Trail Fast Facts
Nurragi Conservation Walking Trail is a 14km, grade 3 hike in Nurragi Conservation Reserve, South Australia. This hike typically takes 3 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
The Nurragi Conservation Reserve Walking Trail offers a unique opportunity to explore a vital wildlife corridor while following a historic route. This 14km (one-way) grade 3 hike traverses the former railway line that once connected Milang to Sandergrove. Opened in 1884 and decommissioned in 1970, the railway line was converted into a conservation reserve in 1991.
The trail plays a significant role in connecting the eastern Mount Lofty Ranges with Lake Alexandrina, providing a safe haven and passage for various bird species. The region surrounding the reserve has seen a dramatic loss of native vegetation, with over 98% cleared. Nurragi Conservation Reserve stands as a refuge for over 300 indigenous plant species, with more than 50 holding regional conservation significance.
While the official trailhead starts near the wetlands at the Port Milang Historic Railway Museum, a more convenient access point is located on McDonald Street. For a more scenic option, you can begin your walk at the Milang Regatta Club and follow the Wetlands Walking Trail past the museum before connecting to the main trail on McDonald Street.
If you're looking for a shorter option, consider an 8km return trip to the former Nurragi Railway Station. However, the full 14km one-way route offers a more immersive experience into this historically and ecologically significant area.
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.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 44 m
Min elevation: 3 m
Total climbing: 17 m
Total descent: -57 m
Trail Location (trailhead)
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Getting there
Situated just outside Milang in South Australia, the reserve is easily accessible by car. If you're travelling from Adelaide, head east on the Princes Highway (M1) for approximately 90 kilometres. Take the Langhorne Creek exit and follow Langhorne Creek Road until you turn right onto Lake Road. Continue onto Daranda Terrace, and the reserve entrance will be on your left on McDonald Street.
Photo gallery
If you have any photos from this hike and are happy to share them, please upload your .jpg files here.
Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
About the region
Nestled just outside the town of Milang in South Australia, Nurragi Conservation Reserve offers a haven for nature lovers and a refuge for native flora and fauna. This vital wildlife corridor plays a crucial role in connecting the eastern Mount Lofty Ranges with Lake Alexandrina, providing a safe passage and habitat for various bird species.
More than 98% of the surrounding agricultural region has seen a loss of native vegetation, making Nurragi even more significant. The reserve serves as a sanctuary for over 300 indigenous plant species, with more than 30% holding regional importance. Visitors can explore this diverse ecosystem through a well-maintained nature trail, ideal for hiking and bushwalking. Spring and early summer boast the most vibrant wildflower displays, making it a particularly picturesque time to visit.
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Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Let someone know
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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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.