Situated within Morialta Conservation Park, South Australia, the Morialta Falls Plateau Circuit is a rewarding 4.3km hike. Classified as a grade 3 trail, it is suitable for experienced walkers and can be completed in approximately 1.5 hours.
The circuit offers a challenging ascent with stunning views. Hikers will pass by Giants Cave, a fascinating natural landmark. As you progress, the trail unveils panoramic vistas of Morialta Gorge's towering cliffs, the sprawling Adelaide Plains, the city itself, and even a glimpse of the coastline. The circuit also provides scenic viewpoints of First Falls, although these are most impressive during the winter and autumn months when water flow is at its peak.
The trail is designed to be flexible. You can choose to walk it in either a clockwise or anticlockwise direction. The official starting point is the Morialta Falls Carpark. However, if parking availability is limited, you can begin at the First Falls Carpark or even the Lower Carpark on Stradbroke Road (although this option adds an additional 6.9km via the Fourth Creek Walk).
For more information on this hiking trail, please visit Walking SA
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the
AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Total distance: 4453 m
Max elevation: 358 m
Min elevation: 196 m
Total climbing: 444 m
Total descent: -444 m
Download
No Records Found
Sorry, no records were found. Please adjust your search criteria and try again.
Maps failed to load
Sorry, unable to load the Maps API.
If you're looking to explore Morialta Conservation Park and reach the Morialta Falls Carpark by car, it's a scenic 20-minute drive from Adelaide. Head northeast on Magill Road for about 10 kilometers. You'll then take a slight left onto Norton Summit Road, which becomes Glen Stuart Road. Follow Glen Stuart Road until the roundabout, where you'll take the second exit onto Morialta Road. Continue straight onto Morialta Falls Road, and turn right to find the carpark on your right.
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
Morialta Conservation Park, a beloved local escape for over 100 years, offers a stunning natural experience just 10 kilometers from Adelaide's bustling center. Immerse yourself in the park's diverse landscape: explore the cascading waterfalls along Fourth Creek, wander through scenic woodlands and rugged ridges, or marvel at the panoramic views from the rock climbing zone.
Hike along the extensive network of trails and discover the park's three magnificent waterfalls. Visit during winter or spring to witness the most spectacular displays of water cascading over sheer quartzite cliffs. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife – the park's rock pools and creeks are home to a variety of birds, frogs, and small reptiles. Look out for honeyeaters and thornbills flitting amongst the woodlands, and you might even spot a koala or kookaburra perched in the towering gum trees.
Morialta caters to all interests. Take a leisurely stroll along the First Falls Walk, perfect for families. Enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature at the Mukanthi Playspace, designed to ignite children's imaginations through natural play elements. Experienced climbers can challenge themselves at Morialta Rock-climbing Zone, renowned as the state's premier natural climbing area.
Morialta offers something special throughout the year. Witness the waterfalls at their most powerful in winter, or be captivated by the vibrant wildflowers blanketing the hills in spring. No matter the season, Morialta Conservation Park provides a refreshing escape for all who seek adventure and connection with nature.
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
Looking for things to do in Morialta Conservation Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
Favourite
Morialta Conservation Park
Favourite
Horsnell Gully Conservation Park, Giles Conservation Park
Favourite
Black Hill Conservation Park
Favourite
CleÂland NationÂal Park
Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
