Friends of Waite Conservation Reserve
– Walks –
There are three marked trails in the Waite Reserve – the Loop Trail, the Sheoak Loop Trail and the Yurrebilla Trail. Here’s a map showing the three trails in the reserve with some overview notes.
More details on each walk are given below :
The 4 km Loop Trail starts at the bottom of Wild Dogs Glen at gate 61. Follow the blue arrow route markers. The walk starts with a steep climb but is gentle thereafter. On this walk you will cover a large part of the reserve and will have magnificent views over the Adelaide Plains to the sea. Markers along the trail give information about points of interest. Allow 2 hours. Download the updated Loop Walking Trail Guide including map and nature notes.
The Sheoak Loop Trail is an eastward extension from the Waite Loop that was completed in 2020. It will add about another hour to your return walk. The Sheoak loop trail is shown on the map in the Loop Trail Walking Guide 2022 above and also in the brochure below, Waite Conservation Reserve – Nature at Your Door. Follow the white arrow route markers.
Part of the Yurrebilla Trail also traverses the Waite Conservation Reserve. This crosses our southern boundary from Carrick Hill and continues on a public walking track through Springwood Park to the old Mt Barker Road, below Eagle on the Hill. This trail is mostly a narrow footpath no steeper than 1:11 grade. Follow the red arrow route markers.
For a map and notes on the walking trails in the area, including the Waite Conservation Reserve Trails and nearby trails such as Springwood Park, Carrick Hill, Brown Hill and the Old Mitcham waterworks, download the Waite Region Trails leaflet:
For further details and information, please contact:
The Manager of the Waite Conservation Reserve Dr Kate Delaporte, phone 8313 7405.
Please Note:
Opening times: The Waite Conservation Reserve is open to the public from dawn to dusk every day except on Total Fire Ban Days for the Mt Lofty Ranges fire district. Please check CFS (CFS Hotline 1300 362361). https://www.cfs.sa.gov.au/bans-and-ratings/
To preserve the Reserve natural environment and minimise disturbance to wildlife living in the area, dogs are not permitted.
In summer, the average maximum day temperature is about 27°C, but there are often days of high 30s, so a hat, water and sunscreen are essential.
In winter, the ground can be very wet underfoot and boots or sturdy shoes are recommended.