River Torrens Linear Park Bike Ride

If you are looking for somewhere safe to go bike riding as a family, or just want somewhere quiet and relaxing to push the pram away from the traffic, then make your way to a section of the Linear Park Trail and hit the pavement.

From north-east of the city in Paradise all the way down to Henley Beach, this pathway is ideal for families wanting to spend time together walking, riding, running or taking the family dog for some exercise.  There are parks and playgrounds along the way, ducks to feed by the water’s edge, bridges to cross and roads to travel under, plus plenty of other sights to see.

If the trail is a little too far from home or you have children not confident on the road yet, you could drive to a section of the trail, park the car and go from there.  There are countless spots to join the trail (see maps below).

The bitumen paths are relatively flat with occasional small hills to climb up and ride down.  There are signs along the way and marks on the path to remind users to keep to the left.  Bridges are located at various sections of the trail so at any point you can always cross the River and loop back to your starting point, should you want to travel back along the other side.

River Torrens Linear Park Bike Ride from St Peters to Bonython Park

Our family ride this day was from St Peters to Bonython Park.  The path follows the line of the River Torrens and takes you all the way into the city.  Some of the places we rode past included Adelaide Zoo, the Adelaide Festival Centre, Adelaide Oval, Adelaide Convention Centre and Elder Park.

Once in the city there are lots of grassy areas to take a rest, get off the bikes and stretch the legs.  Here you can take a look around at the Riverbank Precinct, including the impressive footbridge across to Adelaide Oval.  If it’s a nice day and you still have energy to burn there are always Captain Jollys Paddleboats for a bit of fun on the water.

Bonython Park Playspace

The trail from Elder Park then continues past the North Adelaide Golf Course, the Torrens Weir and the Old Adelaide Gaol before you arrive at the fabulous Bonython Park Playspace, one of Adelaide’s most popular playgrounds.  There are bike racks here to lock up your bikes so the children can stop for a play.

If the kiosk is open it’s the perfect place to enjoy an ice cream, a snack or a coffee.  Down by the water there is a feed dispenser so you can feed the ducks and swans too.

Linear Park Trail Tips

Bike riding along the Linear Park Trail is a great activity to do any weekend throughout the year.  During the early mornings you are likely to come across a lot of cyclists, walkers, runners and pet owners walking their dogs, but mid morning onwards it tends to be a lot quieter.

Remember to take water bottles and snacks on your ride (carried in a backpack or placed in a basket on a bike) and allow enough time for the return journey home before the sun starts to fade.

Map Source: South Australian Trails.  This map is for reference only and is not intended as a navigational tool.

For more information visit the City of Adelaide website.

What:  River Torrens Linear Park Trail

When:  All Year

Where:  Paradise to Henley Beach, South Australia

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 all details are subject to change.

Image Source: photos by Play & Go

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