Footprints - by Susie Williams

Welcome to Footprints, our new regular feature dedicated to helping readers embrace the great outdoors right in our very own backyard. Take only memories, leave nothing but footprints.

Every Spring, the Williams family tradition leads us to Deep Creek. However, this time was different.

With the prospect of a kid-free weekend (the first in 19 years!), we decided to indulge ourselves in the award-winning Ridgetop Retreats, designed by the renowned architect Max Pritchard. These retreats, nestled in the Stringybark Forest, seamlessly marry sustainability with a high standard of comfort. The floor-to-ceiling windows provide an immersive connection to nature, even in the shower!

After a restful night surrounded by the cheerful chirps of birds, we were eager to embark on a new adventure. Our destination was Gondooloo Ridge picnic area, armed with prepacked lunches. This time, our chosen path was the Aaron Creek Circuit, a National Parks Grade 4 trek covering 5.5km and taking about 3 hours for a return walk.

The initial stretch of the hike was a leisurely stroll along a wide, easy path under the watchful gaze of kangaroos lazing in the shade. Passing through a fenced-off area, the landscape transformed dramatically, evolving from tall eucalyptus to head-high native shrubs. The trail eventually led us to a breathtaking viewpoint atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the sea—a truly stunning sight.

Descending steeply, we reached the Eagle Waterhole Campground, a hidden oasis nestled among gum trees, fern-lined gullies, and lily-covered creek beds. This idyllic spot, sheltered from the wind, boasts clean amenities, a cooking shelter with running water, and elevated timber platforms for camping. It's a perfect spot for a picnic or camping, surrounded by the beauty of nature.

As we continued our journey, following Aaron Creek through thick bushland, we encountered butterflies, dragonflies, and blooming lilies. A junction offered the choice to extend our hike to the sea, a decision reserved for another day.

Opting for the path to the right, we ascended a narrow, steep trail bordered by grass tree fronds (Xanthorrhoea australis) and native branches. Two waterfalls adorned with lilies and vibrant flowers provided a picturesque pause. A wooden bench at the top became our afternoon tea spot, offering a serene view of the gully and its resident birdlife, including the delightful, superb fairy wrens.

Close to the top we encountered a grass hilltop where the yakkas were in full flower. The birds were enjoying the bugs that were attracted to the tall flowers. We stopped and watched a crow who was amusing us with doing the splits, then hanging upside down….the things he would do to catch the insect he was after was truly entertaining.

Reflecting on our good fortune, just 1.5 hours from Adelaide's CBD, we marvelled at the feeling of being alone in untouched bushland. Completing the circuit within 2 hours, we appreciated the challenge, especially the uphill sections, making this hike one of Deep Creek's hidden gems.

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A month later, we returned with friends to the Stringybark Campground, nestled among tall stringybark trees. Annual camping gatherings had become a cherished tradition, blending hikes with evenings by the fire, sharing stories and enjoying hearty campfire meals.

Our chosen day hike? You guessed it—the Aaron Creek Hike, with some brave souls opting for the extension to the coast. The southern track, overgrown and challenging, demanded long sleeves for protection against blackberry bushes. Crisscrossing Aaron's Creek continuously, we encountered lizards and even a few slippery snakes, adding an extra layer of adventure.

The reward at the end—a steep rock climb down to a secluded beach, offering spectacular views of the Southern Ocean waves crashing into a rocky cove and Kangaroo Island in the distance. A sense of pride filled us as we enjoyed a well-deserved treat of fruit and water, discovering a mini cave with a tiny booklet and pen tucked inside. Adding our names to the list of explorers, we left it for future hikers to find, wondering how many more would join this tradition in the years to come.

The journey back tested our stamina, navigating overgrown pathways, but with good spirits intact, we completed the extension in one piece, scratches and all. The additional 2 hours brought the total hike length to approximately 10km, challenging but immensely rewarding for those with a passion for hiking and a good level of fitness.

In the heart of nature, we discovered that taking these footsteps truly is good for the soul.