Flat to Vale Trail, City of Onkaparinga, Review
By Jo Parkinson
It’s time to dust off the walking shoes! The City of Onkaparinga’s fantastic new Flat to Vale Trail from McLaren Vale to McLaren Flat is scenic, peaceful and a great way to get active.
The Trail
The 3.6km path is an extension of the existing Coast to Vines Rail Trail (Shiraz Trail). There are two starting points, Field Street in McLaren Vale, or Blewitt Springs Road in McLaren Flat.
Winding through vineyards, redgums and farmland, most of the trail is sealed and there are no hills, making it perfect for riding bikes or pushing prams. It’s an easy walk, suitable for people of all fitness levels.
It took us approximately one hour to walk and ride from one end to the other. If you have younger children, it might be a good idea to only go halfway. Little legs can get tired easily and may struggle to make the distance. It’s a good excuse to go back and complete the other section another time!
Amenities and Playground
If you are taking the family, we recommend starting at the McLaren Vale end. There is a playground close by and the trail doesn’t go near any roads. There is plenty of space and grass if you wanted to bring a picnic. The trail surface is unsealed here but is still nice and flat. It goes past the sporting complex, where you will find an oval, tennis court and basketball court. Local shops and toilets are conveniently located nearby.
If you start at McLaren Flat, be aware of cars as there are a few houses nearby, meaning some residents need to use part of the trail for driveway access. The trail runs alongside the road at Chalk Hill Road, so watch for cars here too.
What we love about the Flat to Vale Trail:
- The scenery is gorgeous.
- Wide path with a flat surface.
- Pedestrians and cyclists can now travel from McLaren Vale to McLaren Flat without needing to use the main road
- It’s a great location! The McLaren Vale region has amazing wineries, cafes, shops and parks, so there are plenty of things to do whilst in the area.
- It’s a fun activity that gets the family out of the house and into the fresh air.
- Dogs on leads are welcome.
Things to remember:
- Wear comfortable shoes
- Don’t forget drink bottles and snacks
- Stick to the left of the path
- Stay on designated paths and don’t walk in the vineyards. Shoes and clothing can accidentally spread pests and diseases.
- Don’t go all the way to the end if there’s a chance you will get tired and not make it back.
- The cooler months are a great time to use the trail. Autumn would be ideal as the vine leaves turn beautiful shades of yellows, reds and oranges.
Find more easy walks and bushwalks with kids here
For more information and all enquiries please visit the City of Onkaparinga website
What: Flat to Vale Trail
When: Anytime
Where: Field St McLaren Vale or Blewitt Springs Road McLaren Flat
Who: Everyone
At Play & Go Adelaide we make every effort to provide accurate information to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. We recommend confirming times, dates and details directly before making any plans as details may be subject to change.
Image Source: Jo Parkinson for Play and Go
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