Trail Fast Facts
Old Coach Link is a 5.8km, grade 4 hike in Onkaparinga River National Park, South Australia. This hike typically takes 2.5 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
The Old Coach Link Trail is a challenging 5.8 kilometre hike (grade 4) located within Onkaparinga River National Park, South Australia. Designed for experienced walkers, the trail is estimated to take approximately 2.5 hours to complete.
Hikers can choose between two starting points in Old Noarlunga. The first option begins at Gate 1, situated near the former swingbridge location. The second option starts at Gate 3 on Church Hill Road, where you'll encounter a ford to cross the river.
The majority of the trail follows the Old Coach Road fire track. Be prepared for a steep ascent along the open grassy ridge towards the summit during the middle section. Nearing the top, the track branches off and follows the Pipeline Track and then the Tea Tree Track until reaching Gate 29 at the intersection of Sheoak Road and Barytes Road.
Planning for the return journey is crucial. Opting for a one-way (3.1km) hike requires prearranged transportation back to the starting point. To complete a return (6.2km) journey, simply retrace your steps along the same path. Hikers seeking a more extensive circuit route (refer to the map below) can follow the Pipeline Track north towards the Onkaparinga River. Upon reaching the river, turn westward (left) and follow the riverbank back to the trailhead at Gate 3 on Church Hill Road.
Track Grade
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.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 130 m
Min elevation: 9 m
Total climbing: 229 m
Total descent: -229 m
Trail Location (trailhead)
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Getting there
Accessing the Old Coach Link Trail starting point at Gate 3 on Church Hill Road, Old Noarlunga is relatively straightforward. While a car is recommended, on-site parking may be limited. If travelling from Adelaide, follow the M1 Freeway south towards Victor Harbour Road. Turn left and continue onto Quarry Road for approximately 1.5 kilometres. Turn left again onto Barytes Road and proceed until the road ends at its junction with Sheoak Road (Gate 29). Here you can find limited parking on the side of the road. From this point, continue on foot across the bridge into Old Noarlunga town. Locate the Church of St Philip & St James on Church Hill Road. Gate 3 will be situated near the church, providing your entry point to the Old Coach Link Trail.
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
Explore Onkaparinga River National Park's Rugged Beauty. Onkaparinga River National Park offers a diverse range of adventures. Hike to clifftops for stunning views or descend to permanent rock pools teeming with life. Witness the rugged ridges and the dramatic Onkaparinga Gorge, a haven for native vegetation. Spot koalas, kangaroos, birds, and maybe even an echidna.
Discover the park's rich history. Explore heritage-listed huts and ruins of 1880s houses, remnants of the area's past as farmland. Shared trails welcome mountain bikers and horse riders.
Located just 35km south of Adelaide, the park caters to all interests. Explore the main walking trails on the north side of the gorge, accessible via Piggott Range Road. Public transport is also available from Adelaide's city center.
Choose a scenic spot by the river or enjoy a more formal picnic area with amenities, barbecues, and stunning views. The area near gate 25 offers a shaded picnic ground with shelters, perfect for a relaxing meal. Nearby wineries provide the opportunity to pair your picnic with a delicious South Australian red wine.
The Pink Gum Campground at the park's eastern end provides 11 campsites, including caravan-friendly options. Amenities include toilets, washing facilities, and fire pits (usable outside fire ban seasons).
Important Note: The park closes on days of Catastrophic Fire Danger and may also be closed on days of Extreme Fire Danger. Please check fire danger ratings before visiting.
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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.