Trail summary
Hike overview
The Pioneer Women's Trail: A Historical Hike Through the Adelaide Hills. The Pioneer Women's Trail, a 26-kilometer historical hike developed by the National Trust of South Australia, honours the remarkable journeys undertaken by early European women settlers from Hahndorf. These women, braving rough terrain, would walk to Adelaide (approximately 35 kilometers away) to trade homemade produce for essential supplies.
The trail itself offers a moderately challenging (grade 4) hike, typically taking 1-2 days to complete. Beginning at the Hahndorf Institute, the route follows Hahndorf's main road before crossing the Onkaparinga River and officially joining the trail near Verdun.
The journey winds through a delightful section of the Adelaide Hills, encompassing country roads, laneways, and scenic bush tracks. Hikers can expect to encounter charming historic homes, vibrant deciduous trees, and pockets of native bushland.
The trail traverses Bridgewater, Mount George Conservation Park, Stirling, Crafers, and Cleland National Park before connecting with the old Bullock Track. This final section passes through Mount Osmond Reserve and concludes at Beaumont House near Brock Reserve.
The Pioneer Women's Trail serves as a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of these early settlers. Within weeks of arriving in Hahndorf in 1839, women and girls embarked on these arduous midnight journeys. Carrying baskets laden with vegetables and dairy products on their backs or yokes, they walked for approximately 26 kilometers before reaching a resting point near Beaumont. Here, they would freshen up before continuing to Adelaide to sell their goods.
Their return journeys often included essential supplies like thread, sugar, tea, and tobacco. Remarkably, they continued these vital trade missions until the late 1850s.
While the original trail utilized Peramangk walking paths and early settler bullock tracks, significant changes to the landscape have necessitated alterations. Private property and the South Eastern Freeway now occupy portions of the historical route. The modern trail, therefore, deviates where necessary to navigate these obstacles while maximizing the use of natural bushland and parkland areas.
The National Trust's dedication to preserving this historical journey allows modern walkers to retrace the steps of these pioneering women, offering a unique blend of physical challenge and historical appreciation.
Officially, the Pioneer Women's Trail commences on Silver Road in Verdun, before winding through Bridgewater, following Cox Creek part of the way. After traversing beautiful Mt George Conservation Park the trail detours through Stirling, with its many coffee shops. It continues through Crafers and Cleland Conservation Park, before joining the Old Bullock Track, finally emerging to stunning city views and the descent to Beaumont House in Burnside.
This description, route map and GPX file (below) include an extended section thorough to Hahndorf, in line with the National Trust SA website that states the trail commences at the Hahndorf Institute.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 582 m
Min elevation: 210 m
Total climbing: 669 m
Total descent: -794 m
Getting there
Closest towns to this walk: Mount Barker, Stirling, Aldgate, Bridgewater, Hahndorf
Nestled in the heart of Hahndorf, South Australia, The Hahndorf Institute serves as the starting point for the historic Pioneer Women’s Trail. Reaching the institute is convenient by car or public transport.
For drivers, Hahndorf is situated approximately 30 minutes southeast of Adelaide via the South Eastern Freeway. Take the second Mount Barker exit and follow the signs to Hahndorf. Parking is available along the main street, but free options are recommended at the far end.
If you’re using public transport, several buses travel from Adelaide to Hahndorf. The closest bus stop is likely to be on Mount Barker Road, requiring a short walk to The Hahndorf Institute. Refer to Adelaide Metro’s website or app for the most up-to-date public transport information and timetables to plan your journey effectively.
Photo gallery
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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.
About the region
Nestled 28 kilometers southeast of Adelaide, Hahndorf is Australia's oldest surviving German settlement. Originally inhabited by the Peramangk people, European settlement in 1838 led to a unique village layout designed to accommodate Lutheran immigrants. The initial U-shaped "Hufendorf" with central church evolved into a "Strassendorf" (street village) as the town grew. Declared a state heritage area in 1988, Hahndorf's German character is evident in its architecture. Despite a brief name change during WWI, Hahndorf's historic charm and scenic location solidified its status as a premier South Australian tourist destination.
Suggest an edit
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.
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Let someone know
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 depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
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.
3 Reviews on “Pioneer Women's Trail (26km)”
Just a note, the start of this gpx trail is a tad deceiving, The pioneer womens trail starts on Silver road in Verdun and follows a different trail to Bridgewater.
The trail above, the section from Hahndorf to Bridgewater follows the Heysen Spur Trail into Hahndorf and there is a bridge crossing that’s a bit dicey in busy times as there is no pedestrian shoulder. the map on southaustralian trails is correct however the gpx downloads match the trail above.
Thanks for the feedback Catherine. This description, route map and GPX file include an extended section thorough to Hahndorf, in line with the National Trust SA website that states the trail commences at the Hahndorf Institute, following Hahndorf’s main road before crossing the Onkaparinga River and officially joining the trail near Verdun.