There’s NO better way to exercise than yapping away with your girlfriends on a hot girl walk. I mean — it doesn’t even feel like exercise!
And as for being out in nature, it’s pure magic for your soul. It can boost your immune system, lower your blood pressure, and lift your mood — all while being 100% free!
From spectacular coastal views and vineyard trails to rolling hills, enchanted forests, and that quintessential Aussie bush — we really have it all here in SA.
But with so many options at our fingertips, it can sometimes be a bit overwhelming. For example, did you know there are actually nine different ways to hike up to the popular Mount Lofty summit? Neither did we! You can explore all nine of them here. And between us, not all of them are quite as steep as the main one (wink!).
To help you turn the hot-girl thoughts into actual walks, we’ve rounded up some of the best nature walks in Adelaide. Whether you’re after something close to home or planning a day trip, all you need to do is grab your besties and some walking shoes. Fill those lungs with fresh air, soak up a big warm hug from Mother Nature and get some quality girl time in the process. Go on — take a hike!
Image credit: Walking SA
CITY
Adelaide Botanic Garden
A relaxing stroll through lush greenery, blooming gardens and heritage glasshouses right in the city. Also — coffee available!
River Torrens Linear Trail
Stretching from West Beach to Athelstone, this one’s perfect for a cruisy walk or jog along the water.
Bunyip Trail – Bonython Park / Tulya Wardli
A short, family-friendly loop close to the city with pretty parkland views.
Royal Botanic Garden
NORTH
Anstey Hill Recreation Park – (Various Trails)
Try the popular Yellowtail Loop for native bush, city views and local wildlife.
Para Wirra Conservation Park – (Various Trails)
The Devil’s Nose Hike is a must for sweeping views and a good leg burn. (We warned you)!
Cobbler Creek Recreation Park (Various trails)
The Porosa Trail offers a great mix of open woodland and gentle slopes.
Para Wirra | Image credit: Walking SA
SOUTH
Sturt Gorge Recreation Park – (Various Trails)
Picturesque river trails, waterfalls and a bit of a workout rolled into one. It’s called balance.
Shepherds Hill Recreation Park – (Various Trails)
Great for shorter loops and dog-friendly walks.
Sturt River Linear Park Walk – Coromandel Valley
A tranquil creekside track perfect for an easy nature fix.
Onkaparinga River National Park – (Various Trails)
Plenty of trails with dramatic gorges, river views and kangaroo spotting.
Deep Creek National Park – (Various Trails)
Coastal cliffs, forest valleys and serious wow-factor views.
Glenthorne National Park
One of Adelaide’s newest national parks with fresh tracks and wide-open space
Cox Scrub Conservation Park – (Various Trails)
For the more adventurous, with remote bushland and winding tracks.
Sturt River Linear Park | Image credit: Walking SA
EAST
Chambers Gully / Chambers Hike – Cleland National Park
A classic leafy trail that connects to Mount Lofty.
Waite Conservation Reserve Loop – Urrbrae
A quiet, underrated gem near the city. Some gorgeous views to be enjoyed.
Beaumont Circuit – Mount Osmond Reserve
Hilly but rewarding, with epic views of the city. Hot tip: watch the sun set!
Morialta Conservation Park – (Various Trails)
Waterfalls, cliffs, and koalas — need we say more?
Black Hill Conservation Park – (Various Trails)
Great variety of trails with rewarding lookouts and wildflowers.
The Wine Shanty Hike – Cleland National Park
A scenic loop trail loved for its forest atmosphere.
Waite Conservation Reserve | Image credit: Walking SA
WEST
*(Note: The west doesn’t have as many traditional ‘hikes’, but the coastal and river trails totally count for your hot-girl cardio fix!)
Hallett Cove Boardwalk – Marino to Hallett Cove
A local icon with jaw-dropping coastal views and ancient rock formations.
Hallett Cove Boardwalk | Image credit: Walking SA
HILLS/FOOTHILLS
Belair National Park – (Various Trails)
A forever favourite with loads of loop options and picnic-perfect spots.
Brown Hill Creek Recreation Park – (Various Trails)
Tree-lined tracks and creek crossings make it perfect for a chilled hike.
One Tree Hill Hike – Mitcham
A solid incline and stunning city views at the top. Booty burn incoming!
Mount Crawford Forest Reserve – (Various Trails)
Endless pine-scented trails and picnic areas to explore.
Kuitpo Forest Reserve – (Various Trails)
Walk, run, or even bring your bike through this magical forest setting.
Lobethal Bushland Park – (Various Trails)
Peaceful bushwalks through rolling terrain.
Monarto Conservation Park – Monarto
A quieter hike spot surrounded by native scrub and open plains.
Kuitpo Forest Reserve | Image credit: Walking SA
AND BEYOND…
If this isn’t enough to keep you hiking for the next few years, check out the Walking SA website — they have over 700 trails listed, with everything you need to know. So what are you waiting for? Lace up, grab your girlfriends and hit the trails. Your body, mind and soul will thank you for it as you take on some of the best walks in Adelaide and beyond.
