Hindmarsh River Walk

The Hindmarsh River Walk follows the river down through McCracken to its mouth at Victor Harbor, under paperbarks and river red gums. The estuary end is on lead at all hours to protect the birdlife.

Leads by the estuary

The City of Victor Harbor has made the Hindmarsh River Estuary, including its dunes and boardwalks, a 24/7 on-leash area. Rules on the connecting stretches can differ, so the simple plan is to keep the lead on the whole way.

The walk

Flat natural tracks, some of them sandy, join long timber boardwalks through wetland and Melaleuca forest. The canopy gives plenty of shade.

More than 80 bird species have been recorded along the river, and foot traffic is light, which suits dogs that prefer a calm walk.

There are no dog water points on the trail and bins are few, so bring water and take your bags home. Parking is informal and limited near the trailheads.

Max: Birds feed and nest along the estuary. Short lead, stay on the boardwalk, and no chasing.

Pair it with

De Groot Coffee Co in Port Elliot makes a good coffee stop on the drive.

When to go

The shade makes it a fair pick in warmer months, and quiet mornings are best for the birds. Dogs that get anxious in crowds will like it here.