Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Trek through the picturesque Adelaide Hills on the 3.3km Porter Scrub Conservation Park trail, a tranquil escape surrounded by towering native forests. This moderate Grade 3 track features remarkable stringybark and candlebark trees, yacka and ferns. Due to recent bushfires, it's recommended to stick to the Central Access Track for a manageable, enjoyable walk. Ideal for bushwalkers and nature lovers seeking a peaceful journey.

Length:

3.3km

Duration:

1.5 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 506m

Min elevation: 459m

Total Ascent: 82m

Start: Central Access Track

End: Central Access Track

Porter Scrub Conservation Park

South Australia

Nearby town: Lobethal

From state capital: 46.9km

Latitude: -34.86981953017942

Longitude: 138.90395522117618

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Hike overview

Nestled in the Adelaide Hills, Porter Scrub Conservation Park offers a peaceful escape into secluded native forests. The park's main walking route is the easy-to-follow Central Access Track, a fire track that winds its way through the park from Gate 1 to Gate 2. Towering stringybark and candlebark trees dominate the landscape, with a dense understory of yacka and ferns.

Previously, a loop track ventured deeper into the eastern reaches of the park before returning via the Central Access Track. However, following bushfires in 2020, this loop trail has become overgrown and difficult to follow. For now, visitors can explore the park by following the Central Access Track northwards to the park's northern boundary and returning the same way. This out-and-back option offers a more manageable and enjoyable walking experience.

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
Porter Scrub Circuit Walk (3.3km)

Total distance: 3310 m
Max elevation: 506 m
Min elevation: 459 m
Total climbing: 82 m
Total descent: -82 m

Gallery

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Porter Scrub Conservation Park.

Porter Scrub Conservation Park is situated approximately 4 kilometres northeast of Lobethal in the Adelaide Hills. Drivers can access the park from either the southern entrance on the corner of Maidment and Lihou Roads, or the northern entrance on Burfords Hill Road, roughly 8.5 kilometres from Birdwood.

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

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

Nestled in the Adelaide Hills near Lobethal, Porter Scrub Conservation Park offers a haven for native flora and fauna. Proclaimed in 2005, this 104-hectare park protects a significant area of remnant bushland, boasting endangered Candlebark Gum open forest alongside vulnerable Pink Gum low woodland and River Red Gum woodland.

The park provides vital habitat for a range of threatened species, including the Southern Brown Bandicoot, Clover Glycine and Spotted Quail-thrush. Evidence of the area's past use can be found in the form of old mine shafts and tree stumps, remnants of grazing, timber extraction and talc mining activities that occurred after European settlement.

Today, Porter Scrub Conservation Park provides a peaceful escape for visitors seeking a connection with nature. The park offers a variety of walking trails, including the easy-to-follow Central Access Track, perfect for exploring the diverse flora and fauna.

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: Aldinga Beach, McLaren Vale, Morphett Vale, Mount Compass, Myponga

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 Porter Scrub 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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Porter Scrub Circuit Walk (3.3km)

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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

Track grade

Walk map and GPX file
Porter Scrub Circuit Walk (3.3km)