Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Discover the scenic beauty of South Australia on the Para Wirra Lake Discovery Walk, a family-friendly 1km loop trail in the tranquil Para Wirra Conservation Park. This Grade 1 circuit, suitable for all abilities and perfect for birdwatching, takes a leisurely 30 minutes to complete. Start at the East Lake carpark, follow the wheelchair-accessible path, and don't forget your binoculars for the best waterbird spotting! A great trail for budding bikers, too.

Length:

1km

Duration:

30 mins

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 285m

Min elevation: 278m

Total Ascent: 13m

Start: East Lake Carpark

End: East Lake Carpark

Para Wirra Conservation Park

South Australia

Nearby town: Playford

From state capital: 46km

Latitude: -34.69050456066523

Longitude: 138.82509827613833

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Hike overview

The Para Wirra Lake Discovery Walk is a popular 1-kilometre loop trail (grade 1) ideal for families in Para Wirra Conservation Park, South Australia. This easy walk, taking approximately 30 minutes to complete, allows visitors to experience the park's tranquil lake setting. The trail offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching, with a variety of waterbirds and bush birds frequenting the area. Binoculars are recommended for keen observers.

For the most enjoyable experience, the National Parks and Wildlife Service SA recommends starting the walk from the East Lake carpark and following the trail in a clockwise direction. This route allows you to fully appreciate the beauty of the lake as it unfolds before you.

The fully wheelchair-accessible trail features a hard-packed gravel surface with a few gentle inclines. Some sections may require assistance for wheelchair users. The Para Wirra Lake Discovery Walk is perfect for young children who can ride their bikes alongside parents walking the trail.

Find more information at Walking SA

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Walk map and GPX file

Para Wirra Lake Discovery Walk (1km)

Total distance: 927 m
Max elevation: 285 m
Min elevation: 278 m
Total climbing: 13 m
Total descent: -13 m

Getting there

Closest towns to this walk: Birdwood, Elizabeth, Gawler, Golden Grove, Gumeracha, Inglewood, Kersbrook, Lobethal, Lynton, Millbrook, Modbury, Mount Pleasant, Mt Pleasant, One Tree Hill, Para Wirra, Salisbury, Tea Tree Gully, Williamstown

Getting to the trailhead in Para Wirra Conservation Park.

Para Wirra Conservation Park is conveniently located 41 kilometers north of Adelaide. The park boasts multiple entry points, with the main entrance accessible through the Western Gate off Humbug Scrub Road. Campers arriving after park hours can use the Eastern Gate, also located off Humbug Scrub Road. However, this gate requires a unique combination lock code provided during campground reservation and remains locked to general visitors. Please note that the Western Gate operates on sunrise to sunset hours, with the exception of Christmas Day. Once you get there, you can look for signs for Allendale Road Carpark near Bowden Cottage.

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

Nestled in the foothills of the rugged Mount Lofty Ranges, Para Wirra Conservation Park holds significance for three Aboriginal nations: the Kaurna, Peramangk, and Ngadjuri. The park's name itself reflects this heritage, with "Para" (or Kaurna "Pari") translating to "river, creek, or gully" and "Wirra" meaning "forest." This aptly describes the park's landscape, where the ranges meet the Barossa Valley and mallee plains, creating a natural gathering point for these indigenous groups.

National Parks are actively collaborating with these nations to develop and share cultural interpretations of the park. Visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Para Wirra, with opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and observing native wildlife. Over 100 bird species call the park home, including emus that may even visit the picnic grounds. Kangaroos graze at dawn and dusk, while reptiles like bearded dragons and sleepy lizards soak up the sun on warm days. Keen observers might even spot the shy short-beaked echidna, evidenced by its characteristic diggings throughout the park.

Para Wirra caters perfectly to families and groups. Accessible facilities are nestled within the natural bush setting, with a lake serving as a popular attraction. Barbecue areas and picnic tables offer scenic views over the water, where the surrounding bushland creates a mirror-like reflection on calm days.

Similar trails nearby

Looking for hikes and trails in Para Wirra Conservation Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.

Track grade

Grade 1 (All-abilities) - Perfect for Families and Beginners: Grade 1 on the AWTGS represents the easiest walking tracks, perfect for families with young children or those new to bushwalking. No prior experience is required. These gentle walks feature a flat, even surface with no steps or steep sections. They are suitable for wheelchair users with assistance due to the even terrain. The total distance of a Grade 1 walk is typically no greater than 5 kilometers, making them a comfortable and manageable option for all ages and fitness levels.

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

Reviews

Para Wirra Lake Discovery Walk (1km)

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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.

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file

Para Wirra Lake Discovery Walk (1km)