Wheal Watkins Circuit
A walk through South Australia’s mining heritage

The Wheal Watkins Circuit serves up a fascinating blend of colonial mining history and bushland walking in the Adelaide hills. This 7.2-kilometre trail winds through Mount Osmond Reserve, where Australia’s first metal mine operated in the 1840s.

The circuit, part of the Burnside Walks network, offers walkers a chance to step back in time while enjoying nature.

Mount Osmond Reserve lies just 16 minutes from Adelaide’s centre and you can start the trail from either Allandale Avenue or Wheal Watkins Street in Glen Osmond, with ample parking at both locations.

Mining heritage

In 1838, silver-lead ore was discovered in these hills, leading to the establishment of three significant mines: Wheal Gawler (Australia’s first metal mine), Wheal Watkins, and the Glen Osmond Mine. The term ‘wheal’, Cornish for mine, reflects the strong influence of skilled Cornish miners who emigrated to South Australia.

The Wheal Watkins site features remarkable mining infrastructure, including a main shaft reaching 128 metres deep and three adits (tunnels). Two of these tunnels remain accessible within the reserve today. Between 1843 and 1851, 18 Cornish miners extracted approximately 1,000 tonnes of silver-lead ore, with some ore blocks weighing up to 200 kilograms.

Miners used traditional Cornish contract systems known as ‘tutwork’ and ‘tribute’. They worked with basic tools – picks, shovels, and hand-drilled holes for gunpowder blasting. Each miner supplied their own tools, candles, and gunpowder, working under the supervision of a mine Captain.

Trail features

The circuit passes through stunning sections of eucalyptus forest and stands of pine trees. Native birds call this area home, creating a peaceful atmosphere for morning walks. The changing seasons bring different colours to the landscape, from spring wildflowers to autumn’s golden hues.

The upper section follows a wide fire track, offering clear views across the Adelaide hills. Along the way, walkers pass the historic smelter chimney near the Old Toll Gate at Glen Osmond, a reminder of the 1849 smelting works.

Practical information

  • Trail length: 7.2 kilometres
  • Average duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Facilities: Limited; bring water and snacks
  • Best time to visit: All year round
  • Dogs: Not permitted on trail
  • Access points:
    • Allandale Avenue, Glen Osmond
    • Wheal Watkins Street, Glen Osmond
  • Parking: Available at both access points (including historic bluestone quarry car park)
  • Public transport: Check Adelaide Metro for current timetables
  • Trail markers: Follow the Burnside Walks network signs