Mount Lofty (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Mount Lofty?
What makes it 80% Kids-Friendly: Children can hand-feed kangaroos at Cleland, solve Woodhouse mazes and follow the flat Lakeside Trail, but steep summit tracks and lack of a playground mean parents must supervise closely.
Positives:
- Pram-friendly access: Drive-up summit and flat garden paths suit strollers.
- Free garden entry: Mount Lofty Botanic Garden has free entry and picnic lawns.
- Daily wildlife talks: Keeper talks at Cleland engage kids in hands-on feeding.
Challenges:
- Parking fees: Metered parking at summit and garden requires card payment.
- Weekend crowds: Summit, trails and café fill up early on weekends.
- Uneven terrain: Some bush paths are rocky—bring sturdy shoes and a stroller.
What is Mount Lofty?
- A 727-metre-high summit that stands as the apex of the Mount Lofty Ranges east of Adelaide
- A prominent geological formation of folded sandstone and shale blanketed by native eucalypt woodland within Cleland National Park
- A watershed divide channeling rainfall to both Gulf St Vincent and the Murray River basin and a defining landmark on Adelaide’s eastern skyline
What is so special about Mount Lofty for with kids?
- Scenic 360° summit views reachable by car or family-friendly hikes
- Hands-on wildlife encounters at Cleland Wildlife Park
- Gentle lakeside loop in Botanic Garden with artworks and lawns
- Thrilling courses and tube slides at Woodhouse Adventure Park
- Panoramic picnic spots and a café at the summit
Recommended visit duration: 1 day
Why 1 day visit duration is ideal for with kids: Six to eight hours lets your family hike the summit, visit wildlife park and enjoy adventure park activities without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Mount Lofty
Mount Lofty Summit Lookout:
Drive or walk to the 710 m lookout for 360° views over Adelaide Hills.
Tip: Arrive before 9 am to beat heat and secure parking near the platform.
Botanic Garden Lakeside Trail:
Easy 1 km loop around the garden lake with kid-friendly artworks and open lawns.
Tip: Use the flat, stroller-friendly path and watch for bandicoots at dawn.
Cleland Wildlife Park:
Feed kangaroos, see koalas up close and join daily keeper talks.
Tip: Attend the 11 am or 2 pm talks and buy kangaroo feed on arrival.
Woodhouse Adventure Park:
Enjoy obstacle courses, tube slides, disc golf and orienteering maps.
Tip: Check age/height rules before booking and pack sunscreen for open play areas.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Mount Lofty
- Arrive early: Get to the summit lookout before 9 am for parking and cooler temps.
- Book tickets online: Purchase Cleland Wildlife Park tickets in advance to skip lines.
- Pack snacks: Bring snacks and water; picnic spots are available at summit and garden.
- Check activity rules: Verify height and age limits for Woodhouse Adventure Park before visiting.
Reviews of Mount Lofty
Randy G
Beautiful views of Adelaide. The gift shop is very well stocked. Easy short walk from the parking lot.
Tassie Traveller25
A beautiful part of south Australia. Full of wonder and magic plants. The thought process of planting with a long vision of how it would look 20, 30, or 40 years into the future is amazing.
Aidan Tsoumbakos
Great view, amazing history, but if you park up at the top it's paid. Otherwise, great wander
MJ Fung
Numerous trails. You can get maps, visitor guides & walking trails advice, plus souvenirs, snacks & drinks at the Visitor Information & shop next to the Summit Cafe.
Karo Vizcaíno Cruz
Mount Lofty has absolutely breathtaking views! I went for a quick visit with family and we ended up staying for a couple of hours, just walking around and soaking it all in. It’s one of those places that makes you slow down and enjoy the moment. Definitely worth exploring—perfect for a relaxed outing with stunning scenery.
When is the best time to visit Mount Lofty (Adelaide, Australia)?
Spring (Sep–Nov) brings wildflowers and cooler days. Summer afternoons get hot—visit early or late. Weekdays are quieter year-round.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Cleland Wildlife Park family pass | AUD 89 |
| Woodhouse Adventure Park passes (2 adults + 1 child) | AUD 60 |
| Summit Café family lunch | AUD 40 |
| Parking fees (summit + garden) | AUD 10 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 199 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Mount Lofty
Address: Mount Lofty, Cleland SA 5152, Australia
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