The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Mark Oliphant Conservation Park
4.6
(126)
1,538
hikers
63
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Mark Oliphant Conservation Park traverse varied terrain within the Adelaide Hills, characterized by stringybark forests and scattered patches of pink, manna, and blue gum trees. The park features medium to steep sloping hillsides, rounded ridge-tops, and narrow valley floors. During wetter winter months, an ephemeral waterfall can be observed. This landscape offers diverse natural features for exploration.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Mark Oliphant Conservation Park
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Echo Tunnel – Belair National Park loop from Belair National Park, a 5.4 miles (8.7 km) trail that takes 2 hours 32 minutes to complete. This moderate route features varied forest environments and some elevation gain.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Echo Tunnel loop from Belair National Park, a moderate 5.4 miles (8.7 km) path. This trail offers similar forest scenery and takes approximately 2 hours 34 minutes.
- Local hikers also love the Belair National Park loop from Belair National Park, an 8.0 miles (12.8 km) trail leading through diverse forest landscapes, often completed in about 3 hours 40 minutes.
- Hiking in Mark Oliphant Conservation Park is defined by stringybark forests, varied hillsides, and valley floors. The network offers options for different ability levels, including moderate routes suitable for families.
- The routes in Mark Oliphant Conservation Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 200 reviews. More than 2,500 hikers have used komoot to explore Mark Oliphant Conservation Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
11
hikers
25.8km
07:28
630m
630m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.0
(1)
17
hikers
12.9km
03:41
310m
310m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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8
hikers
13.0km
04:00
460m
460m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
1
hikers
8.82km
02:35
210m
210m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
3
hikers
4.01km
01:07
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Belair National Park is South Australia’s oldest national park and covers more than 800 hectares of native bushland in the Adelaide Hills. There is a network of walking tracks that wind through open woodland, grassy valleys, and historic sites, and the area is home to plenty of wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, emus, and abundant birdlife. Just 20 minutes from Adelaide, it’s a popular destination for bushwalking, picnicking, and enjoying nature close to the city.
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Brownhill Creek Recreation Park protects a narrow valley in the Adelaide foothills, with creekside walking trails, rocky slopes, old quarry sites, and towering River Red Gums throughout the reserve. The park has been used for recreation for more than a century, with shaded picnic areas, wildlife, and historic features like the huge hollow “Monarch of the Glen” gum tree.
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Brownhill Creek Road follows the heart of the valley through towering River Red Gums, historic picnic grounds, and some of the oldest recreation areas in the Adelaide foothills. Along the road you’ll pass the huge hollow “Monarch of the Glen” gum tree, old quarry sites, and sections of creek that were once dammed for public swimming in the late 1800s. The road stays close to the creek for much of the valley, with walking trails, wildlife, and shaded picnic spots scattered throughout the reserve.
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The Yurrebilla Trail is a long-distance walking route through the Adelaide Hills, stretching about 54 kilometres from Belair National Park to the River Torrens through the Mount Lofty Ranges. The trail links several conservation parks including Brownhill Creek, Cleland, Morialta, Black Hill, and Horsnell Gully, passing waterfalls, ridgelines, forest, rocky gullies, and wide views across Adelaide along the way. The name “Yurrebilla” comes from a Kaurna word connected to Mount Lofty and Mount Bonython, often interpreted as “two ears.”
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Measday's Lookout is a viewpoint right from the Cleveland National Park parking area on Mount Baker Road. This view stretches over the city and even to the coastline when it's clear.
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Mount Lofty is the highest point in the Mount Lofty Ranges and offers sweeping panoramic views across the city of Adelaide and the coastline of Gulf St Vincent. The summit features a well-known lookout, visitor facilities, and access to walking trails that pass through native bushland in the surrounding hills. Its elevated vantage point makes it one of the most popular viewpoints in the Adelaide Hills and a highlight of many nearby hiking routes.
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Upper Waterfall is a seasonal cascade that typically flows after significant rainfall, spilling over rocky ledges surrounded by stringybark forest and native undergrowth. There is plenty of shade here, making this a great spot for a scenic break, especially after rain when the water is running.
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Lower Fall - Water will flow only at rainy Days. but it ist pretty nice without Water.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there in Mark Oliphant Conservation Park?
Mark Oliphant Conservation Park offers a wide variety of trails suitable for families. Our guide features over 30 easy and moderate routes that are perfect for exploring with children, ensuring there's something for every family's pace and interest.
Are there any easy loop walks suitable for families in the park?
Yes, the park has several excellent loop options. For a gentle introduction, consider the Skink Trail loop, a 3km path with some steep sections that showcases the grand stringybark gums. Another great choice is the Bandicoot Trail loop, a 4.5km route that meanders through various environments of the park.
What kind of natural features can we expect to see on family hikes?
Families can enjoy diverse landscapes, including significant stringybark forests and rare stands of majestic Candlebark gums. During wetter months, an ephemeral waterfall can be a highlight. The park also boasts a rich understorey with flowering shrubs, especially vibrant in spring. Keep an eye out for various bird species like superb fairy-wrens and scarlet robins.
Is there a trail suitable for strollers or those with limited mobility?
Yes, the Candlebark Trail is a short (250m), flat, and smooth path designed to be accessible. It leads to a shelter and picnic area nestled among the impressive Candlebark gums, making it ideal for families with strollers or those seeking an easier walk.
When is the best time of year to visit Mark Oliphant Conservation Park with family?
Spring is particularly beautiful, with flowering shrubs and vibrant understorey plants. The wetter winter and early spring months are also great if you wish to see the ephemeral waterfall in flow. Always check weather conditions before heading out.
Are there any trails that feature waterfalls?
Yes, the Waterfall Trail is a 1.6km hike that follows a gully up to a series of rockfaces. This waterfall is ephemeral, meaning it typically flows during the wetter winter and early spring months, offering a lovely sight for families.
What do other hikers say about family-friendly trails in Mark Oliphant Conservation Park?
The trails in Mark Oliphant Conservation Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet woodlands, well-marked paths, and the opportunity for wildlife spotting, making it a popular choice for family outings.
Is there parking available for families visiting the park?
Yes, Mark Oliphant Conservation Park provides designated parking areas. It's always a good idea to arrive early, especially on weekends or public holidays, to secure a spot close to your chosen trailhead.
Can we combine different trails for a longer family adventure?
Absolutely! The Mark Oliphant Conservation Circuit is a 4km loop that cleverly combines sections of other trails, offering a comprehensive exploration of the park in about 1.5 hours. This is a great way to experience more of the park's varied environments in one go.
Are there any cafes or amenities nearby for after our hike?
While the park itself focuses on natural experiences, the Adelaide Hills region is known for its charming towns and villages. You can find cafes and other amenities in nearby areas, perfect for a post-hike treat. For more information on local attractions and services, you might find the Visit Adelaide Hills website helpful.
What kind of wildlife might we spot on the trails?
The park is a haven for wildlife. While the nationally endangered Southern Brown Bandicoot and Yellow-footed Antechinus are rarely seen, birdwatchers can delight in spotting numerous species, including superb fairy-wrens, scarlet robins, golden whistlers, and Adelaide rosellas. Keep an eye out for various honeyeaters too!
Are there any longer, moderate family hikes available?
For families looking for a bit more of a challenge, the Echo Tunnel – Belair National Park loop from Belair National Park offers an 8.7km route with moderate difficulty, providing a rewarding experience through varied terrain.
Most popular routes in Mark Oliphant Conservation Park
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