Follow winding hiking trails through the Australian countryside at your own pace on this self-guided Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty hike from Adelaide. Hike the 2,5-mile (3,9 km) trail at your leisure, passing waterfalls and shimmering streams. Along the way, take in the stunning countryside Australia is famous for and try to spot sleeping koalas in the treetops. Once at the top of Mount Lofty, enjoy the well-deserved views beyond the rugged terrain towards the coast of Glenelg and Port Adelaide.
This hike is of difficult level; it includes steep sections and uneven serves, so a good level of fitness and mobility is required. The total return route on foot is 7,8 km.
After an early morning pickup from your Adelaide hotel, leave the city on a scenic drive towards Waterfall Gully, the starting point of Adelaide's most popular hike. Upon arrival, watch the spectacular First Falls shimmer in the morning sun, then set off on the trail at your own pace.
As you hike, follow the 2,5-mile (3,9 km) trail, which passes leaping waterfalls and meandering streams, and admire panoramic views from the high ridges of the ravine. Stop along the way to take in the beautiful scenery and fully immerse yourself in the natural surroundings.
Listen to native birds chirp in the trees and enjoy the air filled with the scent of eucalyptus trees. As you explore, keep an eye out for koalas sleeping in the eucalyptus trees and kangaroos grazing in the bush.
At the top of Mount Lofty, admire the panoramic views of the city, its buildings, its green spaces and its emblematic Adelaide Oval below. Don't forget to look across the plains to the coastal town of Glenelg and the outer reaches of Port Adelaide. On a clear day, you can even see Kangaroo Island!
Relax and enjoy coffee or brunch at The Summit Café (own expense). Then, descend back to Waterfall Gully and return to your Adelaide hotel to conclude your tour.
