The River Torrens Linear Trail follows 30km of river from the river mouth at West Beach/Henley Beach through to Adelaide CBD, and to Athelstone, where the Torrens emerges from the Adelaide Hills.
Lined with River Red Gums and reed beds, the trail is an oasis in the city and suburbs. With numerous playgrounds, picnic spots, duck-feeding spots and toilets along the route, the trail can be enjoyed by everyone. Walk a section of the trail as a circuit by walking down one side of the river, and returning on the other side. There are trails on both sides of the rivers for much of the river length, connected by numerous bridges. There are minimal, but some, arterial road crossings.
The shared-use trail is suitable for walkers, cyclists, wheelchairs and those with mobility issues. Much of the trail is bitumised, however some sections are gravel (which means the other side of the river will be bitumen). The trail is generally flat, but is steeper towards Athelstone, and sometimes as it goes under road bridges. The trail is flat through the Adelaide CBD section, and west to West Beach.
For more information and to download maps, visit Walking SA.
Getting there
Closest towns to this walk: Glenelg, Kensington, Norwood, Unley, Prospect
Photo gallery
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
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.
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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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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