The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Cudlee Creek Forest Reserve
4.6
(71)
915
hikers
6
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Cudlee Creek Forest Reserve traverse the rolling hills and diverse bushland of the Adelaide Hills, offering a variety of landscapes for outdoor exploration. The reserve features varied woodlands, including Red Gum and Blue Gum, alongside seasonal waterways that flow after rainfall. Hikers can experience steep ridges, rocky gullies, and elevated perspectives from points like Mount Misery, which stands at 560 meters. The terrain provides options ranging from gentle strolls to more challenging paths suitable for…
Last updated: July 8, 2026
12
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
10
hikers
4.52km
01:17
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
5
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(6)
75
hikers
6.31km
01:49
160m
170m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
25
hikers
6.21km
01:49
170m
170m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This park protects a large area of bushland in the Adelaide Hills, just northeast of the city. It's a great place to explore with plenty of steep ridges, rocky gullies and native woodland typical of the Mount Lofty Ranges. There are several walking and cycling tracks that pass through the reserve, connecting natural features, historic ruins and lookouts that offer beautiful views across the Adelaide Plains.
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Newman’s Nursery Ruins are the remains of a historic plant nursery established in the late 1800s by Charles Newman. Stone walls, foundations and terraced areas still mark the site where fruit trees and ornamental plants were once grown and sold to Adelaide residents. Today, the ruins sit quietly within the surrounding bushland, making it a lovely place to pause and get a peek into the early agricultural history of the area.
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This lookout is a fantastic spot for a clear view across the Adelaide Plains from within the park. From this elevated point, the landscape opens westward toward the city of Adelaide and the surrounding suburbs. On clear days, the view extends across the plains all the way to the distant coastline along Gulf St Vincent.
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This dry creek bed marks the path of a seasonal waterway that flows after rainfall through the park’s rocky gullies. For most of the year, the creek bed is dry, with scattered stones and sandy soil under surrounding eucalypts. After wet weather, water may briefly run through the gully, supporting patches of native vegetation and birdlife along the sheltered creek line.
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The orange and purple walking trails lead up to the lookout. There's a bench if you need a rest from the short uphill walk. You can sometimes spot kangaroos on your way up/down. From the lookout tower you can see Lobethal and surrounding areas.
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Native bushland park with 5 different walking trails. Gates shut at 5pm. Park also closes on days of extreme or catastrophic fire danger. Facilities: car park, facility hire, picnic area, BBQ, playground, toilets
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Not for the faint hearted. Suggest walking poles for those who struggle on uphill climbs.
1
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good walking shoes. some steep areas. has decent inclines and declines
1
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Cudlee Creek Forest Reserve?
Cudlee Creek Forest Reserve offers a selection of 7 family-friendly hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate adventures. This guide focuses on routes suitable for families looking to explore the beautiful Adelaide Hills.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Cudlee Creek Forest Reserve?
The trails in Cudlee Creek Forest Reserve feature diverse terrain, from gentle paths through rolling hills to more engaging sections with steep ridges and rocky gullies. You'll encounter varied woodlands, including Red Gum, Blue Gum, and Manna Gum, and may cross seasonal creek beds that flow after rainfall.
Are there any easy loop trails suitable for families with younger children?
Yes, there are several easy loop trails perfect for families. For instance, the Newman's Nursery Ruins – Anstey Hill Recreation Park loop is an easy 4.5 km walk that combines natural beauty with historical insights. Another great option is the Yellowtail Loop (Anstey Hill Loop), which is around 6.3 km and also rated easy.
What are some notable landmarks or points of interest to look out for on the trails?
Hikers can discover several interesting features. The Newman's Nursery Ruins offer a glimpse into the area's history with remains of a late 1800s plant nursery. You might also spot the 'Stone Hut' near Kangaroo Creek, an old ruin that was once a stop-over on an overland stock route. For panoramic views, look for elevated points that offer vistas across the Adelaide Plains to the distant coastline.
Can we spot any wildlife while hiking with our family?
Absolutely! Cudlee Creek Forest Reserve's diverse habitats support a variety of native animals and birds. Keep an eye out for kangaroos, especially in the quieter parts of the reserve, and listen for the calls of various bird species that thrive in the different forest types.
Are there any longer, more moderate family-friendly hikes available?
For families seeking a bit more of a challenge, the View of Second Falls – View of Third Falls loop is a moderate 13.75 km trail. This route offers a longer exploration of the reserve's natural beauty, including its seasonal waterways and varied bushland.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in Cudlee Creek Forest Reserve?
The trails in Cudlee Creek Forest Reserve are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.62 out of 5 stars from 51 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peaceful bushland, the well-maintained paths, and the opportunity to enjoy nature with the whole family.
What is the best time of year to visit Cudlee Creek Forest Reserve for family hikes?
The reserve is beautiful year-round, but spring (September to November) offers vibrant wildflowers and pleasant temperatures, while autumn (March to May) provides cooler weather ideal for longer walks. After rainfall, seasonal waterways become more active, adding to the scenery. Always check for fire danger season closures during summer.
Are there any trails that pass through Lobethal Bushland Park?
Yes, there are family-friendly trails that explore Lobethal Bushland Park. You can enjoy the Lobethal Bushland Park loop, which is an easy 4.5 km route, or opt for a slightly longer, also easy, Lobethal Bushland Park loop covering 5.3 km. Both offer a wonderful experience of the park's natural environment.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly trails in Cudlee Creek Forest Reserve?
While Cudlee Creek Forest Reserve is generally dog-friendly, specific rules may apply to different sections or conservation parks within the broader area. It's always best to check local signage or the park's official website for the most current regulations regarding dogs, especially concerning leash requirements and restricted areas, to ensure a pleasant and safe experience for everyone.
Are there any facilities like picnic areas or campsites available?
Within the reserve, you can find Grandad's Campsite, a walk-in site along the Heysen Trail. It offers basic facilities such as a fire pit, stone table, shelter, and rainwater tank. Camping is permitted seasonally, outside of the fire danger season. For picnic areas, you'll find various spots throughout the reserve suitable for a family lunch amidst nature.
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