Bellamy fire trail

And Walk

Bellamy fire trail

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.

(0km) End of Bellamy St → Int of Bellamy trail and Morgan Rd tracks

90 m
2 mins
0m
-10m

Easy track

From the end of Bellamy St (Pennant Hills), the walk passes around the locked metal gate[1]

[Pinch Point]

and follows the ‘To Westleigh’ arrow[2] downhill along the concrete management trail. After about 25m this walk leads past a picnic table

[Picnic Table]

(0.09km) Int of Bellamy trail and Morgan Rd tracks → Zig Zag Creek Bridge int.

130 m
2 mins
0m
-6m

Easy track

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)

[Trip Hazard]

. 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

The Thornleigh zigzag railway originally ran from the main rail line near Thornleigh to a historic quarry, near present day De Saxe Cl, Thornleigh. There are only minor fragments still visible today. The ‘Heritage Trail’ in Thornleigh has interpretive signs for the railway and the old Thornleigh Quarry. A book is available with some detail on railway and associated quarry: ‘Sydney’s Forgotten Quarry Railways’ by John Oakes, ISBN 0 9757870 3 9

(0.22km) Zig Zag Creek Bridge int → Thornleigh Quarry

160 m
4 mins
15m
-8m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk heads gently downhill to then cross ‘Zig Zag Creek’[15] on the 40m long bridge[16] (with handrails) to find the ‘Zig Zag Siding’ information sign[17][18] on the far side. The bridge path now merges back to the main wide trail[19] and heads steeply uphill[20] for about 50m

[Wheelchair Steep]

(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]

[Seat]

Old Thornleigh Quarry

The old Thornleigh Quarry[26] is located beside the Heritage Trail in Thornleigh, within Berowra Valley Regional Park. The quarry dates back to 1883 and was initially a source of ‘ballast’ for portions of the Sydney (Homebush) to Newcastle (Waratah) rail link. There is a firm, flat dirt track[27] that leads about 40m from the concrete trail to the centre of the old quarry[28]. You will find a series of log seats in this amphitheatre

[Seat]

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

Continue straight: From the front of the old Thornleigh Quarry[29][30], this walk follows the wide concrete trail gently uphill, initially keeping the quarry to the right, passing ‘The Quarry’ information sign[31]. The trail meanders through the bush for about 100m to come to an intersection at the base of a set of timber stairs[32] (on the right).

(0.48km) Int of Heritage Trail and De Saxe Cl trail → End of Timbarra Rd

140 m
3 mins
8m
-3m

Easy track

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the concrete management trail gently uphill keeping the valley to the left. After about 40m the trail leads along the side of a small rock wall[33] to pass a ‘Berowra Valley Regional Park’ map sign[34] then about 25m later the trail leads past the old girl guide hall[35]. The walk continues along the concrete trail for another 50m to pass a ‘Heritage Trail’[36] sign then head around the gate[37]

[Pinch Point]

to come to the end of Timbarra Rd (Westleigh)[38][39].

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

Parking: There are 0 designated accessible parking areas on this walk.

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

1 Pinch Point

Pinchpoints beside metal gate. The flattest gap beside the gate is 85cm wide, the bollards closer to the fence are 1.1m apart, but require going over grass and uneven ground. Gate and bollards are 1m high.
This is found 0m into this walk at -33.728758846856,151.06988936663
Click to see more images take nearby.

Found 0m into this walk

2 Picnic Table

A timber slat picnic table and bench seat. The table is 80cm high, 71cm deep and 2.4m wide. The seats are 45cm high, 29cm deep and 2.07m wide. On a 3x3m concrete slab about 7m walk over rough grass from the trail.
This is found 30m into this walk at -33.728529081607,151.06990680098
Click to see more images take nearby.

Found 30m into this walk

3 Trip Hazard

Unfenced and unmarked edge with potential 80cm or higher fall into the creek. Keep clear of the culverts edge when crossing.
This is found 110m into this walk at -33.727854282055,151.06969892979
Click to see more images take nearby.

Found 110m into this walk

4 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.
This is found 300m into this walk at -33.7264933,151.0687933
Click to see more images take nearby.

Found 300m into this walk

5 Seat

Nine timber log seats in old quarry. The seats are 3.7m wide and typically 50cm high. Access is over a flat dirt path 40m from the concrete trail.
This is found 350m into this walk at -33.725978199882,151.06889560819
Click to see more images take nearby.

Found 350m into this walk

6 Pinch Point

Pinchpoint beside metal gate. The gap beside the gate is 73cm wide. Gate and bollards are1m high.
This is found 600m into this walk at -33.724307314526,151.06999397278
Click to see more images take nearby.

Found 600m into this walk

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).

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

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_fire_danger.php?walkid=nsw-bvrp-bft
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

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_park_closure.php?walkid=nsw-bvrp-bft

Bellamy St to De Saxe Cl dog walking trail

And Walk

Bellamy St to De Saxe Cl dog walking trail

Download & Print Map and Notes

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

From the end of Bellamy St (Pennant Hills), the walk passes around the locked metal gate[1]

[Pinch Point]

and follows the ‘To Westleigh’ arrow[2] downhill along the concrete management trail. After about 25m this walk leads past a picnic table

[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)

[Trip Hazard]

(0.22km) Zig Zag Creek Bridge int → Thornleigh Quarry

160 m
4 mins
15m
-8m

Moderate track

[Wheelchair Steep]

[Seat]

Old Thornleigh Quarry

[Seat]

(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

[Pinch Point]

to come to the end of Timbarra Rd (Westleigh)[38][39].

(0.48km) Int of Heritage Trail and De Saxe Cl trail → End of De Saxe Close

50 m
2 mins
10m
0m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the intersection, the walk goes up the wooden steps and soon arrives at the end of De Saxe Cl.

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).

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

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_fire_danger.php?walkid=nsw-bvrp-bstdscdwt
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

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_park_closure.php?walkid=nsw-bvrp-bstdscdwt

Clarinda St dog walking trail

And Walk

Clarinda St dog walking trail

Download & Print Map and Notes

(0km) End of Clarinda St → Int of Clarinda St and Simon Pl trails

440 m
9 mins
10m
-35m

Easy track

From the end of Clarinda St Hornsby, this walk heads around the green gate with the ‘Berowra Valley Regional Park’ sign on it, keeping the ‘Clarinda wetlands’ to the left. The walk follows the management trail, which soon bends left and gently winds through the bushland. There are some interesting rock formations on the right and the occasional valley view on the left. The track is fairly flat most of the way, until a left-hand bend that leads down to cross a small creek, and then up the other side of the valley. Once the track flattens out again, it comes to an intersection with the Simon Pl management trail on the right, at a fairly large clearing.

(0.44km) Int of Clarinda St and Simon Pl trails → End of Simon Place

60 m
2 mins
12m
-1m

Easy track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads up the hill towards the gate. The management trail soon comes to the end of Simon Place, Hornsby Heights.

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).

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

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_fire_danger.php?walkid=nsw-bvrp-csdwt
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

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_park_closure.php?walkid=nsw-bvrp-csdwt

Barnetts Lookout

And Walk

Barnetts Lookout

Download & Print Map and Notes

(0km) Barnetts Road → Barnetts Picnic area

50 m
1 mins
0m
-2m

Very easy

From the ‘Barnetts Road Reserve’[1] car park[2][3]

[Parking Accessible]

(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]

[Picnic Table]

(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

[Seat]

Barnetts Picnic area

The Barnetts Road Reserve picnic area, boasts three picnic tables

[Picnic Table]

, a drinking fountain[10], a playground[11] and seats

[Seat]

a short distance from the road. The area is surrounded by some open grass area and native forest. Easy flat and smooth access from the road.

(0.05km) Barnetts Picnic area → Barnetts Lookout

160 m
3 mins
0m
-12m

Very easy

Continue straight: From the picnic area, this walk follows the footpath away from the road and after about 25m the walk passes another picnic table[12]

[Picnic Table]

(on the left). Here the walk continues on the main path, gently downhill through the open forest[13] for about 60m to a seat

[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

Barnetts Lookout provides stunning views over Berowra Creek and the surprisingly wild Berowra Valley NP. There are two stone seats

[Seat]

, 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

Parking: There are 1 designated accessible parking areas on this walk.

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

1 Parking Accessible

There are a series of nine marked car parks at the end of Barnetts Road, Berowra including one mobility parking bay. The parking area is tarmac, 3.4m wide and 5m deep.
This is found 10m into this walk at -33.616857420712,151.12983003259
Click to see more images take nearby.

Found 10m into this walk

2 Picnic Table

A timber slat picnic table and bench seat. The table is 80cm high, 73cm deep and 2.7m wide. The seats are 46cm high, 29cm deep and 2m wide (no backrest).
This is found 30m into this walk at -33.616835084389,151.1295966804
Click to see more images take nearby.

Found 30m into this walk

3 Picnic Table

A timber slat picnic table and bench seat. The table is 80cm high, 70cm deep and 2.7m wide. The seats are 46cm high, 29cm deep and 2.2m wide (no backrest).
This is found 40m into this walk at -33.616699949508,151.12954974174
Click to see more images take nearby.

Found 40m into this walk

4 Seat

A series of three timber slat bench seats, 46cm high, 29cm deep and 2m wide with a 52cm high backrest. Each seat is on a concrete slab and about 5m (across grass) from the path.
This is found 50m into this walk at -33.616743505402,151.12936064601
Click to see more images take nearby.

Found 50m into this walk

5 Picnic Table

A timber slat picnic table and bench seat. The table is 80cm high, 70cm deep and 2.7m wide. The seats are 46cm high, 29cm deep and 2.2m wide (no backrest).
This is found 70m into this walk at -33.616734570862,151.1291500926
Click to see more images take nearby.

Found 70m into this walk

6 Seat

A timber slat bench seat, 45cm high, 47cm deep and 1.8m wide with a 39cm high backrest. The seat is on a concrete slab beside the path.
This is found 120m into this walk at -33.616347034277,151.12873032689
Click to see more images take nearby.

Found 120m into this walk

7 Seat

A series of two stone bench seats, 41cm high, 45cm deep and 2.5m wide with a 20cm (and 46cm) high backrest. The seats are built into a retaining wall at the lookout.
This is found 210m into this walk at -33.616315763237,151.12783312798
Click to see more images take nearby.

Found 210m into this walk

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).

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

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_fire_danger.php?walkid=nsw-bvrp-bl
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

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_park_closure.php?walkid=nsw-bvrp-bl

Hornsby to Fishponds

And Walk

Hornsby to Fishponds

Download & Print Map and Notes

(0km) Hornsby Train Station → Int of Quarry Road and Great North Walk

720 m
14 mins
8m
-34m

Easy track

From the western side of Hornsby Railway Station[1], this walk first crosses the bus lane, then follows the large ‘To the Great North Walk’ sign[2] across the Station St pedestrian crossing[3], and then across the Pacific Highway at the traffic lights[4]. Here the walk turns right and follows the footpath (across ‘Dural Lane’[5]) past some shops to cross ‘Dural St’[6]. The walk then turns left and follows the footpath down along ‘Dural St’[7], past a few more shops. Continuing past the units, this walk then turns right onto ‘Quarry Rd’[8][9] and follows the road down the gently hill for about 180m to an intersection with ‘Old Mans Valley’ management trail[10] and locked gate (on your right).
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

Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Great North Walk’ sign[14] up the hill. The track leads up over the rise, then continues down to the intersection with the Quarry Rd Management trail[15].
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

‘Berowra Valley Bushland Park’[23] is also known as Rosemead Rd Park and is found at the bottom end of Rosemead Rd[24], Hornsby. This is an open area park surrounded by shady eucalyptus trees[25], making a pleasant spot to rest on a walk. It has a picnic table with bench seats[26], and a sheltered free electric BBQ[27]. There is a water tap[28] in the park, near the road. There is also a ‘Welcome to Old Mans Valley’ information sign with information about the traditional country of the Darug and Guringai peoples[29].

(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 lower side of Berowra Valley Bushland Park[30] (at the end of Rosemead Rd, Hornsby[31]), this walk follows the ‘Fishponds 1.2km’ arrow on the large sign[32], down the track[33] for approximately 30m, to the intersection with the Rosemead management trail[34], marked with a Great North Walk arrow.
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

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].
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

Fishponds Lookout is a fenced rock platform at the intersection of the Benowie walking track and the Rosemead trackhead. It is marked with a number of Great North Walk signs. This informally named lookout has good views down over Fishponds, a large waterhole on Berowra Creek. Looking north across the creek, there are views to the upper waterhole and the cliffs on the other side.

(2.45km) Fishponds Lookout → Fishponds Bridge

350 m
8 mins
16m
-14m

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].
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

Fishponds is a long waterhole[67] on Berowra Creek in Berowra Valley Regional Park. The waterhole is lined with tall cliffs[68] and a few sandstone caves. At the southern end, there are stepping stones to help cross the creek[69], and a small timber bridge[70] at the northern end. This is a beautiful spot and a worthy place to rest and enjoy the water passing by[71]. The waterhole is fairly popular with local teens in summer, cooling off. Swimming and jumping at the Fishponds waterhole has resulted in fatalities – please heed the signs and Cora’s parents’ plea and enjoy the water from the edge.

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).

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

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_fire_danger.php?walkid=nsw-bvrp-htf
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

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_park_closure.php?walkid=nsw-bvrp-htf

Crosslands to Naa Badu Lookout return

And Walk

Crosslands to Naa Badu Lookout return

Download & Print Map and Notes

Crosslands

Crosslands Reserve is lovely and long mixed use picnic area, spanning along the edge of Berowra Creek. There are picnic tables[1], electric barbecues[2], toilets[3], car parking[4], a children’s playground[5], garbage bins[6], camping area, toilets

[Toilet Accessible]

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

From the car park, this walk follows the flat dirt path[11] between the road (on the right) and creek (on the left). The path leads through the casuarina trees for about 120m to pass the boat ramp[12]. After another 120m this walk comes to a locked gate[13] at the northern end of the car park[14]. There is also a wetland through the trees to the right worth noticing.

(0.25km) Northern end of Crosslands Carpark → Crosslands North

260 m
4 mins
1m
-2m

Very easy

Continue straight: From the northern end of Crosslands car park[15] (at the far northern end of Somerville Rd, Hornsby Heights), this walk follows the ‘Newcastle’ arrow[16] on the large ‘Great North Walk’ sign around the locked gate

[Wheelchair Rough]

and along the sealed old road[17]. The walk continues along the old road for just over 150m passing 4 picnic tables

[Picnic Table]

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]

[Toilet]

Crosslands North Picnic area

The northern section of Crosslands is in Berowra Valley NP and is a less formal picnic area compared with the southern area. There is a toilet block

[Toilet]

[25][26] and a few sandy beaches with direct access to the water[27]. Here you will find a few picnic tables

[Picnic Table]

and shelters

[Picnic Shelter]

[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

Turn right: From the intersection at the northern picnic area[32], this walk follows the ‘Great North Walk’ sign[33] along the timber boardwalk[34]

[Trip Hazard]

. 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

The Estuarie lookout over Berowara Creek is found at the end of the wheelchair-accessible walk in Crosslands area. The timber lookout platform provides great views over Berowra Creek[40], the timber fence is 95cm high[41]. There are also information signs about the local flora and fauna[42] and the ‘Original Inhabitants’[43]. There are two timber bench seats

[Seat]

[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

Continue straight: From the intersection at the estuaries viewing platform, this walk follows the timber ramp down to the dirt track[45] and heads past the ‘..unsuitable for wheelchair access’ sign[46]. The track leads alongside the wide creek for about 200m to the ‘All creatures great and small’ information sign[47], then down a little way further to head along a short section of timber boardwalk[48].
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

Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Berowra Waters’ sign[62] along the timber boardwalk[63]. The boardwalk leads for about 80m across the large open flat saltmarsh[64] into the casuarina forest[65] on the other side. Here the track bends left and leads along the side of the saltmarsh[66] for almost 200m, where the rocky track leads a little further before coming alongside Berowra Creek’s mangroves[67]. The track continues to gently undulate along the side of Berowra Creek for about 650m among the casuarinas[68] and grass tress[69], before heading up a fairly short, steep climb. At the top of this climb, the walk comes to a small, flat, pleasant clearing surrounded by large boulders[70].

(2.66km) Sams Creek ridge clearing → Sams Creek Crossing

500 m
11 mins
20m
-23m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the clearing, this walk leads down the north eastern side of this ridge, keeping the main valley to your left. After about 100m this walk comes to another flat saltmarsh[71] , where the track bends right to soon come to a large flat clearing[72] beside Sams Creek[73] (subject to flooding).
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

Turn left: From the south side of the creek, this walk follows the ‘Berowra Waters’ sign[75] across the rocky Sams Creek. This creek may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain. On the other side, the track veers left, crossing a rocky gully[76] and heads up the timber steps[77]. The track now starts to climb steeply, zigzagging up the timber steps [78] and a couple of staircases[79] for just over 300m to find a bench seat in a small sandstone cave[80]. After a rest, this walk continues up more steps (and staircases) for just over 150m, coming to a T-intersection with a wide service trail, where a ‘Crosslands’ sign[81] points back down the 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

Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Berowra Waters’ sign[82] gently down along the management trail, keeping the valley to your left. The trail gently undulates along the side of the hill, enjoying some glimpses up to the cliff faces[83] (on the right). After about 180m, the trail crosses a concrete drain[84], then leads up the hill to find the signposted ‘Naa Badu’ lookout[85] and its great view[86].

Naa Badu Lookout

Naa Badu Lookout offers magnificent views south over Berowra Creek as well as over Sams and Calna Creeks. Naa Badu means ‘See water’[87] in the Aboriginal tribal language of the Dharug people. It is believed that Berowra Creek was the boundary between the Dharug and Guringai Aboriginal peoples. The lookout is fenced[88], has a bench seat[89], picnic table[90] and a fair amount of natural shade.

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).

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

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_fire_danger.php?walkid=nsw-bvrp-ctnblr
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

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_park_closure.php?walkid=nsw-bvrp-ctnblr

Berowra to Hornsby

And Walk

Berowra to Hornsby

Download & Print Map and Notes

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

From the entrance to Berowra train station[1], this walk follows the ‘Berowra Waters’ arrow on the ‘Great North Walk’ sign, crossing the highway at the traffic lights[2]. On the other side of the highway, this walk turns left and follows the footpath past a series of local shops and cafes[3][4] for about 150m, then turns right onto Berowra Waters Rd[5]. The footpath passes the post office[6] then Caltex service station[7], then the walk crosses ‘The Gully Rd’[8]. Continuing along the Berowra Waters Rd footpath, this walk passes the park[9][10] and then crosses the road just to the right of the roundabout[11]. Turning left in front of the community hall, this walk immediately turns right at Crowley Rd, and comes to the open grassy area[12] behind the community hall[13], where a sign in the park points back to ‘Berowra Station’[14].

(0.71km) Crowley Road track head → Int of Berowra service trail and Great North Walk

900 m
21 mins
18m
-106m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the small park on Crowley Rd, this walk follows the ‘Crosslands’ sign[15] downhill, tending left behind the houses[16]. The track soon bends right and leads quite steeply[17] down a series of steps for about 120m, then tends left and flattens out on an unfenced rock platform[18]. From here, the track leads down a metal staircase[19][20] then heads fairly steeply[21] down along a rocky 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 right: From the intersection, this walk follows the Great North Walk arrow[26] down the wide management trail for about 40m, then continues up the moderately steep hill to a wide three-way intersection[27], where a sign points back towards ‘Berowra Station’[28].
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

Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Crosslands’ sign[32] down the narrower track. The track soon becomes quite steep as it leads down a series of steps and stairs for about 150m to come to a bench seat in a small sandstone cave[33]. After a rest, this walk continues down more steps (and staircases) as the track zigzags steeply down the hill for another 350m, and then flattens out beside a rocky gully. Here the walk crosses the mossy and rocky gully[34], then veers right following the GNW arrow across Sams Creek on the boulders[35]. This creek may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain. The walk then comes to a flat area with a sign pointing back across the creek to ‘Berowra Waters’[36].

(3.39km) Sams Creek Crossing → Sams Creek ridge clearing

500 m
11 mins
23m
-20m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the south side of Sams Creek, this walk follows the ‘Crosslands’ sign[37] downstream (keeping Sams Creek to your right), as the track heads over a rocky point[38] then along the flat track. After about 350m, this track then leads to a large flat clearing[39] beside Sams Creek[40] (subject to flooding).
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

Continue straight: From the clearing, this walk follows the track south, down the side of this ridge, keeping Berowra Creek valley to your left. The track leads steeply down at first then gently undulating along the side of Berowra Creek for about 650m among the casuarinas[45] and grass tress[46]. The track then begins to bend left away from Berowra Creek, and leads along the side of the saltmarsh[47] for almost 200m through the casuarina forest. Here the walk turns right to follow the boardwalk for about 80m across the large, open, flat saltmarsh[48] to find a three-way intersection just before a bridge[49], marked with a ‘Fragile Marsh’ information sign[50].

(5.04km) Calna Creek Bridge intersection → Estuaries viewing platform

780 m
20 mins
57m
-54m

Moderate track

Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Crosslands’ sign[51] across the long, metal footbridge[52] over Calna Creek. The track then winds fairly steeply up the side of the hill, initially passing the ‘Rock n Roll’ information sign[53]. The track continues up the timber steps[54] to the ridge line, marked with a GNW arrow and a ‘Stop! Look! Listen! and Smell!’ information sign[55].
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

The Estuarie lookout over Berowara Creek is found at the end of the wheelchair-accessible walk in Crosslands area. The timber lookout platform provides great views over Berowra Creek[68], the timber fence is 95cm high[69]. There are also information signs about the local flora and fauna[70] and the ‘Original Inhabitants’[71]. There are two timber bench seats

[Seat]

[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

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the timber boardwalk as it winds along beside the mangroves, keeping the water to the right. The boardwalk leads for about 70m past a ‘Mangrove Food Cycle’ information sign[73] to where the timber stops and the firm dirt track[74] starts. This walk leads along the dirt track for 60m about to then follow a second section of timber boardwalk[75] for another 60m, across the mangrove wetland[76] to the end of the boardwalk

[Trip Hazard]

. 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]

[Toilet]

Crosslands North Picnic area

The northern section of Crosslands is in Berowra Valley NP and is a less formal picnic area compared with the southern area. There is a toilet block

[Toilet]

[81][82] and a few sandy beaches with direct access to the water[83]. Here you will find a few picnic tables

[Picnic Table]

and shelters

[Picnic Shelter]

[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

Turn left: From the intersection, this walk leads across about 20m of grass to then follow the old sealed road out of this picnic area, directly away from the face of the large ‘Crosslands’ information board[88]. The path soon leads past the ‘Place of Winds’ sign[89] and wetland[90] (on your left). The walk continues straight and over the next 150m this walk passes 4 picnic tables

[Picnic Table]

, then comes to a locked gate[91] and a large ‘Great North Walk’ sign[92]. Here the walk leads around the locked gate

[Wheelchair Rough]

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

Continue straight: From the northern end of Crosslands car park[94], this walk follows the ‘Sydney Cove’ sign[95] along the dirt path[96] between the road (car park) and the creek (on your right). After 120m this path leads past a boat ramp[97] then after another 120m, (just as the road bends left[98]), this walk comes to the start of the southern picnic area[99]. There is a ‘Crosslands Conventions Centre & Field Study’ sign[100] here, pointing across Berowra Creek.

Crosslands

Crosslands Reserve is lovely and long mixed use picnic area, spanning along the edge of Berowra Creek. There are picnic tables[101], electric barbecues[102], toilets[103], car parking[104], a children’s playground[105], garbage bins[106], camping area, toilets

[Toilet Accessible]

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

Continue straight: From near the car park[111], this walk follows the concrete footpath through the open parkland, keeping the creek to your right (through the trees)[112]. The path leads past the tap[113], garbage bins[114] and children’s play area [115] and soon comes to a viewing platform[116] (on your right) with a ‘A place between the tides’ sign[117]. Here the walk continues on the path alongside the picnic shelters[118] and BBQ’s[119], to continue straight along the wide dirt path[120]. The path soon leads past another viewing platform[121][122] (on your right), then past the ‘Authorised fire pit’[123][124] and main camping area (on your left). This walk then follows the path to the left, up to the large corrugated iron toilet block[125].

Crosslands Campsite

On the far southern end of Crosslands Reserve is a toilet block and campsite. The campsite is well set up and managed by Hornsby Council. There are picnic tables[126], electric barbecues[127], toilets[128], a children’s playground[129], garbage bins[130] and town water[131]. There is a large flat grassy areas to camp and a single authorised fire pit[132]. The campsite must be booked and fees apply – $9 per night for adults and $6 for children (infants under 4 are free). The gate at the top of the hill is locked at 5.30pm EST and 7.30pm (daylight savings time). A pleasant and well established campsite beside the river[134]. More info.

(6.88km) Crosslands southern toilet block → Berowra Creek campsite track

1.4 km
33 mins
84m
-85m

Moderate track

Veer right: From the toilet block[135], this walk follows the wide, dirt track[136] away from the main open area of Crosslands, whilst keeping the creek to your right. The track soon passes ‘Crosslands Reserve’ Sign[137] as the track starts to narrow. Soon the track starts to climb the side of the hill and comes to a high, unfenced view across the creek[138] (to Crosslands Youth and Convention Centre).
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

This shady campsite is located on the Benowie Track a short distance back from Berowra Creek, south of the Crosslands Reserve. Providing plenty of tree cover[149], flat ground[150] and an established fire scar[151], this campsite is a great spot for those walkers who want a quiet night’s sleep away from the more popular Crosslands Reserve. The creek water is brackish at this point, so it is not drinkable (except after heavy rain and lower tide, but then the water is more polluted) – best to bring your own water.

(8.24km) Berowra Creek campsite track → Unnamed Falls

3.4 km
1 hr 28 mins
297m
-217m

Hard track

Continue straight: From the intersection near the campsite, this walk follows the clear track alongside Berowra Creek, whilst keeping the creek to your right. After about 300m, the track leads under a sandstone overhang[152], and uses the handrail to climb up and over a rocky point[153]. Over the next 600m, the track crosses a couple of small, flat timber bridges[154][155] and passes alongside the lovely creek[156] before climbing up a rock with a couple of metal pegs[157].
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].

Gulley Creek Falls

This is a nice little creek crossing[174] on the Great North Walk in Galston Gorge. The small falls[175][176] flow just upstream of the track, even after a small amount of rain. Enjoy the cool shade of the trees at the creek crossing from the track.

(11.67km) Unnamed Falls → Galston Gorge track head

1.3 km
41 mins
109m
-161m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the cool gully, this walk crosses the creek (keeping the falls up to your left) and follows the GNW arrows[177] up out of the gully. The track soon bends right and leads gently up and along the flat[178] for about 100m, through the more open forest[179]. Then, the track bends right and starts to lead downhill[180] before heading down a steep set of stone steps (through a gap in the rock)[181]. From here, the track continues a short distance further downhill through the now-moister forest[182] and crosses a smaller mossy and rocky gully[183]. The track continues out of the gully and around the side of the hill for about 100m, coming to a small, flat rock platform[184]. Here the walk bends left (ignoring the steep track down to the right). The rocky track winds up through a lovely grass tree[185] and boulder[186] forest for about 600m, then passes above an old rusted car[187] (some distance down the hill to your right). The walk continues along the widening, mostly flat track for almost 200m, then bends right and heads down the timber steps to find the paved Galston Gorge trackhead[188] and a ‘Crosslands’ sign[189] pointing back up the track.

Galston Gorge track head

Galston Gorge track head is located at a small car park[190] on the eastern side of Berowra Creek, near the bottom of the gorge on Galston Road. This track head is a good access point for those wanting to do sections of the Great North Walk and is well signposted[191]. Keep an eye open for the local chickens[192].

(12.93km) Galston Gorge track head → Int of Great North Walk and Galston Gorge track

550 m
16 mins
119m
-14m

Hard track

Turn right: From the Galston Gorge trackhead, this walk follows the ‘Fishponds’ sign[193] down the steps towards the creek. The track then leads along the bank until just before the bridge, where this walk crosses the creek (usually a little more than ankle deep[194]). This creek may be impassable after rain – the road bridge above offers an alternate way across[195], but watch and listen for traffic. On the other side, the track turns left and heads under the bridge[196] then bends right and climbs up to a flat spot beside the road[197]. The track follows the ‘Fishponds Waterhole’ sign up the steps, following the fence on the rocky climb, and finds a metal peg ladder[198] just after passing through a crack in the rock[199]. This walk climbs the metal pegs then follows another fence[200] up the steep rocky climb, past a cave[201] to where the track flattens out for while. The walk then leaves the fence and heads along the rocky track, and after about 150m, the track turns left and passes through another crack in a rock[202]. The track leads up the fairly steep hill for about 70m to the ‘Great North Walk – Walkers Registration’ box[203]. After leaving your comments, this walk continues to climb up the rocky track and soon comes to a signposted T-intersection with a management trail. There is a ‘Galston Gorge’ sign[204] here, pointing back down the hill.

(13.48km) Int of Great North Walk and Galston Gorge track → Tunks Ridge Rest Area

1.4 km
28 mins
68m
-38m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘The Great North Walk’ sign[205] along the wide trail, as the trail bends left. Over the next 250m, the trail passes a few ‘Regeneration Area’ signs[206][207] before coming to a three-way intersection[208]. Here the trail continues straight for another 500m down across a saddle[209], then the trail bends left to avoid the tall rock wall. The trail now leads along the side of the hill for about 700m (passing along the base of a long rock wall[210], up to your right) to come to the well-signposted ‘Tunks Ridge Rest Area’ where the ‘Galston Gorge’ AND ‘Crosslands Reserve’ signs[211] point back along the trail.

Tunks Ridge Rest Area

Tunks Ridge Rest Area is a large, shady and gently sloping campsite[212] at the junction of three management trails. There is no water or other facilities (you will need to carry your own in). A sign at the top of the campsite reminds campers that there is a one night limit and that it is a fuel stove only area (no campfires)[213]. Please note that the composting toilet[214] has been removed and no longer available.

(14.84km) Tunks Ridge Rest Area → Steele Bridge

1.8 km
44 mins
33m
-160m

Hard track

Turn left: From lower side of Tunks Ridge Rest Area, this walk follows the ‘Stewart St’ AND ‘Rosemead Rd Hornsby Trackhead’ signs[215] downhill along the wide management trail. The trail leads gently downhill for about 300m, and then quite steeply down for about 600m, over two concreted sections and to the bottom of the sealed section[216]. Here the trail continues fairly (though less) steeply for another 400m (enjoying the valley views to the left[217]). Then the trail bends right and flattens out for a short time. The trail soon heads down again (over another concreted section[218]), then heads more gently for another 200m, past a few nice rock formations[219] (on your right), to come to a couple of signs[220] just before a metal bridge[221]. This walk crosses the ‘Historic Military Steele Bridge’[222], and comes to a clearly signposted[223][224] T-intersection on the other side.

Historic Military ‘Steele’ Bridge

This large steel and timber bridge spans Berowra Creek north of Fishponds. The creek is fairly wide at this point and the bridge provides a great view of the sandstone overhangs along the creek’s edge. The bridge was commissioned in 1965 to allow access for fire trucks. The bridge was designed by Major General Sir Clive Steele in 1942. Bridges of this type were critical during the WWII South West Pacific campaigns. The bridge is designed on the Warren truss style and is one of only 4 ‘Steele’ bridges still in use in NSW. More info.

(16.61km) Steele Bridge → Int of Stewart Ave service trail and waterfall track

400 m
8 mins
29m
-5m

Easy track

Veer left: From Steele Bridge, this walk head up the wide management trail following the ‘Alternative route’ and ‘Fishponds 4km’ arrows[225], initially keeping Berowra Creek to the left. The trail turns right and gently works its way up the hill, soon coming to another large ‘Great North Walk’ sign[226] at an intersection with a track on the left.

(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

Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Fishponds 4km’ arrow[227] along the narrow track. The walk soon comes to the top of a small cliff and turns right, heading down a flight of stone steps to the bottom of an unnamed waterfall.
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

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the management trail, keeping the small cliffs and house up the hill to the left. The track gently meanders around the hill, passing some lovely ferns and sandstone rocks until coming to a ‘Y’ intersection at a clearing just before Simon Pl.
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

Turn left: From the end of the road, this walk heads up Clarinda St, then turn right onto Rosamond St. Soon the walk comes to the intersection with Stewart Ave on the right (and Carrington Rd on the left).
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

Continue straight: From the corner of Manor Rd and Dilkera Cl, this walk follows the Great North Walk marker west to the cliffs and down the metal staircase. At the bottom of the cliffs, the track continues down the steep hill, zigzagging in several section. Just past the dip (small creek), the walk comes to a T-intersection at a large Great North Walk signpost[228].

(20.44km) Int of Great North Walk and Manor Rd Bushtrack → Fishponds crossing

340 m
8 mins
3m
-40m

Moderate track

Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Fishponds’ sign[229] along the flat narrow track past the ‘Berowra Valley Regional Park’ sign[230]. 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)[231]. The rocky track then leads down along the side of the valley for just over 100m to cross a timber foot bridge[232]. The track then continues for another 70m to find a fenced rock platform[233] and signposted intersection[234].
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

Fishponds is a long waterhole[240] on Berowra Creek in Berowra Valley Regional Park. The waterhole is lined with tall cliffs[241] and a few sandstone caves. At the southern end, there are stepping stones to help cross the creek[242], and a small timber bridge[243] at the northern end. This is a beautiful spot and a worthy place to rest and enjoy the water passing by[244]. The waterhole is fairly popular with local teens in summer, cooling off. Swimming and jumping at the Fishponds waterhole has resulted in fatalities – please heed the signs and Cora’s parents’ plea and enjoy the water from the edge.

(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

Turn sharp left: From the intersection, the walk follows the ‘Hornsby Station’ sign up[246] along the track a short distance to come to an intersection with a wide management trail[247].

(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

Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the Great North Walk arrow south along the wide management trail, keeping the gully to your left[248]. The walk climbs up the gentle hill for just over 300m, passing through the turpentine forest[249] to a saddle and small clearing. Here the walk continues along the trail as it bends right[250] (ignoring the track to the left) to leads downhill through the blue gum and bracken fern forest[251]. The trail continues moderately steeply down until it bends left to cross Old Mans Creek at the concrete stepping stones[252]. The trail leads left and gently up the hill, passing some houses (on your right) and soon comes to an intersection with a narrower track (on your left) after about 150m.

(21.32km) Int of Great North Walk and Rosemead Rd service trail → Berowra Valley Bushland Park

30 m
1 mins
4m
0m

Easy track

Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the Great North Walk arrow[253] along the narrower track[254] for a short distance, to Berowra Valley Bushland Park[255] at the end of Rosemead Road[256].

Berowra Valley Bushland Park

‘Berowra Valley Bushland Park’[257] is also known as Rosemead Rd Park and is found at the bottom end of Rosemead Rd[258], Hornsby. This is an open area park surrounded by shady eucalyptus trees[259], making a pleasant spot to rest on a walk. It has a picnic table with bench seats[260], and a sheltered free electric BBQ[261]. There is a water tap[262] in the park, near the road. There is also a ‘Welcome to Old Mans Valley’ information sign with information about the traditional country of the Darug and Guringai peoples[263].

(21.36km) Berowra Valley Bushland Park → Int of Quarry Road and Great North Walk

540 m
14 mins
89m
-12m

Hard track

Veer left: From the lower side of ‘Berowra Valley Bushland Park’[264], this walk follows the ‘Hornsby Station’ sign[265] across the park, then follows the GNW arrow[266] up the stone steps, keeping the houses to your right. The walk winds steeply up the steps[267], leaving the view of the house and finding a welcome flat section of track[268] midway up. The steps then lead more steeply up[269] the side of the valley, along the sheer rock walls for about 100m, and come to an intersection with the Quarry Road management trail, where a ‘Great North Walk’ sign[270] points back down the the hill.
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

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows Quarry Road gently uphill away from the face of the ‘Great North Walk’ sign[273] until just past a couple of house, this walk comes to an intersection with the gated ‘Old Mans Valley’ management trail[274] (on your left).
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).

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

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_fire_danger.php?walkid=nsw-bvrp-bth
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

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_park_closure.php?walkid=nsw-bvrp-bth

Hornsby to Galston Gorge

And Walk

Hornsby to Galston Gorge

Download & Print Map and Notes

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

(0.72km) Int of Quarry Road and Great North Walk → Berowra Valley Bushland Park

540 m
14 mins
12m
-89m

Hard track

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

(2.18km) Int of Great North Walk and Manor Rd Bushtrack → Fishponds crossing

340 m
8 mins
3m
-40m

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].
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

Fishponds is a long waterhole[56] on Berowra Creek in Berowra Valley Regional Park. The waterhole is lined with tall cliffs[57] and a few sandstone caves. At the southern end, there are stepping stones to help cross the creek[58], and a small timber bridge[59] at the northern end. This is a beautiful spot and a worthy place to rest and enjoy the water passing by[60]. The waterhole is fairly popular with local teens in summer, cooling off. Swimming and jumping at the Fishponds waterhole has resulted in fatalities – please heed the signs and Cora’s parents’ plea and enjoy the water from the edge.

(2.18km) Int of GNW and Manor Rd Bushtrack → Corner of Dilkera and Manor Rd

230 m
13 mins
95m
0m

Moderate track

Turn sharp right: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Alternative Route’ arrow on the GNW sign[62]. 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.

(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 follows Manor Rd as it initially heads up a gentle hill. After about 600m, Manor Road turns to skirt about Mount Wilga Hospital, and the road changes name to Rosamond St. The walk continues along to the intersection with Stewart Ave on the left (this is a four-way intersection, with Carrington Rd on the right).
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

Turn right: From the end of Clarinda St Hornsby, this walk heads around the green gate with the ‘Berowra Valley Regional Park’ sign on it, keeping the ‘Clarinda wetlands’ to the left. The walk follows the management trail, which soon bends left and gently winds through the bushland. There are some interesting rock formations on the right and the occasional valley view on the left. The track is fairly flat most of the way, until a left-hand bend that leads down to cross a small creek, and then up the other side of the valley. Once the track flattens out again, it comes to an intersection with the Simon Pl management trail on the right, at a fairly large clearing.
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

Turn left : From the intersection, this walk heads down the hill along the narrow track, following the ‘Great North Walk’ sign[65]. The track is rocky and steep in a few places. Take care as the track turns at the top of some smaller cliffs while winding down 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. At the bottom of a small flight stone stairs, the walk crosses the creek on the rocks just in front of the waterfall.
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

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Galston Gorge 4km’ arrow[67] down the hill along the wide management trail. For the most part, the trail gently heads downhill then bends around to the left, leading to an intersection just before Steele Bridge.

Historic Military ‘Steele’ Bridge

(6km) Steele Bridge → Tunks Ridge Rest Area

1.8 km
44 mins
160m
-33m

Hard track

Veer right: From the intersection, this walk crosses the ‘Historic Military Steele Bridge’[68] and turns right to follow the ‘Crosslands’ sign [69] uphill along the wide management trail. After about 200m, the trail becomes steeper (and is concreted) for around 150m, then flattens out just before the left bend. The trail continues to climb (enjoying the valley views to the right) for another 400m, after which the trail becomes quite steep again for for about 600m (here the trail is sealed[70] then concreted[71] in two sections). From the top of the second concreted section, the trail leads gently uphill for just shy of 300m to the well-signposted ‘Tunks Ridge Rest Area’, where a sign points back down the trail to ‘Stewart St Hornsby Trackhead’[72].

Tunks Ridge Rest Area

Tunks Ridge Rest Area is a large, shady and gently sloping campsite[73] at the junction of three management trails. There is no water or other facilities (you will need to carry your own in). A sign at the top of the campsite reminds campers that there is a one night limit and that it is a fuel stove only area (no campfires)[74]. Please note that the composting toilet[75] has been removed and no longer available.

(7.78km) Tunks Ridge Rest Area → Int of Great North Walk and Galston Gorge track

1.4 km
28 mins
38m
-68m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the top of the rest area, this walk follows the ‘Galston Gorge’ AND ‘Crosslands Reserve’ signs[76] along the wide management trail, keeping the valley to your right. The trail winds along the side of the ridge[77] (passing along the base of a long rock wall[78], up to your left) for about 700m, until the trail comes to the top of the ridge. From here, the trail leads for another 500m, down across a saddle[79] then up to a clear Y-intersection[80]. The walk takes the left branch and passes a few ‘Regeneration Area’ signs[81][82] over about 250m, coming to a well-signposted[83] intersection with narrower track (on your left), partway around the right-hand bend.

(9.14km) Int of Great North Walk and Galston Gorge track → Galston Gorge track head

550 m
16 mins
14m
-119m

Hard track

Turn left: From the intersection, the walk follows the ‘Galston Gorge’ sign[84] down the steep rocky track[85] as it zigzags down towards the valley. About 40m down the hill, the track comes to a ‘Great North Walk – Walkers Registration’ box[86]. After leaving your comments, this walk continues downhill, passing through a crack in the rock[87] where the walk bends right and follows along the particularly rocky section for about 150m and comes to a fence[88]. The fence guides down a steep section, passing a cave[89], and comes to the top of a metal peg ladder[90]. This walk climbs down the ladder, then follows the rock wall (keeping the road to your left), heading down through a crack[91] and along another fence, then coming to a flat area beside the road[92]. Here the walk follows the GNW arrow[93] to the right and down under the bridge[94]. The walk crosses the creek, usually a bit more than ankle deep[95]. This creek maybe impassable after rain – the road bridge above offers an alternate way across[96], but watch and listen for traffic. On the other bank, the walk turns left to follow the track uphill[97]. The track well-formed track climbs to the well-signposted and paved Galston Gorge trackhead[98], where a ‘Fishponds’ sign[99] points back down the track.

Galston Gorge track head

Galston Gorge track head is located at a small car park[100] on the eastern side of Berowra Creek, near the bottom of the gorge on Galston Road. This track head is a good access point for those wanting to do sections of the Great North Walk and is well signposted[101]. Keep an eye open for the local chickens[102].

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).

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

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_fire_danger.php?walkid=nsw-bvrp-htgg
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

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_park_closure.php?walkid=nsw-bvrp-htgg

Thornleigh to Mt Kuring-Gai

And Walk

Thornleigh to Mt Kuring-Gai

Download & Print Map and Notes

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

From the western (north bound) side of Thornleigh Station[1], this walk follows the ‘Jungo Rest Area’ sign[2] along the footpath towards the car park and The Esplanade[3]. The walk then heads down a short distance further to turn left and cross ‘The Esplanade’ at the traffic lights[4], then continue straight along the footpath down along Eddy Rd[5]. Following a couple of GNW arrows[6] down Eddy Rd as it then bends left[7], turning into Tilock St, and shortly later this walk then turns right into Morgan St[8]. Continuing down till just before the end of this street[9][10], this walk comes to an intersection marked with a GNW arrow[11] and the ‘Elouera Bushland Natural Park’ sign[12] (on the right).

(0.99km) Morgan Rd → Int of Bike Trail and Morgan Rd tracks

230 m
4 mins
3m
-7m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the end of Morgan Street, the walk follows the GNW arrow[13] and the ‘Elouera Bushland Natural Park’ sign[14] between houses[15] no. 28 and 26. Once behind the houses at a small clearing[16], the track turns left and follows down the rocky side of Zig Zag Creek[17]. Soon after passing behind the third house, the track comes to an intersection with a wide concrete trail[18], where a sign points back along the track to ‘Sydney Cove’[19].

(1.22km) Int of Bellamy trail and Morgan Rd tracks → Zig Zag Creek Bridge int.

130 m
2 mins
0m
-6m

Easy track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘The Jungo’ arrow[20] downhill along the wide concrete trail for 25m to cross over the culverted creek[21] (with a green rail[22] on one side)

[Trip Hazard]

. 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

Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Great North Walk’ sign[28] along the narrower track, keeping the gully to your right. The pleasant track leads into, then through, the ferny forest[29] with tall trees for about 700m, before crossing a side creek on a timber bridge[30]. The track then continues in a similar manner for another 700m, coming to a large clearing and campsite[31], The Jungo. On the far side of this clearing is a well-signposted intersection with a ‘Bellamy Street’ sign[32] pointing back through the campsite.

The Jungo

The Jungo is a relatively small clearing and campsite near the junction of Berowra and ZigZag Creeks at a well signposted intersection[33]. There is often water in the creeks (treat well before drinking) but there are no facilities[34]. Speculation on the source of the name ‘Jungo’ includes the Aussie tendency to abbreviate words (‘Junction’ gets corrupted to ‘jung-o’ etc) as well as a possible derivation from one of a few similar sounding aboriginal words.

(2.78km) Jungo campsite → Int of GNW and Stringybark Ridge trail

100 m
2 mins
1m
0m

Moderate track

Veer right: From the campsite, this walk follows the ‘Fishponds’ sign[35] down across the concrete ford, over the usually small creek[36]. Here, the concrete management trail[37] leads uphill, becoming dirt as it starts to flatten out[38]. This walk then comes to a signposted intersection[39] of the ‘Great North Walk’[40] and the Stringybark Ridge management trail (signposted ‘Cherrybrook Lakes’ trail[41]).

(2.88km) Int of GNW and Stringybark Ridge trail → Elouera Lookout

1 km
27 mins
81m
-58m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Great North Walk’ sign[42] down the narrower track. The track leads downhill for about 70m, getting steeper[43] as it goes, and then crosses Berowra Creek[44] – this creek may become impassable after rain. On the other side, the walk comes to an intersection on a small sandy beach. Here, the walk turns left, following the GNW arrows downstream for about 250m among the grass trees and crossing a flat timber bridge[45]. The rocky track then continues for just shy of 250m and crosses a mossy gully on a large flat rock[46]. The track then continues, staying fairly flat[47] for another 170m before bending right and heading steeply uphill[48]. At the top of this climb, the track soon leads to a section of fenced cliff[49]. At the end of the fence, the walk passes through casuarina forest[50] for a short distance before passing alongside another (longer) fenced cliff and coming to the Elouera Lookout[51], where there is an intersection with the ‘Westleigh’ track[52] (on your right).

Elouera Lookout

This fenced lookout is on the Benowie Track close to Westleigh. There are uninterrupted views from the clifftop across the Berowra Creek valley, which is rare for the area[53]. As well as being on the Great North Walk, this lookout can be accessed by a short walk from Elouera Rd, Westleigh. This section of fenced rock platform is about 100m long[54], and there is some limited shade[55] from the casuarina near the lookout if you want to take a rest.

(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

Continue straight: From Elouera Lookout[56], this walk follows the ‘Great North Walk’ sign[57] along the track, keeping the fence and valley to your left[58]. At the end of the fence, the walk bends left following the rocky flat track for about 200m, where the track then becomes progressively steeper for about 250m, winding steeply down then across a flat timber bridge[59]. From here, the track leads beside Berowra Creek[60] for a short time before crossing another flat timber bridge[61]. The track then passes among the pleasant grass trees for about 200m (crossing a couple of small creeks with timber plank spans[62]) to then climb a few sets of timber steps and cross a small (often dry) creek[63]. From here, the track gently winds up along the side of the hill for about 800m, passing through a pleasant casuarina forest[64] then heading across a rocky creek on another small, flat, timber bridge[65]. Just over 100m later, the track crosses a smaller (often dry) creek[66] to then wind uphill for about 100m to a three-way intersection with the signposted ‘Quarter Sessions Rd’ track[67] (on your right).

(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

Veer left: From the intersection, this walk heads north along the main rocky track, keeping the valley down to your left. The track leads along beside a rock wall (which is on your right) and through a rock outcrop[68], where the track soon heads quite steeply uphill along the eroded track[69] for a short time. At the top of this steep section, the rocky track continues to meander much more gently up along the side of the hill[70] for about 300m, then crosses a small, rocky gully[71], just below some houses[72]. The track then continues gently uphill for about 100m to an intersection with the unsignposted Blackfellows Head track[73] (on your right).
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

Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Fishponds’ sign[75] past the ‘Berowra Valley Regional Park’ sign[76], gently uphill along the narrow ridge[77]. The track is mostly flat for about 200m before it starts to head fairly steeply down over some rocks[78] and down a set of rock steps[79]. This area comes alive with Patersonia lilies and pink wax flowers in early spring. The track then continues fairly gently down along the narrow ridge[80] for another 200m before leading through a crack in a rock, then down a bit further to climb down through a particularly steep rocky section[81]. Near the bottom of this descent, this walk passes a couple of arrow posts[82], where the track bends right to pass below a large rock overhang[83]. Just beyond this overhang, the track bends left and leads across Waitara Creek at the interesting holes in the rock know as ‘the spa’[84]. This creek may become impassable after heavy rain, the rocks can also be slippery. Across the creek, the walk comes to a large rock platform and a Blue Gum Track post[85].
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

Continue straight: From the lookout[97], this walk follows the ‘Galston Gorge’ sign[98] along the fenced rock shelf (keeping the fence to your left). The track leads down the rocky steps to the edge of Berowra Creek[99]. The walk crosses the creek using the stepping stones, and comes to a small cave[100] on the other side. This creek may be impassable after rain[101]. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Continue straight.

Fishponds

Fishponds is a long waterhole[102] on Berowra Creek in Berowra Valley Regional Park. The waterhole is lined with tall cliffs[103] and a few sandstone caves. At the southern end, there are stepping stones to help cross the creek[104], and a small timber bridge[105] at the northern end. This is a beautiful spot and a worthy place to rest and enjoy the water passing by[106]. The waterhole is fairly popular with local teens in summer, cooling off. Swimming and jumping at the Fishponds waterhole has resulted in fatalities – please heed the signs and Cora’s parents’ plea and enjoy the water from the edge.

(7.76km) Fishponds Lookout → Corner of Dilkera and Manor Rd

500 m
19 mins
131m
0m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the lookout, this walk follows the ‘Rosemead Rd Trackhead’ sign[108] directly away from the view over Berowra Creek. After about 70m, the track leads over a timber footbridge[109], then leads up the side of the valley for about 100m to climb up the steep carved rock steps (with a hand rail)[110]. Here the track leads along the top of this unfenced cliff and soon comes to a well signposted three-way intersection, where a ‘Fishponds’ sign[111] points back along the 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

(9.91km) End of Clarinda St → Int of Clarinda St trail and waterfall track

1.1 km
24 mins
51m
-66m

Easy track

Turn right: From the end of Clarinda St Hornsby, this walk heads around the green gate with the ‘Berowra Valley Regional Park’ sign on it, keeping the ‘Clarinda wetlands’ to the left. The walk follows the management trail, which soon bends left and gently winds through the bushland. There are some interesting rock formations on the right and the occasional valley view on the left. The track is fairly flat most of the way, until a left-hand bend that leads down to cross a small creek, and then up the other side of the valley. Once the track flattens out again, it comes to an intersection with the Simon Pl management trail on the right, at a fairly large clearing.
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

Turn left : From the intersection, this walk heads down the hill along the narrow track, following the ‘Great North Walk’ sign[115]. The track is rocky and steep in a few places. Take care as the track turns at the top of some smaller cliffs while winding down 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. At the bottom of a small flight stone stairs, the walk crosses the creek on the rocks just in front of the waterfall.
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

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Galston Gorge 4km’ arrow[117] down the hill along the wide management trail. For the most part, the trail gently heads downhill then bends around to the left, leading to an intersection just before Steele Bridge.

Historic Military ‘Steele’ Bridge

(11.86km) Steele Bridge → Tunks Ridge Rest Area

1.8 km
44 mins
160m
-33m

Hard track

Veer right: From the intersection, this walk crosses the ‘Historic Military Steele Bridge’[118] and turns right to follow the ‘Crosslands’ sign [119] uphill along the wide management trail. After about 200m, the trail becomes steeper (and is concreted) for around 150m, then flattens out just before the left bend. The trail continues to climb (enjoying the valley views to the right) for another 400m, after which the trail becomes quite steep again for for about 600m (here the trail is sealed[120] then concreted[121] in two sections). From the top of the second concreted section, the trail leads gently uphill for just shy of 300m to the well-signposted ‘Tunks Ridge Rest Area’, where a sign points back down the trail to ‘Stewart St Hornsby Trackhead’[122].

Tunks Ridge Rest Area

Tunks Ridge Rest Area is a large, shady and gently sloping campsite[123] at the junction of three management trails. There is no water or other facilities (you will need to carry your own in). A sign at the top of the campsite reminds campers that there is a one night limit and that it is a fuel stove only area (no campfires)[124]. Please note that the composting toilet[125] has been removed and no longer available.

End of day 1

This is the planned overnight stay for the end of day 1, happy camping.

(13.63km) Tunks Ridge Rest Area → Int of Great North Walk and Galston Gorge track

1.4 km
28 mins
38m
-68m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the top of the rest area, this walk follows the ‘Galston Gorge’ AND ‘Crosslands Reserve’ signs[126] along the wide management trail, keeping the valley to your right. The trail winds along the side of the ridge[127] (passing along the base of a long rock wall[128], up to your left) for about 700m, until the trail comes to the top of the ridge. From here, the trail leads for another 500m, down across a saddle[129] then up to a clear Y-intersection[130]. The walk takes the left branch and passes a few ‘Regeneration Area’ signs[131][132] over about 250m, coming to a well-signposted[133] intersection with narrower track (on your left), partway around the right-hand bend.

Top of Galston Gorge Campsite

This campsite can be found on the Great North Walk, off the service trail just before it descends into Galston Gorge (when coming from the south). There is plenty of room for a group of tents, however there is no available water or facilities. Although this is an official campsite for the Great North Walk, there are some threatened species in the area, therefore Tunks Ridge Reserve (1.4km South) would make a better alternative, with better facilities.

(14.99km) Int of Great North Walk and Galston Gorge track → Galston Gorge track head

550 m
16 mins
14m
-119m

Hard track

Turn left: From the intersection, the walk follows the ‘Galston Gorge’ sign[134] down the steep rocky track[135] as it zigzags down towards the valley. About 40m down the hill, the track comes to a ‘Great North Walk – Walkers Registration’ box[136]. After leaving your comments, this walk continues downhill, passing through a crack in the rock[137] where the walk bends right and follows along the particularly rocky section for about 150m and comes to a fence[138]. The fence guides down a steep section, passing a cave[139], and comes to the top of a metal peg ladder[140]. This walk climbs down the ladder, then follows the rock wall (keeping the road to your left), heading down through a crack[141] and along another fence, then coming to a flat area beside the road[142]. Here the walk follows the GNW arrow[143] to the right and down under the bridge[144]. The walk crosses the creek, usually a bit more than ankle deep[145]. This creek maybe impassable after rain – the road bridge above offers an alternate way across[146], but watch and listen for traffic. On the other bank, the walk turns left to follow the track uphill[147]. The track well-formed track climbs to the well-signposted and paved Galston Gorge trackhead[148], where a ‘Fishponds’ sign[149] points back down the track.

Galston Gorge track head

Galston Gorge track head is located at a small car park[150] on the eastern side of Berowra Creek, near the bottom of the gorge on Galston Road. This track head is a good access point for those wanting to do sections of the Great North Walk and is well signposted[151]. Keep an eye open for the local chickens[152].

(15.54km) Galston Gorge track head → Unnamed Falls

1.3 km
41 mins
161m
-109m

Moderate track

Turn left: From the Galston Gorge trackhead, this walk follows the ‘Crosslands’ sign[153] up the timber steps, away from the road[154]. The track soon bends left then mostly flattens out as it winds along the side of the valley for almost 200m, where it passes above an old rusted car[155] (some distance down the hill, to your left). Here the narrowing, rocky track winds down through a lovely grass tree[156] and boulder[157] forest for about 600m, coming to a small flat rock platform[158]. The walk then bends right (ignoring the steep track down to the left). The track then leads among more grass trees for another 100m and crosses a mossy and rocky gully[159]. Once across this gully, the track begins to climb steeply[160], then up a steep set of steps (through a crack in the rock)[161]. At the top of the steps, the track continues to climb for another 70m before mostly flattening out[162]. Soon the track starts to wind downhill, crossing a wider mossy gully[163] with larger boulders[164] and a small waterfall[165]. The gully is marked with a few GNW markers[166].

Gulley Creek Falls

This is a nice little creek crossing[167] on the Great North Walk in Galston Gorge. The small falls[168][169] flow just upstream of the track, even after a small amount of rain. Enjoy the cool shade of the trees at the creek crossing from the track.

(16.8km) Unnamed Falls → Berowra Creek campsite track

3.4 km
1 hr 28 mins
217m
-297m

Hard track

Continue straight: From the waterfall, this walk follows the GNW markers[170] out of the gully, initially keeping the waterfall[171] up to your right. The rocky track leads up the side of the hill[172], moderately steeply at times, for about 600m and then passes along the base of a long rock wall[173] (on your right). At the end of this wall, the walk climbs the carved steps[174]. The walk continues along the track for about 600m, walking along the series of unfenced rock platforms[175] (passing under the high-tension power-lines[176]) to then head down to a section of fenced track. There are some good valley views from this lookout[177]. From the end of the fence, the track soon starts to lead further downhill for about 150m, coming to a clearing on a flat rock platform[178]which is marked with a GNW arrow post[179]. Here, the walk turns left and winds quite steeply[180] downhill for about 120m, to then follow a flatter section of track with plenty of grass trees[181]. After about 300m (passing close to the creek a couple of times[182]), the walk crosses a rocky gully[183] (where you can see the creek again on your left). Continuing along the side of the valley for about 250m, the track then leads across another rocky gully[184] and finds another nice spot beside Berowra Creek just beyond[185]. The track continues near the creek (passing under the power lines) for another 300m and climbs down a rock with a couple of metal pegs[186].
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

This shady campsite is located on the Benowie Track a short distance back from Berowra Creek, south of the Crosslands Reserve. Providing plenty of tree cover[195], flat ground[196] and an established fire scar[197], this campsite is a great spot for those walkers who want a quiet night’s sleep away from the more popular Crosslands Reserve. The creek water is brackish at this point, so it is not drinkable (except after heavy rain and lower tide, but then the water is more polluted) – best to bring your own water.

(20.23km) Berowra Creek campsite track → Crosslands southern toilet block

1.4 km
33 mins
85m
-84m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the intersection near the campsite, this walk follows the clear track alongside Berowra Creek, whilst keeping the creek to your left. After about 30m, the track crosses a small, flat, timber bridge[198], then continues to wind along near the creek[199] for about 300m before crossing a rocky gully[200], with a small creek[201]. After another 250m of walking through the the fern and turpentine forest, the track leads to an overgrown but signposted campsite[202] (on your left). The track then crosses a small creek using a timber bridge with a handrail[203] then almost 200m later, the track passes a more open area that has been used as a campsite[204]. The track continues mostly flat for another 100m, coming to a view across the creek (to the grassy area of Crosslands Youth and Convention Centre[206]). Here the walk climbs the stone steps[207], to pass another (unfenced) view across the creek[208].
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

On the far southern end of Crosslands Reserve is a toilet block and campsite. The campsite is well set up and managed by Hornsby Council. There are picnic tables[213], electric barbecues[214], toilets[215], a children’s playground[216], garbage bins[217] and town water[218]. There is a large flat grassy areas to camp and a single authorised fire pit[219]. The campsite must be booked and fees apply – $9 per night for adults and $6 for children (infants under 4 are free). The gate at the top of the hill is locked at 5.30pm EST and 7.30pm (daylight savings time). A pleasant and well established campsite beside the river[221]. More info.

(21.59km) Crosslands southern toilet block → Crosslands Carpark

340 m
5 mins
2m
-5m

Very easy

Veer left: From the toilet block, this walk follows the dirt footpath[222] nearest the creek, towards the main area of Crosslands reserve, whilst keeping the creek to your left. The track soon leads past a ‘Boats destroyed’ information sign[223], then past the only ‘Authorised fire pit’[224][225] and main camping area. This walk then continues along the path, passing the ‘Climate change and the river’ information sign[226] and timber viewing platform[227][228]. Here the path leads past the picnic shelters[229] and BBQ’s[230] to then continue along the concrete footpath[231]. The path leads past another viewing platform[232] (and information sign), then past the children’s play equipment [233] and comes to the end of the path where there is a car park[234](on your right) and sign pointing to ‘Crosslands Conventions Centre AND Field Study’ across the creek (on your left)[235]

Crosslands

Crosslands Reserve is lovely and long mixed use picnic area, spanning along the edge of Berowra Creek. There are picnic tables[236], electric barbecues[237], toilets[238], car parking[239], a children’s playground[240], garbage bins[241], camping area, toilets

[Toilet Accessible]

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

Continue straight: From the car park, this walk follows the flat dirt path[246] between the road (on the right) and creek (on the left). The path leads through the casuarina trees for about 120m to pass the boat ramp[247]. After another 120m this walk comes to a locked gate[248] at the northern end of the car park[249]. There is also a wetland through the trees to the right worth noticing.

(22.18km) Northern end of Crosslands Carpark → Crosslands North

260 m
4 mins
1m
-2m

Very easy

Continue straight: From the northern end of Crosslands car park[250] (at the far northern end of Somerville Rd, Hornsby Heights), this walk follows the ‘Newcastle’ arrow[251] on the large ‘Great North Walk’ sign around the locked gate

[Wheelchair Rough]

and along the sealed old road[252]. The walk continues along the old road for just over 150m passing 4 picnic tables

[Picnic Table]

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]

[Toilet]

Crosslands North Picnic area

The northern section of Crosslands is in Berowra Valley NP and is a less formal picnic area compared with the southern area. There is a toilet block

[Toilet]

[260][261] and a few sandy beaches with direct access to the water[262]. Here you will find a few picnic tables

[Picnic Table]

and shelters

[Picnic Shelter]

[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

Turn right: From the intersection at the northern picnic area[267], this walk follows the ‘Great North Walk’ sign[268] along the timber boardwalk[269]

[Trip Hazard]

. 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

The Estuarie lookout over Berowara Creek is found at the end of the wheelchair-accessible walk in Crosslands area. The timber lookout platform provides great views over Berowra Creek[275], the timber fence is 95cm high[276]. There are also information signs about the local flora and fauna[277] and the ‘Original Inhabitants’[278]. There are two timber bench seats

[Seat]

[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

Continue straight: From the intersection at the estuaries viewing platform, this walk follows the timber ramp down to the dirt track[280] and heads past the ‘..unsuitable for wheelchair access’ sign[281]. The track leads alongside the wide creek for about 200m to the ‘All creatures great and small’ information sign[282], then down a little way further to head along a short section of timber boardwalk[283].
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

Continue straight: From the ridge line, this walk follows the GNW arrow east downhill, initially keeping the ‘Stop! Look! Listen! and Smell!’ information sign[292] on your right. The track bends left and follows the timber steps[293] 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[294] then comes to a long, metal footbridge[295]. The walk crosses the bridge over Calna Creek and comes to a signposted intersection, with a ‘Fragile Marsh’ information sign[296]

(23.44km) Int of GNW and Lyrebird Gully tracks → Calna Creek campsite (north)

110 m
2 mins
3m
0m

Easy track

Turn right: From the intersection beside the Calna Creek bridge[297], this walk follows the ‘Mt Kuring-Gai’ sign[298] along the clear track[299], keeping Calna Creek (through the trees) to your right. After about 100m, the track passes the southern tip of the saltmarsh[300] (on your left) and comes to a large clearing[301] and campsite[302] (also on your left), surrounded by casuarina trees.

Calna Creek Campsite (north)

This is a quaint little campsite, located on the Mt Kuring-gai access track to the Great North Walk, on the banks of Calna Creek. This campsite provides plenty of room for a few tents[303], and also a fire scar with logs for seating[304]. Carry in your own water as the salty creek water is not suitable for drinking.

(23.55km) Calna Creek campsite (north) → Calna Creek campsite (south)

400 m
9 mins
23m
-23m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the campsite, this walk follows the track south along the clear track, keeping Calna Creek to your right[305]. The track leads along the flat for about 100m to the climb over a rocky rise[306] then down a short timber staircase[307]. The rocky track continues for another 180m, stepping over a fallen tree[308], to then cross a timber bridge[309] (with handrails) over a small tidal creek[310]. Here the track leads through flat grassy area and casuarina forest[311] for about 100m to come to a signposted[312] camping area[313].

Calna Creek Campsite (south)

This small signposted[314] campsite sits on a flat grassy clearing in a small casuarina forest which provides plenty of shade. There is a small fireplace set up. This creek-side campsite is a good spot for those wanting to get the most out of a relaxing, overnight camp, just a short stroll to Berowra Creek and the main spine of the Great North Walk. Bring your own water, as the creek water is not suitable for drinking.

(23.95km) Calna Creek Campsite (south) → Lyrebird Caves

1.6 km
33 mins
106m
-39m

Hard track

Continue straight: From the signposted[315] campsite[316], this walk follows the clear flat track upstream, keeping the wide Calna Creek to your right. After just 25m, the track leads over flat timber bridge[317] then continues along the mostly flat track for another 400m, passing a few sandy beaches[318] to come to the point where the track leads up away from open valley views[319] and into the denser forest[320]. Here the walk leads up the rocky track[321] among the ferns and mossy boulders for 400m to follow a GNW arrow post[322] across Calna Creek using boulders with carved steps[323]. This creek crossing and other crossing further up the valley can become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain. Here the track continues upstream (with the creek on your left) among more ferns[324], for almost 300m to follow another GNW arrow post across creek, again using boulders with carved steps[325]. Back on the other side, this walk heads along the side of the creek (on your right) through the shaded forest[326] and past some large boulders for about 70m, where the track then bends left to follow some stone steps[327] steeply as they zigzag[328] up the hill a fairly short distance. The track then mostly flattens out and leads along the side of the hill for about 200m, to then head up another shorter but steep hill[329]. About 40m past the top of this climb (just past a small overhang), this walk leads under a large sandstone overhang[330], the larger of a few Lyrebird gully caves in the area.

Lyrebird Caves

The Lyrebird caves are a series of notable sandstone overhangs on the eastern side of Lyrebird Gully. There are 3 main overhangs[331][332][333], with the larger (more northern) one providing significant shelter[334]. The larger cave has a fairly flat base[335] in the centre and provides a pleasant place to rest on a hot or rainy day.

(25.56km) Lyrebird Caves → Lyrebird Waterfall

140 m
4 mins
1m
-14m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the cave, this walk follows the track out of the cave to head along the side of the hill, keeping the valley to your right. After about 70m, the track leads through a smaller cave[336], then just a few metres later through another (bit larger) sandstone overhang[337]. The track then continues along the side of the hill for another 50m before bending right and leading down the timber steps[338] to find a ‘The Great North Walk’ sign[339] on the handrail. This is at the top of Lyrebird Gully waterfall[340].

Lyrebird waterfall

This informally named waterfall is found on Lyrebird Gully creek about 300m upstream of its confluence with Calna Creek. The top of the fall is partially fenced with a timber handrail[341] where the water flows over the solid rock platform, with naturally carved holes[342], to fall about 8m to the shallow pool[343] and boulders below. The track passes the top of the fall and does not provide a good view of the face of the fall, but it is still a very pleasant spot.

(25.7km) Lyrebird Waterfall → Lyrebird Clearing

1.4 km
27 mins
92m
-21m

Hard track

Continue straight: From the top of the Lyrebird Gully falls[344], this walk follows the ‘The Great North walk’ sign[345] and the handrail across the creek using the flat timber bridge[346] (note: this boardwalk/bridge was washed away during a flood in 2012, the hand rail is still in place). Once on the other side of the creek, this walk bends left and almost immediately crosses the creek again using boulders with carved steps[347]. Once back on the other side, this walk follows the edge of creek upstream (keeping the creek to your right) [348] for just shy of 100m, where the rocky track then bends left and leads up the hill then up a rock (with metal peg)[349]. The walk then leads along the side of the hill and soon passes beside a rock wall[350] (on your left) and a section of handrail[351] and steep valley (on your right). Here the rocky track continues along side of hill[352] for about 250m before bending right and leading down to and across a short section of green timber boardwalk[353], then follows the GNW arrow post[354] across Lyrebird Gully creek[355] on the sandstone platform. Here the track leads up the other side of the gully, up a series of rock[356] and timber[357] steps for about 300m to pass a short section of handrail[358]. Just past this handrail, the track leads along a rock wall[359] to find a ‘Great North Walk register’ box on a pole[360][361]. After filling in your intentions (and reading others entries), this walk continues up the stone steps with a handrail[362], where the track bends left and along the side of the hill[363] for about 150m to cross a short flat timber bridge[364] over a concrete channel[365]. Here the track leads up the short hill, bends left and soon comes to a clearing to turn right at the ‘The Great North Walk’ sign[366]. Here the track continues for another 120m through the larger clearing to come to the the start of a sealed management trail[367], beside the tall green sewage vent[368].

(27.08km) Lyrebird Clearing → Int of Glenview Rd and the Pacific Hwy

530 m
12 mins
84m
-2m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the clearing, this walk follows GNW arrow post[369] uphill along the sealed management trail, from beside the tall green sewage vent[370]. The trail winds steeply uphill[371] for about 500m, then behind the houses it bends right[372], mostly flattening out at the large ‘To the Great North Walk’ sign[373]. Here the walk continues a short distance further to head around the locked ‘Lyrebird Gully Track’ gate[374] coming to Glenview Rd[375] (just beside the intersection with the Pacific Hwy).

(27.61km) Int of Glenview Rd and the Pacific Hwy → Mt Kuring-gai Railway Station

520 m
9 mins
9m
-8m

Very easy

Continue straight: From the locked gate (near the intersection of ‘Glenview Rd’ and the Pacific Hwy), this walk crosses ‘Glenview Rd’[376] and follows the footpath beside the Pacific Hwy[377] to come to the base of the pedestrian bridge[378] (just before the Aldi shopping complex).
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).

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

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_fire_danger.php?walkid=nsw-bvrp-ttmk
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

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_park_closure.php?walkid=nsw-bvrp-ttmk

Wareemba Ave to Thornleigh Station

And Walk

Wareemba Ave to Thornleigh Station

Download & Print Map and Notes

(0km) Wareemba Ave (Near Vale Rd), Thornleigh → Int near Pipe bridge

470 m
10 mins
6m
-25m

Easy track

From the small bridge on Wareemba Ave, just down the hill from Vale Rd, this walk follows the management trail around the green gate, past the large fern tree, and crosses Larool Creek at the concrete causeway. On the other side of the creek, the track soon comes to an intersection with a less-used management trail, on the right.
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

Turn left : From the well-hidden intersection, this walk heads from the concrete lids down the rough track and under the pipe bridge, where it cross the creek and heads up the bank to a track at the other end of the bridge. From here, the walk follows the bush track through the open bracken and blue gum forest for a while, before the forest becomes more dense. The track soon joins onto the Blue Gum Walk, marked with a small post.

(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

Turn left : From the intersection, this walk follows the Blue Gum Walk marker along the management trail, winding up the hill. The trail soon turns sharply to the right, and then meanders up the spur to an intersection with a grassy management trail (on the right) marked with another Blue Gum Walk post.
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

Turn right: From the intersection, the walk climbs up the wooden steps and follows the bush track. The track continues up the side of the valley through the tall blue bum forest and the bracken ferns, until reaching the unmarked intersection with the power line track (just below the power lines).
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

Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows ‘The Jungo’ sign[1] south along the clear track, soon keeping the wide valley to your right. About 100m further, the walk comes to an intersection with the unsignposted Blackfellows Head track[2] (on your left).
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

Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the main track south, downhill, keeping the wide valley to your right. After about 100m, the track crosses a small (often dry) creek[10], then after another 110m, a rocky creek on a small flat timber bridge[11]. After leaving this gully, the track gently winds down along the side of the hill for about 800m, passing through a pleasant casuarina forest[12] then crossing another small (often dry) creek[13]. The track leads over a rise and down some timber steps[14] before passing among the pleasant grass trees for about 200m (crossing a couple of small creeks with timber plank spans[15] and coming to a flat timber bridge[16]. Crossing this bridge, the walk leads over a rise to come to the edge of Berowra Creek[17]. The track soon crosses another flat timber bridge[18], then starts to climb steeply for just over 250m. The walk then starts to flatten out, following the rocky track[19] for about 200m to find a fence[20]. Following this fence, the walk comes to Elouera Lookout[21], where there is an intersection with the ‘Westleigh’ track[22] (on your left).

Elouera Lookout

This fenced lookout is on the Benowie Track close to Westleigh. There are uninterrupted views from the clifftop across the Berowra Creek valley, which is rare for the area[23]. As well as being on the Great North Walk, this lookout can be accessed by a short walk from Elouera Rd, Westleigh. This section of fenced rock platform is about 100m long[24], and there is some limited shade[25] from the casuarina near the lookout if you want to take a rest.

(4.67km) Elouera Lookout → Jungo campsite

1.1 km
29 mins
58m
-82m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From Elouera Lookout[26], this walk follows the ‘Great North Walk’ sign[27] along the track, keeping the fence and valley to your right. At the end of the fence, the walk passes through casuarina forest[28] for a short distance before passing alongside another (shorter) fenced cliff[29]. About 50m past this fence, the track bends right and leads steeply downhill[30] (tending further right to find some GNW arrows[31]) where the track then flattens out[32] for about 170m. The walk crosses a mossy gully on a large flat rock[33] then, just shy of 250m later, crosses a flat timber bridge[34]. The track then leads among grass trees beside Berowra Creek for a further 250m, and comes to a sandy beach[35] and intersection, beside a creek crossing[36].
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

The Jungo is a relatively small clearing and campsite near the junction of Berowra and ZigZag Creeks at a well signposted intersection[49]. There is often water in the creeks (treat well before drinking) but there are no facilities[50]. Speculation on the source of the name ‘Jungo’ includes the Aussie tendency to abbreviate words (‘Junction’ gets corrupted to ‘jung-o’ etc) as well as a possible derivation from one of a few similar sounding aboriginal words.

(5.82km) The Jungo → Zig Zag Creek Bridge intersection

1.4 km
25 mins
37m
-16m

Moderate track

Veer left: From the intersection at the Jungo, this walk follows the ‘Bellamy Street’ Great North Walk sign[51] through the campsite and along the pleasant track, leading into, then through, the ferny forest[52] for about 700m before crossing a side creek on a timber bridge[53]. The track then continues in a similar manner for another 700m, coming to a T-intersection with a concrete bike track, beside a large bridge (over Zigzag Creek, on your left) where a sign points back along the ‘Great North Walk’[54].

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

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the concrete trail uphill[55], directly away from ‘Zig Zag Creek’[56]. The walk continues up out of the valley[57] along the concrete trail for 110m to cross over the culverted creek[58] (with a green rail[59] on one side)

[Trip Hazard]

. 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

Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Sydney Cove’ sign[61] along the narrow track away from the wide concrete trail. The track leads behind the house (on your right) following along the rocky side of Zig Zag Creek[62]. After the third house, in a small clearing, the track turns right[63], heading up between the houses[64] a short distance to come to the top of the turning circle[65] at the end of Morgan Road, Thornleigh.

(7.61km) Morgan Rd → Thornleigh Train Station

990 m
18 mins
47m
-7m

Easy track

Turn left: From the end of Morgan Street, this walk heads up along the road[66] to left into ‘Tillock Street’[67]. This street soon bends right[68] to become ‘Eddy Street’[69] following the footpath[70] and GNW arrows[71] to the top of the hill where there is a set of traffic lights[72]. The walk cross ‘The Esplanade’ at the lights[73] to then turn right walking past the car park[74], and through a small park[75] to find a large ‘Great North Walk’ sign[76] at the (north bound) entrance to Thornleigh train station[77].

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).

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

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_fire_danger.php?walkid=nsw-dpccr-watt
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

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_park_closure.php?walkid=nsw-dpccr-watt

And Walk

Bellamy fire trail

(0km) End of Bellamy St → Int of Bellamy trail and Morgan Rd tracks

Easy track

(0.09km) Int of Bellamy trail and Morgan Rd tracks → Zig Zag Creek Bridge int.

Easy track

Thornleigh zigzag railway

(0.22km) Zig Zag Creek Bridge int → Thornleigh Quarry

Moderate track

Old Thornleigh Quarry

(0.37km) Thornleigh Quarry → Int of Heritage Trail and De Saxe Cl trail

Very easy

(0.48km) Int of Heritage Trail and De Saxe Cl trail → End of Timbarra Rd

Easy track

Maps for the Bellamy fire trail walk

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

Accessibility Details

Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001

Some more details of this walks Grading

Gradient

Quality of track

Signs

Experience Required

weather

Infrastructure

Similar walks

Other Nearby walks

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

Fire Danger

Weather Forest

Park Information & Alerts

Comments

And Walk

Bellamy St to De Saxe Cl dog walking trail

(0km) End of Bellamy St → Zig Zag Creek Bridge int.

Easy track

(0.22km) Zig Zag Creek Bridge int → Thornleigh Quarry

Moderate track

Old Thornleigh Quarry

(0.37km) Thornleigh Quarry → Int of Heritage Trail and De Saxe Cl trail

Very easy

(0.48km) Int of Heritage Trail and De Saxe Cl trail → End of Timbarra Rd

Easy track

(0.48km) Int of Heritage Trail and De Saxe Cl trail → End of De Saxe Close

Moderate track

Maps for the Bellamy St to De Saxe Cl dog walking trail walk

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

Some more details of this walks Grading

Gradient

Quality of track

Signs

Experience Required

weather

Infrastructure

Similar walks

Other Nearby walks

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

Fire Danger

Weather Forest

Park Information & Alerts

Comments

And Walk

Clarinda St dog walking trail

(0km) End of Clarinda St → Int of Clarinda St and Simon Pl trails

Easy track

(0.44km) Int of Clarinda St and Simon Pl trails → End of Simon Place

Easy track

Maps for the Clarinda St dog walking trail walk

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

Some more details of this walks Grading

Gradient

Quality of track

Signs

Experience Required