Your Weekend Plans, Sorted: 6 Adelaide Bike Trails Your Kids Will Actually Beg to Ride

That familiar Friday afternoon feeling hits. What are we going to do this weekend? Before the dreaded chorus of “I’m bored!” can even begin, we’re here with your new secret weapon: a list of bike trails so fun, your kids will be grabbing their own helmets. We’ve found the paths that swap whinging for wheeling, with adventures perfect for little legs, tween trailblazers, and everyone in between.

Getting outdoors on two wheels is the perfect way to reconnect, burn off that endless energy, and make memories that last far longer than a screen. But first, a quick friendly safety check! Make sure everyone’s helmet is snug, pack plenty of water and snacks, and pop a bell on the handlebars for a cheerful “coming through!” on shared paths.

Now, let's roll into a weekend of adventure.

This is the heart of Adelaide’s cycling network and an absolute gem for families. The mostly flat, paved path follows the beautiful Karrawirra Parri (River Torrens) from the foothills to the sea. You can hop on and off wherever you like, creating a ride that’s as long or as short as your family can handle.

Why You’ll Love It:  The adventure is non-stop! It’s not just a path; it’s a journey past playgrounds, ducks to feed, and open green spaces perfect for a mid-ride picnic. Kids love the freedom, and you’ll love that it feels like a green oasis right in the city.

• Location:  A great starting point is Bonython Park, Adelaide SA 5000. There's ample parking and facilities.

• Trail Highlights:  The Bonython Park Activity Hub has an awesome playground and kiosk that’s worth the trip alone. Further along, you’ll pass the Adelaide Zoo and the iconic Adelaide Oval.

• Family & Safety Tips:  The path can get busy with commuters on weekday mornings. Weekends are generally more relaxed. Always keep left and listen for faster cyclists approaching from behind. The path is wide and ideal for all types of bikes, scooters, and prams.

Fancy a ride with a side of stunning vineyard views? The Shiraz Trail is a flat, easy 8km path built on a former railway line between McLaren Vale and Willunga. It's a key section of the longer Coast to Vines Rail Trail and is perfect for a leisurely family pedal.

Why You’ll Love It:  This is a ride that feels like a real country escape. Kids will be so busy taking in the rows of grapevines and waving at friendly locals, they won't even notice the exercise. The promise of a treat at a country bakery is the ultimate motivation.

• Location:  Start at the McLaren Vale & Fleurieu Coast Visitor Centre (796 Main Rd, McLaren Vale) or at the old Willunga Railway Station.

• Trail Highlights:  The trail passes right by the family-friendly Shingleback Winery. In Willunga, the historic township and the delicious smells from the Willunga Farmers Market (on Saturdays) are a must-do.

• Family & Safety Tips:  While mostly flat, it's a "there-and-back" trail, so plan your distance. A 16km round trip might be too much for little ones, so consider a one-way ride and have a car waiting at the other end. Pack sunscreen, as some sections are exposed.

Breathing in the fresh sea air while you ride is an unbeatable feeling. The Encounter Bikeway stretches 30km from Goolwa to Victor Harbor, but the 7.5km section between Victor Harbor and Port Elliot is a family favourite. It’s a spectacular coastal ride with plenty to see and do.

Why You’ll Love It:  Two words: Cockle Train! Kids will absolutely beg to do this ride just for the chance of spotting the historic steam train chugging past on the adjacent track. It’s a magical moment that turns a great ride into an unforgettable one.

• Location:  Start at the Victor Harbor Foreshore, near the whale tail fountain, and ride east towards Port Elliot.

• Trail Highlights:  Stop for a play at the Victor Harbor Foreshore Playground before you go. In Port Elliot, Horseshoe Bay is the perfect spot for a paddle and a hot chip reward from the famous Port Elliot Bakery.

• Family & Safety Tips:  The section into Port Elliot has a few gentle but noticeable hills. Take your time with younger riders. The coastal breeze can be strong, so be prepared for a bit of extra effort in one direction!

This is the ultimate beach-hopping bike ride. The Coast Park Path is a 70km shared-use trail along Adelaide's metropolitan coastline. The 7.5km stretch between the bustling hubs of Henley Square and Glenelg’s Moseley Square is flat, easy, and full of life.

Why You’ll Love It:  The destination is always in sight: the beach! This ride is a guaranteed winner because you can break it up with sandcastle-building, a quick dip, or a quest for the best ice cream. It's the perfect blend of activity and relaxation.

• Location:  Start at Henley Square, Henley Beach SA 5022, and ride south.

• Trail Highlights:  Both Henley Square and Moseley Square are packed with cafes, restaurants, and ice cream shops. The jetties at Henley Beach and Glenelg are perfect for a mid-ride stroll.

• Family & Safety Tips:  This is a very popular path for walkers, runners, and cyclists. Remember your bell and be courteous to other users. The sun reflects off the water, so sunglasses and sunscreen are essential, even on cooler days.

For families wanting to swap the pavement for some bushland beauty, Belair National Park is the answer. While it has many mountain bike trails, the park's internal roads and easier fire trails are perfect for a family adventure.

Why You’ll Love It:  Kids will feel like real explorers on a safari! The excitement of trying to spot koalas, emus, and kangaroos is a huge motivator. It’s not just a ride; it’s a nature quest that ends at the incredible Adventure Playground.

• Location:  Enter Belair National Park, Upper Sturt Road, Belair SA 5052 (vehicle entry fees apply). Park near the Adventure Playground.

• Trail Highlights:  The Adventure Playground is a destination in itself, with forts, tunnels, and plenty of space to run around. A gentle ride around Playford Lake is beautiful and great for spotting birdlife.

• Family & Safety Tips:  Stick to the sealed roads and marked, easy (green) trails. Check the park's website for any trail closures, especially after heavy rain. Mobile phone reception can be patchy in some areas of the park.

Follow the tram! This 9.5km bikeway runs alongside the Glenelg tramline, providing a direct, flat, and mostly uninterrupted path from the city’s edge all the way to the beach at Glenelg. It’s a fantastic, practical trail for a destination ride.

Why You’ll Love It:  It’s a real-life race against the tram! Kids love the novelty and excitement of riding alongside the tram, waving at passengers as it glides past. The big reward at the end is Glenelg itself, with the beach, jetty, and The Beachouse ready to explore.

• Location:  A good starting point is on the corner of South Terrace and Peacock Road, Adelaide SA 5000.

• Trail Highlights:  The quirky "bike chain people" sculptures along Wattle Terrace are fun to spot. Arriving at Moseley Square and seeing the beach open up before you is the perfect finale.

• Family & Safety Tips:  The bikeway crosses several main roads. Always dismount and walk across these busy intersections with children. It's a popular commuter route, so remember to keep left.