Yellow Track Loop

The Yellow Track Loop, mapped by AllTrails as the Yellowtail Loop, runs 6.3 km through Anstey Hill Recreation Park at Tea Tree Gully, about 16 km north east of Adelaide. It is one of the South Australian parks where dogs are allowed, and the condition attached is a simple one: stay on the marked trails.

The walk. Around 6.3 km on wide fire tracks, taking most people close to two hours. AllTrails grades it moderate, and the grade comes from a handful of steep pitches rather than sustained climbing. The surface is loose in places and fully exposed in others. The ruins of Newman's Nursery sit on the route, and the loop meets the rest of the park track network at several gates.

The rules. The National Parks and Wildlife Service South Australia manages Anstey Hill, and dogs must be on a lead no longer than two metres. Dogs are restricted to the designated walking trails, which matters more here than it sounds: the park carries koalas, kangaroos and black cockatoos, and the off-track ground is what the park exists to protect. No bins are provided, so carry the bags out.

Water. Bring your own. There is no reliable water on the loop, and the exposed sections dry a dog out quickly through the warmer half of the year.

Getting there. The quarry car park at the main entrance is the usual start, with more parking and toilets near Gate 1 off North East Road. Adelaide Metro route 557 stops at 51N on North East Road, and route 542 stops at 52, roughly 700 metres from the entrance.

Nearby with the dogs. Anstey Hill Boundary Walk covers the other edge of the park, and Anstey Hill Recreation Park Gate 6 is a different way in. Afterwards, Tea Tree Gully Coffee Shoppe and Shelley Street Cafe are both close.

When to go. Winter and early spring, when the tracks are firm and the wildflowers are out. Start early from November to March; there is little shade and the fire tracks hold heat. Good for big runners.

Sources

• Anstey Hill Recreation Park | National Parks and Wildlife Service South Australia · www.parks.sa.gov.au
• Take a walk in Anstey Hill Recreation Park: the Yellow-tail Loop · www.environment.sa.gov.au
• Yellowtail Loop (Anstey Hill Loop) | Walking SA · www.walkingsa.org.au
• Yellowtail Loop, South Australia · www.alltrails.com

Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.