Mount Barker Summit
Find it at: Mount Barker Summit Road, Mount Barker
Did you know Mount Barker had an actual Mountain…..that you can climb? Mount Barker Summit rises 513m above sea level and the summit is easily reached by a range of hiking trails. The Mount Barker Summit walk is one of the Adelaide Hills’ best-kept secrets for families. Just a 40-minute drive from Adelaide, this easy adventure is perfect for little explorers, grandparents and everyone in between.
The short summit trail is only 500 metres return from the car park, making it ideal for younger kids or anyone wanting a quick nature fix. The gently undulating path leads to the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views across the Adelaide Hills, Mount Barker township and beyond. On a clear day, you can even spot the Coorong and Mount Lofty in the distance.
Along the way you’ll find picnic tables and plenty of space to stop for a snack while soaking up the scenery. Kids will love climbing the rocks, spotting birds and native plants, and exploring the small nature play cubby near the lookout. Keep an eye out for the interpretive signs that share the area’s fascinating geological, cultural and environmental history, including its significance to the Peramangk people.
Feeling like a little more adventure? Families with older children can continue on the 1.7-kilometre Scenic Bush Walk, a loop trail that winds through beautiful native bushland with even more lookout points and opportunities to spot local wildlife.
Need to know:
- Easy 500m return walk to the summit.
- Free entry.
- Picnic tables available.
- Dogs are permitted on lead.
- Bring hats, sunscreen and water, especially in warmer months.
- The summit car park gates are locked before dusk, so plan your visit earlier in the day.
Located on Mount Barker Summit Road at Mount Barker (about 5mins from the Main Street of Barker and all the coffee shops!), it is open 8:00am until 6:00pm (until 8:00pm during daylight savings) and is a breathtaking spot to visit during winter when there is morning fog about.
For more great family friendly things to do in the Adelaide Hills, click here!
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