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Mount Lofty Summit

Mount Lofty Summit — At 727m, Mount Lofty is the highest point of the Mount Lofty Ranges and provides panoramic views across Adelaide and Gulf St Vincent to the…

Natural Landmark in South Australia

Ben ColeWritten by Ben Cole

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About Mount Lofty Summit

At 727m, Mount Lofty is the highest point of the Mount Lofty Ranges and provides panoramic views across Adelaide and Gulf St Vincent to the west, and the rolling [Adelaide Hills](/au/places/sa/adelaide-hills) farmland to the east. The summit is within Cleland Conservation Park and is Adelaide's most accessible elevated lookout. A popular destination for hiking, cycling and picnics.

About

At 727m, Mount Lofty is the highest point of the Mount Lofty Ranges and provides panoramic views across Adelaide and Gulf St Vincent to the west, and the rolling [Adelaide Hills](/au/places/sa/adelaide-hills) farmland to the east. The summit is within Cleland Conservation Park and is Adelaide's most accessible elevated lookout. A popular destination for hiking, cycling and picnics.

Warnings

Waterfall Gully Trail Is Steep And Strenuous (8km Return, 400m Ascent)Road To Summit Can Be Closed In Extreme Fire DangerParking At Summit Fills Quickly On Weekends

Getting There

Map of Mount Lofty Summit

35 minutes from Adelaide CBD via the South Eastern Freeway and Summit Road. Alternatively, hike the Waterfall Gully trail from Waterfall Gully Reserve (6km, 400m ascent).

Visitor Tips

  • The Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty hike is one of Adelaide's classic walks — best done on a weekday to avoid crowds. The summit café is a great spot for brunch with a view.

Quick Facts

At a Glance

The Place

Significance
State

Plan Your Visit

Entry
Free
Duration
1–3 hours
Best Time
Year-round; clear winter days offer the best city views; spring for wildflowers
Hours
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Location

Good to Know

Wheelchair AccessibleDog Friendly

Highlights

360-Degree Views To Adelaide And The OceanCity Lights At DuskHeysen Trail AccessAdelaide Hills Scenery

Activities

Hiking (Waterfall Gully To Mount Lofty Trail)CyclingPicnickingPhotographyBird Watching

Features

Available:Wheelchair Accessible
Available:Dog Friendly
Not available:Pram/Stroller Friendly
Not available:Camping Available
Not available:Tours Available
Not available:Guided Walks
Not available:Swimming Allowed
Not available:Lockers Available

Facilities

Summit Café And RestaurantToiletsCar ParkLookout PlatformInformation CentrePicnic Tables

Nearby

Dump Points(5)

11km

Johnson Memorial Recreation Ground

Free · 11km

11km

Balhannah Dump Point

Free · 11km

17.5km

Mount Barker Recreation Grounds

Free · 17.5km

17.6km

Mount Barker Dump Point

Free · 17.6km

23km

Meadows Recreation Ground

Free · 23km