Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience a leisurely 3.2km hike through the Onkaparinga River National Park's Nature Trail Circuit, nestled within unique pink gum and grey box woodland. A moderate Grade 3 trail, it's perfect for most fitness levels and offers breathtaking views of the gorge. Starting from Sundews Carpark near Gate 11 on Piggott Range Road, the trail can be completed in 1.5 hours or combined with the Echidna Hike for a more challenging 7km adventure.

Length:

3.2km

Duration:

1.5 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 270m

Min elevation: 208m

Total Ascent: 86m

Start: Sundews Carpark

End: Sundews Carpark

Onkaparinga River National Park

South Australia

Nearby town: Onkaparinga Hills

From state capital: 27.6km

Latitude: -35.14563251990714

Longitude: 138.57885003089908

Overview

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Hike overview

The Onkaparinga River National Park's Nature Trail Circuit is a perfect choice for those seeking a leisurely hike. This 3.2 kilometre loop trail traverses regenerating pink gum and grey box woodland, showcasing these unique plant communities. The easy grade 3 track makes it suitable for most fitness levels, with a completion time of approximately 1.5 hours. Hikers can expect scenic views of the gorge along the eastern section.

Starting from the Sundews Carpark near Gate 11 on Piggott Range Road, the Nature Circuit offers a convenient starting point. For a longer challenge, this trail can be easily combined with the neighbouring Echidna Hike, creating a more substantial 7 kilometre adventure.

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

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Walk map and GPX file
Nature Trail Circuit Walk (3.2km)

Total distance: 3140 m
Max elevation: 270 m
Min elevation: 208 m
Total climbing: 86 m
Total descent: -86 m

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Onkaparinga River National Park.

Reaching the trailhead at Sundews Carpark is straightforward. Located on Piggott Range Road in the Onkaparinga Hills, the carpark is accessible by car. If you are driving from Adelaide, head south on the M1 Freeway and follow signs for Stirling/Mount Barker Road (B33). Continue for approximately 40 kilometres until you reach the turnoff for Sturt Valley Road. Follow Sturt Valley Road until it intersects with Ironbank Road, then turn left and continue onto Cherry Gardens Road. From here, turn left again onto Main Road and take a slight right onto Sugarloaf Road. A sharp left turn onto Chandlers Hill Road is followed by a right turn onto Grants Gully Road. The final turn is right onto Piggott Range Road, where you will find Gate 11 and the Sundews Carpark on your left.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Aldinga Beach, Christies Beach, McLaren Vale, Noarlunga Centre, O'Sullivan Beach, Old Noarlunga, Port Noarlunga, Reynella, Seaford, Willunga

About the region

Explore Onkaparinga River National Park's Rugged Beauty. Onkaparinga River National Park offers a diverse range of adventures. Hike to clifftops for stunning views or descend to permanent rock pools teeming with life. Witness the rugged ridges and the dramatic Onkaparinga Gorge, a haven for native vegetation. Spot koalas, kangaroos, birds, and maybe even an echidna.

Discover the park's rich history. Explore heritage-listed huts and ruins of 1880s houses, remnants of the area's past as farmland. Shared trails welcome mountain bikers and horse riders.

Located just 35km south of Adelaide, the park caters to all interests. Explore the main walking trails on the north side of the gorge, accessible via Piggott Range Road. Public transport is also available from Adelaide's city center.

Choose a scenic spot by the river or enjoy a more formal picnic area with amenities, barbecues, and stunning views. The area near gate 25 offers a shaded picnic ground with shelters, perfect for a relaxing meal. Nearby wineries provide the opportunity to pair your picnic with a delicious South Australian red wine.

The Pink Gum Campground at the park's eastern end provides 11 campsites, including caravan-friendly options. Amenities include toilets, washing facilities, and fire pits (usable outside fire ban seasons).

Important Note: The park closes on days of Catastrophic Fire Danger and may also be closed on days of Extreme Fire Danger. Please check fire danger ratings before visiting.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Onkaparinga River National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

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.

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

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

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Nature Trail Circuit Walk (3.2km)

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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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Nature Trail Circuit Walk (3.2km)