List of Bushwalks in Northern Beaches Council

Environment

This is a short walk down to Castle Rock Beach, tucked into the rocky shores of Middle Harbour. The walk is mostly along boardwalk or footpath through rainforest vegetation. The foliage surrounding the track is topped by a closed canopy which provides shade, before opening out onto the sunny beach. Let us begin by acknowledging the Guringai people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Castle Rock Beach

165 m return

5 min to 10 min

Environment

This is a short walk down to Red Hands Cave from the Resolute Picnic Area. The walk loops from the picnic area through the heath and down to the overhang of the cave. The Aboriginal rock art is quite faded but is estimated to be over 2000 years old. This makes for an interesting historic walk, great as an appetiser before a picnic lunch at Resolute Picnic Area. Let us begin by acknowledging the Guringai people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Environment

Red Hands Cave Circuit

480 m circuit

10 min to 30 min

Red Hands Cave Circuit

This short walk starts from the end of Killarney Drive, in Killarney Heights and heads down the hill to Flat Rock Beach. The beach is a secluded sandy area on the shores of Middle Harbour. A nice spot for swimming, relaxing and enjoying the boats as they pass by. Let us begin by acknowledging the Guringai people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Flat Rock Beach track

520 m return

15 min to 20 min

Flat Rock Beach track

Environment

Elvina Bay Aboriginal Engraving Walk

Elvina Bay Aboriginal Engraving Walk

520 m return

10 min to 15 min

This walk offers good examples of local aboriginal rock engravings on an attractive elevated rock platform, with views into the distance. From the car park, the walk travels through mostly flat, scrubby bush, before gently rising through heath onto a tessellated rock platform. Rock engravings are best observed in the early morning or late afternoon, or after rain. The track and trail are followed back to the car park. Let us begin by acknowledging the Guringai people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

Start this walk from West Head Road parking area. The steep track leads down the West Head's eastern face to a historic army battery. Let us begin by acknowledging the Guringai people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

West Head Army Track

720 m return

1 h to 1 h 30 min

Ruins

Environment

Rural

This walk provides some of the best views in Sydney. This pleasant stroll and wheelchair-accessible walk starts from the car park at the end of the North Head Scenic Drive, and follows the asphalt footpath as it loops around the tip of North Head. Enjoy views of the entrance to Sydney Harbour, the coastal cliff line and a historic gun emplacement. The stunning lookouts provide great views all year round and a popular vantage point for whale watchers. The whales pass by twice annually, heading north in June and July, and again when they return to the Antarctic in August and October. Let us begin by acknowledging the Guringai people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Fairfax Walk

760 m circuit

20 min to 30 min

Environment

Probably the best word to describe this walk is 'cute'. The circuit walk starts with a few steep steps, but soon flattens out, following a well-defined track through an open forest, via some natural sandstone sculptures. The lookout is notable for wonderful views to Patonga, Lion Island and out through the entrance of Broken Bay at Barrenjoey. A seat at the lookout is well placed to encourage people to stop and enjoy. Let us begin by acknowledging the Guringai people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Koolewong Track

1 km return

20 min to 40 min

Environment

This short return walk starts from the end of Grattan Crescent, Frenchs Forest and follows the service trails along the Bluff Track to the spectacular lookout perched above Bantry Bay. There is an optional side trip down the into the valley to the Natural Bridge, which is a interesting natural rock archway bridging a creek. Let us begin by acknowledging the Guringai people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

The Bluff Track

1 km return

20 min to 30 min

Environment

Aboriginal Heritage Track

Aboriginal Heritage Track

1.2 km circuit

20 min to 45 min

The Aboriginal Heritage Track takes in one of the most popular rock art sites in Ku-ring-gai National Park, and an amazing Aboriginal engraving site. The walk leads out from Resolute Picnic Area to pass by the caves and then continues down the management trail to the engravings. The walk then returns to the picnic area. It is a great way to see historic Aboriginal art in the Sydney region. Let us begin by acknowledging the Guringai people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Environment

This is a short walk along a popular horse riding trail, going to a great lookout over Bobbin Head. The lookout is a lovely spot, so allow time just to sit on the boulders and enjoy the view. Let us begin by acknowledging the Guringai people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

The Slade Lookout Track

1.4 km return

40 min to 45 min

The Slade Lookout Track

Environment

On this walk you will visit the highest point in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. At the top of the hill is an old trig point and some stunning panoramic view. On a clear day, there is an uninterrupted 180-degree view across large parts of the park, including Pittwater to the east and distant glimpses of Sydney city on the horizon, far to the south. Let us begin by acknowledging the Guringai people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Willunga Trig Walk

1.4 km return

40 min to 1 h 20 min

Environment

Starting at Cook Street in Forestville, this walk follows service trails and bush tracks through Garigal National Park, to the Natural Bridge. The walk uses the arch as a natural bridge to cross the creek. The rock formation is the main highlight of this walk, though the wild flower displays in the warmer months can be quite spectacular as well. Let us begin by acknowledging the Guringai people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Natural Bridge Walk

1.5 km return

40 min to 45 min

Environment

Starting at Seaforth Oval, this walk explores the historic logging track that heads down to the picnic area on the eastern shore of Banty Bay. The picnic area is a great spot to relax and enjoy the water, and bush views, before heading back up to Seaforth oval. This is just one section of the greater Harbour to Hawkesbury walk. Let us begin by acknowledging the Guringai people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Timber Getters Track

1.7 km return

50 min to 1 h

Environment

This short walk is a great way to see a slice of what Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park has on offer. The track visits some historic Aboriginal engravings, and enjoys water views, heath and forest environments. The America Bay track also throws in a waterfall for your enjoyment - from the top of the fall, walkers won't see much of the fall itself, however the outlook is lovely and the walk very enjoyable. This track one of two ways to access America Bay - the other is by boat. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

America Bay

1.9 km return

45 min to 1 h 15 min

Environment

Flint and Steel Bay (to White Horse Beach)

Flint and Steel Bay (to White Horse Beach)

1.9 km return

1 h to 2 h

This is a nice walk to White Horse Beach on Flint and Steel Bay. The return-style walk passes McGaw's ruins and and the old water catchment. From White Horse Beach, there are scenic views across the Hawkesbury River. The ruins are a nice addition to the walk - although overgrown, they add a touch of recent history to the walk. Let us begin by acknowledging the Guringai people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

This walk starts at John Oxley Drive, and is popular with people working on their fitness. The walk follows a service trail which is initially dirt, but is sealed for most of the way, as it follows the pipeline steeply down to Middle Harbour Creek. Enjoy the view from the bank of the creek before the climb back up. Let us begin by acknowledging the Guringai people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Environment

Davidson Track

1.9 km return

1 h to 1 h 15 min

From Resolute Picnic Area, this walk heads out to West Head Lookout, with magnificent views across the Hawkesbury River and Lion Island. The track is a direct route which passes through classic Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park bushland. This walk offers a great way to avoid competing for parking at West Head Lookout, while enjoying more of the park. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

West Head Lookout Track

2 km return

50 min to 1 h

West Head Lookout Track

Environment

This walk follows a scenic route to the secluded Flint and Steel Beach, which provides views across the Hawkesbury River to landmarks such as Lion Island, Patonga and Box Head. The walk passes through palm, pine and grass tree forests. There is a great diversity of flora and some fantastic sandstone rock formations along the way. Let us begin by acknowledging the Guringai people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Flint and Steel track

2 km return

1 h to 2 h

Flint and Steel track

Environment

Barrenjoey Headland Circuit

Barrenjoey Headland Circuit

2.1 km circuit

1 h to 1 h 30 min

Starting from the car park near Station Beach, Palm Beach, this walk takes you on a circuit on Barrenjoey Headland, visiting the same-titled lighthouse and the grave of George Mulhall along the way. A fantastic walk for those wanting a scenic journey on Sydney's northern beaches, this track features views of the central coast, Palm Beach, Broken Bay, Hawkesbury River and the South Pacific Ocean along with historic remnants of old lighthouses. Migrating whales can be observed northward from May till July and southward from August till October. There are newly constructed toilets and drinking fountains as well. Keep in mind that Council parking fees apply at the car park. Also, there are no bins so please take your rubbish with you. As this walk is in a national park; pets, drones and amplified music is not allowed. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Ruins

Environment

Starting at Seaforth Oval, this walk follows the Engravings track parallel to the Wakehurst Parkway to the end of Bantry Bay Road, Forestville. The first half of the walk is along bush track and the second half follows a service trail. The engravings, after which this track is named, are fenced off to protect the area, the fence limits the view of the rock platform and engravings. Let us begin by acknowledging the Guringai people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Environment

Engravings Track

2.2 km oneway

40 min to 45 min

At Nerang Viewpoint, the ground drops away to the north, giving views across to the neighboring forested ridges. This is a short and quiet walk and feels 'off the beaten track'. Initially this walk follows a wide trail, but this soon changes to a foot track following a broad ridge north through scribbly gums and wild flowers. The track has some small uphill and downhill sections and is eroded in places. Let us begin by acknowledging the Guringai people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Nerang Viewpoint

2.2 km return

50 min to 1 h

Environment

Walking around Dobroyd Head is a fantastic experience. The heath vegetation high up on the walk provides many opportunities to view flowers and insects close up, whilst still enjoying plenty of views out to the sea. Reef Beach is a great place to stop for a snack or lunch and to get the feet wet before heading back to the road. Let us begin by acknowledging the Guringai people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Dobroyd Head Walk

2.5 km circuit

1 h to 2 h

Environment

Flint and Steel Beach and bay loop

Flint and Steel Beach and bay loop

2.7 km circuit

1 h 15 min to 1 h 30 min

2.7 km

Circuit

This track creates a loop between Flint and Steel Beach and Bay by traversing the headland between them. The walk explores Flint and Steel Beach and the McGaw ruins, while providing scenic views across the Hawkesbury River to landmarks such as Lion Island. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

Duffy's Track and Slade Lookout

Duffy's Track and Slade Lookout

2.9 km return

1 h 15 min to 1 h 30 min

2.9 km

Return

A less frequented track, this rough, steep bush track abounds with wildlife including goannas and black snakes. Slade Lookout is definitely worth the short trip along the management trail to see good views over the marina at Bobbin Head. The mangroves at Duffy's Wharf (Cowan Creek) are also teeming with wildlife. Let us begin by acknowledging the Guringai people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Environment

Cascades Track (from Davidson)

Cascades Track (from Davidson)

3 km return

1 h 15 min to 2 h 30 min

3 km

Return

This pleasant return walk starts in Davidson and follows the Cascades Track along the management trails as it winds down into the valley. In the main valley, the walk comes to the Cascades just upstream of the Frenchs and Middle Harbour Creeks junction. The Cascades are surrounded by rock platforms, which make the perfect vantage points to stop and enjoy a picnic lunch. Let us begin by acknowledging the Guringai people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

1 h 15 min to 2 h 30 min

Waterfall

Environment

Founders Way

3 km return

1 h 15 min to 1 h 30 min

This return walk starts at the Founders Way track head, in St Ives, and follows the pipeline through the National Park. The walk heads down into the valley where it comes to the Middle Harbour Creek pipe bridge. There is a short, optional side trip along the Bungaroo Track to the stepping stones crossing the creek. Let us begin by acknowledging the Darug people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Environment

The Challenger Track is a simple track which heads through the heath and some forest to arrive at a pleasant lookout. Starting at West Head Rd, the track follows a ridge out to a rocky outcrop where views over the Hawkesbury River and Broken Bay reveal Patonga and Brooklyn. Let us begin by acknowledging the Guringai people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Challenger Track

3 km return

1 h to 1 h 15 min

Environment

This walk takes you to a small but picturesque waterhole above Lovett Bay. You start with a short walk along a management trail, with an optional side track to an Aboriginal engraving site. Then continuing along the wide trail a little further, you'll turn left and following a couple of fainter tracks through the heath to the sandstone platform and creek. At the pool, there are a series of small cascades and a view over Lovett Bay, a lovely place for lunch before retracing your steps back to the car. Let us begin by acknowledging the Guringai people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Lovetts Pools

3.1 km return

1 h 15 min to 2 h 30 min

1 h 15 min to 2 h 30 min

Waterfall

Environment

The Cascades Track (St Ives to Davidson)

The Cascades Track (St Ives to Davidson)

3.2 km oneway

1 h 15 min to 1 h 30 min

3.2 km

Oneway

This walk explores a section of Garigal National Park from St Ives following service trails through the forest and into the valley. The cascades, from which this track derives its name, are at the junction of Middle Harbour and Frenchs creeks. After taking time to explore the rock platform, this walk continues along service trail to Stone Pde, Davidson. Let us begin by acknowledging the Darug people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Waterfall

Environment

The Resolute Track, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, is a great way to see two major Aboriginal sites and Resolute Beach. The return-style walk starts from Resolute picnic area and heads down to Resolute Beach, passing a Red Hands Cave and an Aboriginal engraving site. The Resolute Track uses management trails and bush tracks which have views over the sea as they pass through heath, rainforest and bushland. Let us begin by acknowledging the Guringai people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Resolute Track

3.3 km return

1 h 30 min to 3 h

Environment

Headland Track (Resolute Track)

Headland Track (Resolute Track)

3.3 km circuit

1 h 30 min to 1 h 45 min

3.3 km

Circuit

This walk is a great way to see two major Aboriginal sites and up to three of Ku-ring-gai Chase's beaches. The circuit walk visits Red Hands Cave and some historic engravings, in addition to enjoying expansive views over Pittwater, with Barrenjoey Headland as a feature. The walk includes Resolute and West Head beaches and the option of a side trip to Mackerel Beach as well. To top it all off, this walk has an added bonus of a WWII gun emplacement to explore. Let us begin by acknowledging the Guringai people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

1 h 30 min to 1 h 45 min

Environment