Norton Summit to Morialta is a challenging 7.5 km hike located within Morialta Conservation Park, South Australia. Rated as a grade 4 hike, it typically takes around 3.5 hours to complete. This scenic trail includes highlights such as the historic Morialta Barns complex, as well as the park's picturesque creeks and waterfalls. The hike is part of Section 4 of the Yurrebilla Trail, a 54 km long-distance path that can be completed over 3 to 5 days. The Yurrebilla Trail is divided into one full-day section and four half-day sections, featuring a variety of pathways from narrow single-person tracks to wider fire trails.
The trail showcases many of the Adelaide Hills' top attractions, including Waterfall Gully, Mount Lofty Botanic Garden, Mount Lofty Summit, and Cleland Wildlife Park. It also passes through charming Hills towns such as Summertown, Crafers, and Norton Summit, offering connections to local wineries, pubs, and other attractions.
For more information on this hiking trail, please visit Walking SA
Grade 4 (Hard) -
Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the
AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
Total distance: 6435 m
Max elevation: 452 m
Min elevation: 250 m
Total climbing: 394 m
Total descent: -486 m
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Traveling to the trailhead at Norton Summit from Adelaide is only 14 kilometers and a 15-minute drive. Head east on Wakefield Street towards Victoria Place, continuing onto East Terrace and Wakefield Road. Navigate both roundabouts by taking the second exit each, which will keep you on Kensington Road. From here, you can either turn left onto National Highway A17 or continue on Kensington Road until reaching Penfold Road. Make consecutive right turns onto Penfold Road, The Parade, and Old Norton Summit Road/B27 to arrive at your destination.
Image: Walking SA
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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.
Escape to nature at Morialta Conservation Park, a beloved sanctuary for Adelaide residents for over a century. Explore dramatic gorges, cascading waterfalls, and lush woodlands – all within easy reach of the city.
This park offers something for every season. Witness the waterfalls at their most powerful during the winter rains, or marvel at a vibrant display of wildflowers blanketing the hillsides in spring.
Take a leisurely stroll along the First Falls walking trail and be captivated by the park's main waterfall. Pack a picnic and enjoy a memorable day at the Mukanthi Playspace, designed for imaginative play amidst nature. Keep your eyes peeled for koalas and kookaburras perched in the towering gum trees. Experienced rock climbers can challenge themselves at Morialta Rock-climbing Zone, boasting a variety of climbs with varying difficulty levels.
Morialta Conservation Park holds significance for the Kaurna people, the traditional custodians of this land. They utilized the area for hunting, gathering, and shelter during their seasonal migrations. The park's name itself, "Morialta," originates from the Kaurna word "moriatta," meaning "ever-flowing," a testament to the park's enduring water sources.
Hike along the extensive network of trails that wind through the park, each offering unique perspectives of the rugged ridges, scenic gullies, and cascading waterfalls. The views from the rock climbing zone provide a breathtaking panorama of Morialta Gorge and the sprawling Adelaide plains.
Morialta Conservation Park is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. Lace up your boots, pack your sense of adventure, and immerse yourself in the beauty of this natural wonderland.
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.
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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.
