Rhododendron Trail is a 1km, grade 3 hike located in the Mount Lofty Botanic Garden, South Australia. The hike should take around 45 mins to complete.
Hike overview
The diverse genus Rhododendron, with over 800 species, is well represented in the gully. Some are evergreen, some deciduous and others are endangered in their natural habitats.
Rhododendron species are found in temperate forests of the northern hemisphere, especially the Himalayas and western China, and much of south east Asia right own to the northern tip of Australia. The species vary in size from large trees to tiny ground covering shrubs.
The gully was first planted with Rhododendron species in the early 1960s. The kaleidoscope of colour when they flower in spring and early summer is breathtaking.
View more flowering photos of the gully.
GPX file courtesy of Walking SA. File may not contain elevation data and may only represent half the length on return hikes.
Route and GPX file
Max elevation: 633 m
Min elevation: 543 m
Total climbing: 92 m
Total descent: -2 m
For more information on this hiking trail, please visit Walking SA
Trail location
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Gallery
If you have any photos from this hike and are happy to share them, please upload your .jpg files here.
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About the region
Put on your walking shoes, pack your camera and get ready to explore! Whether you’re out for a leisurely stroll or a more vigorous trek, there’s always something new to discover at Mount Lofty Botanic Garden. Meander along the multitude of paths that sprawl across 97 hectares – with a surprise awaiting you around every corner. Immerse yourself in the spectacular colour, rich aromas and amazing diversity.
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Gear to consider

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Let someone know where you’re going and when you plan to return. Fill in an online trip intentions form to privately send important details about your adventure to your emergency contact. They can then inform emergency services if you don’t return on time.
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.