Trail Fast Facts
Paringa Goat Island Track is a 3.5km, grade 2 hike in Lions Park Paringa, South Australia. This hike typically takes 1.5 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
Nestled alongside the Murray River near Renmark, Paringa Paddocks offers a range of walking and cycling experiences for visitors of all abilities. The park boasts a network of well-marked trails, catering to both casual strollers and those seeking a more challenging hike.
The Paringa Goat Island Track is a shorter 3.5km grade 2 loop, ideal for those looking for a more leisurely walk. This 1.5-hour circuit takes in stunning river scenery and provides a taste of the park's natural beauty.
The Paringa Paddocks Trail is the park's central feature, offering two main loops for exploration. The yellow-marked loops provide clear direction, making them ideal for independent navigation. Be aware that trail conditions can change after heavy rain or high water events, so adjust your plans accordingly.
Option 2: The Paringa Paddocks Circuit is a 5.8km grade 2 hike, taking roughly 2.5 hours to complete. This loop winds through the park's diverse landscapes, offering a rewarding experience for those seeking a more substantial walk.
Both options can be combined for a more extensive walk around the park.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 38 m
Min elevation: 17 m
Total climbing: 42 m
Total descent: -42 m
Getting there
Access Paringa Paddocks from the Sturt Highway, which traverses the area between Renmark and Paringa townships. Look for signage for the park along this route. Alternatively, cyclists and walkers can access the park via Lions Park next to the Big 4 Caravan Park in Renmark, using the underpass beneath the Sturt Highway. For those arriving by boat, access is also available directly from the Murray River.
Photo gallery
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
Track Grade
Grade 2 (Easy) -Â A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.
About the region
Nestled alongside the Murray River near Renmark, Paringa Paddocks offers a taste of a riverside national park with the convenience of close proximity to town. This recently incorporated section of the Murray River National Park boasts easy access from the Sturt Highway between Renmark and Paringa.
The park's flat terrain, characteristic of a river floodplain, makes it ideal for walking and mountain biking. Explore the extensive network of trails, challenge yourself with a DIY permanent orienteering course, or simply enjoy a scenic drive with views of Paringa Bridge and Lock 5. Keen birdwatchers and anglers will also find plenty to discover here.
Environmental water flows are released from the Murray River at specific times, thanks to recent works and a regulator construction. This vital practice sustains the unique plants, animals, and iconic landscapes of the river ecosystem, while ensuring most water continues downstream to benefit the wider river system.
While dogs are welcome, responsible pet ownership is essential. They must be kept on a leash no longer than 2 metres and remain under control at all times.
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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.
Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in Lions Park Paringa or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
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
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.
Weather
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.