Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 505m
Min elevation: 461m
Total Ascent: 86m
Hike overview
The Mount Barker Summit Circuit is a moderately difficult (grade 3) 3 kilometre loop hike situated in Mount Barker, South Australia. With an estimated completion time of 1.5 hours, this trail offers an alternative to the easier Summit Walking Trail.
The well-defined circuit provides walkers with scenic views to the east and west. Hikers can commence their journey from the first car park near the radio towers on Mount Summit Road. The trailhead is marked by a large boulder located within the first section of the car park. It's important to note that the car park gate on Mount Summit Road closes every night before dusk.
The Mount Barker Summit Reserve is a significant conservation area within the district. It plays a vital role in protecting the region's precious biodiversity, including threatened plant and animal species. The reserve also holds historical, geological and cultural significance, particularly for the Peramangk and Njarrindjerri people.
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Walk map and GPX file
Max elevation: 505 m
Min elevation: 461 m
Total climbing: 86 m
Total descent: -86 m
Content use
Every trail on this site has been personally mapped and refined to support Australia’s hiking community. While some info comes from land managers, each listing reflects significant personal work. Please don’t upload GPX files or content from this site to AllTrails or any other platform. This is a free community initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.
Getting there
Closest towns to this walk: Ashbourne, Hahndorf, Little Para, Macclesfield, Mount Barker, Nairne, Totness
Getting to the trailhead in Mount Barker.Accessible by car, Mount Barker Summit is a convenient day trip from various locations. If you’re coming from Adelaide, it’s a scenic 40-minute drive via the South-Eastern Freeway, with the Bald Hills exit leading you towards the summit. For those already in the Adelaide Hills, Mount Barker township is just a ten-minute drive away, while the charming town of Hahndorf is approximately twenty minutes distant.
About the region
Standing at 513 meters, Mount Barker Summit offers sweeping views across the Adelaide Hills region. From its peak, you can see Mount Lofty to the northwest, the township of Mount Barker and the Cream Bowl valley to the west, the Lakes and Coorong district to the south, and the Bremer Valley stretching east.
Hikers can choose between two trails. The most popular option is a shorter, 600-meter return trail that leads directly from the car park to the summit. For a more comprehensive experience, the 3-kilometer circuit trail circumnavigates the summit, offering broader views and traversing significant conservation areas. Interpretive signage along the trail details the historical, geological, and cultural importance of Mount Barker Summit. The area holds particular significance for the Peramangk people, the traditional custodians of the land.
The car park at Mount Barker Summit Reserve is open from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm daily, with extended hours of 8:00 pm during summer. Picnic tables are conveniently located between the car park and the summit, providing a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Similar trails nearby
Looking for hikes and trails in Mount Barker 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.