Noarlunga Downs Wetland Trail, Onkaparinga River

Walking Trail Facts
Distance
600 metres one way
Duration
30 mins return, 0.6km one way, 1.2km return
Suitable for
Walking, Wheelchair Accessible, Get to by public transport, Jogging
Trail Class
Grade 1, Easy Walk
Terrain
Flat
Park (national park, conservation park, forest, reserve)
Onkaparinga River National Park
Region
Adelaide City & Suburbs
Trail manager
National Parks and Wildlife Service South Australia
Download maps & GPS files
  1. 2 GPS files
  2. 1 website link
Jump to Downloads section
Photos
12 photos
Travel options
  1. Bus
  2. Car
  3. Train
Travel time from Adelaide
1 hour or less
Noarlunga Downs Wetland Trail, Onkaparinga River

About the Walking Trail

This wetland trail was opened in 2016 after the wetlands were rehabilitated by SA Water. The 16-hectare site was formerly a sludge lagoon near a wastewater treatment plant, but has been transformed into a thriving wetland.

The Noarlunga Downs Wetland Trail follows the edge of what is now a predator-free sanctuary. The sanctuary features a series of interconnected pools that treat urban stormwater before the water enters the Onkaparinga River.

The trail features art by contemporary Aboriginal artist Paul Herzich. These two interpretive sign installations tell the story of the river, wetlands, water and traditional owners.

The trail is 600 metres long, but can be walked as a loop by returning along River Road, which would make it 1km return).

The trail is accessible for people of all abilities, including those with mobility issues and wheelchairs. The path is compacted gravel. The closest carpark (at the western end of the boardwalk) was upgraded in 2017 and is now wheelchair friendly. Please note that the trail ends near the dirt road at the western end, and the the bollards here restrict access to prams, bicycles and wheelchairs (although you could simple walk one way then return the same way back to the carpark (at the western end of the boardwalk.)

Access the trail from River Road, at either:

Although this walk is marked as being Wheelchair Accessible, some people may require assistance.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service SA Accessibility webpage has useful information about accessibility within national parks, including specific details about accessible parks, trails, picnic grounds, carparking and toilets.

Downloads

Download KML/KMZ file
Download GPX file

Photos