Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park in Sydney’s north has over 200km of bushwalking tracks, many of which are also suitable for mountain-biking. All of the Ku-ring-gai Chase bushwalking trails are listed below, divided into the five sections of the park:
- Barrenjoey
- Bobbin Head
- Duffys Forest / Terry Hills
- West Head
- North section (Mt Ku-ring-gai to Brooklyn
For a overview of the bushwalks, mountain-biking trails, swimming spots and waterfalls, please visit the Guide to Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.
Barrenjoey
Barrenjoey is a geographically separate part of Ku-ring-gai Chase, and only has a couple of formal bushwalking tracks which can combined into a loop walk.
Barrenjoey Lighthouse walk (2.4km) 
There are two routes to the Lighthouse, at the end of the narrow Barrenjoey peninula. The Access Trail (vehicular trail) is longer, but less steep than the Smugglers Track (walking trail). The best views are from the Smugglers Track, with multiple lookout points on the way up.
On Sundays, you can join a guided tour of Barrenjoey lighthouse which includes access to a museum and a visit to the top of the lighthouse tower.
| Location | Northern end of Governor Phillip Park car park (near The Boathouse cafe) |
| Distance | 2.4km return. Approx 1hr |
| Grade | Easy. Total ascent of 80m |
| More Info | Detailed walk description. National Parks web site |
Bobbin Head (St Ives / Turramurra / Wahroonga)
The Bobbin Head area has a number of signposted trails – as well as some informal trails and opportunities for off-track exploration. The trails below include those in the Council-managed Wahroonga Reserve and the St Ives Wildflower Garden.
Bobbin Head walks summary
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Peninsula Track (1km)
Part of the Wahroonga Reserve (which adjoins Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park), the short Peninsula Track leads to a spectacular rock platform just below Cliff Oval – a popular spot at sunset. Continue down the track and around some interesting rock formations to reach a firetrail and the Cliff Connection Track.
Suggested Walk: Combine this with Frog Hollow Fire Trail to form a 3.5km loop walk.
| Location | Starts at the northern end of Cliff Oval, North Wahroonga |
| Distance | 1km return. 30min. |
| Grade | Easy. |
| More Info | Detailed walk description of longer 3.5km north loop from Frog Hollow Fire Trail |
Frog Hollow Firetrail (1.2km) 
Part of the Wahroonga Reserve (which adjoins Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park), Frog Hollow Fire Trail follows Frasers Brook downstream, before crossing the creek and joining another fire trail which goes up to Grosvenor Street. An easy walk or bike ride (and dogs allowed on-leash) which provides access to a number of bushwalking tracks.
Suggested Walk: Combine this with Gibberagong Track or Cliff Connection to form a 3.5km or 3.9km loop walk.
| Location | Starts at the end of Lister Street, North Wahroonga |
| Distance | 1.2km return. 30min. |
| Grade | Easy. |
| More Info | Detailed walk description of longer (3.5km / 3.9km) loops from Frog Hollow Fire Trail |
Rainforest Track (1.6km) 
Starting at Bobbin Head, the Rainforest Track is also known as the Gibberagong Track (but is much shorter). It’s an interesting walk that crosses Cockle Creek on a suspension bridge before a boardwalk (with interpretative signage) through the mangroves. The track then passes some interesting rock formations, an Aboriginal axe-grinding site and a rock engraving. Just after the Gibberagong Track continues up Cockle Creek, the Rainforest Track descends to a rainforest area beside a small (unnamed) creek.
| Location | Starts at Bobbin Head carpark (North Turramurra) |
| Distance | 1.6km return. 45min. |
| Grade | Easy. 80m total ascentt. |
| More Info | Wildwalks track notes for Rainforest Track. |
Solander Trail (2km) – St Ives Wildflower Garden
It’s perhaps a bit generous to describe this as a bushwalk…. this sealed track in the St Ives Wildflower Garden is not particularly exciting, but it’s a good option if you’re walking with a stroller or for younger children riding bikes. The track passes a picnic area and playground.
Alternative: The Mueller Track is a longer bushwalk that also connects to the Solander Trail.
| Location | Start at Caleys Pavilion in the St Ives Wildflower Garden (North St Ives) |
| Distance | 2km loop. 30min. |
| Grade | Easy. Sealed path. |
| More Info | Detailed walk description |
Cliff Connection Track (2km)
The Cliff Connection Track is a little-known and little-used track, which is not surprising as it has no signage. The narrow and sometimes overgrown bushwalking track starts on the Gibberagong Track (in the Ku-ring-gai National Park) and descends to Frasers Brook in the Wahroonga Reserve, before ascending to the Peninsula Track. A nice track that’s best combined with other tracks to form a circular route.
Suggested Walk: Combine this with Gibberagong Track and Frog Hollow to form a 3.9km loop walk.
| Location | Between Gibberagong Track and Peninsula Track |
| Distance | 2km return. 1 hour. |
| Grade | Moderate. Rough and sometimes overgrown track |
| More Info | Detailed walk description of longer (3.5km / 3.9km) loops from Frog Hollow Fire Trail |
Anembo Reserve Trail (2.3km)
A very easy walk through the Anembo Reserve, which adjoins Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, on a mostly level track that’s also used by horse riders. Some nice views to the west from the track, which follows the top of the ridge. A much rougher side-trail leads to the Bibbenluke Track.
Alternative: For a longer circuit, take the side-track to Bibbenluke Trail & return via Booralie Trail.
| Location | Between Gibberagong Track and Peninsula Track |
| Distance | 2.3km circuit. (4km circuit via Bibbenluke & Booralie Trail). 45min. |
| Grade | Easy. 40m total ascent. (Moderate / 120m ascent via Bibbenluke & Booralie Trail) |
| More Info | Refer signage at start of trail. |
Sphinx Track (2.4km)
A popular and pleasant bushwalking track from the Sphinx Memorial in North Turramurra down to Cowan Creek, where it meets the Warrimoo Track. The last part of the track has a number of rough timber steps and is fairly steep. Nice swimming spot at the bottom.
Suggested Walks:
– Combine this with Sphinx Trail to form a 6.5km loop with a short off-track section
– Combine this with the Warrimoo Track and Bobbin Head Track for a 10km circuit.
| Location | Sphinx car park (or top of Memorial Road via Sphinx Trail) |
| Distance | 2.4km one-way. 1 hour. |
| Grade | Easy. Bushwalking track (with somes steps) |
| More Info | Detailed walk description of Sphinx Trail & Track loop. |
Ryland Trail (2.4km)
The Ryland Trail runs from the Cooyong (Neverfail) Trail to the end of a ridge above Kierans Creek, where a rough bushwalking track descends to Kierans Creek and then up to the Warrimoo Track. (Some maps incorrectly have the Ryland Trail starting at Mona Vale Road, but this is actually the Cooyong Trail). The maintenance trail services a number of electricity transmission pylons, so it’s not always the nicest scenery as it passes large swathes of cleared land.
Suggested Walk: The “Pylons Walk” joins this trail with the Warrimoo Track & Showground Trail for 13.5km loop
| Location | Starts as an off-shoot of the Cooyong (Neverfail) Trail |
| Distance | 2.4km one-way. 45min. |
| Grade | Easy. Fire trail. |
| More Info | Detailed walk description of Pylon Loop, which includes Ryland Trail |
Cooyong (Neverfail) Trail (2.5km)
The Cooyong (Neverfail) Trail, referred to on some maps as the Callamine Trail, is a service trail that goes from Mona Vale Road at Belrose to eventually join the Sandy Trail in Duffys Forest after a steep descent to Kierans Creek. There’s three major off-shoots from the trail: Ryland Trail West Branch 1, which joins with the St Ives Showground Trail, Ryland Trail West Branch 2, which services some pylons but is a dead-end, and the Ryland Trail which finishes on a ridge above Kierans Creek and connects to a rough bushwalking track down to Kierans Creek and back up to the Warrimoo Track.
Suggested Walk: The “Pylons Walk” joins this trail with the Warrimoo Track & Showground Trail for 13.5km loop
| Location | From Mona Vale Road (Belrose) it goes to the Sandy Trail (Duffys Forest) |
| Distance | 2.5km one-way. 45min. |
| Grade | Easy. Fire trail. |
| More Info | Detailed walk description of Pylon Loop, which includes Cooyong Trail |
Sphinx Trail (3km)
The less-popular sibling of the Sphinx Track, the Sphinx Trail is a fire trail that follows a ridge down from Bobbin Head to a small cliff not far from the bottom of the valley. It’s easy walking and there are filtered view over the valley from the end of the track – but the Sphinx Track (the other one!) is a much more interesting walk.
Suggested Walk: Combine this with Sphinx Track to form a 6.5km loop with a short off-track section.
| Location | Top of Memorial Road or Sphinx car park |
| Distance | 3km one-way. 1 hour. |
| Grade | Easy. Fire trail. |
| More Info | Detailed walk description of Sphinx Trail & Track loop. |
Showground Trail (3.2km)
Officially called the “Show Ground Pistol Club Trail”, the Showground Trail runs from the Cooyong (Neverfail) Trail to the St Ives Wildflower Garden (technically, it goes from Ryland Trail West Branch 1 which branches off the Cooyong Trail). It’s an interesting trail, which starts as a narrow bushwalking track before widening to a service trail which is fairly level, before a slight descent to the St Ives Wildflower Garden where it meets the Solander Trail.
Suggested Walk: Combine this with Sphinx Track to form a 6.5km loop with a short off-track section.
| Location | End of Ryland Trail West Branch 1 to Solander Trail, St Ives Wildflower Garden |
| Distance | 3.2km one-way. 1 hour. |
| Grade | Easy. Fire trail. |
| More Info | Detailed walk description of Pylon Loop, which includes Showground Trail |
Mueller Track (4km) – St Ives Wildflower Garden
While technically not in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, the Mueller Track is the longest walk in the St Ives Wildflower Garden and traverses a varied landscape. A significant portion of the track is along Ku-ring-gai Creek and Tree Fern Gully Creek, which includes a few cascades and waterfalls. There’s also Billy’s Bridge, a natural rock arch. Combine with Fitzgerald Track and Bentham Track to form a 4.3km loop.
| Location | Start at the St Ives Wildflower Garden Visitor Centre (north St Ives) |
| Distance | 4km trail / 4.3km loop with Fitzgerald Track and Bentham Track. 2 hours. |
| Grade | Easy. Approx 150m ascent. Bushwalking track. |
| More Info | Detailed walk description of Mueller Track. |
Darri Track (4.2km)
A mix of fire trail and bushwalking tracks, the Darri Track follows Cowan Creek through a narrow “finger” of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park in St Ives, eventually meeting up with the Warrimoo Track. While never too far away from civilisation, you rarely see any houses and the bushwalk feels a bit more remote than it looks on the the map.
Suggested Walk: Start at end of Toolang Road or Marlborough Place and return via Warrimoo Ave for 7.7km loop.
| Location | From end of Bedford Avenue to Warrimoo Track (St Ives Chase) |
| Distance | 4.2km one-way (90min) or 7.7km loop (3 hours) returning via road |
| Grade | Easy. Mix of fire trail & bushwalking track. |
| More Info | Detailed walk description |
Christies Pool Route (4.7km)
This walk to a little-known pool starts on the popular Warrimoo Track in St Ives, before turning right onto a service trail after 1.2km. The last few hundred metres is off-track, with the route marked by ribbons and rock cairns as it descends steeply to the bottom of the valley. Christies Pool is formed by the confluence of Ku-ring-gai Creek and Kierans Creek; it’s a fairly deep pool surrounded by ferns and trees.
Alternative: Return the same way, or the track continues across the creek to join the Callamine Trail, forming a longer loop.
| Location | Starts at the end of Warrimoo Road (St Ives Chase) |
| Distance | 4.7km return. 2 hours. |
| Grade | Moderate. 160m total elevation gain. Partly off-track. |
| More Info | Detailed walk description |
Bobbin Head Track (5km)
Most of the Bobbin Head Track is a fire trail, which is fairly flat (it actually ascends slightly) from Bobbin Head Road along the ridge – this was the original road down to Bobbin Head. Along this section is an Aboriginal engraving site, signposted on the left and just off the main track. After 2.6km it starts to descend quite steeply, with the last few hundred metres a steep bushwalking track with some stone steps. The track meets the Warrimoo Track at the bottom; there’s another 600m past the Bobbin Head Marina to reach Bobbin Head.
Suggested Walk: Combine with Warrimoo and Sphinx Tracks for a 9.8km loop (Moderate)
| Location | Bobbin Head Road near park entry station or Bobbin Head carpark (North Turramurra) |
| Distance | 5km return. 1.5 hours. |
| Grade | Easy. 95m / 254m total ascent (depending on direction taken) |
| More Info | Wildwalks track notes |
Murrua Fire Trail (5.6km)
A mostly flat and fairly boring fire trail for the first half which has thick heath on both sides; its primary purpose is accessing a number of electricity pylons. Towards the end the trail reaches a rocky outcrop with views over the valley, before it descends through some nice forest to the last pylon.
Suggested Walks:
A defined walking track connects Murrua Fire Trail to the Gibberagong Track; return via Bobbin Head track (13km loop)
At the end of the Murrua Fire Trail a very rough track continues down to Gibberagong Track (10km loop – hard)
| Location | Starts at the end of Murrua Road. |
| Distance | 5.6km return. 1.5-2 hours. |
| Grade | Easy. 195m elevation total ascent. Fire trail. |
| More Info | Detailed walk description for Giberragong & Murrua Fire Trail loop |
Under the Motorway trail (6km)
An interesting bushwalking track that branches off the popular Gibberagong Track in Wahroonga. The track is mostly well-defined, although there are a few “false trails” and fallen trees and branches. The track descends to an idyllic natural pool in Cockle Creek, then continues across a couple of smaller streams before reaching some interesting rock formations and a graffiti-covered tunnel that crosses under the F3 motorway.
| Location | End of Grosvenor Street (North Wahroonga) |
| Distance | 6.0km approx. 2 hours. |
| Grade | Moderate. 150m total elevation gain. Track a little rough in places. |
| More Info | Detailed walk description for Under the Motorway walk |
Gibberagong Track (6.5km)
Formerly known as the Grosvenor Track, the Gibberagong Track is a delightful track from Bobbin Head up to North Wahroonga (which you can walk in either direction – but the best section is near Bobbin Head). The track starts as a boardwalk from Bobbin Head which passes grey saltwater mangroves, before reaching a set of stones steps that takes you up through a low cliff to a signposted Aboriginal axe grinding and rock engraving site. The track then ascends gently as it follows Cockle Creek, past a number of cascades before reaching the tranquil Gibberagong waterhole. From the waterhole there is a fairly steep ascent up to the ridge, with the last couple of kilometres being a fairly level firetrail.
Suggested Walks:
– Combine with Bobbin Head Trail (starting at North Turramurra) for 11km circuit
– Combine with Murrua Fire Trail for a more challenging 15km circuit
| Location | End of Grosvenor Street (North Wahroonga) or Bobbin Head carpark (North Turramurra) |
| Distance | 4.2km one-way to waterhole / 6.5km one-way to Grosvenor Street. 3-4 hours. |
| Grade | Easy. 145m / 310m total ascent (depending on direction taken). Fire trail & bushwalking track. |
| More Info | Detailed walk description for Giberragong & Murrua Fire Trail loop |
Warrimoo Track (6.6km)
A wide firetrail for the first 1.4km, the Warrimoo Track then narrows to a bushwalking track that descends steeply down to Cowan Creek. The track follows Cowan Creek fairly closely, from its upper reaches down to Bobbin Head and past the Bobbin Head marina. Some nice views over the creek, sandstone overhangs and changing flora along the way.
Suggested Walks:
– Continue past Bobbin Head to Mt-Ku-ring-gai (13km total) or Berowra (16km) railway stations
– Start at The Sphinx (N Turramurra) and return via Bobbin Head Track for a 10km circuit.
| Location | End of Warrimoo Road (St Ives Chase) or Bobbin Head carpark (North Turramurra) |
| Distance | 6.6km one-way. 2-3 hours. |
| Grade | Moderate. 80m / 230m total ascent (depending on direction taken). Mostly bushwalking track. |
| More Info | Detailed walk description for St Ives to Mt Ku-ring-gai. Wildwalks track notes for Sphinx, Warrimoo and Bobbin Head loop |
Duffys Forest, Terry Hills and Ingleside
This large area to the south-west of West Head, informally bounded by Mona Vale Road and Cowan Creek, is comprised mostly of multi-purpose firetrails. Many of the trails follow ridges, and are often shared with mountain bikes and horses.
Duffys Forest and Terry Hills walks summary
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Slade Lookout Track (1.4km)
Branching off the Duffys Wharf Track, the fire trail goes to the top of a sandstone outcrop which offers a glimpse of the Bobbin Head marina on Cowan Creek and a rock engraving of questionable origin. The lookout was named after William Hermon Slade, who served on the Ku-ring-gai Chase Trust from 1933 to 1949.
Suggested Walk: Once back on the Duffys Wharf Track, you can continue down to the site of an old wharf, or combine both tracks into a loop with an off-track section.
| Location | End of Booralie Road, Duffys Forest |
| Distance | 1.4km return (3.8km with Duffys Wharf Track). 45min. |
| Grade | Easy. 30m total elevation gain. Firetrail. Moderate. 170m elevation gain as a loop with off-track section |
| More Info | Detailed walk description of loop walk (Duffys Wharf & Slades Lookout Tracks) |
Chiltern North Trail (2km)
A short firetrail from the end of Chiltern Road. A side-track leads to some interesting rock formations and caves; another track goes to an informal campgrould. A good mountain-biking trail for kids.
| Location | End of Chiltern Road, Ingleside |
| Distance | 2km return |
| Grade | Easy (30m total elevation gain). |
| More Info | Detailed walk description |
Duffys Wharf Track (2.8km)
Starting as a firetrail before narrowing to a bushwalking track, this is a really nice walk down to the site of the old Duffys Wharf on Cowan Creek. The walk follows a small stream most of the way, which the track crosses via stepping stones near the end. There’s no signs of the wharf left, but there is evidence that this was a huge Aboriginal midden.
Suggested Walk: Rather than returning the same way, head directly up the spur (off-track) to reach Slade Lookout.
| Location | End of Booralie Road, Duffys Forest |
| Distance | 2.8km return (3.8km with Slade Lookout). 1 hour. |
| Grade | Easy. 170m total elevation gain. Firetrail & bushwalking track. Moderate. 170m elevation gain as a loop with off-track section |
| More Info | Detailed walk description of loop Duffys Wharf & Slades Lookout Tracks) |
Chiltern Trail (3.3km)
A firetrail that descends from Chiltern Road to McCarrs Creek Road, just above Lower Gledhill Falls. A fairly boring bushwalk, as well as a mountain-biking trail (commonly combined with the Duckholes Trail and Centre Track to form a 21km loop). There are sme challenging off-track side-trips, including Crystal Creek, rock platforms with nice views and a trig station.
| Location | Near the end of Chiltern Road, Ingleside |
| Distance | 3.3km return. 1 hours. |
| Grade | Easy (150m total elevation gain). |
| More Info | Detailed walk description of Chiltern Trail plus off-track side-trips |
Bibbenluke Trail (3.6km)
A fire trail descends from the end of Bibbenluke Road down to Cowan Creek; there’s an unmarked lookout just off the trail near the start, and the last few hundred metres is a narrow bushwalking track. Where the track reaches the wide and deep creek (opposite the Sphinx Track), there is a sandy beach and a rocky outcrop with a rope from which you can swing into the creek.
| Location | End of Bibbenluke Avenue, Terrey Hills |
| Distance | 3.6km return. 1-1.5 hours. |
| Grade | Easy. 180m total elevation gain. Firetrail except for bushwalking track last 200m |
| More Info | Detailed walk description |
Kierans Creek Route (3.9km)
This route down to Kierans Creek from Anembo Reserve in Duffys Forest isn’t on any maps, and doesn’t have an official name… but there is a very rough and steep track down from Anembo Reserve to the beautiful Kierans Creek. The track is marked by a series of cairns and metal squares affixed to trees. There are some swimmign holes upstream and downstream of where the track reaches Kierans Creek.
| Location | Anembo Reserve at end of Anembo Road, Duffys Forest |
| Distance | 3.9km return. 2 hours. |
| Grade | Hard. 165m total elevation gain. Rough & steep route. |
| More Info | Detailed walk description |
Duckholes Trail (5.1km)
A fairly uninspiring fire trail off McCarrs Creek Road, that’s suitable for bushwalking or mountain-biking. There’s some nice cascades near the bottom, but otherwise not much to see. You can combine make this into a longer circuit by combining it with the Centre Track, which involved some road-walking.
Suggested Walks:
– Continue down McCarrs Creek Road and then up West Head Road, taking the Centre Track back to make a loop (11.5km)
– Walk up McCarrs Creek Road to form a shorter loop (8.6km)
| Location | Parking area near Coal and Candle Rural Fire Brigade sign (301 McCarrs Creek Rd) |
| Distance | 5.1km one-way. 1.5 hours. |
| Grade | Easy. 90m / 160m total elevation gain (depending on direction taken). Fire trail. |
| More Info | Detailed walk description |
Smiths Creek Trail (5.8km)
A nice bushwalk down Smiths Creek Trail in Terrey Hills through light eucalypt forest. The firetrail is initially flat with some views over the valley to the west, until it descends near the end to a large grassy clearing and Smiths Creek. As well as the tidal Smiths Creek, you can explore a picturesque (unnamed) creek that flows into Smiths Creek.
| Location | End of Booligal Road, Terrey Hills. Limited parking available. |
| Distance | 5.8km return. 2 hours. |
| Grade | Easy. 180m total ascent. |
| More Info | Detailed walk description |
Wilkins Track (6km)
The Wilkins Track, a wide and sandy firetrail, branches off the Perimeter Trail. It leads to a wide rock ledge from where there’s a view over Smiths Creek (a tributary of Cowan Creek). It’s a nice view – but not spectacular; the Long Trail offers a much better outlook.
| Location | Starts at end of Bulara St (Duffys Forest) |
| Distance | 6km return (including section of Perimeter Trail). 2 hours. |
| Grade | Easy. 180m total ascent. |
| More Info | Detailed walk description |
Mount Murray Anderson (6.6km)
A rough and unsigned (but fairly distinct) track leads to the end of the Mount Murray Anderson ridge, which overlooks Cowan Creek and Smiths Creek. On the way is the old “Arthur” trig station and multiple Aboriginal engravings sites, located on huge rock platforms below and on top of Mount Murray Anderson.
| Location | Track starts off the Perimeter Trail at 33°39’21.4″S 151°11’58.6″E |
| Distance | 6.6km return from Perimeter Trail. 2-3 hours. |
| Grade | Moderate. 150m total ascent. |
| More Info | Detailed walk description |
Perimeter Trail (7.1km)
This popular firetrail skirts the perimeter of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park (hence its name) from Terrey Hills to Duffys Forest. Popular as a mountain-biking and horse-riding track, it’s fairly boring as a bushwalk and best avoided on weekends when it gets very busy. The generally flat firetrail also provides access to a number of more interesting bushwalking trails, including the Wilkins Track, Cowan Track and Long Trail.
| Location | Starts/end at end of Nerang Avenue and end of Cullamine Road. Additional access points at Durumbi Road, Kulgoa Crescent and Booligal Road. |
| Distance | 7.1km one-way. 2 hours. |
| Grade | Easy. 170m total ascent. |
| More Info | Wildwalks track notes |
Cowan Track (8km)
The Cowan Track branches off the Long Trail, which branches off the Perimeter Trail… the firetrail ends at a lookout with a view that’s marginally better than the nearby Wilkins Track – but for the best view ignore the Cowan Track turn-off and walk to the end of the Long Trail. There is a marked “Spirits Rock” engraving site just before the lookout.
| Location | Starts at end of Bulara St (Duffys Forest) |
| Distance | 8km return (including sections on Perimeter Trail and Long Trail). 2-3 hours. |
| Grade | Easy. 215m total ascent. |
| More Info | Detailed walk description |
Long Trail (10.4km)
Branching off the Perimeter Trail and popular with mountain bikers, the Long Trail is also a pleasant bushwalk. The generally flat and sandy firetrail makes it way through eucalypt forest; near the middle is a huge rock platform with views over the valley. The second half of the track is more interesting with occasional water glimpses through the trees and sandstone rock formations along the track. There are stunning views from the “Peach Trees” lookout at the end of the trail.
| Location | End of Booligal Road, Terrey Hills. Limited parking available. |
| Distance | 10.4km return (from starting point – Long Trail itself is 8km return). 3 hours. |
| Grade | Easy. 210m total ascent. |
| More Info | Detailed walk description |
West Head
A headland at the north-eastern tip of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, West Head offers a large variety of short walks and a couple of picnic areas. It can get busy on weekends (especially at West Head Lookout), but it’s possible to find a secluded beach or a remote lookout if you know where to go! Camping is only allowed at The Basin and gates are locked overnight. I’ve written a separate Guide to West Head.
West Head walks summary
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Red Hands Cave Track (0.6km)
A very short but popular walk from the Resolute Picnic Area, leading to the Red Hands Cave. A natural cave with ochre hand-prints is one of the most famous Aboriginal heritage sites in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.
| Location | Park just before the end of West Head Road at the Resolute Picnic Area |
| Distance | 600m return. 30min. |
| Grade | Easy. |
| More Info | NPWS “Red Hands Cave walking track” web site |
Duckhole Falls (0.8km)
Just outside the West Head toll station, this short walk along McCarrs Creek starts with a popular swimming hole, before reaching some small cascades and a wide pool. The dramatic finish to the walk is an impressive waterfall, where McCarrs Creek plunges over a steep cliff into pool far below. (It’s possible with great care to reach the bottom pool, with the aid of a rope.)
| Location | Parking area at the bottom of West Head Road (near junction with McCarrs Creek Road) |
| Distance | 800m return. 30min-1hr. |
| Grade | Moderate. Some scrambling (especially if you descend to the pool below the waterfall) |
| More Info | Detailed walk description. |
Koolewong Track (1.1km)
The Koolewong Track, one of the shortest walks at West Head, leads to one of the best lookouts over the Hawkesbury River. From the lookout platform there are views across the Hawkesbury River to Patonga and up to Lion Island and the entrance of Broken Bay. It’s a loop track so you can return the same way or via an alternate track that finishes a couple of hundred metres further down West Head Road.
| Location | Two trackheads opposite Resolute Picnic area near the end of West Head Road |
| Distance | 1.1km return or 1.2km loop. 45min. |
| Grade | Easy. 60m total ascent. |
| More Info | Detailed walk description. |
West Head Army Track (1.3km)
A short but steep track, opened in 2016, follows the original wartime trail down to the West Head Battery. There’s great views on the way down, including sweeping views across Broken Bay to the Pacific Ocean from the Observation Post. Along the coast at the end of the track are additional structures you can explore, including two gun casings and the ammunition magazine.
You can extend this walk by continuing along the coast (best at low tide) to Flannel Flower Beach. As there’s no official track to the narrow and secluded beach, and the beach is quite rocky (making it hard for larger boats to land) there is a good chance you’ll have the sliver of sand to yourself!
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| Location | Park at the end of West Head Road (West Head Lookout) |
| Distance | 1.3km return. (45min) Approx 2km return if you continue to Flannel Flower Beach (2 hours) |
| Grade | Easy. Total ascent of 105m. One set of steel ladders. Moderate to Flannel Flower Beach (rock scrambling required) |
| More Info | Walk description for West Head Army Track and Flannel Flower Beach. |
Willunga Trig Track (1.5km)
A very short bushwalking track to the highest point in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park (240m asl). From the trig point there are 360-degree views across the national park, toward Pittwater and as far as the city of Sydney to the south.
| Location | Left-hand (west) side of West Head Road about |
| Distance | 1.5km return. 30-45min |
| Grade | Easy. Total ascent of 60m |
| More Info | National Parks web site. Google Street View Trekker |
Flint and Steel Bay / Beach (2km)
The bushwalking track down to Flint and Steel Beach is one of the more popular West Head walks, for good reason. The beautiful Flint and Steel Beach has many shaded areas to sit, rock pools at the western end often has wallabies grazing just behind the beach. The track down to the beach is fairly well shaded and has some nice views over Pittwater.
Turn left at the junction (after 300m) for Flint and Steel Bay, which is accessed via a rougher and less-travelled trail. On the way is the ruins of McGaw House, and a little further at the end of the track is White Horse Beach (a narrow beach that’s best at low tide).
| Location | Start at Flint and Steel trailhead near the end of West Head Road |
| Distance | 2km return to Flint and Steel Beach or Bay or 3.4km loop combinng both. 1-2 hours. |
| Grade | Easy. Total ascent of 130m. Moderate for loop walk. |
| More Info | Wildwalks track notes for loop walk. |
America Bay Track (2.6km)
One of the few West Head tracks that offers Aboriginal engravings, a waterfall, views (over Cowan Water) as well as access to the water. It’s a fairly easy bushwalk up to the rock platform, from where there are views over Cowan Water. Continue 100m past the lookout to access a steep and rough track that leads down through a gap in the cliff to a rocky bay.
| Location | About half-way down West Head Road on the left |
| Distance | 2.6km return (including down to the bay). Approx 1hr |
| Grade | Easy to lookout. Moderate down to the bay. Total ascent of 125m |
| More Info | Detailed walk description. National Parks web site / Google Street View Trekker |
Jims Track (2.6km)
A pleasant and mostly flat track out along a ridge to a lookout overlooking Cowan Creek and the Hawkesbury River. Two steep and rough side-tracks provide access to Little Pittwater Beach and Hungry Beach
| Distance | 2.6km return to lookout; 4.7km with Little Pittwater & Hungry Beach |
| Grade | Easy to lookout. Moderate if going to beach/es |
| More Info | Jims Track walk description |
Challenger Trail (3km)
The Challenger Trail is a fairly short firetrail that heads out from West Head Road toward the coast. It’s an easy but rather boring, with a filtered view of Pittwater at the end. A faint foot track that from the end of the fire trail leads to the edge of a small cliff, from where there are better views over the Hawkesbury River and Little Pittwater Bay.
| Location | Locked gate towards the end of West Head Road. |
| Distance | 3km return. 1 hour. |
| Grade | Easy. Total ascent of 40m. |
| More Info | Detailed walk description. Wildwalks track notes |
Hungry Beach (3.4km)
An off-track extension to the Flint and Steel Bay walk, this walk follows the coastline to reach the secluded and picturesque Hungry Beach (access easier at low tide). Above the beach is an old World War II bunker. While also accessible by boat, the beach is generally pretty quiet.
| Location | Start at Flint and Steel trailhead near the end of West Head Road |
| Distance | 3.4km return. 2-3 hours. |
| Grade | Moderate. Total ascent of 130m and rock scrambling. |
| More Info | Walk description for Hungry Beach. |
Salvation Loop track (4km)
A fairly flat and fairly boring firetrail. There’s no views with most of the track going through thick heath, but it does pass by some hanging swamps (which are are not obvious). The Salvation Loop track also provides access to the Wallaroo Track and Yeomans Track.
| Location | Two trackheads on West Head Road about 3.6km from the start; Salvation Creek Picnic Area is in the middle |
| Distance | 4km circuit (including 800m along West Head Road). 1 hour. |
| Grade | Easy. 60m total ascent. |
| More Info | NPWS Salvation Loop web page |
Birnie Lookout – Towlers Bay (4km/6.5km)
This walk starts on the Towlers Bay Track (firetrail), but after 1.2km turns off onto a narrow and slightly overgrown bushwalking trail. The destination is a spectacular lookout over above Lovett Bay and Pittwater, and nearby a cave sculpted by the wind. Return the same way, or continue down to Lovett Bay and return via the Towlers Bay Track for a longer walk.
| Location | Near the start of West Head Road; right-hand (east) side |
| Distance | 4km return. 1-2 hours. Or 6.5km loop returning via Towlers Bay Track (2-3 hours) |
| Grade | Easy. 65m total ascent. |
| More Info | Walk description for Towlers Bay Loop via Birnie Lookout |
Resolute Track (4.3km)
The Resolute Track Loop is one of the best West Head bushwalks, taking in an Aboriginal art site (Red Hands Cave), rock engravings, an old WWII observation post, two beaches (West Head Beach and Resolute Beach) and offering some nice views along the way. Most of the circuit is a bushwalking track, with a short section on a firetrail. (The circuit is also called the “Aboriginal Heritage Walk” by NPWS).
Alternative: You can also extend the walk by going to Great Mackerel Beach, or creating a longer (12km) circuit with the Mackerel Track.
| Location | Park at the end of West Head Road (West Head Lookout) or Resolute Picnic Area |
| Distance | 4.3km loop. 1-2 hours. (800m return to West Head Beach / 30min). |
| Grade | Moderate. Total ascent of 130m and rock scrambling. |
| More Info | Detailed walk description. NPWS “Aboriginal Heritage walk” web site |
Topham Track (5km)
A firetrail that leads to a lookout at the end of a ridge, with distant views of Cowan Creek. You can get much better views by continuing beyond the end of the firetrail to the left (west) where there is a huge sandstone cave.
| Location | Start near the middle of West Head Road at the signposted gate (no parking area) |
| Distance | Approx 2.5km return. 1 hour. |
| Grade | Easy. 90m total ascent. |
| More Info | Detailed walk description. |
Elvina Bay Track (5.4km)
The easiest way to access Elvina Bay is via the Elvina Bay Track, a firetrail. There’s also a bushwalking track, Fredricks Track, which branches off the Elvina Bay Track near the start and is a much more interesting route. Both provide access to the small Elvina Bay community and its secluded beach. Near the start of the Elvina Bay Track is a short side track to one of the largest Aboriginal engraving sites in Australia.
You can do a great little walk with an optional off-track section by taking Fredricks Track, with a side-trip to the Lovett Bay Swimming Hole and a series of cascades, before descending to the base of an impressive waterfall (walk description).
| Location | Parking area near the start of West Head Road (on the right) |
| Distance | Approx 5km (various routes possible). 2 hours. |
| Grade | Easy on marked track. Hard using partly off-track route.0m. |
| More Info | Detailed walk description. Wildwalks track notes for Elvina Bay loop (on-track) from Wildwalks. |
Basin Trail (5.6km)
The Basin campground (the only camping ground at West Head) can be reached by ferry from Palm Beach, or via The Basin Trail from West Head Road. Near the start of the track is the Basin Aboriginal Art site, which is worth the short detour. The popular Basin area is nice, but the Basin Trail – a steep and partly paved maintenance trail – is arguably the dreariest in West Head.
Alternative: Combine this with the Bairne Trail to form a longer loop (12km).
| Location | Right-hand (east) side of West Head Road, near the end. |
| Distance | 5.6km return. 2 hours. Can be combined with Bairne Trail to form a 12km circuit. |
| Grade | Easy. Total ascent of 220m. |
| More Info | Wildwalks track notes. National Parks The Basin track and Mackerel track. Bairne to Basin loop walk description The Basin Campground information and on-line booking. Ferry timetable (FantaSea) – Palm Beach to The Basin |
Mackerel Track (6km)
Branching off the Basin Track, the Mackerel Track is a firetrail which descends towards Great Mackerel Beach to a clearing with views over Pittwater. From here a bushwalking track winds steeply down behind some houses at the end of the headland, before it reaches the beach. Great Mackerel Beach can also be accessed by ferry.
Alternative: Combine this with the Resolute Track to form a longer loop (11km).
| Location | Right-hand (east) side of West Head Road, near the end. |
| Distance | Approx 6km return. 2 hours. Can be combined with Resolute Track to form a 11km circuit (3-4 hours) |
| Grade | Easy. Total ascent of 290m. |
| More Info | Wildwalks track notes. |
Centre Track (7.2km)
Following the ridge line off General San Martin Drive near Terrey Hills, the Centre Track provides scenic views over Coal and Candle Creek and Akuna Bay. A short detour to a rocky lookout features Aboriginal engraving (munroes) and a great view west over Coal and Candle Creek. The lookout is worth a visit; the rest of the track is fairly boring.
| Location | About half-way down West Head Road on the left |
| Distance | 7.2km return (including lookout). 2 hours. 1.3km return to lookout only (from West Head end) 11.5km if combined with Duck Hole Trail to form a loop |
| Grade | Easy. 100m total ascent. |
| More Info | Detailed walk description National Parks web site / Google Street View Trekker |
Wallaroo Track (9km)
Branching off the Salvation Loop, the Wallaroo Track (a firetrail) offers nice views at rhe end from a rocky overhang. A rough trail goes the length of this rocky platform. It’s long way to walk for a fairly average view, but it’s a less popular track so you may have the lookout to yourself.
| Location | Shortest route is from northern trackhead of Salvation Loop |
| Distance | 9km return via Salvation Loop Track (or 10km with Salvation Loop). 2-3 hours. |
| Grade | Moderate. 300m total ascent. |
| More Info | NPWS Wallaroo Track web page. Wildwalks track notes |
Towlers Bay Track (9.4km)
A 4WD / management road leads down from West Head Road to Towlers Bay, (where there are are a few houses that are accessed via water only) and a YHA youth hostel. The track isn’t particularly interesting, other than a nice lookout about half-way. Continue along Bona Crescent past the Morning Bay community to reach a small bay with a derelict jetty.
Alternative: A much more scenic option is to reach Towlers Bay via Birnie Lookout
| Location | Near the middle of West Head Road; right-hand (east) side |
| Distance | 9.4km return. 2-3 hours. |
| Grade | Easy. Total ascent of 184m |
| More Info | Detailed walk description. Wildwalks track notes |
Waratah Track (9.5km)
A long fire trail that descends gradually down a ridge from West Head Road. There are views from a sandstone platform at the end over Coal and Candle Creek and Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. The firetrail itself is a fairly dreary bushwalk (which is best done by mountain bike) – but there are some interesting side-trails to explore.
| Location | First trail on the left, at start of West Head Road |
| Distance | 9.5km return. 2-3 hours. |
| Grade | Easy. Total ascent of 135m |
| More Info | National Parks web site. Google Street View Trekker |
Yeomans Track (9.5km)
The Yeomans Track (aka Wallaroo South Track) branches off from the Wallaroo Track, which branches off from the Salvation Loop… the overgrown firetrail leads to a rocky outcrop with filtered views over Cowan Creek and Yeomans Bay. In short: it’s a long walk for fairly unimpressive views.
| Location | Shortest route is from northern trackhead of Salvation Loop |
| Distance | 9.5km return via Salvation Loop Track (or 10.5km with Salvation Loop). 2-3 hours. |
| Grade | Moderate. 300m total ascent. |
| More Info | Wildwalks track notes |
Bairne Trail (9.6km)
A long (but easy) track along the ridge line, with great views over Pittwater. The track splits into two after 2.4km: the best view, across Pittwater to Scotland Island and beyond (below), is from the right-hand fork that goes to Towlers Lookout.
The left-hand fork becomes the Soldiers Point Track. This firetrail continues to a lookout over Pittwater, from where a narrow walking trail descends to the small community of Coasters Retreat.
Alternative: Instead of continuing the same way back, you can combine this with the Basin Track (Bairne to Basin circuit)
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- Bennetts Wharf
| Location | Right-hand (east) side of West Head Road, about half-way |
| Distance | 9.6km return (including down to Coasters Retreat). 2-3 hours. 7.2km return to Towlers Lookout / 8.4km return to Coasters Retreat / 12km Bairne to Basin circuit |
| Grade | Easy (Total ascent of 150m). Moderate for Bairne to Basin circuit (Total ascent 205m; one steep section |
| More Info | National Parks web site. Google Street View Trekker. Bairne to Basin track notes |
North (Mount Colah to Brooklyn)
A long stretch of national park between Ku-ring-gai Chase Road and Brooklyn, on the Hawkesbury River. This section has some of the longest and most challenging bushwalking trails, including a section of the Great North Walk.
Northern section walks summary
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Jerusalem Bay Track (2.5km)
From Cowan station, the Jerusalem Track crosses the freeway and descends Ethel Spur towards Cowan Creek, crossing a couple of creeks. Once the track reaches Jerusalem Bay, it follows the narrow inlet for about 500m before the track becomes the Great North Walk and climbs up towards the ridge. There’s some nice views over Jerusalem Bay near the end of the Jerusalem Bay Track.
Suggested Walk: Cowan to Brooklyn via Jerusalem Bay is a 13.4km walk (Moderate).
| Location | Cowan railway station |
| Distance | 5km one-way. 2 hours. |
| Grade | Moderate. 10m / 175m total ascent (depending on direction taken). Bushwalking track. |
| More Info | Walk description of Brooklyn to Cowan. |
Mt-Ku-ring gai Track (3.9km)
The Mt Ku-ring-gai Track descends from the end of Harwood Avenue in Mt Ku-ring-gai, and descends to Cowan Creek where it meets the Berowra Track. Along the way are a couple of lookouts, including Firefighters Rest, and some nice views over Cowan Creek.
Suggested Walks:
– Mt-Ku-ring-gai to Berowra is a 9km walk that mostly follows Cowan Creek (Moderate)
– St Ives to Mt Ku-ring-gai via Warrimoo Track is a 13.2km walk that follows the upper reaches of Cowan Creek (Moderate)
| Location | Start/finish at end of Harwood Avenue (300m walk from Mt Ku-ring-gai station) |
| Distance | 3.6km one-way (3.9km from Mt Ku-ring-gai railway station). 2 hours return. |
| Grade | Moderate. 30m / 220m total ascent (depending on direction taken). Mostly bushwalking track. |
| More Info | Walk description of St Ives to Mt Ku-ring-gai and Mt Ku-ring-gai to Berowra |
Berowra Track (7.4km)
Following Cowan Creek from Bobbin Head to Berowra, the Berowra Track undulates a little as it follows the shoreline – except for the first/last section when it ascends quite steeply up to Berowra Station. At Waratah Bay is the remains of a rusting metal boat hull, once part of Edward Windybank’s home and boat hire business. Some opportunities for a swim along the way.
Suggested Walks:
– Mt-Ku-ring-gai to Berowra is a 9km walk that mostly follows Cowan Creek (Moderate)
– Bobbin Head to Berowra is an 8.7km walk that continues from Apple Tree Bay to Bobbin Head
| Location | Apple Tree Bay at Bobbin Head and Berowra railway station |
| Distance | 7.4km one-way. 2 hours. |
| Grade | Moderate. 100m / 310m total ascent (depending on direction taken). Bushwalking track. |
| More Info | Walk description of Mt Ku-ring-gai to Berowra & Wildwalks trak notes for Berowra to Bobbin Head |
Shark Rock Ridge Track (7.4km)
After closely following the F3 freeway, the track heads north-east along Shark Rock Ridge. There are no great views, but the track passes many rock platforms, some of which contain Aboriginal engravings. The track eventually reaches a huge tesselated pavement which contains a number of engravings and the remnants of an old telephone line.
Alternative: Continue off-track down Pinta Spur to reach Jerusalem Bay Track, making a loop (Hard).
| Location | Berowra railway station – track starts to the north of the station and crosses the freeway. |
| Distance | 7.4km one-way. 3-4 hours. |
| Grade | Hard. 130m total ascent. Rough and sometimes indistinct track. |
| More Info | Shark Rock Ridge (Berowra) blog post |
Brooklyn Dam Trail (7.6km)
Ascending steeply from Brooklyn (Hawkesbury River), the Brooklyn Dam Trail forms part of the Great North Walk. A wide maintenance trail with a few concreted sections at the start, the trail ascends (initially quite steeply) for the first kilometre, before reaching Brooklyn Day (two campsites here) after 2.2km. The trail then continues, generally uphill, to where it meets a bushwalking track which descends to Jerusalem Bay.
Suggested Walk: Part of the Great North Walk, Brooklyn to Cowan via Jerusalem Bay is a 13km (one-way) bushwalk.
| Location | Hawkesbury River railway station |
| Distance | 7.6km one-way / 13km Brooklyn to Cowan / 15.2km return |
| Grade | Moderate. 470m total ascent. Fire trail; concreted on first initial steep sections. |
| More Info | Walk description of Brooklyn to Cowan |
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