20 minutes from the Adelaide CBD: Discover the Magic of Morialta Falls Bushwalks

What to do in Adelaide
Apr 27
3 min read

*Picture: The view from Deep View Lookout point on the Third Falls hike.*

Forget the hustle and bustle for a moment, fellow adventurers! Imagine this: the crisp crunch of leaves underfoot, the soft sounds of waterfalls, air alive with the unique melodies of caroling magpies, and the sudden, startling grunt of a koala nestled high in a gum tree. Sound like a world away? Believe it or not, this incredible immersion in nature is just a stone's throw – a mere 20 minutes – from the heart of Adelaide's CBD. And it's free!

If you're in Adelaide and yearning for a day trip that's as Aussie as a backyard BBQ, look no further than bushwalking. It's practically ingrained in our national identity! So, ditch the bar for the bush and let's head to Morialta Falls Conservation Park for a bushwalking experience right on Adelaide's doorstep.

*Picture: A native Kangaroo Tail on the Third Falls hiking trail.*

Your Gateway to Nature: Getting to Morialta Falls

Morialta Conservation Park is conveniently located just 10 kilometers east of the Adelaide CBD, nestled at the foot of the Adelaide Hills. Getting there is a breeze:

By Car/Taxi: A quick 20-minute drive will have you at the park entrance, ready to explore.
By Bus: Public transport is also an option, taking a little longer but offering a scenic route. Check the Adelaide Metro website for the best bus routes from your location.

The conservation park boasts three stunning waterfalls, with the first two being particularly beautiful and easily accessible on foot.

Trails for Every Explorer: What to Expect

Morialta offers a network of walking trails to suit all fitness levels and time constraints:

First Falls (Easy Stroll): For a quick and rewarding experience, take the 15-minute stroll with the kids to the main attraction: First Falls. The anticipation builds with the increasing sound of the cascading water.
Longer Treks: For the more adventurous, the park offers longer trails that wind through the bushland, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty.

*Picture: The magnificent views towards Adelaide makes the city feel a world away.*

The Jewel in the Crown: Witnessing First Falls

As you approach First Falls, prepare for a picture-postcard scene. A steady stream of water gracefully cascades down 30 meters of sheer quartzite cliffs, plunging into a tranquil rock pool before continuing its journey through the surrounding foliage. It truly feels like an oasis tucked away in the hills.

Beyond the Water: Encounters with Wildlife

Standing beneath the majestic waterfall is just one part of the Morialta experience. The park is teeming with indigenous flora and fauna, and one of its most famous residents is the adorable koala. Keep your eyes peeled – spotting a koala nestled in a gum tree becomes an exciting part of the adventure, like a natural Easter egg hunt! You might also be lucky enough to see carolling magpies, jumping kangaroos and vibrant green parrots guiding your way, just as they did for us.

*Picture: Keep a keen look-out for koalas in their natural habitat.*

A Local Secret Waiting to be Discovered

It's hard to believe that such a wonderfully wild and organic nature experience exists so close to the city. Morialta Conservation Park truly is a well-kept secret, even among some locals. So, if you're looking to ditch the urban buzz and reconnect with nature, lace up your walking shoes and head to Morialta Falls. You won't be disappointed by this truly Australian bushwalking adventure right on Adelaide's doorstep!

How to get there and when to visit

When to Visit:

Best Time: After good winter rains, the waterfall is at its most spectacular.
Summer Charm: Even in summer, when the water flow reduces to a trickle, the natural gorge carved by the water over time is still a sight to behold.

How to get there

Morialta Conservation park can be easily reached by public transport, taxi, or car. Enter at Morialta Falls Road on the corner of Morialta Road and Stradbroke Road in Woodforde. See map below.

Map: Enter Morialta Conservation Park at Morialta Falls Road on the corner of Morialta Road and Stradbroke Road in Woodforde.