3 of the best cycle trails in Adelaide

By John Pedler and Samuel Smith
Published: Wednesday, April 8, 2020

Just because we’re social distancing, doesn’t mean we have to skip exercise altogether.

While it’s vital we avoid social contact where possible, getting out for a bit of fresh air can do wonders for our physical and mental health.

The government currently advises all Australians to stay home where possible, but that doesn’t mean we have to cut out the essentials. As most of us know, this includes food shopping and buying medicinal supplies. It also includes physical activity.

The COVID-19 situation is constantly changing, but – providing you’re not required to self-isolate – you can still go outside to exercise at this stage.

Adelaide is full of beautiful cycling trails, meandering from the suburbs to the city and the sea.

If you’ve got a bike, now’s a great time to pump up its tyres, strap on your helmet and set off on a solitary cycle. Here are some of the best spots for a quick, cyclical escape.

There are plenty of places in Adelaide for a quick cycle. Image: SATC

Sturt River Linear Park Trail

The Sturt River Linear Park Trail stretches from the Southern Expressway, all the way through to Anzac Hwy, Novar Gardens. There’s also a short extension to Pine Ave, Novar Gardens.

A good place to start is Warriparinga, a wetland reserve behind the Marion Holiday Park, just off Sturt Rd. With its expansive lawns and hefty river red gums (one still bearing an ancient scar from its days providing utensils for the Kaurna people), it’s the perfect place to get a quick breath of fresh air, whether by bike or foot.

The Living Kaurna Cultural Centre, on the other side of the creek, is known for its walking tours and craft workshops. Though currently closed to the public, the surrounding area is worth a visit for its prolific birdlife. Cycle past, listening out for resident kookaburras who seem to find almost everything hilarious.

Cycling along the Sturt River Trail. Image: John Pedler

River Torrens Linear Park Trail

The River Torrens Linear Park is a national treasure. Cycle along the River Torrens from the Torrens Gorge Weir to the CBD or head west from the city to the river’s outflow at Henley Beach.

Hills to the city

Although the Linear Park trail passes by some of Adelaide’s busiest roads, there’s a sense that you’re not part of that world. There are few better places to feel like you’ve escaped from the city, while still close to home.

Starting in the foothills, the Linear Park Trail descends quickly before opening out into broad green parks graced with giant eucalypts, endless lawns and abundant birdlife. You might even spot a koala snoozing in Felixstow Reserve.

The scenery and vegetation changes along the way, from densely wooded areas and narrow gullies, to wide open reserves and manicured gardens. For much of the trip, you can choose to cycle along either side of the river – there are many opportunities to cross from one side to the other.

In the trail’s final stages, it squeezes past the zoo towards the beautifully kept Grundy Gardens, before arriving at Elder Park and Torrens Lake.

There's plenty of greenery surrounding Adelaide. Image: SATC

City to the sea

This section of the Linear Park trail follows the River Torrens from Elder Park through to Henley Beach, via Bonython Park, the West End Brewery gardens and the wetlands around Henley Beach Rd.

Most of the trip is over flat terrain – catering to cyclists of all abilities – and there are plenty of expansive parks along the way.

Note: For much of this route, there are trails on both sides of the river, but only the northern side has underpasses beneath all the main roads.

The River Torrens Linear Park Trail. Image: John Pedler

Little Para River Trail

When it comes to linear parks, the River Torrens trail is a cracker, but the folk in the northern suburbs have their own version. Although it may not be as well-known as its downtown neighbour, the Little Para River Trail is a great place for a cycle or stroll.

Starting just east of Main North Rd, it winds its way through the City of Salisbury, en route to Whites Rd Wetland on the western side of Port Wakefield Rd. It then continues on to Globe Derby Drive, linking up with the Dry Creek Trail.

For cyclists seeking a leisurely ride, the best place to start is Carisbrooke Reserve, one of many great parks along the route.

For the most part, the trail is a dedicated shared use pathway and you’ll only need to hit the streets briefly.

These are all shared use trails, so slow down for pedestrians and give them a friendly tinkle on your bell before you overtake.

Little Para River Trail. Image: John Pedler

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