Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore the beauty of South Australia on the River Red Gum Circuit, a leisurely 2.6km loop nestled in Shepherds Hill Recreation Park, just a stone's throw from St Marys and a mere 11.1km from Adelaide CBD. This easy grade 2 trail winds around Viaduct Creek, showcasing stunning river red gum trees and diverse local wildlife. Perfect for a quick, hour-long adventure, the trail is also a hit with beginner cyclists. Be sure to check for the Archery Club's red flag on the northern section, but don't worry - a marked detour ensures your hike continues uninterrupted.

Length:

2.6km

Duration:

1 hr

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 121m

Min elevation: 75m

Total Ascent: 54m

Start: Viaduct Carpark

End: Viaduct Carpark

Shepherds Hill Recreation Park

South Australia

Nearby town: St Marys

From state capital: 11.1km

Latitude: -35.01123754807852

Longitude: 138.57990950345996

Overview

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Hike overview

The River Red Gum Circuit offers a delightful 2.6km loop adventure, perfect for a leisurely exploration of Shepherds Hill Recreation Park. This grade 2 trail, suitable for most walkers, takes approximately 1 hour to complete and is shared with beginner cyclists.

The wide, well-maintained track winds alongside Viaduct Creek, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of the river red gum trees and the diverse wildlife that calls the area home. For optimal flow, it's recommended to walk this circuit in a clockwise direction.

Be mindful that the northern section of the trail may be closed when the Archery Club displays their red flag. However, a marked detour ensures a seamless continuation of your hike.

For a longer exploration, consider connecting to the Grey Box Loop via the Seaview Loop, adding an additional 2.4km to your adventure.

For more information on this hiking trail, please visit Walking SA

Tips

Leashed dogs are welcome companions on your journey through Shepherds Hill Recreation Park.

Gallery

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Walk map and GPX file

River Red Gum Circuit Walk (2.6km)

Total distance: 2592 m
Max elevation: 121 m
Min elevation: 75 m
Total climbing: 54 m
Total descent: -54 m

Getting there

Closest towns to this walk: Bedford Park, Belair, Bellevue Heights, Blackwood, Clapham, Coromandel Valley, Eden Hills, Hawthorn, Hawthorndene, Kingswood, Mitcham, Pasadena, St Marys

Getting to the trailhead in Shepherds Hill Recreation Park.

Situated just 11km south of Adelaide, Shepherds Hill Recreation Park is easily accessible. Drivers can navigate to the park via Ayliffes Road in St Marys or Ellis Avenue in Eden Hills. Public transport options are also available from Adelaide city centre, although restrictions may apply for carrying bicycles on trains. For the latest information on public transport options and any bicycle restrictions, please refer to the Adelaide Metro website.

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

Shepherds Hill Recreation Park offers a surprising array of experiences for visitors seeking a suburban escape. Step into a world of remnant grey box eucalypts, their branches reaching towards the sky and framing breathtaking 360-degree views. Take in the sprawling Adelaide plains, the distant coastline, and the rolling hills that surround the park.

Whether you're a cycling enthusiast or a casual rider, Shepherds Hill caters to all skill levels. Cruise along the park's public roads or challenge yourself on the designated cycling trails. For the truly adventurous, a dedicated bicycle jumps track awaits.

The park's beauty unfolds throughout the year. While summer, from December to February, can be hot and dry, those fortunate enough to visit after a significant rainfall will be rewarded with a vibrant display of ephemeral wildflowers. The gentle gurgle of flowing creeks, alive with frogsong, adds to the idyllic scene.

Beyond its natural beauty, Shepherds Hill holds cultural significance. Prior to European settlement, the Kaurna people inhabited areas like Shepherds Hill during the cooler months, utilizing the woodlands for firewood, warmth, and shelter. Summer would see them migrate towards the coast, taking advantage of the cool ocean breezes.

Similar trails nearby

Looking for hikes and trails in Shepherds Hill Recreation Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.

Track grade

Grade 2 (Easy) - 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.

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

Reviews

River Red Gum Circuit Walk (2.6km)

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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.

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Tips

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file

River Red Gum Circuit Walk (2.6km)