This walk follows a wide concrete trail through Berowra Valley Regional Park, through lovely bushland and the site of the historic Zig Zag railway. The railway is long gone, but the quarry site is interesting to explore and crossing Zig Zag Creek on the bridge gives a lovely view down on the fern trees. Stop and read the information signs along the way, bring your dog for a walk or use this trail for fitness training. The trail on the north side of Zig Zag Creek is very steep for about 50m, otherwise, this walk is easy to follow. To save the car shuttle you can just allow extra time and retrace your steps back to the start.
Bellamy fire trail
And Walk
Bellamy fire trail
30 mins
34 m
Moderate track
(0km) End of Bellamy St → Int of Bellamy trail and Morgan Rd tracks
90 m
2 mins
0m
-10m
Easy track
and follows the ‘To Westleigh’ arrow[2] downhill along the concrete management trail. After about 25m this walk leads past a picnic table
[3] (on the left) then over the next 50m this walk continues downhill past the ‘Halls Camp’ information sign[4], the ‘Natures Filter’[5] to come to an intersection with a dirt track (the Great North Walk) marked with an arrow pointing back up to ‘Bellamy Street’[6].
(0.09km) Int of Bellamy trail and Morgan Rd tracks → Zig Zag Creek Bridge int.
130 m
2 mins
0m
-6m
Easy track
. The walk continues down into the valley[10] along the concrete trail for another 110m to come to a signposted intersection marked with a ‘Great North Walk’ sign[11][12] (on your left), just before ‘Zig Zag Creek’[13] and the long bridge[14].
Thornleigh zigzag railway
(0.22km) Zig Zag Creek Bridge int → Thornleigh Quarry
160 m
4 mins
15m
-8m
Moderate track
(with a handrail on the left side[21]). The trail then mostly flattens out for about 50m and leads gently up to the front of the old ‘Thornleigh Quarry’[22], marked with a plaque on a large stone[23][24][25]
.
Old Thornleigh Quarry
making this a pleasant spot to sit and enjoy the intriguing mix of nature and history. A book is available with some detail on this quarry and the associated zigzag railway: ‘Sydney’s Forgotten Quarry Railways’ by John Oakes, ISBN 0 9757870 3 9
(0.37km) Thornleigh Quarry → Int of Heritage Trail and De Saxe Cl trail
110 m
3 mins
11m
0m
Very easy
(0.48km) Int of Heritage Trail and De Saxe Cl trail → End of Timbarra Rd
140 m
3 mins
8m
-3m
Easy track
Maps for the Bellamy fire trail walk
You can download the PDF for this walk to print a map.
These maps below cover the walk and the wider area around the walk, they are worth carrying for safety reasons.
Hornsby | 1:25 000 Map Series | 91304S HORNSBY | NSW-91304S |
Sydney | 1:100 000 Map Series | 9130 SYDNEY | 9130 |
Cross sectional view of the Bellamy fire trail bushwalking track
Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Bellamy fire trail
Accessibility summary information for the Bellamy fire trail
Toilets: There are 0 designated accessible toilets on this walk.
Seats: There are 2 places to sit on this walk.
They are 350m apart.
Hazards: There are 2 specific noteable accessability related hazards on this walk.
Trip Hazard Unfenced and unmarked edge with potential 80cm or higher fall into the creek. Keep clear of the culverts edge when crossing. Found about 110m into the walk.
Wheelchair Steep A 45m long section of concrete trail (3.3m wide) that is very steep. There is a metal handrail on one side for most of the steep section. If using a wheelchair assistance is very likely required. Found about 300m into the walk.
Accessibility Details
Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001
Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.
Length | 619 m | ||
Time | 30 mins | ||
. | |||
Grade 3/6 Moderate track |
AS 2156.1 | Gradient | Short steep hills (3/6) |
Quality of track | Clear and well formed track or trail (2/6) | ||
Signs | Clearly signposted (1/6) | ||
Experience Required | No experience required (1/6) | ||
Weather | Weather generally has little impact on safety (1/6) | ||
Infrastructure | Generally useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats) (1/6) |
Some more details of this walks Grading
Here is a bit more details explaining grading looking at sections of the walk
Gradient
250m of this walk is flat with no steps and another 220m has gentle hills with occasional steps. The remaining (160m) has short steep hills.
Quality of track
Around 480m of this walk follows a smooth and hardened path, whilst the remaining 140m follows a clear and well formed track or trail.
Signs
This whole walk, 620m is clearly signposted.
Experience Required
This whole walk, 620m requires no previous bushwalking experience.
weather
This whole walk, 620m is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation).
Infrastructure
This whole walk, 620m is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats).
Similar walks
A list of walks that share part of the track with the Bellamy fire trail walk.
Other Nearby walks
A list of walks that start near the Bellamy fire trail walk.
Plan your trip to and from the walk here
The Bellamy fire trail walk starts at the End of Bellamy St (gps: -33.728765, 151.06981)
Your main transport option to End of Bellamy St is by;
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)
The Bellamy fire trail ends at the End of Timbarra Rd (gps: -33.724319, 151.07005)
Your main transport option to End of Timbarra Rd is by;
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)
Fire Danger
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.
Weather Forest
This walk starts in the Metropolitan weather district always check the formal BOM forecast or pdf before starting your walk.
Forecast snapshot
Park Information & Alerts
Short URL = http://wild.tl/bft
Gallery images
There are other downloads I am still working on.
You will probably need to login to access these — still all free.
* KML (google earth file)
* GPX (GPS file)
Special Maps/ brochures
* A3 topo maps
* PDF with Lands Topo map base
* PDF with arial image (and map overlay)
I wanted to get the main site live first, this extra stuff will come in time.
Happy walking
Matt 🙂
Bellamy St to De Saxe Cl dog walking trail
15 mins
36 m
Moderate track
This short walk follows a concrete management trail between Bellamy St and De Saxe Close. This is one of a few dog friendly bushwalks in the Berowra Valley Regional Park. You walk through some beautiful bush with a good array of grass and eucalyptus trees. At the bottom of the valley a bridge spans ZigZag Creek allowing you to keep you feet dry. There are also some good information signs explaining the rich history of the railway line and quarry that once passed through here. The authorised dog walk exits up the steps to the base of De Saxe Cl. We have also include an alternate exit, staying on the main trail to then end of Timbarra Rd for those walking without dogs.
(0km) End of Bellamy St → Zig Zag Creek Bridge int.
220 m
4 mins
0m
-16m
Easy track
and follows the ‘To Westleigh’ arrow[2] downhill along the concrete management trail. After about 25m this walk leads past a picnic table
[3] (on the left) then over the next 50m this walk continues downhill past the ‘Halls Camp’ information sign[4], the ‘Natures Filter’[5] to come to an intersection with a dirt track (the Great North Walk) marked with an arrow pointing back up to ‘Bellamy Street’[6].
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘The Jungo’ arrow[7] downhill along the wide concrete trail for 25m to cross over the culverted creek[8] (with a green rail[9] on one side)
. The walk continues down into the valley[10] along the concrete trail for another 110m to come to a signposted intersection marked with a ‘Great North Walk’ sign[11][12] (on your left), just before ‘Zig Zag Creek’[13] and the long bridge[14].
(0.22km) Zig Zag Creek Bridge int → Thornleigh Quarry
160 m
4 mins
15m
-8m
Moderate track
(with a handrail on the left side[21]). The trail then mostly flattens out for about 50m and leads gently up to the front of the old ‘Thornleigh Quarry’[22], marked with a plaque on a large stone[23][24][25]
.
Old Thornleigh Quarry
making this a pleasant spot to sit and enjoy the intriguing mix of nature and history. A book is available with some detail on this quarry and the associated zigzag railway: ‘Sydney’s Forgotten Quarry Railways’ by John Oakes, ISBN 0 9757870 3 9
(0.37km) Thornleigh Quarry → Int of Heritage Trail and De Saxe Cl trail
110 m
3 mins
11m
0m
Very easy
(0.48km) Int of Heritage Trail and De Saxe Cl trail → End of Timbarra Rd
140 m
3 mins
8m
-3m
Easy track
(0.48km) Int of Heritage Trail and De Saxe Cl trail → End of De Saxe Close
50 m
2 mins
10m
0m
Moderate track
Maps for the Bellamy St to De Saxe Cl dog walking trail walk
You can download the PDF for this walk to print a map.
These maps below cover the walk and the wider area around the walk, they are worth carrying for safety reasons.
Hornsby | 1:25 000 Map Series | 91304S HORNSBY | NSW-91304S |
Sydney | 1:100 000 Map Series | 9130 SYDNEY | 9130 |
Cross sectional view of the Bellamy St to De Saxe Cl dog walking trail bushwalking track
Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Bellamy St to De Saxe Cl dog walking trail
Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001
Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.
Length | 529 m | ||
Time | 15 mins | ||
. | |||
Grade 3/6 Moderate track |
AS 2156.1 | Gradient | Short steep hills (3/6) |
Quality of track | Clear and well formed track or trail (2/6) | ||
Signs | Directional signs along the way (3/6) | ||
Experience Required | No experience required (1/6) | ||
Weather | Weather generally has little impact on safety (1/6) | ||
Infrastructure | Generally useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats) (1/6) |
Some more details of this walks Grading
Here is a bit more details explaining grading looking at sections of the walk
Gradient
220m of this walk has gentle hills with occasional steps and another 210m has short steep hills. The remaining (110m) is flat with no steps.
Quality of track
Around 480m of this walk follows a smooth and hardened path, whilst the remaining 50m follows a clear and well formed track or trail.
Signs
Around 480m of this walk is clearly signposted, whilst the remaining 50m has directional signs at most intersection.
Experience Required
This whole walk, 530m requires no previous bushwalking experience.
weather
This whole walk, 530m is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation).
Infrastructure
This whole walk, 530m is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats).
Similar walks
A list of walks that share part of the track with the Bellamy St to De Saxe Cl dog walking trail walk.
Other Nearby walks
A list of walks that start near the Bellamy St to De Saxe Cl dog walking trail walk.
Plan your trip to and from the walk here
The Bellamy St to De Saxe Cl dog walking trail walk starts at the End of Bellamy St (gps: -33.728765, 151.06981)
Your transport options to End of Bellamy St are by;
Bus. (get details)
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)
The Bellamy St to De Saxe Cl dog walking trail ends at the End of De Saxe Close (gps: -33.72549, 151.06947)
Your transport options to End of De Saxe Close are by;
Bus. (get details)
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)
Fire Danger
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.
Weather Forest
This walk starts in the Metropolitan weather district always check the formal BOM forecast or pdf before starting your walk.
Forecast snapshot
Park Information & Alerts
Comments
Short URL = http://wild.tl/bstdscdwt
Gallery images
There are other downloads I am still working on.
You will probably need to login to access these — still all free.
* KML (google earth file)
* GPX (GPS file)
Special Maps/ brochures
* A3 topo maps
* PDF with Lands Topo map base
* PDF with arial image (and map overlay)
I wanted to get the main site live first, this extra stuff will come in time.
Happy walking
Matt 🙂
Clarinda St dog walking trail
And Walk
Clarinda St dog walking trail
15 mins
22 m
Easy track
This short walk links Clarinda St and Simon Pl in Hornsby Heights. The walk follows a management trail and is one of three dog friendly walks in Berowra Valley Regional Park. Starting at the wetlands at the end of Clarinda St you follow the Great North Walk alternate route until the turn off to the Simon Place. Dogs on leash are most welcome on this section of the trail.
(0km) End of Clarinda St → Int of Clarinda St and Simon Pl trails
440 m
9 mins
10m
-35m
Easy track
(0.44km) Int of Clarinda St and Simon Pl trails → End of Simon Place
60 m
2 mins
12m
-1m
Easy track
Maps for the Clarinda St dog walking trail walk
You can download the PDF for this walk to print a map.
These maps below cover the walk and the wider area around the walk, they are worth carrying for safety reasons.
Hornsby | 1:25 000 Map Series | 91304S HORNSBY | NSW-91304S |
Sydney | 1:100 000 Map Series | 9130 SYDNEY | 9130 |
Cross sectional view of the Clarinda St dog walking trail bushwalking track
Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Clarinda St dog walking trail
Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001
Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.
Length | 499 m | ||
Time | 15 mins | ||
. | |||
Grade 2/6 Easy track |
AS 2156.1 | Gradient | Gentle hills with occasional steps (2/6) |
Quality of track | Clear and well formed track or trail (2/6) | ||
Signs | Clearly signposted (1/6) | ||
Experience Required | No experience required (1/6) | ||
Weather | Weather generally has little impact on safety (1/6) | ||
Infrastructure | Generally useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats) (1/6) |
Some more details of this walks Grading
Here is a bit more details explaining grading looking at sections of the walk
Gradient
Around 440m of this walk has gentle hills with occasional steps, whilst the remaining 60m is flat with no steps.
Quality of track
This whole walk, 500m follows a clear and well formed track or trail.
Signs
This whole walk, 500m is clearly signposted.
Experience Required
This whole walk, 500m requires no previous bushwalking experience.
weather
This whole walk, 500m is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation).
Infrastructure
This whole walk, 500m is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats).
Similar walks
A list of walks that share part of the track with the Clarinda St dog walking trail walk.
Other Nearby walks
A list of walks that start near the Clarinda St dog walking trail walk.
Plan your trip to and from the walk here
The Clarinda St dog walking trail walk starts at the End of Clarinda St (gps: -33.68809, 151.09174)
Your transport options to End of Clarinda St are by;
Bus. (get details)
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)
The Clarinda St dog walking trail ends at the End of Simon Place (gps: -33.684643, 151.09121)
Your transport options to End of Simon Place are by;
Bus. (get details)
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)
Fire Danger
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.
Weather Forest
This walk starts in the Metropolitan weather district always check the formal BOM forecast or pdf before starting your walk.
Forecast snapshot
Park Information & Alerts
Comments
Short URL = http://wild.tl/csdwt
Gallery images
There are other downloads I am still working on.
You will probably need to login to access these — still all free.
* KML (google earth file)
* GPX (GPS file)
Special Maps/ brochures
* A3 topo maps
* PDF with Lands Topo map base
* PDF with arial image (and map overlay)
I wanted to get the main site live first, this extra stuff will come in time.
Happy walking
Matt 🙂
Barnetts Lookout
And Walk
Barnetts Lookout
15 mins
14 m
Very easy
A very pleasant and easy stroll along a path to a stunning view. Starting from Barnetts Road car park you follow the footpath through the picnic area, past the playground then meander gently downhill through the open forest among the scribbly gum trees. You soon discover a fenced lookout platform with amazing views up and down the Berowra Valley. The views of trees go on forever, on a clear day you can even see the Blue Mountains.
(0km) Barnetts Road → Barnetts Picnic area
50 m
1 mins
0m
-2m
Very easy
(at the junction of Barnetts Rd and Wyanna St, Berowra), this walk follows the concrete footpath between the timber bollards[4] (1.3m gap[5]) away from the road. After 25m this walk passes a short path to a picnic table[6] (on the left), about 20m later this walk comes to another path and picnic table[7]
(on the right). Here the walk also comes to a drinking fountain[8] in the middle of the picnic area, beside a playground[9] and near some extra seats
.
(0.05km) Barnetts Picnic area → Barnetts Lookout
160 m
3 mins
0m
-12m
Very easy
(on the left). Here the walk continues on the main path, gently downhill through the open forest[13] for about 60m to a seat
(beside the path, on the right). From the seat this walk continues winding gently downhill towards the views for another 70m to a intersection with a faint track[14] beside the plaque[15] commemorating the establishment of Berowra Valley NP. (The faint, less formal track, leads downhill for 60m to a fenced lookout[16]). From the plaque this walk continues a few more meters along the concrete path, around the bend to the left[17] to find the fenced[18] ‘Barrnetts Lookout’[19][20][21].
Barnetts Lookout
, a concrete base[22] (4.6x4m) and a 1.3m high[23] metal fence (filtered views when seated in a wheelchair[24]). To the left there are views upstream along Berowra Creek past Calna Creek[25], on a clear day you can just make out the Blue Mountains straight ahead and Berowra Waters[26] to the right[27].
Maps for the Barnetts Lookout walk
You can download the PDF for this walk to print a map.
These maps below cover the walk and the wider area around the walk, they are worth carrying for safety reasons.
Cowan | 1:25 000 Map Series | 91304N COWAN | NSW-91304N |
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Tourist Map | 1:40 000 Map Series | CMA Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Tourist Map | CMA Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Tourist Map |
Sydney | 1:100 000 Map Series | 9130 SYDNEY | 9130 |
Cross sectional view of the Barnetts Lookout bushwalking track
Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Barnetts Lookout
Accessibility summary information for the Barnetts Lookout
Toilets: There are 0 designated accessible toilets on this walk.
Seats: There are 6 places to sit on this walk.
They are on average 40m apart, with a maximum gap of 90m.
Hazards: There are 0 specific noteable accessability related hazards on this walk.
Accessibility Details
Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001
Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.
Length | 420 m | ||
Time | 15 mins | ||
. | |||
Grade 1/6 Very easy |
AS 2156.1 | Gradient | Flat, no steps (1/6) |
Quality of track | Smooth and hardened path (1/6) | ||
Signs | Clearly signposted (1/6) | ||
Experience Required | No experience required (1/6) | ||
Weather | Weather generally has little impact on safety (1/6) | ||
Infrastructure | Generally useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats) (1/6) |
Some more details of this walks Grading
Here is a bit more details explaining grading looking at sections of the walk
Gradient
This whole walk, 210m is flat with no steps.
Quality of track
This whole walk, 210m follows a smooth and hardened path.
Signs
This whole walk, 210m is clearly signposted.
Experience Required
This whole walk, 210m requires no previous bushwalking experience.
weather
This whole walk, 210m is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation).
Infrastructure
This whole walk, 210m is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats).
Similar walks
A list of walks that share part of the track with the Barnetts Lookout walk.
Other Nearby walks
A list of walks that start near the Barnetts Lookout walk.
Plan your trip to and from the walk here
The Barnetts Lookout walk starts and ends at the Barnetts Road (gps: -33.616836, 151.12988)
Your transport options to Barnetts Road are by;
Bus. (get details)
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)
Fire Danger
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.
Weather Forest
This walk starts in the Metropolitan weather district always check the formal BOM forecast or pdf before starting your walk.
Forecast snapshot
Park Information & Alerts
Comments
Short URL = http://wild.tl/9k
Gallery images
There are other downloads I am still working on.
You will probably need to login to access these — still all free.
* KML (google earth file)
* GPX (GPS file)
Special Maps/ brochures
* A3 topo maps
* PDF with Lands Topo map base
* PDF with arial image (and map overlay)
I wanted to get the main site live first, this extra stuff will come in time.
Happy walking
Matt 🙂
Hornsby to Fishponds
And Walk
Hornsby to Fishponds
2 hrs 30 mins
296 m
Hard track
A short walk from Hornsby to reach a great spot for admiring Berowra Creek. This walk explores several different environments in the Regional Park along the way. Allow some time to sit and enjoy the view at Fishponds. Expect to see other people along the track as this is one of the most popular walks in the area.
(0km) Hornsby Train Station → Int of Quarry Road and Great North Walk
720 m
14 mins
8m
-34m
Easy track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows Quarry Road down the gentle hill, leaving the houses[11][12] behind to come to an intersection with a track, signposted with a ‘Great North Walk’ sign[13] (on your left).
(0.72km) Int of Quarry Road and Great North Walk → Berowra Valley Bushland Park
540 m
14 mins
12m
-89m
Hard track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Great North Walk’ sign[16] down the steep rock steps[17]. The walk winds steeply down a number of sets of stone steps, passing some large rock walls for a bit over 100m, to find a welcome flat section of track[18] midway the hill. As the track leads past some houses (through the trees on your left), this walk heads down more steps[19] before coming to the open area of ‘Berowra Valley Bushland Park’[20][21], at the end of Rosemead Road[22].
Berowra Valley Bushland Park
(1.26km) Berowra Valley Bushland Park → Int of Blue Gum Walk and Joes Mountain Service Trail
890 m
20 mins
45m
-39m
Moderate track
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk heads downhill along the wide rocky management trail[35] as it bends left (and passing some houses off to the left). The trail then bends right[36] and leads across Old Mans Creek using some concrete stepping stones[37]. The walk then continues by heading up the moderately steep hill and then through a thick blue gum and bracken fern forest[38]. The wide trail leads to the top of the hill then bends left, (ignoring the track on the right[39]) to pass over a saddle[40]. Here the trail leads down the gentle hill[41], through the turpentine forest for just over 300m to find an intersection with narrower track on the right, marked with arrow posts[42].
(2.15km) Int of Blue Gum Walk and Joes Mountain Service Trail → Fishponds Lookout
300 m
7 mins
0m
-39m
Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Fishponds’ sign[45] along the flat narrow track past the ‘Berowra Valley Regional Park’ sign[46]. The track soon bends left (passing along the top of an unfenced cliff) then winds down some steep carved rock steps (with a hand rail)[47]. The rocky track then leads down along the side of the valley for just over 100m to cross a timber foot bridge[48]. The track then continues for another 70m to find a fenced rock platform[49] and signposted intersection[50].
Fishponds Lookout
(2.45km) Fishponds Lookout → Fishponds Bridge
350 m
8 mins
16m
-14m
Moderate track
Veer right: From the cave, this walk follows the ‘Galston Gorge’ sign[56] up the track and timbers steps. Soon the track turns left and follows a Great North Walk arrow up the hill[57], at the red and white ‘Danger’ sign[58](ignoring the other track). The track climbs up the carved steps[59] onto the rock platform and continues up the rocky track until just after passing through a narrow gap between two rocks[60], where this walk comes to the un-signposted (and faint) intersection with the Pogson’s Trig track (on the left).
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads down along the side of the hill[61], whilst keeping the main valley to your right. The track leads down some rocky steps, passing just above a rock platform (a short distance down on your right, with a plaque dedicated to ‘Cora’[62]). The track then leads down along the base of a cliff, passing under a rock overhang[63]. The track continues along the base of the cliff for another 50m then starts to wind downhill (with some handrails[64]) to come to a rock platform beside the creek[65]. This walk then crosses Berowra Creek on the flat timber bridge[66].
Fishponds
Maps for the Hornsby to Fishponds walk
You can download the PDF for this walk to print a map.
These maps below cover the walk and the wider area around the walk, they are worth carrying for safety reasons.
Hornsby | 1:25 000 Map Series | 91304S HORNSBY | NSW-91304S |
Sydney | 1:100 000 Map Series | 9130 SYDNEY | 9130 |
Cross sectional view of the Hornsby to Fishponds bushwalking track
Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Hornsby to Fishponds
Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001
Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.
Length | 5.6 km | ||
Time | 2 hrs 30 mins | ||
. | |||
Grade 4/6 Hard track |
AS 2156.1 | Gradient | Very steep (4/6) |
Quality of track | Formed track, with some branches and other obstacles (3/6) | ||
Signs | Directional signs along the way (3/6) | ||
Experience Required | Some bushwalking experience recommended (3/6) | ||
Weather | Storms may impact on navigation and safety (3/6) | ||
Infrastructure | Limited facilities, not all cliffs are fenced (3/6) |
Some more details of this walks Grading
Here is a bit more details explaining grading looking at sections of the walk
Gradient
1.2km of this walk has short steep hills and another 1km has gentle hills with occasional steps. Whilst another 350m is very steep and the remaining 180m is flat with no steps.
Quality of track
1.7km of this walk follows a clear and well formed track or trail and another 890m follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles. The remaining (180m) follows a smooth and hardened path.
Signs
Around 1.7km of this walk has directional signs at most intersection, whilst the remaining 1km is clearly signposted.
Experience Required
Around 2.1km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 690m requires some bushwalking experience.
weather
Around 2.7km of this walk is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation), whilst the remaining 70m is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety.
Infrastructure
Around 1.9km of this walk is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats), whilst the remaining 890m has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced).
Similar walks
A list of walks that share part of the track with the Hornsby to Fishponds walk.
Other Nearby walks
A list of walks that start near the Hornsby to Fishponds walk.
Plan your trip to and from the walk here
The Hornsby to Fishponds walk starts and ends at the Hornsby Train Station (gps: -33.703509, 151.09801)
Your transport options to Hornsby Train Station are by;
Train. (get details)
Bus. (get details)
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)
Fire Danger
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.
Weather Forest
This walk starts in the Metropolitan weather district always check the formal BOM forecast or pdf before starting your walk.
Forecast snapshot
Park Information & Alerts
Comments
Short URL = http://wild.tl/htf
Gallery images
There are other downloads I am still working on.
You will probably need to login to access these — still all free.
* KML (google earth file)
* GPX (GPS file)
Special Maps/ brochures
* A3 topo maps
* PDF with Lands Topo map base
* PDF with arial image (and map overlay)
I wanted to get the main site live first, this extra stuff will come in time.
Happy walking
Matt 🙂
Crosslands to Naa Badu Lookout return
3 hrs 30 mins
561 m
Hard track
This half day return walk starts from the Crosslands Reserve and follows a section of the Great North Walk along side Berowra creek, across boardwalks and bush tracks, before climbing steeply up the side of the valley to the Naa Badu Lookout. The lookout provides a great view down, across the valley and along Berowra creek. There are picnic benches and seats making it a great place for lunch.
Crosslands
and town water[7]. The southern part of Crosslands is managed by Hornsby Council and the northern half by the NPWS within the Berowra Valley National Park.
The first inhabitants of this area were a subgroup of the Dharug people who enjoyed the sandstone caves, fish and abundant plant life in the area. It is now managed by Hornsby Shire Council, but in 1856 Matthew Charlton asked Burton Crossland to be caretaker on this area. Burton built a house and made a living by harvesting timber, growing fruit, fishing and boat-building.
(0km) Crosslands Carpark → Northern end of Crosslands carpark
250 m
4 mins
1m
0m
Very easy
(0.25km) Northern end of Crosslands Carpark → Crosslands North
260 m
4 mins
1m
-2m
Very easy
and along the sealed old road[17]. The walk continues along the old road for just over 150m passing 4 picnic tables
to come to a y-intersection[18]. At the intersection this walk veers right, past the ‘Place of Winds’ sign[19] and wetland[20] (on your right). This walk continues along this old road for a little longer, coming to an intersection marked with a large ‘Crosslands’ information board[21] and ‘Great North walk’ sign[22]. This is just on the edge of the northern picnic area[23], not far from the toilet block[24]
.
Crosslands North Picnic area
[25][26] and a few sandy beaches with direct access to the water[27]. Here you will find a few picnic tables
and shelters
[28], as well as garbage bins[29]. The eastern side is home to a boardwalk exploring the estuarine wetland[30]. A pleasant area to rest and enjoy the water. Fires are only permitted in formally established fire places[31] .
(0.51km) Crosslands North → Estuaries viewing platform int.
220 m
4 mins
7m
-5m
Very easy
. The timber boardwalks winds through the mangroves for about 60m, coming to a firm dirt track[35] which leads for another 70m to a second timber boardwalk[36]. The second boardwalk leads for another 70m, past ‘Mangrove Food Cycle’ information signs[37] to come to an 3-way intersection[38] in the boardwalk with the estuaries viewing platform boardwalk[39] (on your left).
Berowra Creek (Estuarie) Lookout
[44] encouraging you to take some time to soak up this view.
(0.73km) Estuaries viewing platform → Calna Creek Bridge intersection
780 m
20 mins
54m
-57m
Moderate track
About 100m further along the rocky track, this walk comes to a lookout and a ‘Catch the Threats’ information sign[49], where the track continues past the bench seat[50] and alongside the creek to the ‘The Rock Club’ information sign[51]. The track then leads among some grass tress[52] for just over 100m to the ‘Bush Supermarket’ information sign[53]. Just past this sign, the track begins to climb fairly steeply up the stone[54] and timber steps[55] to the ridge line, marked with a GNW arrow and a ‘Stop! Look! Listen! and Smell!’ information sign[56].
Continue straight: From the ridge line, this walk follows the GNW arrow east downhill, initially keeping the ‘Stop! Look! Listen! and Smell!’ information sign[57] on your right. The track bends left and follows the timber steps[58] as the track winds steeply down the side of the hill. Near the bottom of the hill, the track passes a ‘Rock n Roll’ information sign[59] then comes to a long, metal footbridge[60]. The walk crosses the bridge over Calna Creek and comes to a signposted intersection, with a ‘Fragile Marsh’ information sign[61]
(1.51km) Calna Creek Bridge intersection → Sams Creek Ridge Clearing
1.1 km
27 mins
67m
-58m
Moderate track
(2.66km) Sams Creek ridge clearing → Sams Creek Crossing
500 m
11 mins
20m
-23m
Moderate track
The track then leads alongside Sams Creek (on your left) for about 350m when, just after climbing over a rock, the track comes to a ‘Crosslands’ sign[74] pointing back along the track, beside the creek.
(3.16km) Sams Creek Crossing → Int of Great North Walk and Berowra Link tracks
670 m
30 mins
181m
-44m
Hard track
(3.83km) Int of Great North Walk and Berowra Link tracks → Int of Naa Badu Lookout
260 m
7 mins
19m
-22m
Easy track
Naa Badu Lookout
Maps for the Crosslands to Naa Badu Lookout return walk
You can download the PDF for this walk to print a map.
These maps below cover the walk and the wider area around the walk, they are worth carrying for safety reasons.
Hornsby | 1:25 000 Map Series | 91304S HORNSBY | NSW-91304S |
Cowan | 1:25 000 Map Series | 91304N COWAN | NSW-91304N |
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Tourist Map | 1:40 000 Map Series | CMA Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Tourist Map | CMA Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Tourist Map |
Sydney | 1:100 000 Map Series | 9130 SYDNEY | 9130 |
Cross sectional view of the Crosslands to Naa Badu Lookout return bushwalking track
Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Crosslands to Naa Badu Lookout return
Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001
Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.
Length | 8.2 km | ||
Time | 3 hrs 30 mins | ||
. | |||
Grade 4/6 Hard track |
AS 2156.1 | Gradient | Very steep (4/6) |
Quality of track | Formed track, with some branches and other obstacles (3/6) | ||
Signs | Directional signs along the way (3/6) | ||
Experience Required | Moderate level of bushwalking experience recommended (4/6) | ||
Weather | Weather generally has little impact on safety (1/6) | ||
Infrastructure | Limited facilities, not all cliffs are fenced (3/6) |
Some more details of this walks Grading
Here is a bit more details explaining grading looking at sections of the walk
Gradient
2.4km of this walk has short steep hills and another 730m is flat with no steps. Whilst another 670m is very steep and the remaining 260m has gentle hills with occasional steps.
Quality of track
3.1km of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles and another 730m follows a smooth and hardened path. The remaining (260m) follows a clear and well formed track or trail.
Signs
Around 3.1km of this walk has directional signs at most intersection, whilst the remaining 990m is clearly signposted.
Experience Required
2.4km of this walk requires some bushwalking experience and another 990m requires no previous bushwalking experience. The remaining (670m) requires a leader a with moderate level of bushwalking experience.
weather
This whole walk, 4.1km is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation).
Infrastructure
Around 3.4km of this walk is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats), whilst the remaining 670m has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced).
Similar walks
A list of walks that share part of the track with the Crosslands to Naa Badu Lookout return walk.
Other Nearby walks
A list of walks that start near the Crosslands to Naa Badu Lookout return walk.
Plan your trip to and from the walk here
The Crosslands to Naa Badu Lookout return walk starts and ends at the Crosslands Carpark (gps: -33.628707, 151.10905)
Your main transport option to Crosslands Carpark is by;
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)
Fire Danger
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.
Weather Forest
This walk starts in the Metropolitan weather district always check the formal BOM forecast or pdf before starting your walk.
Forecast snapshot
Park Information & Alerts
Comments
Short URL = http://wild.tl/ctnblr
Gallery images
There are other downloads I am still working on.
You will probably need to login to access these — still all free.
* KML (google earth file)
* GPX (GPS file)
Special Maps/ brochures
* A3 topo maps
* PDF with Lands Topo map base
* PDF with arial image (and map overlay)
I wanted to get the main site live first, this extra stuff will come in time.
Happy walking
Matt 🙂
Berowra to Hornsby
And Walk
Berowra to Hornsby
9 hrs 18 mins
1423 m
Hard track
One of the longer day walks in Berowra Valley National Park, this walk mostly follows Berowra Creek along the Great North Walk. Excellent views of the creek can be expected, especially at places like Crosslands and Fishponds. Be sure to pace yourself and take regular breaks. Crosslands and Tunks Ridge Reserve are popular rest places.
Note this walk was re-routed in early 2016 to go via the streets of Hornsby Heights. This re-route is due to the multi-agency decision to close the Fishponds to Steele Bridge section of the Benowie Track. This decision has upset many people and the protest continues.
(0km) Berowra Station → Crowley Road track head
710 m
14 mins
25m
-15m
Very easy
(0.71km) Crowley Road track head → Int of Berowra service trail and Great North Walk
900 m
21 mins
18m
-106m
Moderate track
The track begins to flatten out over the next 400m, crossing the gully twice, then leads down to a three-way intersection marked with a couple of arrow posts[22].
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the arrow post[23] downhill and soon crosses a small creek[24]. The track then continues up the other side of the valley, over a small rise, then leads down to an intersection with a management trail[25], marked with a couple more arrow posts.
(1.61km) Int of Berowra service trail and Great North Walk → Int of Great North Walk and Berowra Link tracks
1.1 km
27 mins
69m
-57m
Moderate track
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Crosslands’ sign [29] as the trail bends left, leading down the hill. The trail then undulates around the side of valley for about 300m and crosses a small creek (where the trail is gravel[30]). The trail then heads generally uphill for about 600m, before a last little downhill stretch leads to an intersection (with a track on your left) and a ‘Berowra Station’ sign[31] pointing back along the track.
(2.72km) Int of Great North Walk and Berowra Link tracks → Sams Creek Crossing
670 m
30 mins
44m
-181m
Hard track
(3.39km) Sams Creek Crossing → Sams Creek ridge clearing
500 m
11 mins
23m
-20m
Moderate track
Continuing past this clearing through the saltmarsh[41], the walk heads left[42] (ignoring the track leading straight into the mangroves[43]) then goes up the side of the hill for about 100m to a small, flat, pleasant clearing, surrounded by large boulders[44].
(3.89km) Sams Creek Ridge Clearing → Calna Creek Bridge intersection
1.1 km
27 mins
58m
-67m
Moderate track
(5.04km) Calna Creek Bridge intersection → Estuaries viewing platform
780 m
20 mins
57m
-54m
Moderate track
Continue straight: From the ridge line, this walk follows the GNW arrow west downhill, initially keeping the ‘Stop! Look! Listen! and Smell!’ information sign[56] on your left. The track bends left and gently heads down the side of the hill for a short time before heading more steeply down the timber[57] and stone[58] steps. Then the rocky track mostly flattens out beside the wide creek to find the ‘Bush Supermarket’ information sign[59].
Next the track leads among some grass tress[60] for just over 100m to the ‘The Rock Club’ information sign[61], then the track leads up past a bench seat and onto a lookout and a ‘Catch the Threats’ information sign[62]. About 100m further along the track, this walk heads along a short section of timber boardwalk[63], then soon after, comes to the ‘All creatures great and small’ information sign[64]. The track leads for another 200m alongside the wide creek to a timber ramp[65] and an intersection[66] in the boardwalk with an estuaries viewing platform[67] (on your right).
Berowra Creek (Estuarie) Lookout
[72] encouraging you to take some time to soak up this view.
(5.82km) Estuaries viewing platform int. → Crosslands North
220 m
4 mins
5m
-7m
Very easy
. Here there is a clear intersection marked with a large ‘Crosslands’ information board[77] and a ‘Great North Walk’ sign[78] pointing back along the boardwalk. This intersection is on the edge of the northern Crosslands picnic area[79], not far from the toilet block[80]
.
Crosslands North Picnic area
[81][82] and a few sandy beaches with direct access to the water[83]. Here you will find a few picnic tables
and shelters
[84], as well as garbage bins[85]. The eastern side is home to a boardwalk exploring the estuarine wetland[86]. A pleasant area to rest and enjoy the water. Fires are only permitted in formally established fire places[87] .
(6.03km) Crosslands North → Northern end of Crosslands Carpark
260 m
4 mins
2m
-1m
Very easy
, then comes to a locked gate[91] and a large ‘Great North Walk’ sign[92]. Here the walk leads around the locked gate
to find the northern end of the car park[93] (at the far northern end of Somerville Rd, Hornsby Heights).
(6.3km) Northern end of Crosslands carpark → Crosslands Carpark
250 m
4 mins
0m
-1m
Very easy
Crosslands
and town water[107]. The southern part of Crosslands is managed by Hornsby Council and the northern half by the NPWS within the Berowra Valley National Park.
The first inhabitants of this area were a subgroup of the Dharug people who enjoyed the sandstone caves, fish and abundant plant life in the area. It is now managed by Hornsby Shire Council, but in 1856 Matthew Charlton asked Burton Crossland to be caretaker on this area. Burton built a house and made a living by harvesting timber, growing fruit, fishing and boat-building.
(6.54km) Crosslands Carpark → Crosslands southern toilet block
340 m
5 mins
5m
-2m
Very easy
Crosslands Campsite
(6.88km) Crosslands southern toilet block → Berowra Creek campsite track
1.4 km
33 mins
84m
-85m
Moderate track
The walk then leads down the stone steps and along the flat track for about 100m, passing a small clearing used as a campsite[140] (on your left). Almost 200m later, the track crosses a small creek using a timber bridge with a handrail[141] and comes to an overgrown but signposted campsite[142] (on your right). After another 250m of walking through the the fern and turpentine forest, the track leads across a rocky gully[143]. Here the track continues to wind along near the creek[144] for about 300m then crosses another small flat timber bridge[145]. About 30m after this, the walk comes to an intersection[146] with a track on your left (which to a clearing[147] and campsite[148]).
Berowra Creek campsite
(8.24km) Berowra Creek campsite track → Unnamed Falls
3.4 km
1 hr 28 mins
297m
-217m
Hard track
The track continues near the creek for another 300m (passing under the power lines), then crosses a rocky and mossy gully[158]. Continuing along the side of the valley, the track leads across another rocky gully[159]. As the track climbs out of the gully, it passes close to the creek a couple more times[160], then leads along a mostly flat section of track with plenty of grass trees[161] for about 300m. Here the track bends left and starts a fairly steep climb for about 120m, which leads to a clearing on a flat rock platform[162], marked with a GNW arrow post[163]. Here the walk turns right and leads up along the track for about 150m to come to a fenced rock platform, where there are some good valley views[164]. From the end of this fence, the track continues for about 600m along the series of unfenced rock platforms[165] (passing under the high-tension power lines[166]) to then climb down some carved steps[167] and find a long rock wall[168]. The rocky track soon leads down the the side of the hill[169] for about 600m, moderately steeply at times, to enter a mossy gully[170] with large boulders[171] and a small waterfall[172]. This gully is marked with a few GNW markers[173].
(11.67km) Unnamed Falls → Galston Gorge track head
1.3 km
41 mins
109m
-161m
Moderate track
Galston Gorge track head
(12.93km) Galston Gorge track head → Int of Great North Walk and Galston Gorge track
550 m
16 mins
119m
-14m
Hard track
(13.48km) Int of Great North Walk and Galston Gorge track → Tunks Ridge Rest Area
1.4 km
28 mins
68m
-38m
Moderate track
Tunks Ridge Rest Area
(14.84km) Tunks Ridge Rest Area → Steele Bridge
1.8 km
44 mins
33m
-160m
Hard track
Historic Military ‘Steele’ Bridge
(16.61km) Steele Bridge → Int of Stewart Ave service trail and waterfall track
400 m
8 mins
29m
-5m
Easy track
(17.01km) Int of Stewart Ave service trail and waterfall track → Int of Clarinda St and waterfall track
470 m
13 mins
98m
-9m
Moderate track
Veer left: From the waterfall, this walk heads up out of the gully using the stone stairs whilst keeping the waterfall on the right-hand side. Take care as the track climbs around some small cliffs while winding up the hill. Steps have been made from rocks and logs, making this track a bit more gentle, and there are some carved steps in the steeper sections. The track then heads through a banksia grove, coming to a ‘T’ intersection with the wide Clarinda St management trail.
(17.48km) Int of Clarinda St trail and waterfall track → End of Clarinda St
1.1 km
24 mins
66m
-51m
Easy track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the Great North Walk arrow down the hill, keeping the road and houses up the hill to the left. The wide management trail heads down the hill and crosses a small creek before continuing up the other side of the valley. At the top of the climb, the walk flattens out and then gently meanders around the hill. There are nice rock formations on the left and the occasional view of the valley on the right. After a little while, the trail comes to a brick wall and turns right, coming to the end of Clarinda St and the signposted ‘Clarinda Wetlands’.
(18.56km) End of Clarinda St → Corner of Dilkera and Manor Rd
1.7 km
31 mins
49m
-36m
Easy track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads south along Rosamond St (initially keeping Stewart Avenue on the right), soon passing Mount Wilga Hospital, where the road changes name to Manor Rd. The walk follows Manor Rd around the hospital and for another 600m to the intersection with Dilkera Close.
(20.22km) Corner of Dilkera and Manor Rd → Int of GNW and Manor Rd Bushtrack
230 m
13 mins
0m
-95m
Moderate track
(20.44km) Int of Great North Walk and Manor Rd Bushtrack → Fishponds crossing
340 m
8 mins
3m
-40m
Moderate track
Turn right: From the lookout[235], this walk follows the ‘Galston Gorge’ sign[236] along the fenced rock shelf (keeping the fence to your left). The track leads down the rocky steps to the edge of Berowra Creek[237]. The walk crosses the creek using the stepping stones, and comes to a small cave[238] on the other side. This creek may be impassable after rain[239]. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Continue straight.
Fishponds
(20.44km) Int of Great North Walk and Manor Rd Bushtrack → Int of Blue Gum Walk and Joes Mountain Service Trail
30 m
1 mins
3m
0m
Easy track
(20.47km) Int of Blue Gum Walk and Joes Mountain Service Trail → Int of Great North Walk and Rosemead Rd service trail
850 m
19 mins
35m
-45m
Moderate track
(21.32km) Int of Great North Walk and Rosemead Rd service trail → Berowra Valley Bushland Park
30 m
1 mins
4m
0m
Easy track
Berowra Valley Bushland Park
(21.36km) Berowra Valley Bushland Park → Int of Quarry Road and Great North Walk
540 m
14 mins
89m
-12m
Hard track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post up a couple of timber steps[271] and then follows the track as it winds up over the gentle rise. Once over the rise, the track then leads down to the intersection with Quarry Rd, where a ‘Great North Walk’ sign[272] points back up the track.
(21.9km) Int of Quarry Road and Great North Walk → Hornsby Train Station
720 m
14 mins
34m
-8m
Easy track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows Quarry Rd up the gentle hill[275] for about 180m, then follows the GNW arrow[276] left onto Dural St[277]. The footpath leads past the unit block, then past a few shops to come to an intersection with the Pacific Hwy. Following the GNW arrow, this walk turns right across ‘Dural St’[278], passes a few more shops, then crosses ‘Dural Lane’[279] before turning left across the Pacific Hwy at the traffic lights[280]. Here the walk continues straight across the ‘Station St’ pedestrian crossing[281], past the large ‘Great North Walk’ sign[282] and across the bus lane to the western entrance of Hornsby Station[283].
Maps for the Berowra to Hornsby walk
You can download the PDF for this walk to print a map.
These maps below cover the walk and the wider area around the walk, they are worth carrying for safety reasons.
Hornsby | 1:25 000 Map Series | 91304S HORNSBY | NSW-91304S |
Cowan | 1:25 000 Map Series | 91304N COWAN | NSW-91304N |
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Tourist Map | 1:40 000 Map Series | CMA Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Tourist Map | CMA Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Tourist Map |
Sydney | 1:100 000 Map Series | 9130 SYDNEY | 9130 |
Cross sectional view of the Berowra to Hornsby bushwalking track
Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Berowra to Hornsby
Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001
Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.
Length | 22.6 km | ||
Time | 9 hrs 18 mins | ||
. | |||
Grade 4/6 Hard track |
AS 2156.1 | Gradient | Very steep (4/6) |
Quality of track | Rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely (4/6) | ||
Signs | Directional signs along the way (3/6) | ||
Experience Required | Moderate level of bushwalking experience recommended (4/6) | ||
Weather | Weather generally has little impact on safety (1/6) | ||
Infrastructure | Limited facilities, not all cliffs are fenced (3/6) |
Some more details of this walks Grading
Here is a bit more details explaining grading looking at sections of the walk
Gradient
10km of this walk has short steep hills and another 7km has gentle hills with occasional steps. Whilst another 3.3km is very steep and the remaining 3.1km is flat with no steps.
Quality of track
8km of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles and another 7km follows a clear and well formed track or trail. Whilst another 3.6km follows a smooth and hardened path and the remaining 3.4km follows a rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely.
Signs
Around 15km of this walk has directional signs at most intersection, whilst the remaining 8km is clearly signposted.
Experience Required
11km of this walk requires some bushwalking experience and another 11km requires no previous bushwalking experience. The remaining (670m) requires a leader a with moderate level of bushwalking experience.
weather
This whole walk, 23km is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation).
Infrastructure
Around 13km of this walk is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats), whilst the remaining 10km has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced).
Similar walks
A list of walks that share part of the track with the Berowra to Hornsby walk.
Other Nearby walks
A list of walks that start near the Berowra to Hornsby walk.
Plan your trip to and from the walk here
The Berowra to Hornsby walk starts at the Berowra Station (gps: -33.62318, 151.15328)
Your transport options to Berowra Station are by;
Train. (get details)
Bus. (get details)
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)
The Berowra to Hornsby ends at the Hornsby Train Station (gps: -33.703509, 151.09801)
Your transport options to Hornsby Train Station are by;
Train. (get details)
Bus. (get details)
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)
Fire Danger
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.
Weather Forest
This walk starts in the Metropolitan weather district always check the formal BOM forecast or pdf before starting your walk.
Forecast snapshot
Park Information & Alerts
Comments
Short URL = http://wild.tl/bth
Gallery images
There are other downloads I am still working on.
You will probably need to login to access these — still all free.
* KML (google earth file)
* GPX (GPS file)
Special Maps/ brochures
* A3 topo maps
* PDF with Lands Topo map base
* PDF with arial image (and map overlay)
I wanted to get the main site live first, this extra stuff will come in time.
Happy walking
Matt 🙂
Hornsby to Galston Gorge
And Walk
Hornsby to Galston Gorge
4 hrs
473 m
Hard track
Starting at Hornsby station, you soon head into the bush and down the steep depression era stone steps through the volcanic Old Mans Valley, to a picnic area at the end of Rosemead Rd. Here you follow the Blue Gum walk through one of Sydney’s rare Blue Gum Forest stands to then cross Berowra Creek a few times at Fishponds waterhole. After exploring the edge of the valley you will cross the Steele Military Bridge before climbing to Tunks Ridge rest area. Not far from here the walk starts to lead steeply down enjoying more sandstone caves to cross under Galston Road to find the Galston trackhead.
Note this walk was re-routed in early 2016 to go via the streets of Hornsby Heights. This re-route is due to the multi-agency decision to close the Fishponds to Steele Bridge section of the Benowie Track. This decision has upset many people and the protest continues.
(0km) Hornsby Train Station → Int of Quarry Road and Great North Walk
720 m
14 mins
8m
-34m
Easy track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows Quarry Road down the gentle hill, leaving the houses[11][12] behind to come to an intersection with a track, signposted with a ‘Great North Walk’ sign[13] (on your left).
(0.72km) Int of Quarry Road and Great North Walk → Berowra Valley Bushland Park
540 m
14 mins
12m
-89m
Hard track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Great North Walk’ sign[16] down the steep rock steps[17]. The walk winds steeply down a number of sets of stone steps, passing some large rock walls for a bit over 100m, to find a welcome flat section of track[18] midway the hill. As the track leads past some houses (through the trees on your left), this walk heads down more steps[19] before coming to the open area of ‘Berowra Valley Bushland Park’[20][21], at the end of Rosemead Road[22].
Berowra Valley Bushland Park
(1.26km) Berowra Valley Bushland Park → Int of Great North Walk and Manor Rd Bushtrack
910 m
21 mins
45m
-42m
Moderate track
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk heads downhill along the wide rocky management trail[35] as it bends left (and passing some houses off to the left). The trail then bends right[36] and leads across Old Mans Creek using some concrete stepping stones[37]. The walk then continues by heading up the moderately steep hill and then through a thick blue gum and bracken fern forest[38]. The wide trail leads to the top of the hill then bends left, (ignoring the track on the right[39]) to pass over a saddle[40]. Here the trail leads down the gentle hill[41], through the turpentine forest for just over 300m to find an intersection with narrower track on the right, marked with arrow posts[42].
Veer right: From the intersection, the walk follows the ‘Great North Walk’ arrow[43] down the narrower track a short distance to find a three-way intersection marked with a large ‘Great North walk’ signpost[44].
(2.18km) Int of Great North Walk and Manor Rd Bushtrack → Fishponds crossing
340 m
8 mins
3m
-40m
Moderate track
Turn right: From the lookout[51], this walk follows the ‘Galston Gorge’ sign[52] along the fenced rock shelf (keeping the fence to your left). The track leads down the rocky steps to the edge of Berowra Creek[53]. The walk crosses the creek using the stepping stones, and comes to a small cave[54] on the other side. This creek may be impassable after rain[55]. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Veer left.
Fishponds
(2.18km) Int of GNW and Manor Rd Bushtrack → Corner of Dilkera and Manor Rd
230 m
13 mins
95m
0m
Moderate track
(2.4km) Corner of Dilkera and Manor Rd → End of Clarinda St
1.7 km
31 mins
36m
-49m
Easy track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads north along Rosamond St following the Great North Walk arrow. The walk then turns left into Clarinda St and follows it to the end of the road, to find the ‘Clarinda Wetlands’ sign.
(4.06km) End of Clarinda St → Int of Clarinda St trail and waterfall track
1.1 km
24 mins
51m
-66m
Easy track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the flat management trail, heading away from Simon Place past the ‘Berowra Valley Regional Park’, ‘Dogs Prohibited’ sign[63]. The walk gently meanders along the trail, enjoying the ferns and sandstone rocks for a while until coming to a ‘Great North Walk’ sign[64] highlighting the intersection with small track on the left.
(5.14km) Int of Clarinda St and waterfall track → Int of Stewart Ave service trail and waterfall track
470 m
13 mins
9m
-98m
Moderate track
Veer right: From the waterfall, this walk climbs the stone stairs (keeping the waterfall initially on the left) and then turns right, heading up out of the gully. Once at the top of the stairs, the walk heads through the bush until soon coming to a ‘T’ intersection with the Stewart St management trail, signposted with a large ‘Great North Walk’ sign[66].
(5.61km) Int of Stewart Ave service trail and waterfall track → Steele Bridge
400 m
8 mins
5m
-29m
Easy track
Historic Military ‘Steele’ Bridge
(6km) Steele Bridge → Tunks Ridge Rest Area
1.8 km
44 mins
160m
-33m
Hard track
Tunks Ridge Rest Area
(7.78km) Tunks Ridge Rest Area → Int of Great North Walk and Galston Gorge track
1.4 km
28 mins
38m
-68m
Moderate track
(9.14km) Int of Great North Walk and Galston Gorge track → Galston Gorge track head
550 m
16 mins
14m
-119m
Hard track
Galston Gorge track head
Maps for the Hornsby to Galston Gorge walk
You can download the PDF for this walk to print a map.
These maps below cover the walk and the wider area around the walk, they are worth carrying for safety reasons.
Hornsby | 1:25 000 Map Series | 91304S HORNSBY | NSW-91304S |
Sydney | 1:100 000 Map Series | 9130 SYDNEY | 9130 |
Cross sectional view of the Hornsby to Galston Gorge bushwalking track
Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Hornsby to Galston Gorge
Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001
Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.
Length | 9.7 km | ||
Time | 4 hrs | ||
. | |||
Grade 4/6 Hard track |
AS 2156.1 | Gradient | Very steep (4/6) |
Quality of track | Formed track, with some branches and other obstacles (3/6) | ||
Signs | Directional signs along the way (3/6) | ||
Experience Required | Some bushwalking experience recommended (3/6) | ||
Weather | Weather generally has little impact on safety (1/6) | ||
Infrastructure | Limited facilities, not all cliffs are fenced (3/6) |
Some more details of this walks Grading
Here is a bit more details explaining grading looking at sections of the walk
Gradient
4.2km of this walk has gentle hills with occasional steps and another 2.7km is very steep. Whilst another 1.5km has short steep hills and the remaining 1.3km is flat with no steps.
Quality of track
6km of this walk follows a clear and well formed track or trail and another 1.8km follows a smooth and hardened path. The remaining (1.8km) follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles.
Signs
Around 6km of this walk is clearly signposted, whilst the remaining 3.5km has directional signs at most intersection.
Experience Required
Around 8km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 1.6km requires some bushwalking experience.
weather
This whole walk, 10km is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation).
Infrastructure
Around 8km of this walk is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats), whilst the remaining 1.9km has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced).
Similar walks
A list of walks that share part of the track with the Hornsby to Galston Gorge walk.
Other Nearby walks
A list of walks that start near the Hornsby to Galston Gorge walk.
Plan your trip to and from the walk here
The Hornsby to Galston Gorge walk starts at the Hornsby Train Station (gps: -33.703509, 151.09801)
Your transport options to Hornsby Train Station are by;
Train. (get details)
Bus. (get details)
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)
The Hornsby to Galston Gorge ends at the Galston Gorge track head (gps: -33.66458, 151.08031)
Your main transport option to Galston Gorge track head is by;
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)
Fire Danger
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.
Weather Forest
This walk starts in the Metropolitan weather district always check the formal BOM forecast or pdf before starting your walk.
Forecast snapshot
Park Information & Alerts
Comments
Short URL = http://wild.tl/htgg
Gallery images
There are other downloads I am still working on.
You will probably need to login to access these — still all free.
* KML (google earth file)
* GPX (GPS file)
Special Maps/ brochures
* A3 topo maps
* PDF with Lands Topo map base
* PDF with arial image (and map overlay)
I wanted to get the main site live first, this extra stuff will come in time.
Happy walking
Matt 🙂
Thornleigh to Mt Kuring-Gai
And Walk
Thornleigh to Mt Kuring-Gai
2 Days
1614 m
Hard track
This overnight walk starts from Thornleigh train station and follows the Great North Walk down through the Berowra Valley Regional Park and along Berowra creek. The walk passes through Fishponds and up to the top of Galston Gorge to the campsite. From there, the walk continues along the Great North Walk, down through the gorge and along Berowra Creek to Crosslands Reserve, then back out the well signposted Mt Kuring-gai link track. The walk finishes at the train station, soon after leaving the bush.
Note this walk was re-routed in early 2016 to go via the streets of Hornsby Heights. This re-route is due to the multi-agency decision to close the Fishponds to Steele Bridge section of the Benowie Track. This decision has upset many people and the protest continues.
(0km) Thornleigh Train Station → Morgan Rd
990 m
18 mins
7m
-47m
Easy track
(0.99km) Morgan Rd → Int of Bike Trail and Morgan Rd tracks
230 m
4 mins
3m
-7m
Moderate track
(1.22km) Int of Bellamy trail and Morgan Rd tracks → Zig Zag Creek Bridge int.
130 m
2 mins
0m
-6m
Easy track
. The walk continues down into the valley[23] along the concrete trail for another 110m to come to a signposted intersection marked with a ‘Great North Walk’ sign[24][25] (on your left), just before ‘Zig Zag Creek’[26] and the long bridge[27].
Thornleigh zigzag railway
(1.34km) Zig Zag Creek Bridge intersection → The Jungo
1.4 km
25 mins
16m
-37m
Moderate track
The Jungo
(2.78km) Jungo campsite → Int of GNW and Stringybark Ridge trail
100 m
2 mins
1m
0m
Moderate track
(2.88km) Int of GNW and Stringybark Ridge trail → Elouera Lookout
1 km
27 mins
81m
-58m
Moderate track
Elouera Lookout
(3.93km) Elouera Lookout → Int of the Great North Walk and the Quarter Sessions Road track
2.2 km
54 mins
152m
-130m
Moderate track
(6.08km) Int of the Great North Walk and the Quarter Sessions Road track → Int of the Great North Walk and the Blue Gum Walk (SW)
690 m
18 mins
43m
-73m
Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads north along the clear track, keeping the valley down to your left for about 100m, where the walk comes to a three-way intersection and ‘The Jungo’ sign[74] points back along the track.
(6.77km) Int of the Great North Walk and the Blue Gum Walk (SW) → Fishponds Lookout
990 m
21 mins
21m
-87m
Hard track
After stopping to enjoy cool spot, this walk continues left along the unfenced rock platform[86] (keeping the creek down to your left). The walk soon steps off this large rock (at the far right-hand corner, through the fork in a tree[87]). This walk heads over another rock platform[88], then along a notably flat section of track[89] (now with Berowra Creek on your left), passing beside some cascades[90] for about 100m before climbing up and over some rocks and under a sandstone overhang[91]. The track leads around the side of the hill for about 100m, then down to cross a small creek using the small flat timber bridge[92]. The walk then climbs up some timber steps[93] to a fenced lookout[94] over Fishponds, at a well-signposted intersection[95]. A sign points back along the track to ‘Thornleigh Station’[96].
Fishponds Lookout
(7.76km) Fishponds Lookout → Fishponds crossing
70 m
2 mins
3m
-4m
Moderate track
Fishponds
(7.76km) Fishponds Lookout → Corner of Dilkera and Manor Rd
500 m
19 mins
131m
0m
Moderate track
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Alternative Route’ arrow on the GNW sign[112]. The track dips before heading steeply uphill, zigzagging in several sections. The walk leads you up a large metal staircase to the top of the cliffs, coming to the intersection of Manor Rd and Dilkera Cl.
(8.26km) Corner of Dilkera and Manor Rd → End of Clarinda St
1.7 km
31 mins
36m
-49m
Easy track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads north along Rosamond St following the Great North Walk arrow. The walk then turns left into Clarinda St and follows it to the end of the road, to find the ‘Clarinda Wetlands’ sign.
(9.91km) End of Clarinda St → Int of Clarinda St trail and waterfall track
1.1 km
24 mins
51m
-66m
Easy track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the flat management trail, heading away from Simon Place past the ‘Berowra Valley Regional Park’, ‘Dogs Prohibited’ sign[113]. The walk gently meanders along the trail, enjoying the ferns and sandstone rocks for a while until coming to a ‘Great North Walk’ sign[114] highlighting the intersection with small track on the left.
(10.99km) Int of Clarinda St and waterfall track → Int of Stewart Ave service trail and waterfall track
470 m
13 mins
9m
-98m
Moderate track
Veer right: From the waterfall, this walk climbs the stone stairs (keeping the waterfall initially on the left) and then turns right, heading up out of the gully. Once at the top of the stairs, the walk heads through the bush until soon coming to a ‘T’ intersection with the Stewart St management trail, signposted with a large ‘Great North Walk’ sign[116].
(11.46km) Int of Stewart Ave service trail and waterfall track → Steele Bridge
400 m
8 mins
5m
-29m
Easy track
Historic Military ‘Steele’ Bridge
(11.86km) Steele Bridge → Tunks Ridge Rest Area
1.8 km
44 mins
160m
-33m
Hard track
Tunks Ridge Rest Area
End of day 1
(13.63km) Tunks Ridge Rest Area → Int of Great North Walk and Galston Gorge track
1.4 km
28 mins
38m
-68m
Moderate track
Top of Galston Gorge Campsite
(14.99km) Int of Great North Walk and Galston Gorge track → Galston Gorge track head
550 m
16 mins
14m
-119m
Hard track
Galston Gorge track head
(15.54km) Galston Gorge track head → Unnamed Falls
1.3 km
41 mins
161m
-109m
Moderate track
(16.8km) Unnamed Falls → Berowra Creek campsite track
3.4 km
1 hr 28 mins
217m
-297m
Hard track
Over the next 600m, the track crosses a couple of small, flat timber bridges[187][188] and passes alongside the lovely creek[189] to then climb up through a crack in a rock, where there is a handrail in place[190]. On the other side of this little climb, the track passes under a small overhang[191] and continues alongside the creek for another 300m, where it comes to an intersection[192] with a track on your right (which leads to a clearing[193] and campsite[194]).
Berowra Creek campsite
(20.23km) Berowra Creek campsite track → Crosslands southern toilet block
1.4 km
33 mins
85m
-84m
Moderate track
The track continues to wind downhill[209] for another 250m, then heads along the flat[210], past the ‘Crosslands Reserve’ sign[211], to come to the large corrugated iron toilet block[212].
Crosslands Campsite
(21.59km) Crosslands southern toilet block → Crosslands Carpark
340 m
5 mins
2m
-5m
Very easy
Crosslands
and town water[242]. The southern part of Crosslands is managed by Hornsby Council and the northern half by the NPWS within the Berowra Valley National Park.
The first inhabitants of this area were a subgroup of the Dharug people who enjoyed the sandstone caves, fish and abundant plant life in the area. It is now managed by Hornsby Shire Council, but in 1856 Matthew Charlton asked Burton Crossland to be caretaker on this area. Burton built a house and made a living by harvesting timber, growing fruit, fishing and boat-building.
(21.93km) Crosslands Carpark → Northern end of Crosslands carpark
250 m
4 mins
1m
0m
Very easy
(22.18km) Northern end of Crosslands Carpark → Crosslands North
260 m
4 mins
1m
-2m
Very easy
and along the sealed old road[252]. The walk continues along the old road for just over 150m passing 4 picnic tables
to come to a y-intersection[253]. At the intersection this walk veers right, past the ‘Place of Winds’ sign[254] and wetland[255] (on your right). This walk continues along this old road for a little longer, coming to an intersection marked with a large ‘Crosslands’ information board[256] and ‘Great North walk’ sign[257]. This is just on the edge of the northern picnic area[258], not far from the toilet block[259]
.
Crosslands North Picnic area
[260][261] and a few sandy beaches with direct access to the water[262]. Here you will find a few picnic tables
and shelters
[263], as well as garbage bins[264]. The eastern side is home to a boardwalk exploring the estuarine wetland[265]. A pleasant area to rest and enjoy the water. Fires are only permitted in formally established fire places[266] .
(22.44km) Crosslands North → Estuaries viewing platform int.
220 m
4 mins
7m
-5m
Very easy
. The timber boardwalks winds through the mangroves for about 60m, coming to a firm dirt track[270] which leads for another 70m to a second timber boardwalk[271]. The second boardwalk leads for another 70m, past ‘Mangrove Food Cycle’ information signs[272] to come to an 3-way intersection[273] in the boardwalk with the estuaries viewing platform boardwalk[274] (on your left).
Berowra Creek (Estuarie) Lookout
[279] encouraging you to take some time to soak up this view.
(22.65km) Estuaries viewing platform → Somerville Ridge
670 m
18 mins
54m
-40m
Moderate track
About 100m further along the rocky track, this walk comes to a lookout and a ‘Catch the Threats’ information sign[284], where the track continues past the bench seat[285] and alongside the creek to the ‘The Rock Club’ information sign[286]. The track then leads among some grass tress[287] for just over 100m to the ‘Bush Supermarket’ information sign[288]. Just past this sign, the track begins to climb fairly steeply up the stone[289] and timber steps[290] to the ridge line, marked with a GNW arrow and a ‘Stop! Look! Listen! and Smell!’ information sign[291].
(23.33km) Somerville Ridge → Calna Creek Bridge intersection
110 m
2 mins
0m
-17m
Moderate track
(23.44km) Int of GNW and Lyrebird Gully tracks → Calna Creek campsite (north)
110 m
2 mins
3m
0m
Easy track
Calna Creek Campsite (north)
(23.55km) Calna Creek campsite (north) → Calna Creek campsite (south)
400 m
9 mins
23m
-23m
Moderate track
Calna Creek Campsite (south)
(23.95km) Calna Creek Campsite (south) → Lyrebird Caves
1.6 km
33 mins
106m
-39m
Hard track
Lyrebird Caves
(25.56km) Lyrebird Caves → Lyrebird Waterfall
140 m
4 mins
1m
-14m
Moderate track
Lyrebird waterfall
(25.7km) Lyrebird Waterfall → Lyrebird Clearing
1.4 km
27 mins
92m
-21m
Hard track
(27.08km) Lyrebird Clearing → Int of Glenview Rd and the Pacific Hwy
530 m
12 mins
84m
-2m
Moderate track
(27.61km) Int of Glenview Rd and the Pacific Hwy → Mt Kuring-gai Railway Station
520 m
9 mins
9m
-8m
Very easy
From the bottom of the footbridge near the Aldi shopping complex, this walk follows the ramp[379] as it zigzags up to the bridge[380] that then leads over the Pacfic Hwy[381]. On the other side of the bridge, this walk turns left then crosses the road[382], following the footpath down beside the road[383]. The walk soon crosses Glenview Rd at the traffic lights[384] (intersection with the Pacific Hwy). Here the walk continues along the footpath between the Pacific Hwy and the railway line for about 200m to come to the entrance of ‘Mt Kuring-gai Station’[385]. Here the walk heads down through the tunnel[386] to come to a signposted intersection[387], midway through the tunnel, at the base of the steps (that lead up to the train station).
Maps for the Thornleigh to Mt Kuring-Gai walk
You can download the PDF for this walk to print a map.
These maps below cover the walk and the wider area around the walk, they are worth carrying for safety reasons.
Hornsby | 1:25 000 Map Series | 91304S HORNSBY | NSW-91304S |
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Tourist Map | 1:40 000 Map Series | CMA Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Tourist Map | CMA Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Tourist Map |
Sydney | 1:100 000 Map Series | 9130 SYDNEY | 9130 |
Cross sectional view of the Thornleigh to Mt Kuring-Gai bushwalking track
Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Thornleigh to Mt Kuring-Gai
Daily actual walking time estimates
Day | Walking Time | Length |
---|---|---|
1 | 5 hrs 12 mins | 13.7 km |
2 | 5 hrs 39 mins | 14.5 km |
Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001
Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.
Length | 28.1 km | ||
Time | 2 Days | ||
. | |||
Grade 4/6 Hard track |
AS 2156.1 | Gradient | Very steep (4/6) |
Quality of track | Rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely (4/6) | ||
Signs | Directional signs along the way (3/6) | ||
Experience Required | Moderate level of bushwalking experience recommended (4/6) | ||
Weather | Storms may impact on navigation and safety (3/6) | ||
Infrastructure | Limited facilities, not all cliffs are fenced (3/6) |
Some more details of this walks Grading
Here is a bit more details explaining grading looking at sections of the walk
Gradient
15km of this walk has short steep hills and another 6km has gentle hills with occasional steps. Whilst another 3.8km is flat with no steps and the remaining 3.3km is very steep.
Quality of track
10km of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles and another 7km follows a clear and well formed track or trail. Whilst another 6km follows a rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely and the remaining 4km follows a smooth and hardened path.
Signs
Around 19km of this walk has directional signs at most intersection, whilst the remaining 9km is clearly signposted.
Experience Required
16km of this walk requires some bushwalking experience and another 11km requires no previous bushwalking experience. The remaining (990m) requires a leader a with moderate level of bushwalking experience.
weather
Around 24km of this walk is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation), whilst the remaining 4km is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety.
Infrastructure
Around 17km of this walk has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced), whilst the remaining 11km is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats).
Similar walks
A list of walks that share part of the track with the Thornleigh to Mt Kuring-Gai walk.
Other Nearby walks
A list of walks that start near the Thornleigh to Mt Kuring-Gai walk.
Plan your trip to and from the walk here
The Thornleigh to Mt Kuring-Gai walk starts at the Thornleigh Train Station (gps: -33.731949, 151.07815)
Your transport options to Thornleigh Train Station are by;
Train. (get details)
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)
The Thornleigh to Mt Kuring-Gai ends at the Mt Kuring-gai Railway Station (gps: -33.653812, 151.13673)
Your transport options to Mt Kuring-gai Railway Station are by;
Train. (get details)
Bus. (get details)
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)
Fire Danger
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.
Weather Forest
This walk starts in the Metropolitan weather district always check the formal BOM forecast or pdf before starting your walk.
Forecast snapshot
Park Information & Alerts
Comments
Short URL = http://wild.tl/ttmk
Gallery images
There are other downloads I am still working on.
You will probably need to login to access these — still all free.
* KML (google earth file)
* GPX (GPS file)
Special Maps/ brochures
* A3 topo maps
* PDF with Lands Topo map base
* PDF with arial image (and map overlay)
I wanted to get the main site live first, this extra stuff will come in time.
Happy walking
Matt 🙂
Wareemba Ave to Thornleigh Station
And Walk
Wareemba Ave to Thornleigh Station
3 hrs 45 mins
472 m
Hard track
This pleasant half day walk starts from Wareemba Avenue in Thornleigh and winds down into the valley along service trails and bush tracks. The walk then follows a section of the Blue Gum Walk to the Great North Walk. From here the walk follows the Great North Walk to Thornleigh train station. Along this walk you will see a dense and thriving forest filled with Blue Gums and Bracken Ferns, plenty of wild flowers and a wide variety of native animals.
(0km) Wareemba Ave (Near Vale Rd), Thornleigh → Int near Pipe bridge
470 m
10 mins
6m
-25m
Easy track
Veer left: From the intersection, the walk follows the clear management trail up the hill, away from the houses. The trail passes through a pine and acacia forest before coming to an intersection with an indistinct track on the left – this is just after the end of the flat section of track.
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the management trail down the fairly steep hill to an intersection at the causeway over the creek.
Turn right: From the intersection, the walk crosses Larool Creek using the concrete causeway and follows the management trail along the rock face. The track heads down the hill with the occasional view of the creek (below on the left) and soon passes a concrete column supporting the rock on the right. The tracks passes a few round concrete pipe covers and then comes to an indistinct intersection, where there are two round pipe covers, an electrical junction box and a pipe bridge crossing the creek on the left.
(0.47km) Int near Pipe bridge → Int of Blue Gum and Pipeline tracks
260 m
6 mins
8m
-13m
Hard track
(0.73km) Int of Blue Gum and Pipeline tracks → Int of Blue Gum Walk at bottom of wooden steps
280 m
8 mins
42m
-3m
Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the Blue Gum Walk marker along the concrete management trail. The trail climbs steeply up the hill until it comes to the intersection with the Blue Gum Walk, at the base of a set of wooden steps on the right.
(1.01km) Int of Blue Gum Walk at bottom of wooden steps → Int of the Great North Walk and the Blue Gum Walk (SW)
820 m
21 mins
58m
-58m
Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the bush track north, keeping the valley down to the right. The track winds along the side of the ridge, through the lush blue gum forest with houses up to the left, to the intersection with the ‘Great North Walk’.
(1.83km) Int of the Great North Walk and the Blue Gum Walk (SW) → Int of the Great North Walk and the Quarter Sessions Road track
690 m
18 mins
73m
-43m
Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the main track, keeping the valley down to your right[3]. The track leads downhill for just over 100m and crosses a small, rocky gully[4] (below some houses[5]), where the rocky track then continues to meander fairly gently down along the side of the hill[6] for about 300m. The track then leads down much more steeply for a short time[7] before walking among the rock outcrop[8] and finding a three-way intersection with the signposted ‘Quarter Sessions Rd’ track[9] (on your left).
(2.52km) Int of the Great North Walk and the Quarter Sessions Road track → Elouera Lookout
2.2 km
54 mins
130m
-152m
Moderate track
Elouera Lookout
(4.67km) Elouera Lookout → Jungo campsite
1.1 km
29 mins
58m
-82m
Moderate track
Here, the walk turns right and crosses Berowra Creek[37] – this creek may become impassable after rain. The eroded track[38] leads (steeply at first) up the hill for about 70m, coming to an intersection with a wide management trail[39], marked a ‘Great North Walk’ sign[40].
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Great North Walk’ sign[41][42] along the wide trail as it bends left and leads downhill along the concrete section[43]. The trail leads down across a usually small creek[44], then heads up to the well-signposted intersection[45] beside the Jungo campsite[46][47], where a ‘Fishponds’ sign[48] points back down along the trail.
The Jungo
(5.82km) The Jungo → Zig Zag Creek Bridge intersection
1.4 km
25 mins
37m
-16m
Moderate track
Thornleigh zigzag railway
(7.25km) Zig Zag Creek Bridge int. → Int of Bellamy trail and Morgan Rd tracks
130 m
2 mins
6m
0m
Easy track
. Just 25m past this culvert the walk comes to an intersection (with a dirt track on the left) marked with a few signs including a ‘The Jungo’ arrow[60] point back down along the trail.
(7.38km) Int of Bike Trail and Morgan Rd tracks → Morgan Rd
230 m
4 mins
7m
-3m
Moderate track
(7.61km) Morgan Rd → Thornleigh Train Station
990 m
18 mins
47m
-7m
Easy track
Maps for the Wareemba Ave to Thornleigh Station walk
You can download the PDF for this walk to print a map.
These maps below cover the walk and the wider area around the walk, they are worth carrying for safety reasons.
Hornsby | 1:25 000 Map Series | 91304S HORNSBY | NSW-91304S |
Sydney | 1:100 000 Map Series | 9130 SYDNEY | 9130 |
Cross sectional view of the Wareemba Ave to Thornleigh Station bushwalking track
Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Wareemba Ave to Thornleigh Station
Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001
Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.
Length | 8.6 km | ||
Time | 3 hrs 45 mins | ||
. | |||
Grade 4/6 Hard track |
AS 2156.1 | Gradient | Short steep hills (3/6) |
Quality of track | Rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely (4/6) | ||
Signs | Directional signs along the way (3/6) | ||
Experience Required | Some bushwalking experience recommended (3/6) | ||
Weather | Storms may impact on navigation and safety (3/6) | ||
Infrastructure | Limited facilities, not all cliffs are fenced (3/6) |
Some more details of this walks Grading
Here is a bit more details explaining grading looking at sections of the walk
Gradient
6km of this walk has short steep hills and another 1.6km has gentle hills with occasional steps. The remaining (1.1km) is flat with no steps.
Quality of track
5km of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles and another 2.7km follows a clear and well formed track or trail. Whilst another 630m follows a smooth and hardened path and the remaining 260m follows a rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely.
Signs
Around 7km of this walk has directional signs at most intersection, whilst the remaining 2.1km is clearly signposted.
Experience Required
Around 5km of this walk requires some bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 3.6km requires no previous bushwalking experience.
weather
Around 8km of this walk is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation), whilst the remaining 260m is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety.
Infrastructure
Around 7km of this walk has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced), whilst the remaining 1.7km is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats).
Similar walks
A list of walks that share part of the track with the Wareemba Ave to Thornleigh Station walk.
Other Nearby walks
A list of walks that start near the Wareemba Ave to Thornleigh Station walk.
Plan your trip to and from the walk here
The Wareemba Ave to Thornleigh Station walk starts at the Wareemba Ave (Near Vale Rd), Thornleigh (gps: -33.709725, 151.08069)
Your transport options to Wareemba Ave (Near Vale Rd), Thornleigh are by;
Bus. (get details)
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)
The Wareemba Ave to Thornleigh Station ends at the Thornleigh Train Station (gps: -33.731949, 151.07815)
Your transport options to Thornleigh Train Station are by;
Train. (get details)
Bus. (get details)
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)
Fire Danger
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.
Weather Forest
This walk starts in the Metropolitan weather district always check the formal BOM forecast or pdf before starting your walk.
Forecast snapshot
Park Information & Alerts
Comments
Short URL = http://wild.tl/watt
Gallery images
There are other downloads I am still working on.
You will probably need to login to access these — still all free.
* KML (google earth file)
* GPX (GPS file)
Special Maps/ brochures
* A3 topo maps
* PDF with Lands Topo map base
* PDF with arial image (and map overlay)
I wanted to get the main site live first, this extra stuff will come in time.
Happy walking
Matt 🙂
Comments