Route Summary

Distance: Approximately 8 km (one way)

Start Point: Kilburn / Islington

End Point: Adelaide CBD

Trail Type: Shared-use urban rail trail

Surface: Sealed paths and dedicated bike lanes

Terrain: Mostly flat, gentle gradients

View the full Mike Turtur Bikeway route here

Introduction

The Mike Turtur Bikeway is one of Adelaide’s most important shared use cycling routes, running north to south through the inner suburbs and providing a safe, direct connection to the Adelaide CBD. Following a former railway corridor, the bikeway offers a mostly flat, traffic separated ride that suits commuter cycling, recreational riding and family friendly trips. Its linear layout and sealed surface make it a reliable option for riders travelling efficiently across metropolitan Adelaide.

The bikeway caters to a wide range of riders, including commuters, families, casual riders and those new to cycling in Adelaide. With minimal elevation change and a smooth surface throughout, it comfortably supports road bikes, hybrid bikes and everyday commuter setups. Riding conditions are predictable and consistent, allowing cyclists to move between suburbs while remaining largely separated from vehicle traffic. While the scenery is predominantly urban, tree lined sections and pockets of open space provide relief and visual interest along the route.

History
The Mike Turtur Bikeway follows the alignment of the former Islington railway line, which once played a key role in moving people and goods through Adelaide’s inner northern suburbs. When the railway ceased operations, the corridor was identified as an opportunity to create a continuous off-road cycling and walking route. Repurposing the rail corridor preserved its transport function while adapting it to modern active transport needs.

The bikeway is named in honour of Mike Turtur, a respected South Australian cyclist, administrator and advocate who made a lasting contribution to cycling participation and development. His work supported both grassroots and elite cycling and helped shape safer cycling environments across the state. The bikeway reflects his legacy through its focus on access, safety and everyday riding.

Significance
The Mike Turtur Bikeway holds strong significance as a key commuter cycling route within Adelaide’s metropolitan cycling network. It demonstrates how dedicated cycling infrastructure can support daily travel, reduce reliance on cars and encourage active transport across inner city suburbs. For many riders, it provides a practical and safe alternative to driving, linking residential areas directly with the city.

Beyond its transport role, the bikeway represents the successful reuse of historic infrastructure for community benefit. Transforming a former railway corridor into a shared use path connects Adelaide’s transport history with its future. As a well-used and accessible cycling corridor, the Mike Turtur Bikeway continues to shape how people move through Adelaide by bike.

Northern Section
Kilburn to Croydon Park

The northern end of the Mike Turtur Bikeway begins around Kilburn and Islington, travelling south through established inner north suburbs. This section reflects the bikeway’s commuter focus, with a straight and efficient alignment that closely follows the former rail corridor. Riding is smooth and uninterrupted, with consistent sealed surfaces and frequent access points linking surrounding neighbourhoods.

Tree cover and wide verges soften the urban setting, while the flat terrain makes this section particularly suitable for daily commuting, social rides and riders building confidence in metropolitan cycling. Crossings are spaced to allow steady progress without constant stopping.

Central Section
Croydon Park to Bowden

Between Croydon Park and Brompton, the bikeway passes through some of its most active and connected areas. This section highlights the route’s role as a transport corridor, linking residential suburbs with schools, employment areas and local services. Intersections are well managed and visibility remains clear, allowing riders to maintain momentum while staying separated from traffic.

As the bikeway approaches Bowden, the surroundings become more mixed, with green spaces and renewed urban development appearing along the route. This section attracts a wide range of users, from regular commuters to recreational riders heading toward the city.

Southern Section
Bowden to Adelaide CBD

The southern section draws riders into the Adelaide Park Lands and toward the city centre. Open green spaces and wider corridors create a strong sense of arrival as the bikeway integrates with the Park Lands trail network. Connections to other Adelaide cycling paths make this section an important junction within the broader cycling system.

This final stretch reinforces the bikeway’s role as a gateway between suburban cycling and city riding. The flat alignment and high-quality surface make it suitable at all times of day, whether used for commuting, fitness riding or a relaxed trip into the CBD.

Food and Accommodation
The Mike Turtur Bikeway runs close to a wide range of cafes, bakeries, pubs and local shops, particularly through Croydon Park, Brompton and Bowden. The Adelaide CBD offers extensive food options and accommodation, making the bikeway easy to include in longer rides or overnight stays. Its proximity to public transport and urban services supports flexible planning and strengthens its role as a practical everyday cycling route.