Morialta Conservation Park
| Location | Morialta Conservation Park, Adelaide Hills |
| Start Point | Morialta Conservation Park Picnic Area |
| End Point | First Falls Car Park |
| Distance | 1.4 km one way (2.8 km return) |
| Time | 1–2 hours return |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Activity | Walking |
| Region | Adelaide & Adelaide Hills |
| Accommodation | Camping, mid-range and premium options — See accommodation options |
| Best Season | Winter/spring for waterfall flow |
A Family Adventure Along the Creek
The Fourth Creek Walk is a family-friendly trail at Morialta Conservation Park. [TRUNCATED FOR TOKEN LIMIT]
The Walk
The Fourth Creek Walk follows the shaded course of Fourth Creek through the lower sections of Morialta Conservation Park. Starting from the main picnic area, the trail passes beneath towering eucalyptus canopy alongside the creek bed, which flows strongly after winter rains. The path is well-maintained and mostly flat, making it an ideal family walk. Along the way, interpretive signs explain the local ecology and the geological forces that carved the Morialta gorge system. The walk can be extended by continuing to the base of First Falls, one of three seasonal waterfalls that cascade down the quartzite cliff faces during the wetter months.
Wildlife and Nature
Morialta Conservation Park is one of Adelaide’s most biodiverse reserves, protecting over 300 hectares of native bushland just 10 kilometres from the CBD. The riparian corridor along Fourth Creek supports a rich understorey of ferns, native grasses, and flowering shrubs. Koalas are regularly spotted in the manna gums above the creek, while echidnas forage through the leaf litter on the slopes. Birdlife is prolific — look out for kookaburras, yellow-tailed black cockatoos, superb fairy-wrens, and Adelaide rosellas. During spring, the bushland comes alive with wildflowers including orchids, chocolate lilies, and yam daisies.
Planning Your Visit
Morialta Conservation Park is located in the Adelaide suburb of Rostrevor, approximately 10 kilometres east of the CBD. Entry and parking are free. The picnic area at the trailhead has barbecue facilities, toilets, and drinking water. The walk is suitable for all ages, though sections near the creek can be slippery when wet. Spring is the best time to visit for waterfall viewing and wildflowers, while the shaded creek path makes it comfortable even during summer. The park connects to a broader network of trails including walks to Second and Third Falls for those wanting a longer adventure.
Where to Stay
Planning an overnight trip? See our Adelaide Hills Accommodation Guide for the best places to stay near this trail.