Sturt Gorge River Trail Trailhead

The Sturt Gorge River Trail Trailhead sits at the end of Riverside Drive in Bedford Park, right on the Sturt Gorge Recreation Park boundary and a short walk from Flinders University. It is a leashed bushland walk along the Sturt River through grey box woodland, with gorge views and a fair chance of spotting koalas or kangaroos.

The walk

The River Trail follows the Sturt River through the recreation park, with connections out to the River, Wattle and Lomandra track and the walk to the Sturt Flood Control Dam if you want to stretch it into a loop. Expect a rugged, natural surface rather than a groomed path, with uneven and rocky sections that suit a sure-footed dog.

Worth knowing

Dogs are welcome on lead for the whole trail, and unlike the nearby national parks, dogs are permitted in this recreation park at all. Keep to the marked paths to protect the bushland and avoid surprise wildlife encounters.

Water

The river is a pleasant companion but not a reliable swim spot, and there is no tap water at the trailhead, so carry your own for the dog.

Hazards

Watch for snakes in the warmer months, share the narrow sections politely with mountain bikers, and expect slippery or muddy footing after rain. There are no bins, taps or bag dispensers here, so pack bags and carry waste out.

When to go

Early on a weekday morning the trail is close to yours alone; weekends bring more walkers and riders. Autumn and spring are the comfortable seasons for dog and owner alike.

Max: bring your own water and waste bags. This trailhead has no facilities at all, so come prepared before you set off.

Getting there and parking

Take Main South Road then Riverside Drive, directly south of the Flinders University campus, to a small unsealed car park at the trail's end. By public transport, stops around Flinders University or on Sturt Road leave a ten to fifteen minute walk to the trailhead.

Close by with the dogs

It Takes A Village in nearby Edwardstown makes a dog-friendly coffee stop after the walk, and Mitcham Dog Park offers a fully fenced off-lead run if your dog wants to be off the lead for a while. For an overnight base, Belair National Park Holiday Park has pet-friendly cabins about ten minutes away.

More options are on the South Australia dog friendly trails guide and the Bedford Park destination page.