Semaphore Rail Trail

The Semaphore Rail Trail is an easy 4.2 km sealed cycling and walking trail in Adelaide’s north-west, running from New Port through Semaphore to Semaphore Park. Around 16 km from the Adelaide CBD, the route follows parts of the former Semaphore railway corridor before reaching the coast and continuing alongside the operating Semaphore–Fort Glanville tourist railway. Mostly flat and well surfaced, it’s particularly suited to families, beginner riders, hybrids, e-bikes and recreational cyclists. Starting near Semaphore Road and Panama Drive at New Port, the trail heads west towards Glanville Station and then follows Semaphore Road through the heart of Semaphore. This section mixes shared path, marked bicycle facilities and a short on-road section before reaching Semaphore Beach and Jetty. Cafés, shops, playgrounds and facilities along Semaphore Road make this an easy ride to combine with a stop for lunch or coffee. From Semaphore Jetty, the ride turns south and becomes particularly scenic. A sealed railside path runs through the coastal parklands beside the Semaphore and Fort Glanville Tourist Railway, where riders may find themselves cycling alongside one of the little steam trains. The trail continues through the dunes past historic Fort Glanville before finishing at Semaphore Park, where there are toilets, picnic facilities and a playground. There’s plenty of railway history packed into the short route. The original Semaphore railway opened in 1878, connecting Port Adelaide with the new Semaphore jetty and helping move supplies towards nearby military installations. The line remained in service for a century before closing in 1978. Today, the wide median along Semaphore Road provides one of the clearest reminders of where the railway once ran. The trail really comes into its own when connected with Adelaide’s wider cycling network. Near Glanville it intersects the Outer Harbor Greenway, providing connections towards Port Adelaide, Adelaide CBD and Outer Harbor. At the coast, riders can also join the Coast Park Path, opening up much longer rides along Adelaide’s metropolitan coastline. RTS Tip: At only 4.2 km, Semaphore is perfect for a relaxed family ride, but it’s even better as part of a bigger loop. Combine the Outer Harbor Greenway, Semaphore Rail Trail and Coast Park Path for a longer adventure through Port Adelaide and along the coast. If riding with kids, the Semaphore Jetty to Semaphore Park section is a great choice — it’s flat, scenic and you might even get to ride alongside a steam train. Be aware that bikes aren't permitted on Semaphore Jetty itself, so park the bike and explore the jetty on foot.