The Sundews Ridge Hike is a moderately challenging 4.5km loop trail situated within Onkaparinga River National Park, South Australia. This scenic path offers hikers stunning views of the Onkaparinga Gorge without requiring a descent into the valley below. With an estimated completion time of 2 hours, the hike is perfect for those seeking a rewarding escape into nature.
The journey begins at the designated Sundews Carpark near Gate 11 on Piggott Range Road, where restrooms and trail information are available for your convenience. The well-marked trail leads you towards the Sundews Lookout, a vantage point offering breathtaking panoramas of the gorge's rocky outcrops and the meandering Onkaparinga River snaking through the bushland.
Here, the Sundews Ridge Hike diverges from the Lookout Hike. Continuing along the single-track path, you'll be treated to glimpses of the valley peeking through the trees. The trail includes a few short, manageable descents, making it suitable for moderately fit hikers.
As you emerge from the tree cover, a grassy section unfolds before you, revealing expansive views across the surrounding landscape. Take a moment to soak in the scenery and appreciate the beauty of the Onkaparinga Gorge. The return leg winds back into the trees before rejoining the wider Gorge Track. Keep your eyes peeled, as you might spot kangaroos or even a few sheep grazing peacefully in the nearby meadow.
The circuit hike concludes at the car park, marking the end of your exploration along the Sundews Ridge.
Looking to extend your walk? Enjoy the 6km Sundews River Gorge Circuit. This extended route descends into the heart of the gorge, offering a closer look at the river and its surrounds. Expect a more demanding hike (grade 4) taking roughly 3 hours to complete.
For more information on this hiking trail, please visit Walking SA
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.
Total distance: 3676 m
Max elevation: 244 m
Min elevation: 168 m
Total climbing: 139 m
Total descent: -138 m
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Getting to the trailhead: Onkaparinga River National Park.
Reaching the trailhead at Sundews Carpark is straightforward. Located on Piggott Range Road in the Onkaparinga Hills, the carpark is accessible by car. If you are driving from Adelaide, head south on the M1 Freeway and follow signs for Stirling/Mount Barker Road (B33). Continue for approximately 40 kilometres until you reach the turnoff for Sturt Valley Road. Follow Sturt Valley Road until it intersects with Ironbank Road, then turn left and continue onto Cherry Gardens Road. From here, turn left again onto Main Road and take a slight right onto Sugarloaf Road. A sharp left turn onto Chandlers Hill Road is followed by a right turn onto Grants Gully Road. The final turn is right onto Piggott Range Road, where you will find Gate 11 and the Sundews Carpark on your left.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
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.
Wondering where to stay near this hike? Find accommodation close to the trailhead — hotels, cabins and campgrounds nearby. Click the button to view the interactive map.
Closest towns to this walk: Aldinga Beach, Christies Beach, McLaren Vale, Noarlunga Centre, O'Sullivan Beach, Old Noarlunga, Port Noarlunga, Reynella, Seaford, Willunga
Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.
Looking for more walks in or near Onkaparinga River National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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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.
