A peaceful loop walk on Adelaide’s Yurrebilla Trail

It was one of those classic Adelaide days that seem tailor-made for walking—clear blue sky, not a cloud in sight, and just enough sun to take the edge off the morning chill. The sort of day that doesn’t so much suggest a bushwalk as demand it.

So, I packed a couple of snacks, filled my water bottle, and set off up Fullarton Road towards the hills. McElligott’s Carpark, at the very end of Carrick Hill Drive, was my launch point—a quiet spot where the city ends and the bush begins.

From here, the red arrow markers of the Yurrebilla Trail guide you through the foothills, offering a loop that’s both scenic and surprisingly tranquil for being so close to suburban life. It’s a gentle reminder of how lucky we are in Adelaide to have nature on our doorstep.

Following the red arrows into bushland stillness

The track leads away from the carpark and quickly drops into eucalypt woodland behind the historic Carrick Hill estate. The shift is almost immediate. One moment you’re stepping out of the car, and the next you’re under the canopy of tall gums, with birdsong filling the air and the earthy scent of dry leaf litter underfoot.

The path is clear and well-kept, winding its way through native scrub and gentle undulations. The Yurrebilla Trail—while long in total—is perfect for short sections like this if you’re just after a couple of hours outdoors. The descent from McElligott’s Carpark is mild but steady, and the bush here is classic Adelaide Foothills country—open, dry, and quietly beautiful. Every so often, the trees part to reveal glimpses of the city spread out far below, a reminder of just how close you are to the everyday world even while it feels like you’ve stepped away from it.

Nature, quiet moments, and a sense of space

The best part of this walk, at least for me, was the sense of space. Not just the physical space—though there’s plenty of that—but mental space. I passed only a handful of people, each offering a nod or a smile, but for the most part, it was just me, the birds, and the crunch of gravel. Several times I stopped at one shaded bend to have a breather and nibble a muesli bar. A blue butterfly drifted lazily past, as if to say, “no rush, mate.”

There’s a kind of deep calm that creeps in when you walk alone in the bush. It’s not dramatic or life-changing, but it settles something in your chest. You don’t notice it straight away, but when you return to the car later, you realise you’re walking a bit slower, breathing a bit deeper. That’s the gift of places like this.

Looping back past Carrick Hill’s gardens

Eventually, the trail leads to the back fence of Carrick Hill, one of Adelaide’s grand old properties. The gardens are beautifully maintained, and if you time it right, they’re open to the public for a small fee. But even from the outside, it’s a pleasant backdrop to round out the walk. From here, the trail connects back to the main driveway, winding gently uphill to return to McElligott’s Carpark. It’s not a long walk—maybe a couple of hours at most if you take your time—but it delivers far more than the effort you put in.

My verdict

This short loop along the Yurrebilla Trail was exactly what I needed: a sunny day, some native bushland, and a trail that required just enough effort to feel like you’d earned your sandwich.

Starting from McElligott’s Carpark makes it super accessible, and you don’t need to be an elite hiker to enjoy it. If you’re after a no-fuss nature walk close to the city, this is a solid choice. And while I didn’t spot any koalas this time, I returned home with dusty boots, a clear head, and a full heart—and that’s more than enough.

Practical Information

  • Location: Yurrebilla Trail via McElligott’s Carpark, Carrick Hill Drive, Springfield, SA
  • Getting There: Drive to the top of Fullarton Road, turn into Carrick Hill Drive and continue to the end
  • Trail Type: Short loop walk using the Yurrebilla Trail; returns to starting point
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate (steady descent and return climb)
  • Best Time to Visit: Autumn through spring; early mornings are great in warmer months
  • Facilities: No toilets at the carpark; Carrick Hill has public facilities when open
  • What to Bring: Water, hat, sunscreen, snacks, and comfortable walking shoes
  • Safety Tips: Trail is well marked; watch for snakes in warm months; let someone know your plans

More Information