The Punchbowl Lookout Walk offers a convenient option for those seeking a short and scenic hike within Onkaparinga River National Park, South Australia. This easy grade 2 trail is ideal for walkers of all abilities, including pram users and those with limited mobility. The well-maintained path is a consistent one metre wide and constructed from compacted gravel, featuring gentle inclines throughout its 1 kilometre length (2 kilometres return). A rest stop with seating is located midway along the trail for those who wish to take a break and enjoy the surrounds.
While the trail is accessible for wheelchairs, some users may require assistance for the return journey due to the slight uphill gradient. The starting point for the Punchbowl Lookout Walk is the designated carpark located between Gates 8 and 9 on Piggott Range Road. It's important to note that toilet facilities are not available at this carpark, however, they can be found at the nearby Sundews Carpark near Gate 11 on Piggott Range Road.
For more information on this hiking trail, please visit Walking SA
Grade 1 (All-abilities) -Â 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.
Total distance: 1956 m
Max elevation: 207 m
Min elevation: 149 m
Total climbing: 60 m
Total descent: -60 m
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Reaching the Punchbowl Lookout Carpark is straightforward. Situated on Piggott Range Road within Onkaparinga River National Park, the carpark is accessible by car. If travelling from Adelaide, head south on the M1 Freeway and follow signs for Stirling/Mount Barker Road (B33). Continue for approximately 40 kilometres until you see the turnoff for Sturt Valley Road. Follow this road until it intersects with Ironbank Road, then turn left and proceed onto Cherry Gardens Road. Turn left again onto Main Road and take a slight right turn onto Sugarloaf Road. A sharp left turn leads to Chandlers Hill Road, followed by a final right turn onto Piggott Range Road. Locate the carpark between Gates 8 and 9 on your left.
If you have any photos from this hike and are happy to share them, please upload your .jpg files here.
Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
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.
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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.
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
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
Trail changed? New features discovered? Has the route changed? Trail permanently closed? Help fellow hikers by suggesting edits! Click above to update route descriptions, GPX file, trail features (like boardwalks), or access conditions (like parking availability). Help me keep the trails info fresh!
