The Warren Tower Circuit is a rewarding 9-kilometre loop trail (grade 3) situated within Warren Conservation Park, South Australia. This moderately challenging hike typically takes 3-4 hours to complete and offers a diverse range of landscapes to explore.
Beginning at Watts Gully Road, the trail leads you through the heart of Warren Conservation Park. Diverse ecosystems unfold as you progress, with native scrub blanketing the gullies, open country offering panoramic vistas near the fire watch tower, and even pockets of pine forest. The starting point is a small carpark on Watts Gully Road, where a short boardwalk helps you navigate a potentially damp area during wet winters.
Keep your eyes peeled for native wildlife throughout your walk. Spotting kangaroos, echidna diggings, and lizards is a common occurrence in this park. The namesake Warren Tower, strategically positioned atop a hill, provides a breathtaking vantage point overlooking the sprawling forests and distant ranges.
For more information on this hiking trail, please visit Walking SA
Total distance: 8808 m
Max elevation: 530 m
Min elevation: 347 m
Total climbing: 314 m
Total descent: -314 m
Download file:
Warren-Tower-Circuit.gpx
Located approximately 60 kilometres northeast of Adelaide, the park offers two main entry points for walkers. The most convenient option is the Watts Gully trailhead, situated on Watts Gully Road in Mount Crawford. Alternatively, walkers can access the park via the Tower Track within Mount Crawford Forest.
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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.
Nestled in the Adelaide Hills, Warren Conservation Park offers a haven for nature lovers seeking a challenging bushwalking experience. The park boasts a rich tapestry of flora and fauna, with relatively undisturbed Messmate stringybark and long-leaved box woodlands teeming with native plants, including vibrant orchids and lilies. The park is a haven for wildlife, with kangaroos, echidnas, and lizards commonly spotted amongst the trees.
While Warren Conservation Park is only a short distance from Adelaide, the closest town being Williamstown approximately 10 kilometres southeast, the walking trails here are best suited for experienced bushwalkers. The park features three challenging trails, including a section of the renowned long-distance Heysen Trail. These tracks are steep and require a good level of fitness and experience.
Spring paints the park in its most vibrant colours, with orchids, wattles, banksias, hakeas, heaths, and eucalyptus bursting into bloom. However, the park's beauty can be appreciated year-round. The native fauna and the wild forests of stringybark and long-leaved box offer a glimpse into the natural wonders of the Adelaide Hills, making it a worthwhile destination for those seeking a challenging adventure.
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.
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.
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
