There are so many ways to be active and places to explore in South Australia. Whether you're stepping out into your neighborhood or exploring a National Park, every walk brings an opportunity to connect with your community, spend quality time with friends and family, enjoy nature and boost your physical activity. Here is a collection of ideas, events and resources to help you find ways to be active in South Australia. Learn more about the delivery of the 10,000 Steps Program in South Australia, funded by Preventive Health SA.
To access specific South Australian Resources, register as a Coordinator.
Image: SA Tourism Commission, Headings Cliffs Lookout, Riverland.
Walking SA
Walking SA provides a variety of resources for walking enthusiasts across South Australia. Their Find a Place to Walk feature allows you to explore over 800 trails, ranging from short neighborhood walks to longer bushwalks and hikes in national parks. This directory makes it easy to find a trail suited to your interests, whether it's a leisurely walk, a multi-day hike, or something in between.
Walking SA identifies accessible walks for prams and wheelchairs, best summit hikes, multi-day hikes, and dog-friendly walks. You can also find trails based on themes like wildlife spotting, wildflower viewing, and popular routes like the Heysen Trail. Walking SA also encourages the submission of members own trail experiences and supports their vision of more people walking more often, with options to donate to the organisation to support their efforts.
National Parks and Wildlife Service South Australia
National Parks and Wildlife Service South Australia's Your Guide to Bushwalking in Parks offers a variety of resources and guidance for anyone looking to explore the region's national parks, including detailed information on trails suitable for all fitness levels, including accessible walks for people with limited mobility. You can find downloadable trail maps and use the free Avenza PDF Map.
The Australian Walking Track Grading System to help visitors choose trails that match their experience and fitness level. For safety, it covers essential tips for planning, packing, and preparing for walks, especially for remote or longer hikes. Remember to stick to the designated trails and take all rubbish home to protect the natural environment.
The Adelaide 100
The Adelaide100® is a 100 km trail encircling Adelaide, designed for walking enthusiasts to explore diverse landscapes, from urban parks to coastal views and the scenic Adelaide Hills. You can complete it in sections, starting or ending wherever suits you best. The trail offers various terrains, including easy paths in suburban Adelaide and more rugged ascents and descents in the foothills and national parks.
Along the way, you'll find plenty of amenities such as cafes, toilets, and accommodation options, especially in urban areas. Maps and GPX files are available to help plan your walk, and you can even track your location using the Avenza app. For some sections, public transport is accessible, making it easy to navigate the trail. The trail is designed to be flexible, allowing you to walk in either direction and explore at your own pace.
Parkrun
Parkrun is an community initiative that offers free weekly 5km running and walking events in South Australia, open to everyone. Whether you're looking to jog, walk, or simply enjoy a casual stroll, there’s a Parkrun near you. These events take place every Saturday at various locations across the state, including popular spots like West Beach, Mawson Lakes, and Clare. The atmosphere is friendly, there's no time limit, and everyone is welcome, including furry friends on a leash.
Each event has dedicated volunteers, known as "tail walkers," who ensure that no one finishes last, creating a supportive environment for all participants. You just need to register for free on their website, print your barcode, and arrive a little early for the pre-event briefing. After you complete the 5km, your efforts are celebrated with an email detailing your time and participation stats. With over 40 events in South Australia, you can explore a variety of beautiful locations while getting active.
Nature Festival
The Nature Festival in South Australia is an annual celebration of the outdoors, focusing on the connection between people and nature. Held from late September to mid-October, it offers a wide variety of events, such as guided walks, garden tours, creative workshops, and community activities. These events are designed to inspire appreciation for the natural world and encourage sustainable living. Participants can engage in art, conservation, and cultural activities that highlight the beauty and diversity of South Australia’s natural landscapes.
60 Best Dog Walks in Adelaide
The Sixty Best Dog Walks in Adelaide guide on Walking SA highlights a range of dog-friendly walking trails across South Australia. It includes walks in national parks, forests, riverside pathways, and coastal trails. The list is designed to help you and your dog enjoy outdoor adventures together, while also boosting your own physical activity. Whether you're looking for an urban stroll, a scenic bushwalk, or a coastal route, this guide has plenty of options for various fitness levels and preferences.
Preventive Health SA
Exercise Right
