{"id":28734,"date":"2019-01-18T08:35:28","date_gmt":"2019-01-17T22:05:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/?p=28734"},"modified":"2022-11-07T13:24:47","modified_gmt":"2022-11-07T02:54:47","slug":"lavender-federation-trail-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/lavender-federation-trail-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Guide to Walking the Lavender Federation Trail"},"content":{"rendered":"

The Lavender Federation trail<\/a> is a linear walking trail that begins its journey on the banks of the Murray River in Murray Bridge, SA. For 325 km it winds its way northward towards the Clare Valley<\/a> ending in the town of Clare. You find yourself walking amongst some spectacular countryside, through fields of canola, and green paddocks with the company of sheep, cows and even kangaroos.<\/p>\n

On this trail, you’ll be serenaded by the sounds of the birds, you’ll dodge a few wombat holes, be greeted by a myriad of wildlife and share a rock with the odd lizard or two. You stroll along country dirt roads, up rocky outcrops and a wander through the famous Barossa Valley Region.<\/a><\/p>\n

\"A<\/p>\n

You’ll wander through bright yellow fields of Canola on this walk.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

There is so much to see and unusual sights as well such as some very long necks reaching high into the treetops! Yes, giraffes along with the odd lion, zebra or even a rhino! This is because, through Rocky Gully, you pass by Monarto Safari Park<\/a> – one of the world\u2019s largest open-range zoos.<\/p>\n

I found walking in the Australian countryside and happening upon this sight unusual, but a real treat.<\/p>\n

\"You<\/p>\n

Flocks of sheep will keep you company on this journey.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

History of the trail<\/h2>\n

This trail is named in the honour of the late \u2018Mr. Bushwalking\u2019, Terry Lavender<\/a>. He was the architect for the trail and is a man who is also remembered for his part in the creation of the famous Heysen Trail.<\/a><\/p>\n

In the late 1990\u2019s it was realised that the eastern side of the Mt. Lofty Ranges in South Australia offered a great location for a long distance walking trail with the ranges protecting the trail from harsh weather for most of the year. It was designed, built and is now maintained by a team of volunteers.<\/p>\n

\"You<\/p>\n

The trail is maintained by a group of dedicated volunteers
\n<\/em>called Friends of Heysen – and other walking trails.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

The trail has many varieties of link and loop sections to explore and it connects to other trails including the Heysen and the Riesling trails.<\/a> You also pass through townships including Murray Bridge, Tungkillo, Eudunda, Mintaro and Clare.<\/p>\n

There is so much history to be found on this trail and in the towns you enter. Much of it goes back to the early 1800s and is well worth researching beforehand to find out more as you wander along. When you come across the town of Springton a must visit is the historical Herbig Tree<\/a>. Friedrich and Caroline Herbig lived in this hollowed out River Red Gum tree (which is 300-500 years old) back in 1855 with the first 2 of their 16 children.<\/p>\n

\"Big<\/p>\n

The towns you pass through are steeped in history.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

Length<\/strong><\/h2>\n

This trail is 325 km in length with an extra 100km of loops and spur trails to explore.<\/p>\n

Trail markers<\/strong><\/h2>\n

You will find this trail to be very well marked with reflective silver and green plaques with an arrow pointing the way. They are on posts, fences and even rocks. Although the trail is well marked it is recommended that you purchase and carry the maps for the trail.<\/p>\n

\"Look<\/p>\n

Look out for the trail markers that are posted along the way.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

Navigation – m<\/strong>aps and guidebooks\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n

With 6 maps in total, these can be purchased at many outlets including the Lavender Federation Trail<\/a> website, Murray Bridge Visitors Centre and Clare Visitors Centre. The maps contain great information including the trail length and terrain, historical information of the area and more.<\/p>\n

\"Maps<\/p>\n

Even though the Lavender Federation trail is well marked, it’s recommended to use a map.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

What\u2019s the best time of the year to hike it?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

It is recommended to walk this trail between the months of March and November. Remember Summer in Australia can be extremely hot and there is always a high risk of fire. Walking is not permitted on days of total fire bans.<\/p>\n

Terrain <\/strong><\/h2>\n

The terrain is varied and for the most part a comfortable walk with a few steeper and rocky sections. You will be travelling through many private farmlands and old dirt country roads.<\/p>\n

\"Dirt<\/p>\n

It’s a comfortable walk with some steep and rocky areas.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

Accommodation<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Camping is strictly prohibited at any point along the Lavender Trail, so you have to plan your accommodation ahead of time. The Lavender Federation Trail<\/a> website has a full list of available places to stay along the route which you should check out.<\/p>\n

What fitness level do I need?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

You would need to have a relatively good level of walking fitness for this trail.<\/p>\n

\"Hiking<\/p>\n

If you want to walk this trail, you will need to be in good shape. Image: Graham Hallandal<\/em><\/p>\n

Gear to take<\/strong><\/h2>\n