Walking & Hiking
Summit trails, waterfalls and conservation parks
The best walking & hiking in Crafers
Climb to panoramic summits, chase seasonal waterfalls and wander stringybark forests on a network of well-marked trails across the Hills.
Threaded with conservation parks and the long-distance Heysen Trail, the Adelaide Hills is one of South Australia's great walking destinations — and remarkably, much of it lies within half an hour of the city. The cool stringybark forest, fern-lined gullies and ridge-top lookouts make for rewarding walking in every season, with spring wildflowers and crisp, clear autumn days the pick of the year.
The region's most famous route is the steep climb from Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty Summit, but there's a walk for every level of fitness. Morialta Conservation Park strings three waterfalls together beneath dramatic gorge cliffs, while the Mount Lofty Botanic Garden and gentle nature walks around Aldgate suit families and easy mornings.
Many trails reward walkers with koalas in the gums, echidnas on the path and big views over the ranges. Carry water, wear sturdy shoes, and check for fire-ban days through the warmer months before you set out.
Browse walking & hiking by area
4 places
Carrick Hill
$A 1930s English-style estate and garden on the Adelaide-side foothills, with sculpture trails and grand interiors.
Cleland Conservation Park – Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty
The Hills' most famous walk: a steep, waterfall-flanked climb from Waterfall Gully up to the Mount Lofty Summit.
Cleland Gully Lookout
Quiet ridge lookout below Mount Lofty
A quiet lookout on the ridge below Mount Lofty near Crafers, with views over the Piccadilly Valley and an easy stop on a scenic drive through the high central hills.
Mt Lofty Adventure Hub – Cleland Trails
A web of bushwalking trails through stringybark forest and gullies linking Mount Lofty, Waterfall Gully and the wildlife park.