Birdwood Oval and Park

Right in the middle of Birdwood, the sealed path around the oval makes a flat, dependable loop for an on-lead walk, with a playground and pump track alongside if the kids are coming too.

Lead rules

Adelaide Hills Council requires dogs on a lead on footpaths and near sporting ovals and play areas, and here that covers the perimeter path. Dogs should stay off the main oval and soccer pitch altogether to protect the turf.

The walk

The loop is sealed or compacted gravel with no rough ground or steep pinches, which makes it kind on older dogs and puppies. Mature trees and sheltered picnic spots sit beside the open grass.

Bins are placed around the pavilion, playground and car park, and there is off-street parking on site. Bring water for the dog in case the bubblers are hard to find.

Pair it with

For an off-lead run afterwards, Rex Amber Park is the town's 24-hour off-leash reserve. Its fencing is only partial, so it suits dogs with good recall.

When to go

Choose a time with no match or training on, when the path is quieter and there is less to tempt a dog onto the grass.