Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 427m
Min elevation: 375m
Total Ascent: 63m
Hike overview
Nestled within the stringybark forests of Mark Oliphant Conservation Park in South Australia, the Skink Circuit offers a leisurely 1.8-kilometer hike. This easy, 45-minute loop trail is ideal for those seeking a shorter exploration of the park.
Despite the park entrance's unassuming appearance, well-marked trails and fire tracks named after streets ensure a smooth navigation experience. While there's no trail information directly available at the carpark, a modern shelter stands near the oval for a quick rest. Beyond the oval, however, the park offers minimal amenities.
Begin your hike by heading clockwise from the carpark at Gate 1 on Scott Creek Road. Follow Loftia Track, a fire track, past the oval and shelter. You'll encounter the Bandicoot Trail about 100 meters after the junction with Nioka Track. However, for the Skink Circuit, continue along the fire track for a short distance. The Skink Circuit itself begins as a single walking trail shortly after this point.
Tips
- Dogs are not perÂmitÂted in this park.
- There are no facilÂiÂties in the park. Please ensure you carÂry sufÂfiÂcient water, food and supÂplies for your entire visÂit.
- It is also a good idea to let a responÂsiÂble perÂson know of your intendÂed moveÂments and when you expect to return.
- This park is closed on days of CatÂaÂstrophÂic Fire DanÂger and may also be closed on days of Extreme Fire Danger.
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Walk map and GPX file
Max elevation: 427 m
Min elevation: 375 m
Total climbing: 63 m
Total descent: -63 m
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Mark Oliphant Conservation Park.
The Skink Circuit Walk is accessible from Adelaide via the South-Eastern Freeway, approximately 22 kilometers southeast of the city. The hike begins at Gate 1 on Scott Creek Road, which serves as the trailhead for this specific circuit.
Closest towns to this walk: Burton, Callington, Craigmore, Elizabeth, Green Fields, Mannum, Mawson Lakes, Murray Bridge, Nairne, Oakbank, Palmer, Parafield, Paralowie, Salisbury, Swan Reach, Virginia
About the region
The Mark Oliphant Conservation Park, named after former state Governor Sir Mark Oliphant for his conservation efforts, offers a haven for bushwalkers with its scenic forest landscapes. Keep an eye out for the park's abundant birdlife, including the scarlet robin, golden whistler, and Adelaide rosellas. The park holds particular significance as a critical habitat for the nationally endangered southern brown bandicoot.
Prior to European settlement, the area served as a vital source of food, shelter, and wood for the Kaurna people. It also functioned as a major pathway connecting the hills and plains.
Messmate stringybark and brown stringybark dominate the park's forest canopy. A rare stand of candlebark gums, known for their white bark and limited to high-rainfall regions of the Adelaide Hills, can be found near the oval. Scattered pockets of pink gum, manna gum, and blue gum also contribute to the park's diverse flora. The forest understory boasts a vibrant display of spring-flowering shrubs like myrtle-leaved wattle, beaked hakea, and large-leaved bush-pea. While bushfires in 1980 and 1995 impacted the park's plant life, weeds pose the most significant current threat.
The park provides refuge for elusive creatures such as the southern brown bandicoot and yellow-footed antechinus, alongside various lizard, snake, and frog species. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting the superb fairy-wren, scarlet robin, golden whistler, Adelaide rosella, and numerous honeyeater species. While invertebrates represent the park's most abundant and diverse animal group, their small size makes them less conspicuous. Visitors are encouraged to take a closer look to appreciate the fascinating shapes, colors, and behaviors of ants, beetles, and butterflies.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Mark Oliphant Conservation Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
Track grade
Grade 2 (Easy) -Â 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
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.