New recreational trails to link Barossa reservoirs
More than 12,000 hectares of native bushland, plantation forests and conservation parks in the southern Barossa region will be available for recreational activity this June long weekend thanks to a network of new access trails.
The new 9.5 kilometre trail connecting the South Para and Warren reservoir reserves makes it easier for visitors to experience the beauty of both sites and enjoy a range of activities like picnicking, cycling and fishing, with a separate trail linking South Para to nearby Williamstown.
The expansion adds another element to the adventure tourism scene on offer as a result of the State Government’s policy to open up South Australian reservoirs for recreation.
The new trails will allow people to run or hike between two of the state’s prominent reservoirs while also connecting to camping grounds in the nearby Mount Crawford Forest or Para Wirra Conservation Park.
For the more adventurous who are experienced hikers, the north Warren loop trail connects to a beautiful but challenging 20-kilometre trek winding through the Mount Crawford Forest, and South Para Reservoir reserve to Para Wirra.
More than 15,000 people have visited the Warren and South Para reservoirs since they were opened up for expanded recreational activities last year.
Visitors can use the South Para and Warren reservoir reserves for a range of activities including kayaking, bushwalking, cycling and picnicking, with fishing available with the required fishing permit.
The State Government has plans to open more reservoirs for recreational access including suburban reservoirs at Hope Valley and Happy Valley.
Current South Australian regulations permit people to visit reservoir reserves and parks that are open for public access by following social distancing guidelines to stay 1.5 metres apart and to be in groups of no more than 20 people.
More information can be found at www.reservoirs.sa.gov.au
Photo credit: SA Water
