Park, formerly known as Black Hill National Park, is a protected area in South Australia, located approximately 10 kilometres northeast of Adelaide. This conservation park is set in a rugged bush environment with a prominent peak, bounded by steep ridges on the southern slopes.
Visitors can enjoy the undulating hills, rugged ridges, and diverse native scenery along the park's extensive network of walking trails. In spring, the park showcases a stunning array of native flowers, including many delicate and colorful orchid species. A must-see feature is the landscaped Wildflower Garden, which dates back to the late 1940s.
Covering an area of 684 hectares, Black Hill Conservation Park is named after the low sheoaks, whose foliage gradually matures to a dark rusty, almost black color as summer progresses. From the Adelaide Plains, these hills appear black, giving the park its distinctive name.
While Black Hill can be visited year-round, it is best appreciated from March to November. The summer months from December to February can be very hot, so walkers should be prepared for high temperatures.
The area is part of the traditional lands of the Kaurna people, who used it for hunting, gathering, and obtaining wood for fire and shelter during their seasonal relocation from the coast. Fire was one of their most important tools, particularly in fire management practices that encouraged vegetation regrowth. The seasonal use of Black Hill allowed game populations to recover, maintaining a relatively steady food supply.
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.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
