Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore the captivating Three Falls Grand Circuit, a 6.5km moderate hike in Morialta Conservation Park, featuring breathtaking waterfall views and dramatic cliff faces. Starting from the top or lower carpark on Stradbroke Road, the trail, with highlights like Deep View and Kookaburra Rock Lookout, offers panoramic vistas of Morialta Gorge. Remember, the trail includes steep, uneven sections, so proper footwear is essential. Ideal for adventurous hikers and bushwalkers keen on a scenic trek filled with natural beauty.

Length:

6.5km

Duration:

3 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 377m

Min elevation: 188m

Total Ascent: 569m

Start: Morialta Falls Carpark

End: Morialta Falls Carpark

Morialta Conservation Park

South Australia

Nearby town: Woodforde

From state capital: 13.4km

Latitude: -34.90310387203133

Longitude: 138.70232284069064

Overview

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Hike overview

Enjoy the Three Falls Grand Circuit, a challenging hike that rewards you with breathtaking views of all three waterfalls within Morialta Conservation Park. Traverse the edge of the gorge, taking in the dramatic cliffs as you follow Fourth Creek. The trail winds past First Falls, with a brief detour to Second Falls, before culminating at Third Falls. Soak in panoramic views of the Morialta Gorge and the sprawling plains beyond.

The hike offers two starting points: the top carpark for a more immediate trek, or the lower carpark on Stradbroke Road. If you choose the latter, a scenic walk along the Fourth Creek Walk will lead you to the top carpark before joining the Grand Circuit.

This adventurous trail provides not only stunning waterfall views but also unveils dramatic cliff faces from various perspectives. Highlights include Deep View and Kookaburra Rock Lookout, offering exceptional panoramas of the Morialta Gorge. Be aware that the trail includes steep sections with loose rocks and uneven surfaces, which can become slippery when wet. Proper footwear and a sense of adventure are essential.

Find more information at Walking SA

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Walk map and GPX file
Three Falls Grand Circuit Hike (6.5km)

Total distance: 6272 m
Max elevation: 377 m
Min elevation: 188 m
Total climbing: 569 m
Total descent: -570 m

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Morialta Conservation Park.

If you’re looking to explore Morialta Conservation Park and reach the Morialta Falls Carpark by car, it’s a scenic 20-minute drive from Adelaide. Head northeast on Magill Road for about 10 kilometers. You’ll then take a slight left onto Norton Summit Road, which becomes Glen Stuart Road. Follow Glen Stuart Road until the roundabout, where you’ll take the second exit onto Morialta Road. Continue straight onto Morialta Falls Road, and turn right to find the carpark on your right.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Adelaide, Auldana, Campbelltown, Kensington Gardens, Kensington Park, Magill, Marden, Mawson Lakes, Newton, Norton Summit, Paradise, Rostrevor, Stirling

About the region

Morialta Conservation Park, a beloved local escape for over 100 years, offers a stunning natural experience just 10 kilometers from Adelaide's bustling center. Immerse yourself in the park's diverse landscape: explore the cascading waterfalls along Fourth Creek, wander through scenic woodlands and rugged ridges, or marvel at the panoramic views from the rock climbing zone.

Hike along the extensive network of trails and discover the park's three magnificent waterfalls. Visit during winter or spring to witness the most spectacular displays of water cascading over sheer quartzite cliffs. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife – the park's rock pools and creeks are home to a variety of birds, frogs, and small reptiles. Look out for honeyeaters and thornbills flitting amongst the woodlands, and you might even spot a koala or kookaburra perched in the towering gum trees.

Morialta caters to all interests. Take a leisurely stroll along the First Falls Walk, perfect for families. Enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature at the Mukanthi Playspace, designed to ignite children's imaginations through natural play elements. Experienced climbers can challenge themselves at Morialta Rock-climbing Zone, renowned as the state's premier natural climbing area.

Morialta offers something special throughout the year. Witness the waterfalls at their most powerful in winter, or be captivated by the vibrant wildflowers blanketing the hills in spring. No matter the season, Morialta Conservation Park provides a refreshing escape for all who seek adventure and connection with nature.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Morialta Conservation Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

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.

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

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Three Falls Grand Circuit Hike (6.5km)

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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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Three Falls Grand Circuit Hike (6.5km)