hike adelaide's most popular trail, mount lofty

Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty Summit Hike


Challenge yourself on Adelaide’s favourite hike! This tough, yet rewarding guided hike takes you from the serenity of Waterfall Gully and along the trails of Cleland Conservation Park to the summit at Mount Lofty. At 710m witness stunning panoramic views over-looking the Adelaide plains and Gulf St Vincent.

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    Start the day fresh, active and inspired! In an area abundant with native wildlife you will hike past waterfalls, along streams and follow the gully ridges. Immerse yourself in the natural environment and be sure to soak up the negative ions as you pass by the waterfalls and flowing streams to feel even more invigorated.

  • Return transport direct to the trail head provides hassle free and easy access to this popular trail. Upon arrival at the trail head be greeted by your tour guide and get ready to start the hike to the Summit. Your guide will provide you with a short introduction and orientation before leading you on the hike.

  • At the summit there will be time to admire the stunning views across Adelaide and beyond. Then treat yourself to an energising coffee and snack at the Summit Café (at own expense) before taking the return route back to the trailhead.

Availability - Monday and Friday or on request for private groups. Departs Adelaide 8.00am and returns 12.30pm.

Price - from AUD $124 per person. Includes return transport to the trailhead, trail orientation and National Park license fees.

Tour Availability


tour group at waterfall gully
  • Breathe the fresh morning air at Waterfall Gully

    A short scenic drive from the City takes you direct to the trailhead of Adelaide’s most popular hike. Arriving around 8.30am, be amazed by your first sight of the spectacular First Falls sparkling in the morning sunshine. Setting off at your own pace and depending upon your interest stops along the way, expect to take between 1 to 2 hours to arrive at the Summit.

morning hike along trail in adelaide hills
  • Appreciate the serenity of nature with a morning hike

    Fully immerse yourself in the environment and sense the wilderness while listening to the sounds of the native birdlife. Detect the distinctive scents of the eucalyptus trees as the 3.9km trail climbs past waterfalls, along streams and gully ridges. Keep a keen eye out for sleepy koalas high in the gum trees, small lizards or even a kangaroo grazing in the bush!

“The waterfall gully to mount lofty hike was a marvellous experience that I had!”kellytse41087 (Trip Advisor)
landscape view from mount lofty summit
  • Be rewarded with mind-blowing views

    Sense the feeling of height as you reach the summit and be rewarded with breathtaking views over Adelaide and beyond. See the city buildings, parklands and iconic Adelaide Oval, look out across the plains to the Airport, the coastal town of Glenelg and the far reaches of Port Adelaide. On a clear day, you may even sight Kangaroo Island!

mount lofty summit cafe
  • Re-energise at the Summit Café

    The Café is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a morning coffee or brunch (own expense) while admiring the views. Be sure to take some time to learn some interesting facts and history about the Summit before following your guide back down to Waterfall Gully. The return hike should take around 1 hour.

  • Tip: Toilets and water are available at both Waterfall Gully trailhead and Mount Lofty Summit.

Important Information


Please dress appropriately for the weather. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, hat and sunglasses and bring a small lightweight backpack for personal items. And don’t forget your camera!

This hike involves steep inclines and some uneven surfaces and a good level of fitness and mobility is required. The total distance walked is approximately 7.8 km. This tour is not recommended for young children.

Departure | 8.00am from 111 Franklin Street Adelaide (The Joinery - directly across from the Adelaide Central Bus Station) - click here for Google Map. Please arrive 10 minutes early to allow time for check in.

Alternate Pickup Locations - selected City accommodation pickup available upon request for groups only. Note that accommodation pickup is scheduled between 7.40am - 7.50am, please be ready a few minutes prior to this. Should this time change, you will be notified the day before your tour.

Return | You will arrive back at the pureSA office or your accommodation at approximately 12.30pm

want to add a little more to your day ......


Combine this tour with the Cleland Wildlife Park Experience on our Cleland Hike and Wildlife