Waterfall Gully to Mt Lofty

The Start Waterfall Gully

Tourism Blurb: Waterfall Gully is an eastern suburb of the South Australian capital city of Adelaide. It is located in the foothills of the Mount Lofty Ranges around 5 km (3.1 mi) east-south-east of the Adelaide city centre. Waterfall Gully is home to the largest of seven waterfalls that exist in the park

It is a challenge to complete, but there are many reasons why the hike from Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty Summit is so popular.  From families with babies in carriers to elite athletes trying to beat their best time, this hike appeals to all ages and fitness levels. It is the state’s most popular hiking trail and attracts around 600,000 people each year.  The scenery is stunning as you walk through a natural bushland setting surrounded by a diverse range of birdlife, wildlife, creeks and waterfalls.

The return hike will take on average approximately 2.5 – 3 hours, according to Walking SA and is rated as a ‘hard hike’.  Experienced hikers and runners aim to take 30 to 55 minutes on the way up and 25 to 35 minutes down. It is a 7.8km round trip in total

My assessment: Situated approximately 30 mins from where I live, this is the track that I know is going to hurt every time and you will notice in my Training Summary I don’t do it a lot. Even though it is mainly a manicured 8 ft sidewalk your calves are burning from the first step going up and your knees take a pounding on the way down. Because of its popularity I start between 5:30 - 06:00 (AM) to avoid the crowds and get a car park. As far as the weather goes this has it all, personally I don’t train if the temperature is greater than 32C in summer, and on this track in winter the temperature can be as low as 2C-3C degrees, rain and low cloud with visibility at 2-3 ft.