Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 243m
Min elevation: 149m
Total Ascent: 157m
Hike overview
The Punchbowl Link Trail is a moderately challenging 6 kilometre loop hike within Onkaparinga River National Park, South Australia. Designed for walkers with a moderate level of fitness (grade 3), the trail is anticipated to take approximately 2.5 hours to complete. This scenic loop rewards hikers with breathtaking views into the Onkaparinga Gorge from a new lookout above the Punchbowl.
The well-defined trail winds its way along gullies before reaching the Punchbowl Lookout. Here, walkers can connect with the Punchbowl Lookout Walk for the return journey to Piggott Range Road. This section follows a separate track alongside the road before ending at the Sundews Carpark. Alternatively, a more direct return option following the same path out is available, extending the total distance to 6.2 kilometres.
The starting point for the Punchbowl Link Trail is conveniently located at the Sundews Carpark near Gate 11 on Piggott Range Road. This carpark offers bitumen surfacing and amenities including new toilets.
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Walk map and GPX file
Max elevation: 243 m
Min elevation: 149 m
Total climbing: 157 m
Total descent: -157 m
Getting there
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.
Closest towns to this walk: Aldinga Beach, Christies Beach, McLaren Vale, Noarlunga Centre, O'Sullivan Beach, Old Noarlunga, Port Noarlunga, Reynella, Seaford, Willunga
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.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Onkaparinga River National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
Track grade
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.
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
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.
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.