Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore the historic and natural beauty of South Australia on the 9km, grade 4 Summertown to Norton Summit hike. Starting in Summertown and ending in Norton Summit, this trail meanders through the koala-filled Horsnell Gully and Giles Conservation Parks, featuring old stone ruin cottages and parts of the famed Heysen Trail. Expect a 4-hour journey immersed in the Adelaide Hills' top attractions, including Waterfall Gully, Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens, and Cleland Wildlife Park. Only 14.4km from Adelaide, it's a challenging but rewarding adventure for keen bushwalkers.

Length:

9km

Duration:

4 hrs

Grade:

Style:

One way

Max elevation: 617m

Min elevation: 351m

Total Ascent: 344m

Start: Summertown

End: Norton Summit

Horsnell Gully Conservation Park, Giles Conservation Park

South Australia

Nearby town: Summerton

From state capital: 14.4km

Latitude: -34.96086179735328

Longitude: 138.7138080596924

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Hike overview

Summertown to Norton Summit is a 9 km, grade 4 hike in Horsnell Gully and Giles Conservation Parks, South Australia. This hike, which should take around 4 hours to complete, is the third section of the Yurrebilla Trail. The trail meanders through the koala haven of Horsnell Gully, where you'll encounter old stone ruin cottages and parts of the renowned Heysen Trail.

As part of the 54 km Yurrebilla Trail, this section offers a unique blend of natural and historical sights. The full Yurrebilla Trail can be completed in 3 to 5 days and is divided into one full-day and four half-day sections. The trail features a variety of paths, from narrow single-person tracks to wider vehicle fire tracks, and it showcases many of the Adelaide Hills' top attractions. Along the trail, you'll see Waterfall Gully, the Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens, Mount Lofty Summit, and Cleland Wildlife Park. The trail also connects to picturesque Hills towns such as Summertown, Crafers, and Norton Summit, as well as numerous wineries, pubs, and other local attractions. This section promises an enriching hike through some of South Australia's most scenic and historic landscapes.

For more information on this hiking trail, please visit Walking SA

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Walk map and GPX file
Yurrebilla S3: Summertown to Norton Summit (9km)

Total distance: 9346 m
Max elevation: 617 m
Min elevation: 351 m
Total climbing: 344 m
Total descent: -493 m

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Horsnell Gully Conservation Park, Giles Conservation Park.

Start your journey in Adelaide and navigate to Horsnell Gully and Giles Conservation Parks using Google Maps or a GPS device. The park itself is in the Adelaide Hills, so be prepared for winding roads and some uphill driving. Once you arrive at the park entrance, you’ll find a network of trails with designated parking areas. Refer to park maps or signage to find the specific trailhead for your chosen hike within Horsnell Gully or Giles Conservation Park.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Aldgate, Ashton, Auldana, Bridgewater, Crafers, Leawood Gardens, Norton Summit, Skye, Stirling, Summerton, Teringie, Upper Sturt

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Wondering where to stay near this hike? Find accommodation close to the trailhead — hotels, cabins and campgrounds nearby. Click the button to view the interactive map.

About the region

Nestled amidst the picturesque Adelaide Hills, Horsnell Gully and Giles Conservation Parks offer a captivating blend of historical intrigue and natural beauty. Enjoy a bushwalking adventure through steep gullies, and discover remnants of the past alongside breathtaking panoramic views.

These parks are traversed by two iconic trails: the Heysen Trail and the Yurrebilla Trail. As you wind your way along these marked paths, be captivated by stunning views that stretch across the surrounding region.

Step back in time as you explore relics from the Horsnell family property, named after the state Governor's coachman, John Horsnell. Reminders of their past linger along the signposted walking trails, where you'll encounter the remnants of a grand homestead, including coaching sheds, stables, and cowsheds. The original Horsnell garden, marked by flourishing elm, plum, and orange trees, welcomes you at the very beginning of your walking journey.

Delve deeper into the park by exploring its extensive network of trails. Horsnell Gully Conservation Park itself boasts two main hiking loops, offering a variety of options for outdoor enthusiasts.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Horsnell Gully Conservation Park, Giles Conservation Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

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.

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

Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.

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Yurrebilla S3: Summertown to Norton Summit (9km)

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Acknowledgement of Country

Yurrebilla s3: summertown to norton summit (9km)

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
Yurrebilla S3: Summertown to Norton Summit (9km)