South Australian walks
With so many trails to explore, walking in South Australia (SA) is one of the best ways to recharge mentally.
You can also experience the states diverse native wildlife, birdlife and flora. So get outside and fall in love with South Australian walking trails.
Where to walk
Many of South Australia’s trails are in nearby National Parks close to Adelaide’s CBD.
Others are throughout regional SA and provide diverse walking experiences. Regions from Flinders Ranges in the northern outback. Through to the Limestone Coast in the south for instance.
Types of trails
If you want a comfortable day walk, or the challenge of a multi-day trek, South Australia can provide.
It has easy to walk urban and coastal strolls within metropolitan Adelaide. These are a perfect introduction for beginners.
Then there are the longer hiking trails. Such as the 1200km Heysen Trail for experienced trekkers.
Walking in South Australia with Big Heart Adventures
We specialise in wellness walks, self-guiding treks and guided hiking tours. These will get you out and walking in SA.
We also design our tours to provide you the best South Australian walking experience. We mix in trails from areas known only by locals for example.
Also, our group sizes are small which means our relaxed walks look after the environment.
If you have always wanted to bushwalk but lack the confidence to go it alone, then join us. Our walking leaders and guides care about your safety. All carry a group first-aid kit, emergency communications device, emergency documentation and equipment.
Or if you are looking to challenge yourself we provide the means to reach your walking goals.
More than just a trek…
See how we do hiking and walking tours differently.
Big Heart Adventures acknowledge the Traditional Owners of Country and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.
South Australian Walking Destinations
Photos courtesy of South Australian Tourism Commission
What to expect
Heysen Trail… the iconic South Australian walking trail
The full Heysen trail is a long distance hiking route covering 1200km. It starts in Cape Jervis on the Fleurieu Peninsula. Then extends north to Parachilna Gorge in the Flinders Ranges. It passes through Ngarrindjeri, Kaurna, Peramangk, Ngadjuri, Nukunu, Banggarla and Adnamathyna Country.
We offer opportunities to complete this trail over 2 years. Walking in small groups, each trail section is fully supported. Sections vary from day walks, multi-day hikes, and large sections experienced over 1 week.
Adelaide Region (Kaurna/Peramangk)
Surrounding Adelaide are many wonderful National Parks, Conservation Parks, and Forest Reserves. Each destination offers varying terrain and unique experiences.
The trails we choose include many that only the local residents know of, so they are quiet. Allowing time to connect with nature and spot wildlife.
During the the cooler months we hike on bush trails, and in summer we head to urban and coastal areas.
Flinders Ranges (Nukunu/Banggarla/Adnamathyna)
The gorgeous Flinders Ranges is one of Australia best walking destinations. In the north you have Vulkathunha-Gammon Ranges National Park. And the Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park. These northern reaches are home to Wilpena Pound.
In the south you have many Conversation Parks to explore. Plus the Mount Remarkable National Park. These parks showcase many rocky gorges. We choose to walk on a variety of trails in both the north and south Flinders Ranges. Some of these are less travelled but spectacular landscapes.
Kangaroo Island (Karta Pintingga)
Kangaroo Island is Australia’s Galapagos Island. This is due to its symphony of wildlife and stunning natural features.
You will find them along the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail. The trail starts in Flinders Chase National Park. Where there are many other walking opportunities. Famous natural landmarks such as Admiral’s Arch and Remarkable Rocks are an easy walk away.
Clare Valley (Ngadjuri)
Walk amongst world famous vine yards. Or follow bush trails through nearby Conservation Parks. Both offering amazing views of this picturesque region.
Our walking packages showcase the best trails in the region. Plus provide opportunities to sample the local produce along the way.
Yorke Peninsula (Narungga)
Some of the nations best coastal walking is in South Australia’s Yorke Peninsula. Especially the Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park.
This southern region is home to many highlights. Rugged coastlines, quiet sandy beaches, local wildlife, culture and history.
The peninsula also has the Walk The Yorke trail. This is a 500km trail that links all the coastal towns.
We have been visiting this region for many years. As such we offer a variety of walking options on the Yorke Peninsula.
Limestone Coast/South East (Boandik/Gariwerd)
Coastal walks and bushland trails with sinkholes and volcanic craters. The landscape in this region is unique.
Experience trails through bushland, coastal reserves, and forestry plantations.
Also Victoria has two spectacular parks nearby. Lower Glenelg National Park and the Grampians National Park. Both are near the South Australian border. For this reason, we group our adventures to these locations under this destination.
Barossa Valley (Ngadjuri)
The Barossa Valley is best known for its wine.
Yet there are many bush trails perfect for walking that are near by. One such trail is the Heysen Trail, which passes through on its way to the Flinders Ranges.
Walking this section of the Heysen Trail forms one of our packages for example. This and our other packages showcase the best walking. Plus opportunities to sample local produce along the way.
Fleurieu Peninsula (Kaurna/Ngarrindjeri)
The rugged beauty of the Deep Creek Conservation Park. A highlight when walking in this region.
This park provides spectacular scenery. Including views of Backstairs Passage, Kangaroo Island and the Deep Creek Valley.
Also, the coastal section of the famous Heysen Trail passes through this region.
Riverland (Erawirung/Ngarrindjeri)
The mighty Murray River winds it way through South Australia.
Creating wonderful walking experiences through the Riverland district.
Quiet riverbank hiking trails with picturesque views.
Want to become a regular walker and save money? Grab a Wise Women Walking Membership.
See how we do hiking and walking tours differently.
Learn more about us and our wellness walks.
Part proceeds help our major charity MOSH