Can you take on the 10 best bike trails in Adelaide Hills?
Cycling is a fantastic way to boost your fitness, build strength, and improve endurance. It’s also low-impact, making it much gentler on your joints compared to running.
Now, what if you could combine a great workout with breathtaking scenery? Adelaide is home to some stunning bike trails that let you enjoy picturesque views while you ride.
If you’re here, you’re probably on the hunt for the best cycling spots. Lucky for you, I’m a keen cyclist and have explored some of the best bike trails in Adelaide Hills. Let me share my favourites with you!
Fox Creek Bike Park
Media From: deadsailorssociety
Address: The Guts Trail, Cudlee Creek
Operating Hours: Dusk to dawn
Distance:
- Open Trails – 50 km
- Fire Tracks – 75 km
Website: https://foxcreekbikepark.com.au/
For a great day out on the trails, head to Fox Creek Bike Park. Just a short drive from Adelaide, it offers 125 kilometres of tracks, including open and fire trails, to suit all skill levels. The park spans 800 hectares and is equipped with toilets, showers, and bike hire, making it easy to plan your visit.
Riders can choose from a variety of trail styles, such as cross-country, gravity, and flow tracks. Along the way, you’ll pass through stunning forests and rolling hills. There’s also a jumps park and a skills area, as well as adaptive mountain bike trails for everyone to enjoy.
I checked out the park last weekend with some mates and loved the mix of challenging trails and beautiful scenery. The Fox Fast Trail was a highlight, with its steep descents and rocky sections leading to fantastic views of Adelaide.
Tip: Visit in autumn to catch the landscape’s vibrant colours as the trees turn red, orange, and yellow.
Amy Gillett Bikeway
Media From: adelaidehillscouncil
Address: South Australia
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – Open 24 hours
Distance: 17 km
Website: https://www.ahc.sa.gov.au/discover/walking-and-recreation-trails/
For cyclists looking for a leisurely ride, the Amy Gillett Bikeway is a fantastic option. Stretching 17 kilometres from Oakbank to Mount Torrens, this sealed path offers a traffic-free cycling experience. Following the route of an old railway line, the trail is mostly flat with a few gentle inclines.
As you pedal along, you’ll pass through fertile valleys and charming small towns. Take the chance to stop at some of South Australia’s wineries, like Golden Wines and Barristers Block Wines, to taste the region’s local offerings.
I enjoy riding this trail for its peaceful vibe and well-maintained path. It’s a shared-use path, allowing me to encounter fellow cyclists, walkers, and even horse riders!
Tips:
- Visit during the Festival of the Hills in March to enjoy pop-up stalls and live entertainment along the trail.
- Explore side loops that lead to the National Motor Museum and scenic viewpoints of the stunning Adelaide Hills landscape.
Mount Barker Linear Trail
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Address: Newenham Rd, Mount Barker
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – Open 24 hours
Distance: 7 km
Website: https://www.walkingsa.org.au/
If you’re up for a bit of a challenge, give the Mount Barker Linear Trail a go. It’s a 7-kilometre track running from Laratinga Wetlands to Keith Stephenson Park, with uneven surfaces and varied terrain to keep things interesting. While it’s not the longest ride, it’s great for testing your endurance.
What makes it special is the chance to spot wildlife, from birds to reptiles, thanks to its proximity to the wetlands. Along the way, you’ll also find cultural artworks and environmental sign markers, adding a creative and educational touch to the ride.
I often head there to push my limits while soaking up the scenery. Riding through the wetlands, creek lines, and native vegetation is a delight, and it’s always so peaceful. The diverse birdlife never fails to make the trip worthwhile.
Tip: Try the Chestnut Teal, Rosella, or Sacred Ibis trails for a closer look at the wetlands and some prime birdwatching spots.
Anstey Hill Recreation Park
Media From: grantallenbikerider
Address: Perseverance Rd, Tea Tree Gully
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Distance: 25 km
Website: http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/
For stunning views of the Adelaide Plains, ridgetops, and natural landscapes, head to Anstey Hill Recreation Park for a ride. The park has about 25 kilometres of shared-use trails, with loops and paths catering to cyclists of all levels.
Check out this map to see the different loops you can take here.
To soak up the scenery, you can try the Yellow-Tailed Loop or the Silver Mine Loop. The Yellow-tailed Loop is great for exploring the park’s highlights, while the Silver Mine Loop takes you past historic mine shafts and old quarries, offering a glimpse into the area’s mining history.
Personally, I love tackling the Pink Gum Loop. It’s a bit of a challenge with loose rocks and steep sections, but it’s worth it for the chance to spot rare pink gum trees and native plants like the pale leek-orchid and slender greenhood.
Tip: If you’re new to cycling, start with the Little Quarry Loop. At just 0.65 kilometres, it’s mostly flat with a hard-packed gravel surface and offers a great view of the area’s exposed geological features.
Mount Lofty Summit
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Address: Mount Lofty Summit Rd, Crafers
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Distance: 12.4 km
Website: https://www.parks.sa.gov.au/parks/mount-lofty-summit
Looking to push yourself? Take on Mount Lofty Summit! The trails include steep gradients of over 16% and a continuous climb. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but the challenge is part of the appeal.
The main route is mostly sealed roads, ideal for road bikes, but watch out for loose gravel or debris after rain.
Reaching the summit rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of Adelaide’s skyline, stretching to Kangaroo Island and the Yorke Peninsula. The effort is well worth the sight at the top.
I tackled the climb last year and found it tough but rewarding. The relentless ascent and patches of gravel made it a real workout, but the view from the summit made it all worthwhile. It’s a ride I’ll never forget and probably won’t try again unless I’m truly ready.
Tip: If you’re not quite ready for the full climb, try the Steub Trail. It offers a more gradual ascent and is great for building confidence while still enjoying the scenery.
Eagle Mountain Bike Park
Media From: konabikes
Address: Crafers West
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Distance: 21 km
Website: https://www.orsr.sa.gov.au/
Eagle Mountain Bike Park is another great spot for a challenging ride. The 21-kilometre park features rocky paths, steep descents, and trails that cater to riders of all skill levels.
It offers cross-country and downhill trails with stunning views of the Adelaide Hills and city skyline. As you ride, you’ll wind through native bushland, open grasslands, and rugged rocky outcrops. For those seeking a thrill, there’s also a jumps park with features like kickers and step-up boxes to test your skills.
This is where I taught my kids to ride bikes, thanks to the skills development area. It was a great place for them to build confidence and for us to share special moments together.
Tip: Visit during sunset when the park’s landscapes are bathed in warm hues. It’s the perfect time for a ride and some amazing photo opportunities.
River Torrens Linear Park Trail
Address: Henley Beach to Athelstone
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – Open 24 hours
Distance: 35 km
Website: https://www.walkingsa.org.au/
If you’re after a long and scenic ride, the River Torrens Linear Park Trail is a great choice. Stretching 35 kilometres from Gorge Road to Henley Beach, it’s perfect for those who love exploring at their own pace. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of picturesque views and landmarks to enjoy.
The trail is lined with river red gums and reed beds and takes you past iconic spots like the Adelaide Zoo, Botanic Gardens, Festival Theatre, and Elder Park. Running alongside the River Torrens, the path offers a mix of river views, lush greenery, and peaceful parks. It’s a great way to soak in the natural and urban beauty of Adelaide.
I first tried this trail during a bike race last summer. Most of it was smooth riding on paved paths, but heading towards the hills brought some twists and gravel sections that added a bit of challenge.
Tip: Spring and autumn are the best times to ride, with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds making for a more enjoyable journey.
Shepherds Hill Recreation Park
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Address: Ayliffes Rd, St Marys
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – Open 24 Hours
Distance: 10 km
Website: https://www.parks.sa.gov.au/parks/shepherds-hill-recreation-park
Ride through a stunning natural setting at Shepherds Hill Recreation Park. Covering 77 hectares, this park’s trails take you through grey box eucalypt woodlands, river red gum-lined creeks, and scenic viewpoints overlooking the Adelaide Plains and coastline.
The park has a mix of shared-use trails, mountain bike tracks, and BMX jump areas. The well-maintained paths range from dirt tracks to gravel trails, offering a variety of terrain to suit different riders. There’s plenty to explore, with routes catering to all skill levels.
I recently tested out my new Cannondale hybrid on the Diagonal Ascent, a 700-metre, one-way track leading to an elevated lookout. The mix of dirt, gravel, and rocky sections gave my bike a proper workout, but the views over the plains and coastline made it all worth it.
Tip: For an easier ride, try the River Red Gum Loop. It’s best ridden clockwise, with gentle terrain that’s perfect for spotting wildlife and soaking up the natural surroundings.
Lobethal Bushland Park
Media From: visitadelaidehills
Address: 25 Gumeracha Lobeth Rd, Lobethal
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Distance: 10 km
Website: https://www.ahc.sa.gov.au/discover/parks-recreation/bushland-park
Soak up nature while cycling through the diverse trails at Lobethal Bushland Park. Covering just 10 kilometres, this park offers a peaceful setting, rich biodiversity, and plenty of chances to spot wildlife. With picnic areas and playgrounds, it’s also a great spot for a family day out.
There are three main bike trails: the Purple Trail Loop, the Blue & Red Trail Loop, and the Purple, Brown & Red Orange Tracks Loop. These routes take you past reservoirs, rolling hills, and panoramic views of the Lobethal area and Mount Lofty.
Riding through the dense stringybark forest adds to the experience, offering a shaded and tranquil path for nature lovers.
This is my go-to spot for cycling in summer. I love weaving through the forest, where I often spot kangaroos, birdlife, and other native wildlife. The mix of gentle slopes and uneven terrain adds just enough challenge, with stunning views making it all worthwhile.
Tip: The park’s two large reservoirs create beautiful water reflections, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. It’s the perfect time for a peaceful ride and some great photo opportunities.
Aston Hills Mountain Bike Park
Media From: mbukmagazine
Address: 19 Seymour Dr, Mount Barker
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 5 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Distance: 5 km
Website: https://astonhills.com.au/
Aston Hills Mountain Bike Park is a great spot for riders of all levels, with well-designed trails that make it both fun and challenging. The mix of a flow trail, pump track, and skills area creates a versatile space for mountain biking. As you ride, you’ll pass heritage trees, native bushland, and stunning views of the surrounding hills.
The park has three main trails: a flow trail, an easy climb trail, and a lower path trail. The flow trail is perfect for repeat runs, making it a favourite for both beginners and experienced riders. The skills park is also a great place to fine-tune your technique in a controlled environment.
I always enjoy the easy climb trail. It’s a one-way ascent, but the gradient is gentle, making for a smooth ride to the top. While there’s no major challenge at the summit, the view over the Adelaide Hills makes it worth it.
Tip: Take extra care on the lower path trail. It’s steeper, and since it’s a two-way route, you might encounter other riders coming in the opposite direction.
