Melrose to Wilmington Cycle and Walking Track

The Melrose to Wilmington Cycle and Walking Track, popularly known as the Southern Flinders Rail Trail, is a 19.7km one-way trail starting from the northern side of the Melrose Showgrounds towards Wilmington.

This trail caters to all outdoor enthusiasts, including walkers, dog walkers, joggers, and cyclists.

Primarily aimed at cyclists, the trail is flat and not technically challenging, making it an ideal option for beginners. The trail surface is gravel and is suitable for mountain or hybrid bikes. The trail is signposted as Intermediate (IMBA Easy-Green) and is part of a more extensive plan called the Southern Flinders Rail Trail.

Cycling and walking are the best activities to enjoy on this trail while relishing scenic views of the Flinders Ranges and the Outback region. The trail passes through the Willowie forest tracks, which are a bit bumpy, offering off-road action for mountain bikers. As the trail runs parallel to the main road, the traffic remains safely away from the trail.

The best time to visit the Melrose to Wilmington Cycle and Walking Track is during the cooler months of the year, from March to November, when the weather is mild and pleasant enough for outdoor activities. The trail takes around four to five hours one way for the whole trail, so planning accordingly is recommended.

To reach the Melrose Showgrounds, travelers can take the Stuart Highway/Funny Main Road route, which is about 238km northwest of Adelaide. Wilmington, on the other hand, can be accessed via National Highway A1 from Adelaide. While in Wilmington, visitors can take a