Encompassing the natural beauty and historical significance of Anstey Hill Recreation Park, the Yellowtail Anstey Hill Circuit offers a challenging 6-kilometer loop hike for experienced walkers (grade 4). The trail takes roughly 2.5 hours to complete and rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views across the Adelaide Plains. Along the way, you'll encounter diverse wildlife native to the park and the intriguing ruins of Newman's Nursery.
Leashed dogs are welcome companions on this hike. The majority of the trail follows wide, blue dolomite fire tracks. However, there are deviations - a section on the Ridge Top Walk track and the return leg along the Boundary Walk track, a clay dirt path running parallel to Perseverance Road. Yellow markers guide you throughout the circuit.
Newman's Nursery, established in 1854, is a captivating historical landmark encountered on the trail. The extensive ruins, including remnants of heated glass houses, offer a glimpse into its past glory as the largest nursery in the southern hemisphere. Interestingly, the park itself boasts a rich history. The main open-cut quarry and ruins, dating from 1853 to 1982, were the source of stone used in Adelaide's iconic buildings like the War Memorial and St Peter's Cathedral.
For more information on this hiking trail, please visit Walking SA
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Total distance: 6090 m
Max elevation: 389 m
Min elevation: 233 m
Total climbing: 212 m
Total descent: -212 m
Getting to the trailhead: Anstey Hill Recreation Park.
Anstey Hill Recreation Park is conveniently located approximately 16 kilometers northeast of Adelaide City Centre. Drivers can access the park via several entrances: North East Road (near the old Tea Tree Gully Village), Perseverance Road, or Range Road South. Public transport options are also available from Adelaide for those without a car. Visitors with accessibility needs can find designated parking at Gate 1, located next to the toilet facilities near Ellis Cottage.
Closest towns to this walk: Fairview Park, Golden Grove, Ingle Farm, Modbury, Para Hills, Para Vista, Paracombe, Parafield Gardens, Paralowie, Salisbury, Salisbury East, St Agnes, Tea Tree Gully, Wynn Vale
Anstey Hill Recreation Park is situated on Kaurna (Gar-na) Country, a region significant to the Kaurna people for generations. The foothills historically provided a seasonal source of food, water, shelter, and medicine. To learn more about Kaurna culture, visit the Living Kaurna Cultural Centre at Bedford Park.
Anstey Hill Recreation Park offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors of all interests. Whether you're a family seeking a leisurely stroll, a walker looking for a scenic route, or a mountain biker craving a challenge, the park's extensive network of trails caters to your needs.
Beyond the trails, explore the park's unique features. Discover the ruins of the original Newman's Nursery, a testament to the area's historical significance. Encounter abundant birdlife, including the charming Superb Fairy Wren. Look out for Western Grey Kangaroos and the park's resident Koalas. The park plays a vital role in conserving rare vegetation, once widespread across the Adelaide Plains and Mount Lofty Ranges.
Anstey Hill offers a beautiful display throughout the year. In winter and spring, witness a profusion of wildflowers, including spider-orchids and wax-lip orchids, adorning the slopes. During the summer months, enjoy a refreshing walk along Water Gully, or take in the breathtaking autumn sunset from the ridgetop trails.
The park welcomes visitors year-round, with vehicle entry gates open daily from 6:30 am to 7:00 pm (extended to 9:00 pm during daylight saving time). Please note that the park is closed on Christmas Day. Leashed dogs are also permitted.
Anstey Hill's diverse landscapes provide vital habitats for a variety of birds and animals. The park is dominated by Pink Gum and Long-leaf Box plant communities, now rare in the Adelaide Hills. The understory boasts Button Daisies, Pussytails, Needle Bushes, and Silky Guinea-flowers. The red and blue gum grassy woodlands near the Silver Mine serve as feeding grounds for local birds. Rough-barked Manna Gums, a favorite food source for koalas, are commonly seen between The Lookout and Newman's Nursery ruins.
Keen observers are likely to encounter some of the park's many residents. Listen for the calls of Brown Tree Frogs and Common Froglets along the creeks, or spot a Bearded Dragon basking in the sun. The park is also home to the endangered Chestnut-rumped Heath Wren.
Looking for more walks in or near Anstey Hill Recreation Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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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.
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.
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.
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
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.
