Experience the Best of South Australia with the Mount Lofty Downhill Bike Tour & Cleland Wildlife Park Visit
Imagine starting your day with a ride that combines adventure, wildlife, and breathtaking scenery. This 4-hour tour from Adelaide takes you from the summit of Mount Lofty, the highest point in the Mount Lofty Ranges, all the way down through native bushland to the city. For just $112 per person, you get a well-rounded experience that blends active outdoor fun with close encounters with Australia’s iconic animals. Plus, a visit to Cleland Wildlife Park offers the chance to feed kangaroos and pet koalas, making it a memorable day for nature lovers.
Two things we particularly love about this tour are the spectacular views from Mount Lofty, which give you a real sense of South Australia’s diverse landscape, and the interactive wildlife experience. The guide’s patience and expertise help beginners feel confident on the off-road trail, while the chance to pet a koala and feed kangaroos adds a personal, authentic touch. On the downside, the ride can be a bit challenging if you’re not comfortable with mountain biking or narrow woodland trails, so some previous biking experience is recommended. This tour is perfect for active travelers who enjoy nature, scenic views, and wildlife encounters, especially if you’re looking for a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Scenic Descent: The ride from Mount Lofty offers incredible panoramic views of Adelaide and the surrounding hills.
- Wildlife Encounters: Feeding kangaroos and petting koalas are highlights, with opportunities to see wild animals along the trail.
- Guided Support: The guide’s instruction helps build confidence, especially for those less experienced in off-road biking.
- Authentic Experience: Enjoy a natural setting for morning tea and have up-close interactions with native wildlife.
- Active & Relaxing: The itinerary mixes energetic biking with leisurely wildlife exploration and scenic stops.
- Small Group: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personalized experience and plenty of attention from your guide.
Planning more time in Adelaide Hills? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
An In-Depth Look at the Mount Lofty Downhill Bike Tour & Wildlife Visit
Starting Point and Transportation
The tour begins with a convenient pick-up from central Adelaide or a meeting point at 91 Franklin Street. The transportation to Mount Lofty is included, saving you the hassle of navigating yourself. This is a big plus, especially if you’re eager to start the adventure without worrying about logistics. The guide, who speaks English, helps set the tone for an engaging day, sharing insights about the region’s geography and wildlife.
The Summit of Mount Lofty
Once at the top, at 710 meters, you’ll be greeted with panoramic views that stretch across Adelaide, the Adelaide Hills, and the plains beyond. The high vantage point makes for a dramatic start, and you’ll want to bring warm clothing — mornings can be cooler at the summit. We loved how the guide pointed out notable landmarks and offered tips for photography, making the most of this elevated perspective.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Downhill Ride Through Cleland Conservation Park
From Mount Lofty, the real fun begins. The descent is all downhill, with a mix of terrains designed to keep things interesting — some sections are rough and technical, others are smooth and fast. Expect to ride on narrow, wooded trails that wind through native bushland, and yes, you’ll likely see wild koalas along the way, adding to the thrill.
While the overall ride lasts around 90 minutes and covers roughly 18 km, what sticks with most riders is the variety of trail conditions. One reviewer noted, “It’s a challenging mountain bike route through a forest area,” but also emphasized the importance of having good bike control. The guide’s instructions are helpful, especially for less experienced off-road riders, helping to build confidence even on trickier sections.
Wildlife at Cleland Wildlife Park
After the adrenaline rush downhill, you’ll arrive at Cleland Wildlife Park, a highlight for many. Here, the focus shifts from riding to personal interaction. The park is known for providing more space for animals, which some reviews say makes a noticeable difference. Feeding kangaroos, petting wallabies, and even cuddling a koala are on the agenda. One guest said, “You get to hand-feed kangaroos and see animals in a more natural setting,” which is a significant step up from more crowded wildlife parks.
The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, eager to share insights about the animals and their habitat. You might even have the chance to pet a koala — a true Australian experience. During your visit, you can also enjoy a relaxed morning tea, complete with cakes and coffee, in a natural setting that enhances the outdoor vibe.
The Return to Adelaide
After the wildlife encounter, the tour continues on flat and downhill sections through the park, offering the chance to take in more natural beauty and spot additional wildlife. The ride then dips into suburban areas, showcasing the charming houses and parks of Adelaide’s outskirts. The final stretch offers a gentle ride back to Victoria Park, where you’ll get a view of Mount Lofty from below — a satisfying visual bookend to your adventure.
Value and Experience
This tour offers a good balance of adventure, wildlife, and scenic beauty for a reasonable price. The inclusion of quality mountain bikes with front suspension and disc brakes ensures a safe and comfortable ride, even on uneven trails. Morning tea adds a cozy, social touch, giving you time to relax and reflect on the morning’s highlights.
What the Reviews Say
Multiple reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who help beginners feel confident and the stunning scenery that makes the ride memorable. “Great experience; good guide and beautiful surroundings,” said Peter from the Netherlands. Others appreciated how the wildlife park visit added a personal touch, with one guest noting that “fewer animals but more space makes a huge difference.”
A few comments mention the importance of bike control and being comfortable with off-road riding, so this tour might not suit absolute beginners or those uncomfortable on narrow trails. Still, the general consensus is that it’s a fun, active, and authentic way to explore the Adelaide Hills and wildlife.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you enjoy outdoor activities, are interested in native Australian wildlife, and appreciate stunning views, this tour is a solid choice. It’s ideal for active travelers who want to combine a bit of adventure with wildlife photography and a taste of local nature. Families with older children or groups of friends looking for a fun, guided day out will find it particularly appealing.
The Sum Up
This Mount Lofty Downhill Bike Tour & Cleland Wildlife Park Visit offers a well-rounded day that showcases the best of South Australia’s natural environment. From the spectacular views at the summit of Mount Lofty to the interactive wildlife encounters at Cleland, it’s a great mix of adventure and authenticity.
The guided support and small group size make it accessible and engaging, even if you’re not a seasoned mountain biker. The tour’s emphasis on native wildlife adds a uniquely Australian touch, making it a memorable experience. We think it’s particularly suited for active travelers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a taste of the scenic hills just outside Adelaide.
If you’re after a day that combines scenic beauty, wildlife, and an active outdoor experience, this tour delivers on all fronts — often with rave reviews to back it up.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
While some reviews mention the importance of good bike control, the guide’s instructions help build confidence. It’s best for those who are comfortable cycling and willing to tackle some uneven, narrow trails.
What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing for the summit, as mornings can be cooler. A helmet and gloves are provided, and it’s wise to wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes (no open-toed footwear allowed).
How hard is the biking part?
The ride involves about 90 minutes of downhill biking over varied terrain, including some rough sections. You should be a competent cyclist, happy with off-road riding.
Are there wildlife encounters during the ride?
Yes, you’re likely to see wild koalas and other animals along the trail, and at Cleland Wildlife Park, you’ll have the chance to feed kangaroos and pet koalas.
What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers transportation from Adelaide, a fully qualified guide, a quality mountain bike, helmet and gloves, admission to Cleland Wildlife Park, and morning tea.
Is the tour available on specific days?
Most tours operate on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, but check in advance for availability.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans shift unexpectedly.
This tour provides a thoughtful mix of physical activity, wildlife, and scenic beauty—ideal for travelers seeking an authentic taste of South Australia’s outdoors.
You can check availability for your dates here: