There's an entire wilderness world to discover, just to the east of Adelaide.
At 727m, Mt. Lofty is the highest peak in the Southern Lofty Ranges. Historic Waterfall Gully, just 15 minutes drive from Adelaide, marks the picturesque starting point for the popular summit climb. Other trails also begin here, which can mean a full car park in good weather. An adjacent restaurant adds to traffic, but there is additional parking along Waterfall Gully Road.
From the carpark, start your walk on the lower track to view First Falls, a thundering 18m cascade which often flows all year. At the base, take the left track to meet the upper trail and begin your walk in earnest. The track rises steeply along the waterfall’s crest, before levelling out to follow First Creek. Ten minutes in, a short detour to your left offers tranquil views of Second Falls. Twenty minutes in, a signpost marks 2.9km to the summit. Take a quick rest on one of the stone benches scattered conveniently along the trail, and savour the view across the gully.
At crossroads indicating the walk's 1km mark, the summit track continues straight, followed by a short downhill section through a fern-filled leafy gully before rising again. About 1.5km into your walk, the edge of Wilsons Bog hugs the track on your left. An information sign describes the flora and fauna which rely on the bog, including endangered southern bandicoots.
After crossing a small bridge, the track forks; Cleland Wildlife Park is to the left. Continue right for the summit, which is another 1.5km. Passing through shady stringy bark forest, rocky outcrops rise sharply from the creek bank as the trail climbs once more.
After crossing a small waterfall, dry when I visited, the track begins its final ascent. As the track snakes steeply away from the gully below, turn around for breathtaking panoramic views of Adelaide – a good excuse for a breather. Just prior to intersecting the Heysen Trail, a sign imparts the welcome news that the summit is only 800m ahead. The track here was closed for an upgrade when I visited, and the detour was steep and just dirt. The upgrade should be finished by spring.
The youth hostel rests 400m from the summit, then walkers cross Mt Lofty Scenic Drive and move through a last steep wooded area. The Mt Lofty summit is one of 700 nominated as Sri Chinmoy Peace sites, dedicated to fostering an international spirit of peace and oneness. There is also a small restaurant, gift shop and an obelisk dating to 1885.
On your return, enjoy a more relaxed view of the city and perhaps a picnic at Waterfall Gully to celebrate your successful summit. Most of the track is well-maintained bitumen or gravel. The lack of steps, in my opinion, makes it a somewhat easier ascent than other summits with many rocky steps. With its convenient location and epic views, the Mt. Lofty summit is a must-do on a trip to the South Australian capital. For more info click here.
Words_Jo Isaac