Trail summary
Hike overview
Craving a quick nature escape with stunning views and convenient refreshment options? Embark on the Mt Lofty Walking Trail, a short and sweet adventure perfect for all fitness levels. Whether you're a casual walker seeking fresh air or a seasoned hiker warming up for bigger challenges, this well-maintained path offers something for everyone.
Experience gentle inclines as you traverse the trail, rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the Adelaide Hills at every turn. Regular seating allows you to rest and soak in the scenery, while cafes at both ends of the trail conveniently cater to post-hike refreshments.
This popular choice among locals and visitors alike welcomes families with its manageable terrain and stunning natural beauty. Remember, though, some sections have steeper inclines, so be prepared for a moderate workout if desired.
Ready to lace up your boots and lose yourself in nature? Explore the Mt Lofty Walking Trail and discover its captivating charm.
Tips
- On a busy weekend, car parking at Waterfall Gully can be limited.
- Starting hiking from Mount Lofty instead of Waterfall Gully can be a good way to use the downhill as a warm up, to super charge your up-hill efforts.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 713 m
Min elevation: 237 m
Total climbing: 506 m
Total descent: -30 m
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 4 (Hard) - Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
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.
Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in Waterfall Gully or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
Let someone know
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
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.
3 Reviews on “Waterfall Gully to Mt Lofty Summit Walk (8km)”
It needs a bit more. After the trail was damaged, rangers had to change it and you walk behind the waterfall, not in front of it. It adds a few extra km and you might need 2 hours to walk one way. Return is a bit faster bit unless you run, I would not place a bet on 2 hours return time.
Oh that’s perfect
Sam Villis nice little training walk
Thanks Richard. I have made the correction to the 15km reference. There are two versions of this hike. One is 8km and the other is a bit shorter. Both can be found here
8km hike: https://www.trailhiking.com.au/waterfall-gully-to-mt-lofty-summit/
5km hike: https://www.trailhiking.com.au/waterfall-gully-to-mt-lofty-summit-2/