Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore South Australia's hidden gem, Woorabinda Bushland Reserves, a tranquil 34-hectare sanctuary nestled in the Adelaide Hills. Starting and ending at the Branch Road Carpark, this 5.4km circuit trail weaves through diverse landscapes from towering stringybark forests to the serene Woorabinda Lake. Just a quick 17.5km jaunt from Adelaide and a stone's throw from the charming town of Stirling, the trail offers easy-grade bushwalking, wildlife spotting, and scenic lakeside views. Don't forget to seek out the bird hide for a glimpse of the park's diverse avian population!

Length:

5.4km

Duration:

2 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 509m

Min elevation: 454m

Total Ascent: 150m

Start: Branch Road Carpark

End: Branch Road Carpark

Woorabinda Bushland Reserves

South Australia

Nearby town: Stirling

From state capital: 17.5km

Latitude: -35.01287197714837

Longitude: 138.71974110603335

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Hike overview

Nestled in the Adelaide Hills, the Woorabinda Bushland Reserves offer a network of interconnected parks and reserves spanning 34 hectares. These reserves, formerly known as the Stirling Linear Park, provide a tranquil escape for visitors seeking a taste of South Australian bushland.

The park is conveniently divided into four distinct areas – Stirling Park, Woorabinda, Hender Reserve, and Madurta Reserve – seamlessly linked by a network of walking trails. This intricate web of paths allows visitors to explore a diverse range of landscapes, from the towering stringybark forests and open woodlands to the calming presence of Woorabinda Lake and its surrounding reedbeds. A surprising aspect of the park is the absence of traffic noise. Despite its proximity to residential areas, the dense vegetation creates a natural soundscape dominated by birdsong and the gentle croaking of frogs.

One of the highlights of the park is the walking loop around Woorabinda Lake. This shaded path circles the entire lake, offering scenic views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Along the way, you'll encounter conveniently placed picnic benches, boardwalks to navigate damp areas, and even a bird hide, perfect for observing the park's diverse avian population. Informative signage with maps are strategically positioned throughout the park, making it easy to orient yourself and choose your walking route based on your interests and time constraints.

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

Track grade

Grade 2 (Easy) - A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.

Walk map and GPX file
Woorabinda Bushland Reserve Circuit Walk (5.4km)

Total distance: 5420 m
Max elevation: 509 m
Min elevation: 454 m
Total climbing: 150 m
Total descent: -150 m

Gallery

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Woorabinda Bushland Reserves.

Accessing the Woorabinda Bushland Reserves is a breeze. Situated near the township of Stirling in the Adelaide Hills, the park is easily reachable by car. If you’re driving, simply navigate to the park entrance on either Ethel Street or Branch Road in Stirling. Ample parking is available within the park itself. For those relying on public transport, the Adelaide Metro bus route 37 stops on Longwood Road in Heathfield, a short distance from the park. However, keep in mind this would require a walk from the bus stop to the park entrance.

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

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Adelaide Hills at the Woorabinda Bushland Reserves, a 34-hectare network of parks and reserves located near the township of Stirling. Formerly known as the Stirling Linear Park, this sanctuary offers a haven for native flora and fauna, contributing significantly to the region's biodiversity.

Woorabinda Lake, a man-made dam constructed in 1922, is a central feature of the reserve. Originally built to provide water for steam locomotives, the lake now serves as a tranquil focal point for visitors. The park's history is rich, having transitioned from a campsite for disadvantaged families in the 1960s to a protected natural area thanks to local community action in 1995.

The park's easy accessibility is a major draw. A short walk from Stirling's town centre takes you from the hustle and bustle into a peaceful valley teeming with natural vegetation. The path leads you past the picturesque Lake Woorabinda, its reeds providing a habitat for wetland birds. As you continue, you'll be enveloped by the cool embrace of a stringybark eucalyptus woodland, where you can encounter a variety of native shrubs.

Woorabinda Bushland Reserves encompasses four distinct areas: Stirling Park, Woorabinda itself, Hender Reserve, and Madurta Reserve, conveniently linked by walking trails. The park serves as a valuable resource for the local community, offering opportunities for both recreation and environmental education.

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: Aldgate, Bridgewater, Crafers, Hahndorf, 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 Woorabinda Bushland Reserves? 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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Woorabinda Bushland Reserve Circuit Walk (5.4km)

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Acknowledgement of Country

Woorabinda bushland reserve circuit walk (5. 4km)

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
Woorabinda Bushland Reserve Circuit Walk (5.4km)