The Hallett Cove Geological trail in South Australia follows an amazing, ancient coastline.
You walk pass “Sugarloaf” (shown) made from layers of sediment deposited on the bottom of an ancient glacial meltwater lake.
Further along the coastal path, a wooden deck leads towards stairs, which descend to the rocky coastline below.
The coastline is ancient. Rocks from 600million years old, wear glacial scars from an ice age 280 million years ago.
As you wander along the rocky coast, you see rocks with beautiful colours and carvings.The feeling of the place is magical.
Clambering towards the base of the cliff, there is a small cave-like alcove where the sound of the waves is softened. Sit here for a while, close your eyes, breathe the fresh sea air, and listen to the conversation between the rocks and waves. Allow yourself to merge with the depth of this place in time.

 ABOUT MORIALTA

The Kaurna aboriginal clan are the traditional owners and custodians of Morialta Conservation Park. The name ‘Morialta’ derives from the indigenous word ‘Moriatta’ which means ‘ever-flowing creek’.

The Jewel of Morialta Conservation Park is its narrow gorge, surrounded by rocky cliffs. There are 3 consecutive waterfalls, with the final waterfall dropping 30 metres into the gorge.

This place, especially the gorge, holds a feeling of ancientness. The red, weathered cliff faces wait patiently, telling stories of immense forces that formed and shaped them under the sea millions of years ago.

The plateau walk follows a circuit high along the rim of the gorge, providing spectacular views from the cliffs, with a distant outlook across the plains towards the city of Adelaide, and its coastline.

YOUR JOURNEY

As you walk high along the rim of the gorge, you pass a cluster of she-oaks, Their willowy branches and fine needles whisper in the gentle breeze.

Further along the path you find yourself at the edge of a stream. Leafy green plants sway under the current of the clear water. You hop across some stepping stones and continue along the river pathway.

As you come closer to the top of the waterfall, you find a comfortable place to sit upon the smooth rocks.

Breathe easily and listen to the gentle cascade of the water as it tumbles effortlessly towards the waterfall edge. Sit here as long as you like, allowing your thoughts to quieten as you sense the calm, graceful energy of this place in time.

Along this 4km hike, you will encounter a small gully, where there is a small waterfall. Even when the waterfall is barely trickling, the gully attracts diverse birdlife, including kookaburras, small finches, New Holland honey eaters, Golden Whistlers and wrens. Frogs can often be heard croaking in the cool grassy riverbed below.
Breathe deeply, come into your stillness, and take a moment to sense the beautiful energy and tranquility held in this place in time.