Share on

Adelaide Park Lands Loop

Run Adelaide's iconic Park Lands Loop, a 19.5 km circuit through 27 interconnected parks surrounding the CBD with flat terrain and historic city scenery.
June 17, 2026
6 min read

The Adelaide Park Lands Loop is one of Australia's most unique urban running routes, tracing a figure-of-eight through the historic green belt that completely surrounds Adelaide's CBD. Covering approximately 19.5 kilometres, the route passes through 27 interconnected parks and gardens, creating a running experience unlike any other capital city in the country.

The route showcases Colonel William Light's vision of Adelaide as a city within a park, a design that remains one of the world's most successful examples of urban planning. Runners move between open parklands, mature tree-lined avenues and iconic landmarks including the Adelaide Botanic Gardens, Adelaide Zoo, Victoria Park and North Adelaide.

One of the biggest strengths of the Park Lands Loop is its flexibility. While many runners tackle the full 19.5-kilometre circuit as a marathon-training route, shorter options including the South Adelaide Loop and North Adelaide Loop allow runners to tailor the distance to suit their goals.

The predominantly flat terrain makes the route accessible to runners of all abilities, while regular water fountains, public facilities and nearby cafés make logistics easy. Whether you're visiting Adelaide for the first time or building weekly long-run mileage, the Park Lands Loop offers one of the most enjoyable urban running experiences in Australia.

Practical Information

Address:
Adelaide Park Lands, Adelaide SA 5000
Run Surface
Road
Distance:
19.5 km full loop | 12.5 km South Loop | 9 km North Loop
Difficulty Level
2/5
Terrain:
Predominantly flat with gentle undulation and no significant climbs
Elevation Gain(m)
50–80 m gain | 164–262 ft
Safety rating:
5/5
Toilets Nearby
Yes
public Transport Access
Excellent access from Adelaide Railway Station, tram services and city bus routes.
Parking Notes
Paid and free parking options are available around the CBD and surrounding park lands.
Best Time To Run
Early morning year-round, with spring and autumn offering the most comfortable temperatures.

Important Notes

The route is shared with walkers and cyclists in some sections. Carry water during warmer months and expect higher foot traffic around popular parks on weekends.

Faqs

How long is the Adelaide Park Lands Loop?
The full loop is approximately 19.5 kilometres, with shorter 12.5 km and 9 km variations available.

Is the route suitable for beginners?
Yes. The flat terrain makes it suitable for runners of all experience levels.

When is the best time to run?
Spring and autumn provide the most comfortable conditions, although the route is popular year-round.

Explore more