Walks & Trails
The Wakefield region enjoys many lovely parks, gardens and walking and cycling trails. So grab your hat, water bottle, slip slop slap, and get exploring!
The Copper Trail
The Copper Trail is a 23km journey which connects to Leasingham on the Riesling Trail and to Walk the Yorke in Port Wakefield, thereby linking up two of the best walking trails in regional SA!
It follows in part the copper bullocks route and railway corridor, which once transported the precious mineral from the mines at Burra to the ships at Port Wakefield.
For a shorter journey, you can start in Balaklava, entry across from Higham Ave. This route travels between Balaklava and Port Wakefield. From here you'll pass through Bowans, named after the farming family and original residents of Martindale House, the Bowans. These days, it's best know for being an exporting hub for agriculture and the location of the largest independently owned rail and intermodal company - Bowans Rail.
Lions Walking Trail
Experience the Wakefield River’s wildlife and flora along the Lions Walking Trail which begins on Elizabeth Street, Balaklava, and follows the Wakefield River past Balaklava Memorial Hospital and through Moody Estate. The trail meanders around towering gums.
More information on Lions Walking Trail from SA Walking Trails.
Liptrot Trail
Walk or cycle the 10km Shamus Liptrot Cycling Trail which was developed in memory of elite junior local cyclist Shamus Liptrot who sadly passed away in 2011, several years after suffering serious injuries in a cycling accident. The trail extends from Balaklava to Halbury, Shamus's home town.
More information on Liptrot Trail on Walking Trails SA.
Pepper Tree Trail
Pepper Tree Trail from Brinkworth's historic Stockyard Reserve to see a rare example of an old railway turntable, water tower and buildings dating back to the twilight of the 19th century and conclude your walk at the Brinkworth Museum.
The Lomandra Walking Trail
Named after the native plant the Indigenous people use in damper, and the long, flat, fibrous leaves for weaving, the Lomandra Walking Trail is a two and a half hour return walk beside the Blyth Golf Course.
Opened in April 2010, hundreds of other local provenance plants line the walk, many with descriptive signage. In winter and spring the walk has wide views across the Blyth Plains to the Clare Hills and Hummocks Ranges.
The walk has a gentle gradient and is suitable for all ages. Visitors can also take in a game of golf.
Port Wakefield Township Historic Walk
Port Wakefield was one of the first settlements established beyond the Adelaide limits. The town boasts a colourful and interesting history from being a key part of the Copper Trail from Burra.
Located in the geographic centre of the Samphire Coast, Port Wakefield has boardwalks and bird identification signage, and a lovely seaside town for people who pull off the highway and enter the historic mainstreet. Take a stroll around this hidden gem and enjoy over 40 historic attractions!
Walking safety in hot weather
Follow these tips on hot days:
- Check the weather forecast
- Consider visiting a coastal park where conditions may be more pleasant
- Check for fire bans and warnings
- Always take adequate water with you and stay hydrated
- Be sun smart by wearing sunscreen, a hat, protective clothing and make the most of shady spots
- Reptiles are more active during hot weather and love the sun so watch where you walk and sit
- Wildlife can become lethargic in the heat – slow down and give animals time to move off paths, tracks and roads
- No matter how fit you are, hot weather can be draining so avoid over exertion