Amy Gillett Rail Trail
Where wine and cycling meet in the Adelaide Hills

I’ve ridden this trail three or four times over the years, but every time I do, I think about Amy Gillett. She was one of our own – a South Australian athlete who absolutely shone in both cycling and rowing.

After we lost her in 2005, naming this gorgeous Adelaide Hills trail after her was the perfect way to keep her memory alive.

Getting started

Where to park and begin I’ve found the most practical starting point is at Gillman Road in Oakbank, where there’s ample parking space. I have also parked in the local Mitre 10 carpark, but that is a bit further away.

For my shorter rides, I have started at Woodside or Charleston, which offers manageable 4-5 kilometre sections. The northern end at Mount Torrens Oval includes parking and facilities, making it another excellent starting option.

Exploring the trail sections

  • Oakbank to Woodside section:
    The initial stretch of my ride takes me through a flat 4-kilometre section running parallel to the road. As I approach Woodside, the Wicks Estate vineyards create a stunning backdrop, particularly beautiful during autumn. The recently completed bypass allows me to ride safely behind the town while still having easy access to local amenities.
  • Woodside to Charleston highlights:
    This 5 kilometre section has become one of my favourite parts of the trail. It’s predominantly flat, passing by Barristers Block cellar door. I particularly enjoy seeing the evidence of recovery from the 2019 bushfires, which tells a story of resilience in our Adelaide Hills community.
  • Charleston to Mount Torrens experience:
    The gradient becomes more challenging after Charleston, making this 7-kilometre section quieter and more contemplative. I love riding through the dramatic cuttings and past steep embankments. The trail passes more vineyards, with Lobethal Road cellar door just 200 metres from the path.

Food and wine along the way

The Adelaide Hills region offers brilliant food options along the trail. In Woodside, I regularly stop at the Lobethal Bakery or Avalon for a coffee and bun break. The trail connects several cellar doors, including Wicks Estate and Barristers Block, perfect for those interested in wine tasting. Remember though, that drinking and cycling is not reccomended and the same rule apply to cyclists as thy do to drivers. Buy wine to take home.

What makes this trail special

The 16-kilometre Amy Gillett Rail Trail offers something unique in every season. The bitumen surface makes for comfortable riding, while the gentle gradients suit riders of various abilities. I’m particularly excited about the proposed Wine Capital Cycle Trail development, which could extend this beloved route as part of a 250-kilometre network connecting South Australian wine regions.

Conclusion

The Amy Gillett Rail Trail holds a special place in my heart as one of the Adelaide Hills’ most accessible and rewarding cycling experiences. Whether it’s the autumn colours, the local wines, or the peaceful countryside, each ride offers something new to discover.

Frequently Asked Questions

The trail offers unique experiences in each season. Autumn brings stunning vineyard colours and perfect riding temperatures. Winter mornings are crisp and quiet, ideal for peaceful rides. Spring showcases beautiful wildflowers and mild weather conditions. In summer, I recommend riding early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat. Based on my experience, weekday mornings are the quietest times on the trail, while school holidays tend to be busier with families enjoying the path.

The trail is well-designed for riders of all abilities. The section from Oakbank to Charleston is mostly flat and perfect for beginners. Between Charleston and Mount Torrens, there’s a gentle but continuous incline that might require a bit more effort. The total elevation gain is 160 metres spread across the 16-kilometre trail. The surface is completely sealed throughout, making it stable and predictable. The path maintains a consistent 3-metre width, with emergency exit points available every few kilometres for added safety.

The trail is well-equipped with essential facilities. I find the spacing of amenities in local towns quite practical, with water and food points available in Woodside, Charleston, and Mount Torrens. Public toilets are located at both trail ends and in Woodside. For cyclists needing repairs, there’s a dedicated bike repair station in Woodside. Mobile phone coverage is reliable throughout the trail, which is reassuring for safety.

The trail’s design prioritises accessibility for everyone. Several sections are wheelchair accessible, and multiple entry and exit points allow for flexibility in planning rides. Rest areas appear at convenient intervals, which I find essential for taking breaks. The signage is clear and comprehensive throughout. Most sections feature gentle gradients, making the trail manageable for different fitness levels. Support services are readily available in the towns along the route.

The trail offers spectacular photo opportunities throughout its length. The Mount Torrens vineyards are stunning at sunrise, while the Woodside valley views create perfect sunset shots. In autumn, the Wicks Estate provides incredible colours. Spring brings wildflower meadows worth capturing. My favourite conditions for photography are misty mornings in the valleys, and I always stop to photograph the historic bridge remnants. Each season brings its own unique photographic possibilities.

From my experience riding this trail, there are several key safety aspects to consider. The trail is well-maintained with a sealed surface, but I always check weather conditions before setting out since extreme heat or rain can affect riding conditions. While the trail is separated from roads in most sections, I remain cautious at road crossings, particularly in Woodside. The section between Charleston and Mount Torrens has steeper embankments, so I’m extra mindful of staying on the trail there.

Here are my essential safety recommendations:

  • Carry water (water points are available in towns but spaced apart)
  • Wear appropriate safety gear including a helmet
  • Apply sunscreen (limited shade in some sections)
  • Take breaks at the designated rest areas
  • Check bike condition before starting
  • Consider downloading offline maps
  • Start early during summer months
  • Be prepared for weather changes (common in Adelaide Hills)
  • Keep left and use a bell when passing others
  • ALWAYS stop and confirm that there is no oncoming traffic when crossing the many roads that intersect with the bikeway.