Step into bushwalking this autumn

Walking is one of the easiest ways to be physically active. You can do it almost anywhere, with very little equipment. It’s great for both your body and your mind - and even better when you’re walking in parks, with the additional proven health benefits (check them out at the Preventative Health page).

If you’re new to bushwalking, there are a few things to think about before you set off to help you stay safe and get the most out of your walk.

Choose your group

It’s always best to bushwalk with others. If your group has more than four people, consider nominating someone to take the lead and help keep things organised.

Your group will move at the pace of the slowest walker, so plan your distance and timing around that. South Australia also has plenty of walking clubs worth joining if you’re keen to explore new trails. Many offer a couple of trial walks so you can see if it’s the right fit.

Prepare and plan

Do a bit of research before you go so you know what to expect - from terrain to key points of interest. Check out each individual park's webpage to ensure you have the most up to date information on the park your exploring, plus don't forget to check if there are any park alerts. 

Take a map with you—ideally both a paper copy and one downloaded to your phone. Apps like Avenza Maps are useful for official park maps and offline navigation.

Tell an emergency contact where you are going, including where the car is going to be parked, what time you expect to return and what to do if you do not come back in time.

In autumn, you never know what weather you'll get, so be sure to check the predicted weather conditions to help you choose the right gear, plus check out our hot or cold weather hiking blogs for more specific tips.

Pack your bag

Make sure you are well equipped, have appropriate clothing and carry enough food and water. Carry your gear in a small, sturdy, comfortable back pack. Taking a lunch box will ensure you can take your rubbish home. Be sure to carry 2 litres of water (more in warm weather). Other essentials include a first aid kit, map, whistle, torch, your personal medications, tissue or toilet paper and a trowel, plus a rubbish bag and something waterproof to sit on or hide under.

What to wear

Choose comfortable, enclosed walking or sports shoes and clothes that are comfortable, light and loose. Consider sun and rain protection and carry a hat, sunscreen and light weight rain jacket. In the cooler weather, wear layers that can be removed as you warm up and consider water-proof shoes and some spare socks!

Emergencies

If someone is injured or cannot walk, call 000 and ask for the police. Stay together in a group. Be prepared to change your plans to suit your conditions. Consider downloading the Emergency Plus app to pin point your location if needed.

Leave no trace

Looking after our parks starts with simple actions. Remember to stick to the designated trails, leave wildlife alone, be responsible with pets and clean your boots to keep phytophthora at bay. Remember there are no bins in parks so take all of your rubbish home.

Walking etiquette

Be considerate of others on the trail. Keep noise to a minimum so everyone can enjoy the natural surroundings.

If you like listening to music, keep the volume low or use headphones so it doesn’t disturb others.

Accessible walks

Walking in South Australia can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of age, fitness or mobility.

Walking SA has over 50 fantastic accessible walking routes to explore that are wheelchair, pram and mobility friendly. You can also explore South Australia's accessible national park trails on the park's website.  The walks can also be great for children to ride their bikes along with their parents walking beside them.

Walking SA also provide educational training opportunities and resources, as well as a list of great bushwalks accessible by public transport if you don’t have access to a car.

Planning on staying longer after your hike? Check out our Camping in national parks pagefor everything you need to enjoy a camping trip in our parks.