Saunders Gorge 4WD track
Author: Vanessa Tripodi, March 2006

Four-wheel-driving can be exciting, challenging and rewarding, but are you searching for a track you can tackle without worrying about getting lost?

Saunders Gorge Sanctuary in the Mount Lofty Ranges is a private conservation area which now includes a 4WD loop for those wishing to explore the wildlife and views of the hills, just 75km from Adelaide.

The Eagle View 4WD Trail was opened in November 2005 after Brenton and Nadene Newman, who ran tours around the Sanctuary in their own 4WD, received enquires about a public trail. The trail is made up of existing tracks through the area which have been connected and improved to make them safer and easier to navigate.

After picking up your map and information sheet from the entrance, the trail takes you across rugged hills, over rocky outcrops and across dry creek beds. It takes around three hours to complete the loop which takes you through the 1,364 hectare gorge. Here you will find kangaroos, bearded dragons, and 67 species of native birds.

Located at the beginning of the loop are the campgrounds and surrounding the gorge, are B&B cottages, as well as picnic areas and a restaurant.

To explore the trail you will need a 4WD vehicle with high and low range, not just an all-wheel-drive vehicle. The trail is suitable for drivers of all experience levels, and help is available if needed.

Bookings are essential and a day pass is $45 per vehicle, plus any accommodation costs. The trail is open Friday to Monday from 10am, all year round, except on fire ban days, or days of high fire risk. The trail can be opened on other days for group bookings.

Saunders Gorge Sanctuary is located 18 km East of Mount Pleasant on the main road from Mount Pleasant to Walkers Flat. No pets or generators are permitted. For more information contact Brenton and Nadene Newman on 08 8569 3032 or email them at nature@saundersgorge.com.au or visit their website at www.saundersgorge.com.au




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