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Circuit distance : 6.5 kilometres This walk of the Torrens Linear Park covers the section between King William Road and Port Road. We park the car on Park Terrace, just across the railway line from Port Road.
• 1 Crossing Park Terrace and the railway line, we follow this access road across the Parklands leading to an Equestrian Park. Recent rains have made some scenic reflective puddles.
• 2 At the end of the road a walking trail branches off and follows close by the river. It soon leads to this small weir and footbridge across from Bonython Park.
• 3 A pelican enjoys the pool formed by this weir.
• 4 The trail passes under a railway bridge which is in a state of repair or rebuilding. I was interested to notice this adjacent piece of history.
• 5 In fact the phrase 'trains, planes and automobiles' comes to mind as there is intrusive noise from all three. However, the river has its own tranquility.
• 6 Past the train bridge the trail deteriorates to a dirt track, but is still attractive along here by the golf course.
• 7 We soon come to the main weir with the adjacent restaurant and fountain, this view looking back from the Morphett Street Bridge.
• 8 Looking the other way we catch our first sight of the Festival Centre.
• 9 Walkers feeling the need of rest could book in at The Intercontinental Hotel ... or perhaps not!
• 10 Time to view the Myer Centre Clock peeping between the buildings of the Festival Centre.
• 11 The Elder Park fountain gives a brave display, although it often looks wind-blown. The King William Road bridge can be seen at left.
• 12 Viewed from Elder Park, the fountain has a touch of colour today.
• 13 Elder Park with its iron rotunda was opened in 1882. The rotunda, built in Glasgow, is 9 metres high and was funded by Sir Thomas Elder Smith, the park being named after him.
• 14 Nearby is the place to meet Popeye, but he seems to be off visiting Olive Oyl today!
• 15 A study in black and white: pelicans and black swans.
• 16 We walk back under the Morphett Street Bridge which is showing some pretty water reflections.
• 17 The Weir Restaurant is a place for a special meal.
• 18 The Torrens Weir was complete in 1881 at the cost 7000 pounds. It holds back the 12 hectare (30 acre) Torrens Lake.
• 19 The trail back to the railway bridge follows high above the river.
• 20 It emerges beside a colourful scene, and here under the Ghan! Actually this seemed to be just a detached wagon flashing past.
• 21 Approaching Port Road there is a further small weir and bridge. • 22 Finally the trail bypasses the West End Brewery whose famous chimney is traditionally decorated with the colours of the current footy champions.
So back to the car. I am amazed at the variety there is along this river: it is definitely worth exploring.
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