Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Discover the rugged beauty of South Australia with the Morialta Falls Plateau Circuit, a moderate 4.3km hike nestled within Morialta Conservation Park. This Grade 3 trail is a must-visit for experienced hikers, offering a flexible circuit with breathtaking views of Morialta Gorge, Adelaide Plains, and Giants Cave. Don't miss the awe-inspiring First Falls, particularly vibrant during winter and autumn. Start your adventure from Morialta Falls Carpark or, if full, consider the alternative starting points at First Falls Carpark or Lower Carpark on Stradbroke Road.

Length:

4.3km

Duration:

1.5 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 358m

Min elevation: 196m

Total Ascent: 444m

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

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Hike overview

Situated within Morialta Conservation Park, South Australia, the Morialta Falls Plateau Circuit is a rewarding 4.3km hike. Classified as a grade 3 trail, it is suitable for experienced walkers and can be completed in approximately 1.5 hours.

The circuit offers a challenging ascent with stunning views. Hikers will pass by Giants Cave, a fascinating natural landmark. As you progress, the trail unveils panoramic views of Morialta Gorge's towering cliffs, the sprawling Adelaide Plains, the city itself, and even a glimpse of the coastline. The circuit also provides scenic viewpoints of First Falls, although these are most impressive during the winter and autumn months when water flow is at its peak.

The trail is designed to be flexible. You can choose to walk it in either a clockwise or anticlockwise direction. The official starting point is the Morialta Falls Carpark. However, if parking availability is limited, you can begin at the First Falls Carpark or even the Lower Carpark on Stradbroke Road (although this option adds an additional 6.9km via the Fourth Creek Walk).

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

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.

Walk map and GPX file
Morialta Falls Plateau Circuit Walk (4.3km)

Total distance: 4453 m
Max elevation: 358 m
Min elevation: 196 m
Total climbing: 444 m
Total descent: -444 m

Gallery

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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.

Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.

Get there with Google Maps

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.

Find a place to stay

Find Accommodation

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.

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

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.

Similar walks nearby

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

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.

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Morialta Falls Plateau Circuit Walk (4.3km)

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Acknowledgement of Country

Morialta falls plateau circuit walk (4. 3km)

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

Track grade

Walk map and GPX file
Morialta Falls Plateau Circuit Walk (4.3km)