Pedler’s Paddock Bike Trails at the Cobbler Creek Recreation Park.
Located at the fabulous Cobbler Creek Recreation Park are the Pedler’s Paddock pump track and bike trails, which are situated in the open area next to the playground. Pedler’s Paddock has been designed for riders of all ages and skill levels and is named after William Pedler, a local cobbler (shoe maker) who lived here with his family from 1850 to 1916.
Pedler’s Paddock Pump Track
The Pedler’s Paddock Pump Track can be ridden by cyclists of all ages and skill levels. You don’t need a special kind of bike to ride there – BMX bikes, mountain bikes, kids bikes and even scooters can be used. It’s a great way to improve bike handling skills. In mid-2017 the pump track was given a smooth bitumen surface (originally it was a dirt track). This means it’s now an all-weather track and won’t get muddy when it’s rainy. Plus it’s nice and smooth for scooters. Be aware though that falls on this surface may be rough – wear pants and long sleeves for protection and maybe keep some band-aids handy.
The pump track is a great area for young riders and gives them a continuous loop with plenty of smooth mounds and bumps to navigate. It’s pretty big too so a number of kids can ride on it at the same time safely. Obviously kids need to be supervised though to make sure they are all going in the right direction (clockwise).
The jump track includes some pretty amazing jumps for extremely advanced riders. Check this one out below!
For kids there are bike trails in the Beginner’s Zone that are perfect for beginners, children and families. You’ll find these situated just over the other side of the grassy area, beside the playground. There are sheltered tables & chairs next to this area and the bike pump for parents to sit and watch.
If your child is a confident bike rider, they can move onto the Intermediate Trails, including Jump Track 1, and then the more advanced Jump Track 2. Beware, though they may look unassuming from a distance, as the mounds don’t look that high, they are definitely rated for riders with advanced bike handling skills. It’s a downhill slope too – so you are coming down the track at a pretty fast speed. If your child has only just started riding a bike recently, these tracks are not for them.
My 8 year old was able to do Jump Track 1 confidently. He has been riding a bike on two wheels since he was 3 and regularly does long bike rides. He did try Jump Track 2 but found it too difficult.
The distance between the start of the jump tracks to the end is very long and you cannot see your child from one end to the other. Take this into consideration if they need supervision. It is best that they are accompanied by an adult as you are unable to see if they fall off along the way. It’s a hard slog going back uphill to the start again. You can be sure to tire them out after spending some time here.
If you need, there is a little bike repair station for quick fixes and to pump up your tyres.
SAFETY NOTE:
- We urge you to please read the signs explaining the bike trails when you get there, before you head onto the tracks. It is very important that you choose the right tracks for your skill level. We saw a couple of accidents while we were there – both of them were adults – who came off their bikes (one quite spectacular and scary at the same time).
- It is important that you ride in the right direction around the tracks – clockwise.
- Remember to stay off the tracks if you are not riding. If you’re standing near the tracks to supervise your kids, don’t accidentally wander onto the tracks – the bike riders are coming at a fast speed and it could end in disaster.
Beyond the playground and bike tracks there are also walking trails and mountain bike trails that can be explored. Look out for birds and other wildlife, and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Cobbler Creek Recreation Park Summary
We know it’s a great park when the kids immediately ask to go back there the next day! The playground and Pedler’s Paddock bike trails make Cobbler Creek a top park to visit and it’s worth a drive to get there. It’s a huge win, especially for families in Adelaide’s north, and we hope it encourages many people to utilise this fabulous play space, and to enjoy some time outdoors together.
- Playground has unique treehouse lookouts, tyre swing, flying fox, slide, sandpits, sand play structure, nature play opportunities.
- Suitable for families with kids of all ages. There’s something for everyone.
- BBQs, plenty of picnic tables and benches, most of them in shade.
- Toilets, taps, drinking water fountain, dog drinking bowl.
- Dogs are allowed if kept on a leash.
- Pump track, bike tracks and trails for beginners to very advanced riders.
- There is free car parking. There are two car parks – one near the entrance, and another further into the park, adjacent the playground.
- With all the facilities available you can easily spend many hours there; have a picnic; bbq lunch; a group catchup.
Location:
Approx. 19km north of Adelaide’s CBD, situated between Golden Grove and Salisbury.
Entrance is at corner of Bridge Road and Smith Road, Salisbury East.
Discover all the best playgrounds for toddlers
See our top parks & playgrounds around Adelaide
For more information and all enquiries please visit the National Parks SA website.
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: All photos by Play & Go
SUBSCRIBE
Want to get all the latest events and activities straight to your inbox?
Subscribe to our weekly email newsletter below to keep up to date with our latest posts and find out all the best events & activities for Adelaide families. Newsletters are only sent once a week, and you may sometimes get a special offer exclusively for our subscribers only!
