Ferndale Park Loop

And Walk

Ferndale Park Loop

(0km) Chatswood Station → Int. Edgar St and Edgar St Reserve Trk

620 m
13 mins
9m
-37m

Moderate track

From Chatswood Train Station, this walk exits the station onto Victoria Ave. The walk then continues up Victoria Ave, passing Chatswood RSL on the left. This walk continues to the Pacific Highway where it crosses over the at a pedestrian crossing or the foot bridge near by.
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads north up the Pacific Highway, to turn left onto Western Way. The walk continues down Western Way through a dogleg, turning right onto Jenkins Rd then quickly left back onto Western Way. The walk heads down Western Way to turn right onto Edgar St and to the Edgar Reserve Park with green gate.

(0.62km) Int. Edgar St and Edgar St Reserve Trk → Int. Park Ave and Edgar St Reserve Trk

340 m
6 mins
1m
-12m

Moderate track

Turn left: From the intersection, the walk passes the gate, then the playground on the right, and continues through the clearing. The track continues for approximately 150m to an intersection marked by a memorial bench.
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk heads between the tennis court fence on your right and the houses on your left for approximately 150m. The track then comes to an intersection with Park Ave, and a ‘Rail to River Walk’ sign[1].

(0.96km) Int. Park Ave and Edgar St Reserve Trk → Int. Park Ave and Rail to River Trk

30 m
1 mins
0m
-1m

Easy track

Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Rail to River Walk’ sign down the road for approximately 30m to the next signpost.

(0.99km) Int. Park Ave and Rail to River Trk → Int. Ferndale Trk and Beresford Lane Trk

900 m
19 mins
24m
-27m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the intersection, the walk follows the ‘Rail to River Walk’ signpost past the ‘Ferndale Park’ sign, down the management trail. The walk continues along the trail for approximately 60m to a large grassed clearing. The walk then continues away from the clearing along a bush track, which soon comes to some steppingstones across the creek. Approximately 50m later, the walk comes to a signposted intersection.
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the creek (which remains on your left) down the gully for approximately 100m to the signposted intersection.
Veer left: From the intersection, the walk follows the bush track across the creek. The track then turns left, up the hill, and reaches a sign posted intersection.
Turn left: From the intersection, the walk follows the Darymple Ave arrow along the bush track. The track soon turns left, at a junction, to head to a sign posted creek crossing. Very soon after crossing the creek, the track comes to a sign posted intersection.
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads up the hill to follow the creek (below on the right). The track meanders along the creek bank for a little while, coming to a large stand of bamboo on the left. The track then heads down to follow the creek more closely, soon crossing the creek and climbing up the bank to a signposted intersection in front of a house.

(1.89km) Int. Ferndale Trk and Beresford Lane Trk → Chatswood Station

1.4 km
27 mins
54m
-11m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads up the laneway behind the houses. The path follows the blue markers for a short time to come to Beresford Ave, opposite Wallace Park Reserve.
Turn sharp left: From the intersection, this walk heads up Lone Pine Ave to turn right onto Eddy Rd. The walk continues up to the end of the road, then turns left onto Pacific Highway. The walk passes the primary school and overpass, coming to the pedestrian crossing opposite Victoria Ave.
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk crosses at pedestrian crossing on Pacific Highway, or takes the foot bridge just near the intersection. This walk then continues down Victoria Ave to the entrance of the train station on the right. If the road turns left, you have gone too far.

Maps for the Ferndale Park Loop 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.

Parramatta River	1:25 000 Map Series	91303N PARRAMATTA RIVER	NSW-91303N
Sydney	1:100 000 Map Series	9130 SYDNEY	9130

Cross sectional view of the Ferndale Park Loop bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Ferndale Park Loop

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	3.3 km
		Time	1 hr 30 mins
		.
Grade 3/6 Moderate track	AS 2156.1	Gradient	Short steep hills (3/6)
		Quality of track	Formed track, with some branches and other obstacles (3/6)
		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	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 gentle hills with occasional steps and another 720m has short steep hills. The remaining (220m) is flat with no steps.

Quality of track

1.9km of this walk follows a smooth and hardened path and another 1km follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles. The remaining (310m) follows a clear and well formed track or trail.

Signs

Around 2.9km of this walk has directional signs at most intersection, whilst the remaining 400m is clearly signposted.

Experience Required

This whole walk, 3.3km requires no previous bushwalking experience.

weather

This whole walk, 3.3km is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation).

Infrastructure

Around 3km of this walk is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats), whilst the remaining 330m has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced).

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Ferndale Park Loop walk starts and ends at the Chatswood Station (gps: -33.797073, 151.18037)
Your transport options to Chatswood 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-lcnp-fl
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.
https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_weather_danger.php?walkid=nsw-lcnp-fl

Forecast snapshot

Park Information & Alerts

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

Roseville to Chatswood Station via Lane Cove River

And Walk

Roseville to Chatswood Station via Lane Cove River

Download & Print Map and Notes

(0km) Roseville Train Station → Int. Shirley Rd and The Rifleway

410 m
9 mins
15m
-24m

Easy track

From the small shop[1] on the bridge over Roseville Station, this walk heads towards the garden shop[2] and the Pacific Highway, keeping the main station to your right. This walk then crosses the highway at the traffic lights[3] and turns right. After about 40 metres (just past ‘James Cafe’[4]), this walk turns left into an alleyway[5]. The walk continues down the lane for approximately 50m to then cross Larkin Lane, coming to the top of some steps[6] (on the left of a green power box).
Continue straight: From near the end of Larkin Lane, this walk heads past the green power box and down the pedestrian laneway steps[7]. After approximately 60m, the lane leads down some more steps[8] to find an intersection with another concrete footpath on the other side of Larkin St.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads down the steps, beside number 4 Larkin St[9]. From the bottom of the steps, the walk heads along the pedestrian alley[10] for about 40m, and then crosses a 60m long bridge[11]. On the other side of the bridge, this walk continues up the alley[12] for about 80m, coming to an intersection with Shirley Rd[13][14].

(0.41km) Int. Shirley Rd and The Rifleway → Longford St Steps

970 m
19 mins
3m
-46m

Very easy

Veer left: From the intersection, this walk crosses Shirley Rd[15] then follows the footpath downhill for about 150m to then cross ‘Alston Way’[16]. The walk continues down beside Shirley Rd for about 700m (veering left at ‘Abingdon Rd’[17]) to come to the signposted intersection with ‘Longford St’[18] (on the right).
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads down along ‘Longford St’[19] for about 100m to come to the top of the ‘Valley View Cl’ steps[20] (on the left), just past No.31.

(1.38km) Longford St steps → Valley View Close

80 m
3 mins
0m
-20m

Easy track

Turn left: From Longford St, this walk follows the ‘Valley View Cl’ sign[21] down the steps beside No.31. At the bottom of these steps[22], the footpath[23] continues downhill for another 50m to come to Valley View Close[24] (to find another path on the other side of the road).

(1.46km) Valley View Close → End of Fullers Park

590 m
11 mins
3m
-27m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the steps[25] (with a handrail) down between houses No.12 and 14[26]. At the back of the houses[27], this walk turns left and follows the track[28] for about 50m to pass a ‘Lane Cove National Park’ sign[29]. Then about 130m past this sign, this walk comes to an intersection with a faint track[30] (on your left) marked with a National Park arrow post[31].
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the National Park arrow post[32] south along the clear track, keeping the valley to your right. After about 50m, the track leads down some stone steps[33] then continues down for about 80m through the denser vegetation[34] to cross the bouldery and sandy[35] Blue Gum Creek. A short distance after crossing the creek, this walk heads up to a T-intersection marked with a ‘Blue Gum Creek Track’ sign[36] (pointing back down to ‘Valley View Close’[37]).
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads away from the face of the ‘Blue Gum Creek Track’ sign[38] (following neither of the arrows). The track meanders through the trees, winding past some rocky ruins[39] for approximately 120m to come to a grassy clearing, just before a concrete (sewerage) bridge[40].

(2.05km) End of Fullers Park → Int. Lady Game Dr and Delhi Rd

470 m
9 mins
6m
-11m

Easy track

Continue straight: From the clearing, this walk follows the grassy trail under the sewerage bridge[41] and continues for about 300m to come to a larger clearing and picnic shelter[42] in Fullers Park. This walk continues along the grassy trail[43] on the edge of the park, then heads up the short sealed driveway[44] past the ‘Lane Cove National Park – Fullers Park’ sign[45], and around the locked gate[46] to come to Lady Game Drive. Here the walk turns left and follows the grassy verge[47] for about 40m to come to the intersection of Delhi Rd and Lady Game Dr.

(2.52km) Int. Lady Game Dr and Delhi Rd → Riverside Cafe

130 m
1 mins
1m
-3m

Easy track

Turn right: From the corner, this walk crosses Lady Game Drive[48] at the traffic lights, heading towards Fullers Bridge[49].
Continue straight: From the corner of Lady Game Drive and Delhi Rd, this walk follows the footpath beside Delhi Rd, across Fullers Bridge[50]. Just on the far side of the bridge, this walk comes to an intersection with a footpath[51] (and steps, on your right) about 15m before the bus stop shelter[52].
Turn right: From the intersection between the bus stop and bridge, this walk heads down the steps[53] (away from the road) to almost immediately come to an intersection with another footpath[54].
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the footpath under Fullers Bridge[55] and comes to the end of a minor road[56], in front of the ‘Riverside Cafe Bar AND Grill’[57]. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Turn right.

Riverside Cafe Bar & Grill

The Riverside Cafe[58] is found at the end of service road on the south-west corner of Fullers Bridge. The nicely renovated building looks over the Lane Cove River and is open 7 days, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. The food is cafe-style and meals are priced upwards from $13. Ph: (02) 9412 3773.

(2.52km) Int. Lady Game Dr and Delhi Rd → Int. Fairway and Delhi Rd

40 m
1 mins
2m
-3m

Easy track

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk crosses Delhi Rd at the pedestrian crossing, then heads right to cross The Fairway. The walk immediately comes to an intersection with a bush track.

(2.56km) Int. Fairway and Delhi Rd → Int. Behind the 8th Tee

200 m
3 mins
1m
-3m

Moderate track

Veer left: From the intersection, this walk heads down to the Lane Cove River, on the right. The walk continues under the river bank’s shady vegetation for a short time to a large signposted intersection behind the 8th tee of the golf course.

(2.76km) Int. Behind the 8th Tee → Int. Rail to River Trk and Reid Drive

60 m
2 mins
9m
0m

Hard track

Veer left: From the intersection, the walk heads up the hill tending right, to a set of stairs which it climbs up to Reid Drive, opposite No. 17.

(2.82km) Int. Rail to River Trk and Reid Drive → Eastern side of O.H. Reid Memorial Oval

520 m
9 mins
13m
-6m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads up the road above Chatswood Golf Course (below on the right). The walk follows the O.H. Reid Memorial Oval sign along the road for approximately 200m to the oval, car park and picnic area with play equipment.
Continue straight: From the car park, this walk heads past the metal gate and across the oval to the far side of the oval, where a track marker stands just off the oval.

(3.33km) Eastern side of O.H. Reid Memorial Oval → Int. Rail to River Trk and Hawthorne Ave

70 m
2 mins
13m
0m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk heads up the stairs, winding around and through rocky outcrops to a fence line. The track follows the fence line up to the road, where a sign is bolted to the telegraph pole, indicating ‘Rail to River Walk’.

(3.4km) Int. Rail to River Trk and Hawthorne Ave → Harnett Pl sign post

1.1 km
21 mins
40m
-22m

Easy track

Turn left : From the intersection, this walk heads up the road following the ‘Rail to River Walk’ sign to the corner of the road.
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Rail to River Walk’ sign up Bellevue Ave for approximately 500m to the signposted intersection with Fullers Rd.
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads up Fullers Rd, tending right where Fullers Rd meets Millwood Ave. The walk follows Fullers Rd for a short time to Lowanna Park on the right. Entry to the park is via a gate at the near-end of the park.
Turn right: From the Fullers Rd gate entry of Lowanna Park, this walk passes through the park diagonally, past the BBQs and play equipment, to the gate opening to Greville St. There is a ‘Rail to River Walk’ signpost outside the gate.
Turn right: From the gate, this walk heads down the hill, away from Fullers Rd. The track heads down the hill for approximately 200m to cross the road to the Harnett Pl sign, opposite No. 86.

(4.48km) Harnett Pl sign post → Int. Park Ave and Rail to River Trk

500 m
13 mins
30m
-22m

Moderate track

Veer left: From the intersection, this walk heads down the stairs, coming to a house. From the house on the right, the track zigzags down the hill through mossy rock outcrops to the signposted intersection above a creek and pipe.
Turn left: From the intersection, the walk heads down the steps and along the creek (which remains on your right) for approximately 60m to a signposted intersection.
Veer left: From the intersection, the walk heads up the gully, with the creek on the right. The track continues climbing up the gully for approximately 100m to an intersection in a clearer area.
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the ‘Rail to River Walk’ arrow on the signpost, to head up the gully. The track leads up along the creek (on your right) for approximately 50m to some steppingstones across the creek. Approximately 50m later, the track comes out onto a grassed clearing, from which the walk continues along the management trail to Park Ave.

(4.98km) Int. Park Ave and Rail to River Trk → Int. Park Ave and Edgar St Reserve Trk

30 m
1 mins
1m
0m

Easy track

Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Rail to River Walk’ sign up the road for approximately 30m to the next signpost.

(5.01km) Int. Park Ave and Edgar St Reserve Trk → Bob Peirson Memorial Seat

190 m
3 mins
4m
-1m

Easy track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Rail to River Walk’ sign[61] off the road and along the bush track. The track heads relatively straight alongside a stormwater drain and a line of houses, to then pass a tennis courts’ cyclone fence (above on the left). The walk then comes to a memorial bench which marks the intersection.

(5.2km) Bob Peirson Memorial Seat → Int. Edgar St and Edgar St Reserve Trk

150 m
3 mins
8m
0m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the memorial bench, this walk heads up the hill, with the stormwater on the right and the house fences on both sides. The track heads up the hill for approximately 150m to a clearing with a playground. This walk passes the playground (with the playground on the left), continuing to the gate and road.

(5.34km) Int. Edgar St and Edgar St Reserve Trk → Chatswood Station

620 m
13 mins
37m
-9m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the “Rail to River” sign down Edgar St, to turn left onto Western Way. The walk along Western Way takes a dogleg turn right onto Jenkins Rd, then left onto Western Way again, and to the Pacific Highway. At the highway, this walk turns right (south) to the pedestrian crossing at Victoria Ave.
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk crosses at pedestrian crossing on Pacific Highway, or takes the foot bridge just near the intersection. This walk then continues down Victoria Ave to the entrance of the train station on the right. If the road turns left, you have gone too far.

Maps for the Roseville to Chatswood Station via Lane Cove River 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.

Parramatta River	1:25 000 Map Series	91303N PARRAMATTA RIVER	NSW-91303N
Sydney	1:100 000 Map Series	9130 SYDNEY	9130

Cross sectional view of the Roseville to Chatswood Station via Lane Cove River bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Roseville to Chatswood Station via Lane Cove River

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	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	No experience required (1/6)
		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

3.5km of this walk is flat with no steps and another 2.1km has gentle hills with occasional steps. Whilst another 310m has short steep hills and the remaining 55m is very steep.

Quality of track

3.9km of this walk follows a smooth and hardened path and another 1.6km follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles. The remaining (470m) follows a clear and well formed track or trail.

Signs

Around 4.1km of this walk is clearly signposted, whilst the remaining 1.9km has directional signs at most intersection.

Experience Required

This whole walk, 6km requires no previous bushwalking experience.

weather

This whole walk, 6km is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation).

Infrastructure

Around 5km of this walk is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats), whilst the remaining 700m has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced).

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Roseville to Chatswood Station via Lane Cove River walk starts at the Roseville Train Station (gps: -33.784534, 151.17783)
Your transport options to Roseville Train Station are by;

Train. (get details)
Bus. (get details)
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)

The Roseville to Chatswood Station via Lane Cove River ends at the Chatswood Station (gps: -33.797073, 151.18037)
Your transport options to Chatswood 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-lcnp-rtcsvlcr
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

Forecast snapshot

Park Information & Alerts

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

Macquarie Park to Thornleigh

And Walk

Macquarie Park to Thornleigh

Download & Print Map and Notes

Starting from the Macquarie Park train station, you wander down Lane Cove Rd and over De Burghs Bridge to join the main spine of the Great North Walk in the Lane Cove Valley. Here the walk heads under De Burghs bridge then explores the dry grass tree and eucalypt forest along the side of the ridge. The track soon leads you down into the ferny and moist valley beside Lane Cove River. Near the top of the valley, you walk up some stone steps built during the depression to find some rock engravings with 1930’s style political satire, Conscript Pass. The side trip provides access to the scout campsite, where the main walk continues leads up through the streets to find Thornleigh train station.

(0km) Macquarie Park Station → Eden Gardens

860 m
15 mins
9m
-13m

Easy track

From Macquarie Park train station, this walk crosses ‘Waterloo Road’ to find the Shell service station, Coles Express[1] on the otherside. Here th walk follows the footpath downhill, keeping Lane Cove Road immediately to your left for about 250m, to a shopping complex with a ‘McDonalds’[2], ‘KFC’[3], some other restaurants and sandwich shops[4]. After a further 130m alongside the main road, this walk comes to ‘Talavera Rd’[5]. This walk turns left here to cross ‘Lane Cove Road’ then turns right to cross ‘Talavera Rd’ on the otherside of the intersection. Here the walk follows the footpath beside Lane Cove Road for 110m to then cross the freeway on-ramp using the pedestrian crossing. The walk then continues along the footpath on the road bridge that leads over the freeway then crosses the freeway-off ramp at two sets of traffic lights. The walk then continues along the footpath (beside Lane Cove Road) for 130m to the lights at ‘Fontenoy Road’. Here the walk turns right to cross ‘Lane Cove Road’ at the lights and come to the front of Eden Gardens[6][7][8].

Eden Gardens

Eden Gardens is a popular plant nursery at the intersection of Fontenoy and Ryde Roads. It is a pleasant place to explore and is also home to ‘Dragonfly Cafe’. The cafe is open 7 days, 8:30am to 4pm (5pm on weekends) and serves a variety of hot and cold meals. PH: 9491 9900.
The centre is closed over Christmas and on News Year Day More info.

(0.86km) Eden Gardens → Int. Great North Walk and Ryde Rd Access Trk NE

850 m
21 mins
25m
-67m

Easy track

Turn left: From in front of ‘Eden Gardens’ nursery, this walk crosses the nursery driveway (at the traffic lights), keeping ‘Lane Cove Rd’ immediately to your left. This walk then follows the footpath beside the road for about 130m, past a bus stop[10] to cross Riverside Drive[11] (a signposted entrance to ‘Lane Cove National Park’[12][13]). Here the walk follows the grassy verge down alongside the main road for 250m to come to an intersection marked with an NPWS arrow marker[14][15], immediately before DeBurghs Bridge.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this follows the NPWS arrow marker[16] along the footpath[17] across ‘De Burghs Bridge’[18][19], keeping the traffic to your left. On the other side of the bridge, this walk continues along the concrete footpath for 70m (passing under the ‘Lane Cove National Park’ sign[20]) to come to an intersection beside a locked gate[21] (on your right).
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads directly away from the road and around the locked gate. The walk turns right and follows the track past the ‘Lane Cove National Park’ sign[22] and around the scrubby clearing for about 130m. Here, the track leads down some timber steps and comes to a clear three-way intersection, where a ‘Lane Cove River Weir via Riverside walk’ sign[23] points back up the steps.

(1.71km) Int GNW and Ryde Rd Access Trk NE → Int of GNW and Ryde Road trail (west)

540 m
11 mins
19m
-15m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Thornleigh via Great North Walk’ sign[24] down a couple of steps[25] and along the track towards Deburghs Bridge, keeping the valley to your left. After about 50m, the track leads under the large concrete Deburghs Bridge[26], with some graffiti[27]. On the other side of the bridge, the track bends right to head up over some rocks, following two sections of hand railing[28][29]. From the end of these handrails, the track leads gently up among the grass trees[30] for about 400m (and a weedy section of track) to come to a clear T-intersection[31] with a management trail, where a ‘Great North Walk’ sign[32] points back down the track.

(2.25km) Int of GNW and Ryde Road trail (west) → Int of GNW and Gloucester Ave fire trail

870 m
18 mins
35m
-29m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘The Great North Walk’ sign[33] north, gently downhill along the management trail. After about 80m, this trail crosses a concrete bridge[34] over Rudder Creek (beside a concrete sewerage pipe[35]). From here, the trail leads uphill for just shy of 200m to come to an intersection with the GNW track (on your left), where a ‘Lane Cove Weir’ sign[36] points back down along the trail.
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Thornleigh Oval’ sign[37] west, gently down the track, away from the management trail. The track almost immediately passes the large metal pipe (crossing the Lane Cove River[38]) then winds down the rocky track[39] for about 200m, through open eucalypt forest[40] with some limited views left over the valley, to come to a weedy section of track marked with a concrete sewerage access point[41]. Here the track mostly flattens out and leads along the side of the hill for about 400m to head down a few steps and cross Quarry Creek[42]. The walk then heads up some steps and follows the track for another 30m to come to a T-intersection[43] with the Gloucester Ave fire trail, marked with a GNW and NPWS arrow post[44].

(3.11km) Int of GNW and Gloucester Ave fire trail (east) → Int of GNW and Christie Park track

580 m
12 mins
9m
-12m

Moderate track

Turn left: From the intersection, the walk follows the GNW arrow post[45] gently uphill along the management trail, away from the gate whilst keeping the power line poles on your left. After about 30m (just past the second power pole), this trail leads to an intersection with a track (on the left), marked with another set of NPWS & GNW arrow posts[46] (just under the high tension power lines[47]).
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[48] south, downhill along the track and under the high tension power lines[49]. The track winds gently downhill for almost 150m until, just after passing close to the the high tension power line tower[50], this walk comes to a locked green shed[51] opposite a fenced-off pipe bridge[52] (down in the valley to your left).
Continue straight: From the green shed, this walk follows the track[53] along the side of the hill, keeping the valley to your left (running parallel with the high tension power lines, up to your right). After about 150m, this walk comes to an intersection with a faint track on your right (that leads a short distance to a management trail), marked with a GNW arrow post[54].
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post along the mostly flat track, through the dense forest, and almost immediately passes a concrete sewerage access point[55]. After about 70m, this walk heads down a few timbers steps to cross a small gully[56], where the track continues for another 100m (passing close to a few houses[57]), then crosses two flat timber bridges[58] over Congham Creek. Here the walk veers left up onto the rock platform[59] and follows the track gently uphill for another 80m to come to a three-way intersection, marked with a GNW arrow post[60] (and a sign pointing left to ‘Marsfield’[61]).

(3.7km) Int of GNW and Christie Park track → Int of the GNW and mid Gloucester Ave fire trail access track

150 m
4 mins
13m
0m

Moderate track

Veer right: From the intersection, the walk follows the GNW arrow post[62] north, uphill for about 30m to come to a faint intersection with a track (on your right) marked with a GNW arrow post[63].
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[64] gently uphill along the side of the hill (keeping the valley to your left) for about 100m to come to a small clearing and three way intersection, marked with yet another GNW arrow post[65] and a pile of rocks[66] (on your left).

(3.84km) Int of the GNW and mid Gloucester Ave fire trail access track → Int of the GNW and the Avondale creek service trail

820 m
18 mins
34m
-43m

Hard track

Turn left : From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[67] up the short rocky hill[68] and away from the high tension power lines[69]. The track (rocky early on[70]) leads along the side of the hill among some grass trees[71] for about 300m before passing under the power lines again. Here the track continues for another 300m along the side of the valley to come to a clear intersection with intersection with a wide management trail[72].
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[73] downhill along the management trail. The trail leads down for about 70m to cross a small gully[74] then runs closely beside the Lane Cove River[75] (on your left) for another 120m to come to an intersection marked with a GNW arrow post and a ‘Lane Cove Valley’ aluminum sign and map[76].

(4.67km) Int of the GNW and the Avondale creek service trail → Int of the GNW and the South Turramurra High School trail

490 m
13 mins
46m
-12m

Moderate track

Turn left : From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post, directly away from the face of the ‘Lane Cove Valley’ aluminum sign and map[77], down the track and timber steps[78] to a sandy beach on the Lane Cove River[79]. Here the walk turns right to cross the weir and bridge[80] over Avondale Creek, (this may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain) then climb gently uphill for about 120m to come to a faint intersection with a faint track (on your left – this faint track leads down to another old weir).
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads gently uphill following the main track, whilst keeping the valley to your left for about 30m to come to a clear Y-intersection marked with a GNW arrow post[81].
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[82] along the track, keeping the Lane Cove River a short distance to your left[83]. After about 80m, the track steps up to and crosses a short section to timber boardwalk/bridge[84]. Here the walk climbs up the rocky hill following a series of concrete access points[85] and timber steps[86] for about 230m to come to a T-intersection with a management trail, marked with a GNW arrow post[87].

(5.15km) Int of the GNW and the Turramurra High School service trail → Int of GNW and Kissing Point Road path

870 m
18 mins
24m
-35m

Moderate track

Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[88] gently downhill along the management trail for about 40m to come to an intersection with a short trail (on the right, which leads to the gate[89] at the end of Koombalah Ave).
Continue straight: From the intersection just below the Koombalah Ave gate, this walk follows the management trail gently downhill, whilst keeping the valley to your left. The trail initially leads over a rock platform, then about 50m later, leads down a steep hill[90]. The trail then heads gently down for about 400m before a short steep hill[91] leads down to a metal high tension power line tower[92]. Here the trail bends right and leads down and along the side of the hill for another 200m to pass another high tension power line tower[93] and head behind a few houses. Just behind the second house, this walk comes to ephemeral creek on a rock platform[94].
Continue straight: From here, this walk crosses the ephemeral creek[95] (keeping the houses up to your right) and continues along the trail for about 30m to come to a T-intersection with a wide, shared, concrete path, marked with several signposts[96].

(6.03km) Int of GNW and Kissing Point Road trail → Browns Waterhole int

260 m
5 mins
1m
-17m

Easy track

Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post downhill[97] along the wide, shared, concrete path. After about 50m, this path leads under some high tension power lines[98] then bends right[99]. About 50m after passing under the power lines, this path leads to an intersection with a track[100] (on your left, that leads to an informal unfenced lookout), just before a GNW arrow post[101].
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk heads fairly steeply downhill along the concrete path. The path passes a few signs[102] over about 100m, then comes to an intersection with a track (on your left), marked with a timber barricade and a GNW arrow post[103].
Veer right: From the intersection, this follows the concrete path downhill for just shy of 50m to come to a intersection with a dirt management trail[104]. This intersection is beside the Lane Cove River crossing[105] (on your left) and is marked with a ‘The Great North Walk’ sign here[106].

Browns Waterhole

Browns Waterhole is a wide, shallow section of the Lane Cove River, downstream of a concrete weir[107]. There is a concrete shared cycle/footpath crossing over the top of the weir, linking Kissing Point Road, South Turramurra to Vimiera Rd, Macquarie Park. On the western side of the waterhole, there is a picnic table[108] and small clearing with a view over this section of the river.

(6.29km) Browns Waterhole int → Int of GNW and Cove St trail

520 m
11 mins
24m
-9m

Easy track

Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘The Great North Walk’ sign[109] along the dirt management trail, keeping the Lane Cove River to your left. After about 80m, the trail leads under some high tension power lines[110], where there is a mostly clear view over the river[111] (to your left). The trail then gently leads down through the valley[112] for about 400m to come to an intersection with Cove St trail, marked with a GNW arrow post[113].

(6.81km) Int of GNW and Cove St trail → Int of GNW and Whale Rock trail

710 m
12 mins
8m
-14m

Easy track

Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[114] downhill along the management trail for about 30m to cross a small culverted creek[115]. The walk then follows the trail up the short hill to come to an intersection with the signposted ‘STEP track’[116][117] (on your right).
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[118] and STEP Track markers[119] along the management trail, whilst keeping the river to your left. The trail undulates through the valley (weedy in places[120]) and tall forest[121] for just shy of 600m, to come to a clear intersection at the bottom of a sealed management trail[122] (on your right). This intersection is marked with another ‘STEP Track’ map/sign[123] and a ‘The Great North Walk’ sign[124].
Veer left: From the intersection, the walk follows the ‘The Great North Walk’ sign gently downhill along the management trail, directly away from the face of the ‘STEP Track’ map/sign[125]. Keeping the river to your left, the trail leads downhill for about 80m to come to a Y-intersection[126], where there is a ‘Lane Cove Valley’ map/sign[127] and a ‘Lane Cove River Park’ sign[128] pointing back along the trail.

(7.52km) Int of GNW and Whale Rock trail → Int of the GNW and the Morona Ave trail

2.1 km
38 mins
54m
-23m

Moderate track

Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Thornleigh Station’ sign[129] past the ‘Lane Cove Valley’ map, initially keeping the other trail and river to your left. The trail follows the valley floor, keeping the river just to your left, for a bit over 500m, to then cross the Lane Cove River at a rocky ford[130]. This crossing may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain. On the other side of the river, this walk continues along the trail[131] for about 400m (with the river now close by on your right) to come to an intersection with a faint track[132] (on your left, that leads up towards Pennant Hills Park).
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the management trail, keeping the river just to your right. After about 60m, the trail bends right and crosses the Lane Cove River at a rocky ford[133], then continues along the valley floor among the fern trees (and concrete pipe access points[134]) for about 900m to cross the Lane Cove River again at another rocky ford[135]. (These crossings may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain). The trail then continues along the valley floor[136] (with the river now on your left) for just over 150m to come to an intersection at the bottom of the sealed Morona Ave trail[137] (on your right), marked with a ‘Lane Cove Valley’ map/sign[138] and a GNW arrow post[139].

(9.64km) Int of the GNW and the Morona Ave trail → Conscript Pass

330 m
8 mins
24m
-8m

Moderate track

Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post along the valley floor, away from the two trails, keeping the river just to your left. The track soon narrows, leading past a water depth indicator[140], and becomes rocky for about 150m before coming to a faint intersection, where GNW arrow post points left[141]. Here, the walk turns left and crosses the Lane Cove River using the concrete stepping stones[142] (this crossing may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain) to follow the ‘Thornleigh Station’ sign[143] up the timber steps for about 40m and find a GNW registration box[144] (damaged at time of writing). The track bends sharply right[145] and zigzags up the rocky hill for another 30m, before bending sharply left to find the ‘Conscript Pass’ and ‘B Stevens’[146][147] engravings (at the third metal hand rail).

Conscript Pass

Conscript Pass is a small sandstone pass between the Lane Cove River and Thornleigh, on the Great North Walk. During the 1930s, some stone steps were built through a cleft in the rock[148] as part of a public works program, in response to the depression. The pass has two main engravings. Firstly ‘Conscript Pass’ is followed with a downwards pointing arrow[149] and a series of initials and numbers. On another wall (that you face when walking up) is engraved ‘B Stevens’ followed a surprisingly good caricature[150][151] of the then Premier of NSW, Bertram Stevens. Stevens (later knighted) replaced Jack Lang in 1932 as Premier of NSW, when Lang was dismissed by the Governor (just two months Lang after opening the Sydney Harbour Bridge).

(9.97km) Conscript Pass → Int of GNW and BP scout camp tracks

330 m
10 mins
53m
0m

Hard track

Continue straight: From ‘Conscript Pass’, this walk heads up the stone steps through the cleft in the rock[154] to follow the track and more stone steps uphill for about 100m, coming to a T-intersection with Lorna Pass track, marked with a GNW arrow post[155].
Veer left: From the intersection, the walk follows the ‘Thornleigh’ sign[156] uphill along the rocky track, keeping the valley to your left. The track leads up a series of timber steps[157] for about 230m, becoming steeper as they go[158], to come to a clear T-intersection signposted with a large ‘The Great North Walk’ sign[159], and a stone ‘Lorna Pass’ arrow[160] pointing back down the track.

(10.31km) Int of GNW and BP camp track → BP camping area

620 m
13 mins
21m
-34m

Hard track

Turn left : From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Baden Powell Scout Centre’ sign[161] gently down along the side of the hill for just shy of 40m to come to a four-way intersection, where a ‘Thornleigh Oval’ sign[162] points back along the track.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Baden-Powell Scout Centre’ sign[163] and the GNW arrow post[164] west along the narrow track. The track leads through the dense heath[165] for about 120m to come to an intersection and clearing at a rocky outcrop[166], marked with a GNW arrow post[167].
Turn right: From the clearing, this walk follows the GNW arrow post north, downhill along the narrow track. After about 120m the rocky track leads to a small flat clearing[168] where this walk turn left (following the GNW arrow post) passing through about 20m of heath to come to another clearing (with a campfire scar[169]). Following the GNW arrow post, this walk soon bends right to step down to the edge of a creek[170]. Here the walk turns left and follows the creek downstream for about 20m to then bend right and cross Scout Creek[171]. The walk then heads uphill along the widening track for about 130m (passing a few scout constructions[172], and a track on the left[173]) then walks up under the high ropes course[174]. About 20m after the ropes course, this walk comes to an intersection with a dirt driveway[175], beside the green Pioneer Hut[176] (shed on the left). There is also a tap and drinking fountain here[177].
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the gravel driveway[178] east, away from the Pioneer Hut[179] and towards the picnic shelters. After about 30m (just after the left bend), this walk comes to some of these picnic shelters[180] and several tiered platforms (on your right) – this is the camping area (there is a stone building up to your right). At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Continue straight.

Baden Powell Scout Centre

The Baden Powell Scout Centre is a large camping and training area on the edge of Pennant Hills and Thornleigh[181] (at the end of Pomona St). There are several large buildings including dining and training halls[182].
For walkers, there is dorm/hostel style accommodation and several bush camping areas[183].
Bush camping – is found near the lower (south-eastern) end of the grounds for $9 per person per night. Facilities include tap water[184], picnic shelters[185], toilets[186] and even a shower block[187]. They also provide an indoor area in case the weather turns during the night and you need to retreat.
There are kitchen facilities available for an extra $5.
Dorm-style accommodation – at $29 per person per night, you can share a room with other campers in a bunk room, you will need to bring a sleeping bag and towel.
Hostel-style accommodation – at $35 per person per night, you will be provided a smaller room (still shared) with bedding (sheets and blankets) as well as access to a kitchen.
The friendly staff here are also happy to put together a food hamper for your meals, or organise a delivery meal, just chat with them when booking.
Pre-booking is essential, phone Michael New (02) 9484 2278 (weekdays).

(10.31km) Int of GNW and BP scout camp tracks → Int of Handley and Ferguson Avenues

350 m
7 mins
16m
0m

Moderate track

Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post and ‘Thornleigh Station’ sign[188] uphill along the wide rocky track[189]. After just over 150m, the track bends left (ignoring a faint track on your right[190]) and heads uphill for another 40m to come to the back (south-east corner) of Thornleigh Oval[191], marked with a ‘Lane Cove National Park’ signpost[192].
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post along the fence line around the oval, keeping the oval to your left. After about 100m, this walk passes in front of the clubhouse[193] (there are toilets[194] and a water tap[195] on your right) to pass a ‘Great North Walk’ sign[196] and come to the corner of ‘Handley’ and ‘Ferguson’ Avenues[197] in front of the ‘Thornleigh Oval’ sign[198].

Thornleigh Oval

Thornleigh Oval is found at the intersection of Handley and Ferguson Avenues, Thornleigh. There is a large playing field[199], tap water[200], public toilets[201][202] and some shelter in the awning of the club house[203]. The oval has a car park, and a number io signs for the Great North walk[204] and other local tracks[205].

(10.66km) Int of Handley and Ferguson Avenues → Thornleigh Train Station

920 m
16 mins
19m
-5m

Easy track

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Thornleigh Station’ sign across the road to follow the footpath beside ‘Handley Ave’. After about 130m, the walk crosses Clifford Ave[206] then after about 250m, crosses ‘Orchard St’ to follow ‘Station St’ almost directly ahead[207]. About 190m along ‘Station St’, this walk continues straight across ‘Wood St’[208] (you can get to Parkway Plaza if you turn right here) and continues for just over 200m to find a footbridge[209] beside Pennant Hills Rd. Here the walk heads up the ramp and crosses over the busy road[210] then down the ramp (or steps) to find the intersection with Railway Parade[211].
Veer left: From the base of the steps, this walk follows the GNW arrow across ‘Railway Pde’[212], heading towards the train line. At the fence, this walk veers left and leads along the pedestrian alley[213] for about 60m before turning right and climbing up the railway bridge steps[214], coming to the ‘Thornleigh’ Train Station[215].

Maps for the Macquarie Park to Thornleigh 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
Parramatta River	1:25 000 Map Series	91303N PARRAMATTA RIVER	NSW-91303N
Sydney	1:100 000 Map Series	9130 SYDNEY	9130

Cross sectional view of the Macquarie Park to Thornleigh bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Macquarie Park to Thornleigh

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	11.6 km
		Time	4 hrs 30 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	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 gentle hills with occasional steps and another 3.5km has short steep hills. Whilst another 1.8km is flat with no steps and the remaining 230m is very steep.

Quality of track

6km of this walk follows a clear and well formed track or trail and another 3.2km follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles. Whilst another 1.5km follows a smooth and hardened path and the remaining 620m follows a rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely.

Signs

Around 7km of this walk is clearly signposted, whilst the remaining 4.2km has directional signs at most intersection.

Experience Required

Around 8km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 3.6km requires some bushwalking experience.

weather

Around 9km of this walk is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation), whilst the remaining 3.1km is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety.

Infrastructure

Around 6km of this walk is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats), whilst the remaining 6km has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced).

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Macquarie Park to Thornleigh walk starts at the Macquarie Park Station (gps: -33.785394, 151.12843)
Your transport options to Macquarie Park Station are by;

Train. (get details)
Bus. (get details)
Car. Parking fees apply in the area.
(get details)
Train. (get details)

The Macquarie Park to Thornleigh ends at the Thornleigh Train Station (gps: -33.731948, 151.07815)
Your transport options to Thornleigh Train Station 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-lcnp-mptt
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

Forecast snapshot

Park Information & Alerts

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

Lane Cove Tourist Park to Boat Shed

And Walk

Lane Cove Tourist Park to Boat Shed

Download & Print Map and Notes

Lane Cove River tourist park

This is a well-established caravan park on the edge of Lane Cove National Park, offering a variety of camp sites from tent to powered sites for caravans and even en suite cabins. The campsite is a great point to access many wonderful walks in Lane Cove Valley. There are many facilities including a laundry, toilets, showers (including facilities for people with disabilities and with infants), recreation room, Internet kiosk (with free access to Wildwalks.com), wireless Internet, BBQ’s and a pool. There is bike hire available and the reception has basic supplies for sale (bread, milk, snacks, newspapers).

(0km) Lane Cove Tourist Park → 13 Cottonwood Glen

670 m
14 mins
6m
-54m

Moderate track

From the office of the ‘Lane Cove Tourist Park’[1], this walk heads down the internal road, past the boom gates[2] for about 50m to turn left just past the laundry[3]. The walk then continues along this road as it bends right after about 100m, then leads down to a T-intersection[4]. Just on the other side (and to the left) of this intersection, there is a set of steps beside the large ‘Lane Cove National Park’ sign[5].
From this concreted section between sites 152 and 151, this walk follows the sign[6] down the stone steps[7] for about 60m, where the track then leads gently down to a T-intersection marked with a timber signpost[8] (beside a large scribbly gum).
Turn right: From the intersection, the walk follows ‘Lane Cove River Weir’ sign[9] south down the hill. The track leads gently down the side of the hill for about 80m to pass a ‘Native Flora’ information sign[10][11], then about 90m later passes a ‘Bush Regeneration’ information sign[12] among the ferns. Just 30m past this sign, the track leads over a small metal bridge[13] beside the tall fern trees[14] and ‘Native Fauna’ information sign[15]. Here the track continues for a short distance to come to an intersection with Riverside Drive, where a ‘Tourist Park’ sign[16] points back up the hill.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Riverside walk’ arrow post down the steps[17] and then follows the road down past the ’12 Blackbutt’ picnic area[18]. Soon the road leads to a Y-intersection[19] and veers right down to the car park[20] beside ’13 Cottonwood Glen’ picnic area[21] and the Lane Cove River.

13 Cottonwood Glen

Cottonwood Glen picnic area is a large open grassy spot on the bank of the Lane Cove River. There is a grove of trees along the edge of the river, but you can still get clear views across the water from the car park area. There are several picnic tables[22] and a small toilet block[23][24] just up the hill.

(0.67km) 13 Cottonwood Glen → 9 Carters Creek

360 m
6 mins
5m
-2m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the car park on the south side of ‘Cottonwood Glen’, this walk follows the NPWS arrow post[25] along the track into the bush, keeping the river to your left. The track leads along side the river for about 300m, first through a lovely she-oak stand[26], then through a re-vegetating tall gum forest[27] before heading down a sealed footpath[28] to come to a car park (beside the toilet block[29]) at Carters Creek picnic area.

9 Carters Creek

Carters Creek Picnic Area is the ninth formal picnic space along this stretch of the Lane Cove River. This picnic area is home to a couple of sheltered picnic tables[30], a gas BBQ[31] a large open grassy area[32], garbage bins, toilets[33] and a car park[34]. There is some limited access to the river view[35]. A pleasant spot among the tall gums.

(1.03km) 9 Carters Creek → Boat Shed

690 m
13 mins
14m
-17m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From in front of the toilets at Carters Creek picnic area, this walk heads across the grass clearing[36] and across the small timber bridge[37] to come to the car park[38]. After crossing the car park, this walk continues over the grass[39], beside the road, keeping the river to your left, and then veers left and follows the NPWS arrow post[40] down around the locked gate. Here the walk follows the narrow trail for about 60m to come to an intersection[41] with a footpath on your right, just before the ‘8 Ironbarks’ sign[42] and picnic area.
Continue straight: From the intersection[43] just west of ‘8 Ironbarks’[44], this walk follows the track through the picnic area, keeping the river on the left. On the far side of the picnic area, this walk follows the NPWS arrow post[45] for about 180m up over a rocky outcrop[46] to then head down a metal staircase[47]. The track winds down alongside the river for another 70m to come to the edge of another large grassy clearing. Here, this walk heads across ‘7 Moola’ picnic area (with toilets[48] and water), crossing a small flat timber bridge[49] in the middle. The track soon leaves this clearing and continues for another 80m to come to the shop-front side of the sandstone boatshed building[50].

Lane Cove Boatshed

Lane Cove Boatshed, in Lane Cove National Park, is situated on the bank of the (you guessed it) Lane Cove River. You can hire rowboats, kayaks, pedal boats, bikes and canoes[51], for different ways to enjoy the river. The shop also sells ice-creams, chips and drinks. The shed is open on weekend from 10am – 5pm. During summer school holidays, the shop is also open from 12-5pm. For more info, call Greg on 0418600695.

Maps for the Lane Cove Tourist Park to Boat Shed 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.

Parramatta River	1:25 000 Map Series	91303N PARRAMATTA RIVER	NSW-91303N
Sydney	1:100 000 Map Series	9130 SYDNEY	9130

Cross sectional view of the Lane Cove Tourist Park to Boat Shed bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Lane Cove Tourist Park to Boat Shed

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	3.4 km
		Time	1 hr 30 mins
		.
Grade 3/6 Moderate track	AS 2156.1	Gradient	Short steep hills (3/6)
		Quality of track	Formed track, with some branches and other obstacles (3/6)
		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

740m of this walk has gentle hills with occasional steps and another 690m is flat with no steps. The remaining (290m) has short steep hills.

Quality of track

1.4km of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles and another 220m follows a clear and well formed track or trail. The remaining (130m) follows a smooth and hardened path.

Signs

Around 1.4km of this walk is clearly signposted, whilst the remaining 290m has directional signs at most intersection.

Experience Required

This whole walk, 1.7km requires no previous bushwalking experience.

weather

This whole walk, 1.7km is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation).

Infrastructure

This whole walk, 1.7km is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats).

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Lane Cove Tourist Park to Boat Shed walk starts and ends at the Lane Cove Tourist Park (gps: -33.789442, 151.14332)
Your main transport option to Lane Cove Tourist Park 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-lcnp-lctptbs
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

Forecast snapshot

Park Information & Alerts

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

Thornleigh to Marsfield

And Walk

Thornleigh to Marsfield

Download & Print Map and Notes

(0km) Thornleigh Train Station → Int of Handley and Ferguson Avenues

920 m
16 mins
5m
-19m

Easy track

From the the top of the bridge over ‘Thornleigh’ Train Station[1], this walk heads towards the Pennant Hills Rd, keeping the main building of the station to your left. The walk soon heads down some steps[2] and turns left, following a ‘The Great North Walk’ sign[3] down along the pedestrian alley[4] for about 60m to come to ‘Railway Parade’[5]. Here the walk crosses the road to find a GNW arrow post at the bottom of the pedestrian overpass bridge[6].
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post up the concrete steps (or ramp) to cross Pennant Hills Rd using the overpass. On the other side of the road, this walk follows ‘Station St’ down away from the main road. Just over 200m along this footpath, this walk continues straight across ‘Wood St’[7] (you can get to Parkway Plaza if you turn left here) and, just under 200m further along ‘Station St’, crosses ‘Orchard St’ to continue (almost) straight ahead beside ‘Handley Avenue’. After about 250m, the walk cross Clifford Ave[8] then about 130m later, crosses the intersection of ‘Handley’ and ‘Ferguson’ Avenues to find the signposted gate at the front of ‘Thornleigh Oval’[9].

Thornleigh Oval

Thornleigh Oval is found at the intersection of Handley and Ferguson Avenues, Thornleigh. There is a large playing field[10], tap water[11], public toilets[12][13] and some shelter in the awning of the club house[14]. The oval has a car park, and a number io signs for the Great North walk[15] and other local tracks[16].

(0.92km) Int of Handley and Ferguson Avenues → Int of GNW and BP scout camp tracks

350 m
7 mins
0m
-16m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads around the gate towards ‘Thornleigh Oval’ to follow the ‘Sydney Cove’ sign in front of the clubhouse[17] (there are toilets[18] and a water tap[19] on your left). Here the walk follows the fence line around the oval, keeping the oval to your right, for 100m to come to an intersection with a track (on your left, at the south-east corner of the oval) marked with a large ‘Lane Cove National Park’ sign[20].
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[21], downhill past the ‘Lane Cove National Park’ signpost[22] and heading into the bush. The rocky track leads downhill for about 40m before bending right (ignoring a faint track on your left[23]) and heading down the side of the hill for another 150m to three-way intersection, where a ‘Thornleigh Station’ sign[24] points back up along the track.

(1.28km) Int of GNW and BP scout camp tracks → Int of the GNW and Lorna Pass tracks

230 m
7 mins
0m
-34m

Hard track

Veer left: From the intersection, the walk follows the GNW arrow post and the stone ‘Lorna Pass’ arrow[25] downhill[26] along the track. The track leads fairly gently down at first, but soon leads moderately steeply[27] down a series of timber steps, becoming less steep again to come to an intersection with a track (on your right), marked with a GNW arrow post[28] and a ‘Thornleigh’ sign[29] pointing back up the track.

(1.5km) Int of the GNW and Lorna Pass tracks → Conscript Pass

100 m
3 mins
0m
-19m

Moderate track

Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[30] directly down the stone steps[31]. The walk leads fairly steeply down the steps for about 100m, then flattens out for a few meters and heads down a set of stone steps through a cleft in the rock[32], to find a metal metal hand rail and the pass marked with ‘Conscript Pass’[33] and ‘B Stevens’[34][35] engravings.

Conscript Pass

Conscript Pass is a small sandstone pass between the Lane Cove River and Thornleigh, on the Great North Walk. During the 1930s, some stone steps were built through a cleft in the rock[36] as part of a public works program, in response to the depression. The pass has two main engravings. Firstly ‘Conscript Pass’ is followed with a downwards pointing arrow[37] and a series of initials and numbers. On another wall (that you face when walking up) is engraved ‘B Stevens’ followed a surprisingly good caricature[38][39] of the then Premier of NSW, Bertram Stevens. Stevens (later knighted) replaced Jack Lang in 1932 as Premier of NSW, when Lang was dismissed by the Governor (just two months Lang after opening the Sydney Harbour Bridge).

(1.61km) Conscript Pass → Int of the GNW and the Morona Ave trail

330 m
8 mins
8m
-24m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From ‘Conscript Pass’, this walk heads downhill along the rocky track as it zigzags down for about 30m to a GNW registration box[42] (damaged at time of writing). Here, the track bends sharply left and continues downhill for about 40m to then follow the ‘Browns Waterhole’ sign[43] across the Lane Cove River using the concrete stepping stones[44] (this crossing may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain). On the other side of the river, this walk turns right, following the GNW arrow post[45] along the track (with the river just to your right) for about 150m to come to a Y-intersection[46] with the sealed Morona Ave trail[47] (on your left), marked with a ‘Lane Cove Valley’ map/sign[48] and a GNW arrow post[49].

(1.94km) Int of the GNW and the Morona Ave trail → Int of GNW and the Pennant Hills Park track

1.2 km
21 mins
15m
-29m

Moderate track

Veer right: From the intersection, the walk follows the GNW arrow post[50] along the mostly flat trail, keeping the river a short distance to your right. The trail leads along the valley floor[51] for about 150m to cross Lane Cove River at a rocky ford[52], then continues along the valley floor among the fern trees (and concrete pipe access points[53]) for about 900m to cross the Lane Cove River again at another rocky ford[54]. Here the trail bends left (keeping the river on your left) and leads along the valley for about 60m to come to an intersection with a faint track[55] (on your right, that leads up towards Pennant Hills Park).

(3.11km) Int of GNW and the Pennant Hills Park track → Int of GNW and Whale Rock trail

960 m
17 mins
8m
-25m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the mostly flat management trail down through the valley, keeping the river a short distance to your left. After about 400m, the trail crosses the Lane Cove River at a rocky ford[56] (This crossing may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain) then continues through the valley for another 500m to come to a three-way intersection. This intersection is just past a ‘Lane Cove Valley’ map[57], and above a concrete ford[58] (on your right) and has a ‘Thornleigh station’ sign[59] pointing back along the trail.

(4.06km) Int of GNW and Whale Rock trail → Int of GNW and the STEP track (east)

660 m
11 mins
9m
-8m

Easy track

Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Lane Cove River Park’ sign[60], gently uphill along the management trail, keeping the river to your right. After about 80m, the trail leads to a Y-intersection with sealed management trail[61] (on the left), marked with a STEP Track map/sign[62].
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘The Great North Walk’ sign[63] along the mostly flat management trail, initially keeping the sealed ‘Canoon Rd’ trail up to your left. The trail undulates through the tall forest[64] and valley (weedy in places[65]), keeping the river to your right, for just shy of 600m to come to an intersection marked with a ‘STEP track’ sign[66][67] (on your left).

(4.72km) Int of GNW and the STEP track (east) → Browns Waterhole int

570 m
12 mins
14m
-24m

Easy track

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows GNW arrow post[68] down the short, fairly steep hill, following the management trail over a small culverted creek[69]. The walk then heads gently uphill for about 30m to come to a clear three-way intersection[70], marked with a GNW arrow post.
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[71] south-east, gently up along the wide trail, keeping the main valley to your right. The trail leads gently up through the valley for about 400m, then under some high tension power lines[72], where there is a mostly clear view over the river[73] (to your right). Here the trail continues for another 80m to come to an intersection with a wide concrete path (just past the ‘Caution’ sign[74]), beside the Lane Cove River crossing[75] (on your right), marked with a ‘The Great North Walk’ sign[76].

(5.29km) Browns Waterhole int → Browns Waterhole

90 m
2 mins
5m
-1m

Moderate track

Veer right: From the intersection, this walk crosses the the causeway of Browns Waterhole. (Caution is needed during and after rain, may become impassable) From here the track continues up the hill on the other side until reaching a small picnic area signposted as ‘Browns Waterhole’.

Browns Waterhole

Browns Waterhole is a wide, shallow section of the Lane Cove River, downstream of a concrete weir[77]. There is a concrete shared cycle/footpath crossing over the top of the weir, linking Kissing Point Road, South Turramurra to Vimiera Rd, Macquarie Park. On the western side of the waterhole, there is a picnic table[78] and small clearing with a view over this section of the river.

(5.38km) Browns Waterhole → Int of Terry’s Creek Walking Track and Brown’s Waterhole Servicetrail

40 m
1 mins
3m
0m

Very easy

Continue straight: From Browns Waterhole, at the picnic tables, this walk follows the concrete management trail away from the river, up the gentle hill until reaching the large green ‘Terrys Creek Walking Track’ sign.

(5.42km) Int of Terry’s Creek Walking Track and Brown’s Waterhole Servicetrail → End of Vimiera Rd

630 m
14 mins
39m
-6m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads south up the concrete track. The track soon starts to zigzag up the side of the valley and past a ‘Lane Cove National Park’ sign, just before the tunnel under the M2. The track the heads through the tunnel and follows the foot path to the end of Vimiera Road, Epping.

Maps for the Thornleigh to Marsfield 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
Parramatta River	1:25 000 Map Series	91303N PARRAMATTA RIVER	NSW-91303N
Sydney	1:100 000 Map Series	9130 SYDNEY	9130

Cross sectional view of the Thornleigh to Marsfield bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Thornleigh to Marsfield

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	6.1 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

3.5km of this walk has gentle hills with occasional steps and another 1.3km has short steep hills. Whilst another 1.1km is flat with no steps and the remaining 230m is very steep.

Quality of track

3.5km of this walk follows a clear and well formed track or trail and another 1.7km follows a smooth and hardened path. The remaining (860m) follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles.

Signs

Around 5km of this walk is clearly signposted, whilst the remaining 660m has directional signs at most intersection.

Experience Required

Around 3.6km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 2.5km requires some bushwalking experience.

weather

Around 3.5km of this walk is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation), whilst the remaining 2.5km is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety.

Infrastructure

Around 3.4km of this walk is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats), whilst the remaining 2.7km has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced).

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Thornleigh to Marsfield walk starts at the Thornleigh Train Station (gps: -33.731948, 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)

The Thornleigh to Marsfield ends at the End of Vimiera Rd (gps: -33.764966, 151.10605)
Your transport options to End of Vimiera Rd 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-lcnp-ttm
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

Forecast snapshot

Park Information & Alerts

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

Epping to Gordon Station

And Walk

Epping to Gordon Station

Download & Print Map and Notes

(0km) Epping Station → End of Pembroke street

1 km
18 mins
1m
-46m

Very easy

From the eastern side of Epping Station the walk crosses over the street at the pedestrian crossing and heads up Pembroke St. The walk heads up the slight hill passing a Dentist’s and church on the left. The walk continues to follow the road passing through a round-a-bout with Essex St and then comes down to Epping Rd. Epping Rd is crossed using the pedestrian crossings. A sign to Macquarie Park and Marsfield is followed up Epping Rd and then right onto Pembroke St again. The walk heads up Pembroke St following the white signs and white bicycles painted on the ground. The walk continues down Pembroke St passing some side roads to come to an intersection with the bike bath (on your left) just before the end of the road.

(1.02km) End of Pembroke St → Int on Epping Rd east of Terrys Creek

110 m
2 mins
1m
-2m

Very easy

Turn left: From near the end of Pembroke Street[1], this walk follows the ‘Marsfield’ sign[2] along the concrete cycle path. The path soon leads across a small bridge[3] then bends right to cross a much bigger bridge[4] (over Terrys Creek[5]) beside Epping Road. Once off the bridge this walk continues along the path for about 20m to the end of the green fence[6]. Here the walk comes to an intersection with a bush track (on the right[7])

(1.14km) Int on Epping Rd east of Terrys Creek → Int of Eastwood Station and Rest area tracks

40 m
1 mins
0m
0m

Easy track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the bush track gently downhill, directly away from Epping Road, initially keeping the green fence to your right[8]. The track winds down through a re-vegetating clearing for about 30m to come to an intersection marked with a no.13 post[9] and a ‘Floodway’ danger sign[10]

(1.17km) Int of Eastwood Station and Rest area tracks → Int of Terry’s Creek Walking Track and Brown’s Waterhole Servicetrail

2 km
36 mins
37m
-46m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the intersection the track heads down the steps to the intersection of the Pembroke Street path at the bottom.
Veer right: From the intersection the track heads under the Epping road bridge on the right side of the creek and onto the bushtrack which winds up the gentle hill to the intersection of the Epping Road bushtrack.
Continue straight: From the intersection the track follows the Browns Waterhole arrow down the short hill passing a sewage access point and signpost 15, continuing along side the creek to the intersection of the Browns Waterhole bushtrack.
Continue straight: From the intersection the track follows the bush track north east along the bushtrack winding along the creek and down across a wooden bridge continuing up and along through the bush to the intersection of the Browns Waterhole bushtrack.
Veer right: From the intersection the track heads north down the short hill and past a sewage access point, winding along the creek to the intersection of the Browns Waterhole bushtrack.
Continue straight: From the intersection the track follows the bushtrack north passing a sewage access point and continuing through the bush as the track winds along the right hand side of the creek, passing 2 more sewage access points along the track before coming to the signposted intersection of the Browns Waterhole track.
Turn right: From the intersection the track heads east down the gentle hill and around a sewage access point, continuing up the other side for a short while to the signposted intersection of the Browns Waterhole track.
Continue straight: From the intersection the track follows the Browns Waterhole arrow through the bush, winding all the way through the bush as it winds around to a rock platform with views of the M2 motorway bridge and continues through the bush for a short while to the signposted intersection of the Browns Waterhole track.
Turn left: From the intersection the track follows the bushtrack heading down and across the creek and up the other side coming to the signposted intersection of the Crimea road and Browns Waterhole tracks
Turn left: From the intersection the track follows the Browns Waterhole arrow north along the bushtrack crossing underneath the M2 moter way and continuing along, down some steps and through to the intersection of a bushtrack winding down across the creek.
Continue straight: From the intersection the track heads north east away from the M2 overpass, following the bushtrack through the valley as it winds down some wooden steps and joins onto a metal walkway which continues through dense bushland until joining back onto a dirt track and continues all the way along to the intersection of the Browns Waterhole track.

(3.14km) Int of Terry’s Creek Walking Track and Brown’s Waterhole Servicetrail → Browns Waterhole

40 m
1 mins
0m
-3m

Very easy

Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the concrete management trail down the gentle hill to the picnic tables and clearing signposted as ‘Browns Waterhole’.

Browns Waterhole

Browns Waterhole is a wide, shallow section of the Lane Cove River, downstream of a concrete weir[11]. There is a concrete shared cycle/footpath crossing over the top of the weir, linking Kissing Point Road, South Turramurra to Vimiera Rd, Macquarie Park. On the western side of the waterhole, there is a picnic table[12] and small clearing with a view over this section of the river.

(3.18km) Browns Waterhole → Browns Waterhole int

90 m
2 mins
1m
-5m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From Browns Waterhole picnic area, this walk follows the management trail down to the causeway and across Browns Waterhole (caution is needed during and after rain, may become impassable). Immediately after the river, the walk comes to an intersection with the Great North Walk trail.

(3.27km) Browns Waterhole int → Int of the GNW and the Turramurra High School service trail

1.1 km
23 mins
52m
-25m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘The Great North Walk’ sign[13] uphill along the wide concrete path, initially keeping the river to your right. The path leads up for about 50m, passing a few signs to come to an intersection with a track (on your right) marked with a timber barricade and a GNW arrow post[14].
Veer left: From the intersection, the walk follows the concrete path uphill. The path winds up for about 100m, passing a few signs before coming to an intersection with a track[15] (on your right, that leads to an informal, unfenced lookout), just after a GNW arrow post[16], where the path mostly flattens out.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads uphill along the wide concrete path as it bends left. After about 50m, the path leads under some high tension power lines[17], then about 50m later, comes to an intersection with a track[18] (on your right), marked with a GNW arrow post and an aluminium ‘Lane Cove Valley’ map[19].
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post away from the face of the aluminium ‘Lane Cove Valley’ map sign[20] along the dirt trail. After about 30m, this walk crosses an ephemeral creek on a rock platform[21], coming to a spot behind some houses[22].
Continue straight: From the creek, this walk follows the management trail along the side of the hill, initially keeping the houses up to your left. The trail soon leads past a high tension power line tower[23] and along the side of the hill and gently up for about 200m to another metal high tension power line tower[24]. Here the trail bends left and leads up a fairly steep but short hill[25], where the trail then leads more gently uphill for another 400m before another short, steep climb[26]. From the top of this climb, the trail continues for about 70m before crossing over a rock platform[27] and coming to an intersection (about 25m below the Koombalah Ave gate[28], on your left).
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the main trail gently along the side of the hill, keeping the valley to your right. After about 40m, this trail leads to an intersection with a track[29] (on your right), marked with a GNW arrow post (just as this trail bends left).

(4.41km) Int of the GNW and the South Turramurra High School trail → Int of the GNW and the Avondale creek service trail

490 m
13 mins
12m
-46m

Moderate track

Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[30] east down along the rocky track (away from the management trail). The rocky track[31] follows a series of concrete access points[32] and timber steps[33] for about 230m to then cross a short section to timber boardwalk/bridge[34]. After this the track continues, keeping the Lane Cove River[35] a short distance to your right, for about 80m to come to a three-way intersection marked with a GNW arrow post[36].
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[37] gently downhill, keeping the valley to your right for about 30m to come to a faint intersection with a track (on your right – this faint track leads down to an old weir).
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the main track east, keeping the valley to your right. After about 120m, this track leads down (becoming steeper as it goes) to the cross the weir and bridge[38] over Avondale Creek to find a pleasant sandy beach on the Lane Cove River[39]. This last crossing may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain. Here the track bends left and climbs up the timber steps[40] a short distance to come to a T-intersection with a wide trail marked with a GNW arrow post and a ‘Lane Cove Valley’ aluminum sign and map[41].

(4.9km) Int of the GNW and the Avondale creek service trail → Int of the GNW and the West Pymble service trail link track

210 m
4 mins
7m
-5m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[42] downhill along the management trail, keeping the Lane Cove River a short distance to your right[43]. After about 120m, the trail crosses a small gully[44] then leads gently uphill for about 70m to come to an intersection with a track (on your right) marked with a GNW arrow post[45].

(5.11km) Int of the Great North Walk and the West Pymble service trail link track → Int of GNW and Gloucester Ave service trail (sth)

1.3 km
29 mins
47m
-51m

Hard track

Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the GNW arrow post[46] south along the track (leaving the wide trail behind). The track gently winds along the side of the hill for about 300m to pass under some high tension power lines. Then over the next 300m, the track becomes rockier[47] and undulates more, passing among some grass trees[48] to come to the top of a small rocky rise. Here the walk heads down these rocks[49] to find a three-way intersection, marked with a GNW arrow post[50] (almost under the high tension power lines[51]).
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post south, gently downhill for about 100m to come to a faint intersection with a track (on your left) marked with a GNW arrow post[52].
Veer right: From the intersection, the walk follows the GNW arrow post[53] south, downhill for about 30m to come to a three-way intersection, marked with a GNW arrow post[54] (and a sign pointing right to ‘Marsfield’[55]).
Veer left: From the intersection, the walk follows the GNW arrow post east, gently down along the side of the hill (keeping the valley to your right). After about 80m, this walk steps off a small rock platform[56] then crosses two flat timber bridges[57] over Congham Creek. Here the track continues for another 100m (passing close to a few houses[58]) to cross a small gully then climb up a few timber steps. About 70m further along the track, this walk passes a concrete sewerage access point[59] to come to an intersection with a faint track on your left (that leads a short distance to a management trail), marked with a GNW arrow post[60].
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[61] along the mostly flat track, keeping the valley to your left (running parallel with the high tension power lines, up to your left). After about 150m, this track leads close to a high tension power line tower[62], then comes to a locked green shed[63] opposite a fenced-off pipe bridge[64] (down in the valley to your right).
Continue straight: From the green shed, this walk follows the track as it winds along the side of the hill, keeping the valley to your right and initially keeping the high tension power line tower[65] on your left. After about 150m, this track winds up to a clear intersection with the Gloucester Ave fire trail, marked with a set of NPWS AND GNW arrow posts[66] (just under the high tension power lines[67]).

(6.42km) Int of GNW and Gloucester Ave service trail (sth) → Int of GNW and Gloucester Ave fire trail (east)

30 m
1 mins
1m
0m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the intersection, the walk follows GNW arrow post[68] gently downhill along the wide trail[69], keeping the power poles to your right. After about 30m, the trail leads to an intersection with a track (on the right, near the second power pole), marked with another set of NPWS & GNW arrow posts[70] (before the locked gate).

(6.45km) Int of GNW and Gloucester Ave fire trail → Int. Great North Walk and Blue Hole Trk

1.5 km
31 mins
44m
-57m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post, heading under the power lines and along track whilst leaving the management trail behind. After about 30m, this track leads down the hill and a few stone steps to cross Quarry Creek[71] then climbs up a few steps and follows the mostly flat track through the bush for about 400m, to come to the end of a weedy section marked with a concrete sewerage access point[72]. Here the rocky track climbs up the side of the hill for about 200m, through open eucalypt forest[73] with some limited views right over the valley, for about 200m before passing large metal pipe (crossing the Lane Cove River[74]). About 30m after passing the pipe, the track winds up to come to a clear intersection with a wide management trail, where a ‘Thornleigh Oval’ sign[75] points back down the hill.
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Lane Cove Weir’ sign[76] south and gently downhill along the management trail. The trail winds downhill for about 200m to cross a concrete bridge[77] over Rudder Creek (beside a concrete sewerage pipe[78]). Here the trail leads uphill for another 80m to come to an intersection with the GNW track (on your left), marked with ‘The Great North Walk’ sign[79].
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Great North Walk’ sign[80] south, gently downhill past the NPWS no bikes or pets post[81] and along the track which soon bends left. The track leads gently down through a weedy section[82], then among the rocks and grass trees[83] for about 400m to come to a metal handrail[84]. The walk follows the two sections of handrail down this steeper stretch of rocky track, then the track mostly flattens out and leads under the large concrete Deburghs Bridge[85], with some graffiti[86]. Once on the other side of the bridge, this track leads along the side of the valley for another 50m to climb up a couple of steps[87] and come to three-way intersection, where a ‘Thornleigh via Great North Walk’ sign[88] points back along the track.
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the sign to ‘Lane Cove River Weir via Great North Walk’[89] down the hill and steps, keeping the valley to your right. The track soon leads down some stone steps[90], then a little further along, partway down some timber steps, this walk comes to a three-way intersection[91], marked with a GNW arrow post.

(7.98km) Int. Great North Walk and Blue Hole Trk → Blue Hole

30 m
0m
0m

Moderate track

Veer right: From the intersection, this walk heads straight down the timber steps[92]. Partway down the hill, metal steps[93] lead between a couple of rocks, where the track then comes to a sandy beach[94] and water hole, ‘Blue Hole’ on the Lane Cover River, in view of Deburghs Bridge[95]. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Veer right.

Blue Hole

Blue Hole[96] is found in the Lane Cove River, downstream of De Burghs Bridge[97]. Within Lane Cove National Park this small pleasent waterhole has a flat rock and small sandy beach[98] on the north side of the river. The water is polluted by run-off and rubbish, especially after rain, so it is not suitable for swimming. It is still a pleasent place to relax and enjoy the valley.

(7.98km) Int. Great North Walk and Blue Hole Trk → Int. Great North Walk and Blaxland Rd Service Trail

320 m
6 mins
20m
0m

Moderate track

Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post along the flat track[99], keeping the valley to your right. The track soon bends left then follows a GNW arrow post down off a rock platform[100] to cross the rocky Blackbutt Creek[101][102]. Here, the walk heads up a series of timber steps[103], then the track flattens out and turns right at another GNW arrow post[104]. Here the track widens into a trail and leads up over a partially buried, green metal pipeline[105] (sometimes hissing[106]) then follows the power lines[107] for about 50m before turning left and coming to a signposted intersection partway up the hill[108]. There is a ‘Great North Walk – Deburghs Bridge’ sign pointing back downhill[109].

(8.3km) Int. Great North Walk and Blaxland Rd Service Trail → Allen Park

130 m
4 mins
20m
0m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads uphill along the wide trail following the ‘Terrace Rd’ sign[110], for approximately 50m through the bush[111]. At the ‘Lane Cove National Park’ sign[112], this walk bends right and heads across the grassy clearing of Allen Park to the gate locked gate (and ‘Allen Park’ signpost) at the corner of Terrace and Blaxland Roads[113].

Allen Park

Allen Park is a very small grassed clearing at the end of Blaxland Rd. The park is not shaded and backs onto a house. The park is a thoroughfare to access the Great North Walk from Blaxland Rd.

(8.43km) Allen Park → House No.1 Blaxland Rd

360 m
7 mins
14m
-2m

Easy track

Veer left: From Allen Park the track heads up Blaxland Rd away from the park to house number 1, on the left.

(8.79km) House No.1 Blaxland Rd → House No.52 Lady Game Drive

100 m
3 mins
0m
-23m

Hard track

Turn left: From the corner of the Beaumont and Blaxland Streets the track follows the powerlines across the grass beside house No. 1, Blaxland St. The track takes the stairs down the hill passing through another grassed area before descnding more stairs to the nature strip next to Lady Game Drive and house No. 52.

(8.89km) House No.52 Lady Game Drive → Int. Lady Game Drive and Falls Creek Trk

110 m
2 mins
0m
-15m

Moderate track

Veer left: From the house the track follows down the hill next to the road for approximately 50m to a white gate on the other side. The track crosses to road to the gate.

(9km) Int. Lady Game Drive and Falls Creek Trk → Int. Blackbutt Creek Trk and Vale St

1.8 km
33 mins
54m
-7m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the gate, this walk heads down the management trail, tending right. The walk soon meets a creek on the left, as it winds left over a concrete watercourse to the signposted intersection on the other side.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads up the hill, tending right, while keeping the valley of the creek below on the left. The walk then comes to a section of concrete track, winding up the hill for a short time, to then contour along the hillside for approximately 1km. This walk continues, with the creek below on the right and the houses high on the right, to the signposted intersection.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads up the hill on the service trail, tending left for approximately 200m. The trail comes to an intersection, which is approximately 20m before a large, concrete drain head.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads up the hill towards the concrete sewerage inspection hole and then continues approximately 10m up to the rocky intersection on the left.
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk heads up the hill away from the creek, to tend right. The track then continues on a slight upward gradient for approximately 300m, then follows a line of a house on the left, and passes a gate to the road, next to house No. 31.

(10.76km) Int. Blackbutt Creek Trk and Vale St → Gordon Station

980 m
20 mins
54m
-6m

Easy track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads down Vale St, keeping the bush on the right until the walk turns left onto Moree St. Moree St is followed up to the Pacific Highway, where this walk turns right to the pedestrian crossing. The walk crosses the highway to continue down St Johns Ave to Gordon Station bus depot.
Continue straight: From the Gordon Station bus depot, this walk heads up the railed stairs to the ticket office for Gordon Station.

Maps for the Epping to Gordon 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.

Parramatta River	1:25 000 Map Series	91303N PARRAMATTA RIVER	NSW-91303N
Sydney	1:100 000 Map Series	9130 SYDNEY	9130

Cross sectional view of the Epping to Gordon Station bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Epping to Gordon 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	11.7 km
		Time	4 hrs 15 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	Minimal directional signs (4/6)
		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

5km of this walk has gentle hills with occasional steps and another 4.8km has short steep hills. Whilst another 1.8km is flat with no steps and the remaining 100m is very steep.

Quality of track

7km of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles and another 2.9km follows a smooth and hardened path. Whilst another 1.8km follows a clear and well formed track or trail and the remaining 620m follows a rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely.

Signs

7km of this walk has directional signs at most intersection and another 4.2km is clearly signposted. The remaining (100m) has minimal directional signs.

Experience Required

Around 10km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 1.5km requires some bushwalking experience.

weather

Around 11km of this walk is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation), whilst the remaining 700m is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety.

Infrastructure

Around 6km of this walk is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats), whilst the remaining 6km has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced).

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Epping to Gordon Station walk starts at the Epping Station (gps: -33.772518, 151.08242)
Your transport options to Epping Station are by;

Train. (get details)
Bus. (get details)
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)
Train. (get details)

The Epping to Gordon Station ends at the Gordon Station (gps: -33.756038, 151.15425)
Your transport options to Gordon Station 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-lcnp-etgs
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

Forecast snapshot

Park Information & Alerts

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

Epping to Eastwood Station (via Terrys Creek)

And Walk

Epping to Eastwood Station (via Terrys Creek)

Download & Print Map and Notes

(0km) Epping Station → End of Pembroke street

1 km
18 mins
1m
-46m

Very easy

(1.02km) End of Pembroke St → Int on Epping Rd east of Terrys Creek

110 m
2 mins
1m
-2m

Very easy

(1.14km) Int on Epping Rd east of Terrys Creek → Int of Eastwood Station and Rest area tracks

40 m
1 mins
0m
0m

Easy track

(1.17km) Int of Eastwood Station and Rest area tracks → Int of Eastwood station and waterfall loop tracks

980 m
19 mins
24m
-14m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the intersection the track follows the Eastwood Station sign south along the bushtrack winding past a sewage access point and the number 12 signpost, coming down and along the creek, all the way to the intersection of the Eastwood station tracks.
Continue straight: From the intersection the track heads south along the bushtrack climbing up a small hill and down across a thin wooden creek bridge, passing a sewage access point as the track continues along the creek for a short while until it turns up and away from the creek, winding up a rocky hill and along the side of the valley for a short while, coming back down towards the creek, passing the number 11 signpost and crossing the creek again. From the creek crossing the track continues up and along the gentle hill winding through the bush until it comes to the signposted intersection of Eastwood station and Pembroke park tracks.
Turn right: From the intersection the track follows the Dence Park sign down across the creek (for safety reasons you should avoid the crossing after recent rainfall) and up the other side to the intersection of the Eastwood station and Dence Park tracks.
Turn left : From the intersection the track follows the Eastwood station arrow south through the bush winding along side the creek and through a thick patch of bamboo. Staying close to the creek, the track continues upstream until it comes to the unsignposted intersection of the Eastwood station and waterfall tracks.
Turn right: From the intersection the track follows the bushtrack heading up the hill through dense ferns and along the side of the valley for a short distance to the intersection of the waterfall loop track.

(2.15km) Int of Eastwood station and waterfall loop tracks → Terrys Creek Waterfall

30 m
1 mins
0m
-3m

Moderate track

Veer left: From the intersection the track follows the bushtrack heading down towards the creek, winding around and down some rock steps to the intersection of the Terrys creek waterfall. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Turn left.

Terrys Creek Waterfall

This is a small waterfall on Terrys Creek, and makes a good spot to break from the walk.

(2.15km) Int of Eastwood station and waterfall loop tracks → Forrester Park

690 m
13 mins
17m
-15m

Moderate track

Veer right: From the intersection the track follows the bushtrack heading up a short rocky hill and through some grass trees, coming down the other side and around beside a short rock wall to the top of the Terrys creek waterfall.
Continue straight: From the top of the falls the track follows the creek up stream along the bushtrack winding through the fairly open bush for a while until it heads up some wooden steps onto a platform and continues along all the way through thicker bush, crossing the bridged Terrys creek and continuing all the way along to the back of Forrester park.

(2.85km) Forrester Park → Eastwood Railway Station

1.3 km
23 mins
28m
-20m

Easy track

Veer left: From Forrester Park, this walk heads south-east along Davis Avenue for about 30m to the right-hand bend in the road. From here, the walk crosses Terry’s Creek on a bridge and then turns right onto Vimiera Road. At the end of Vimiera Rd, the walk turns right onto Balaclava Rd, then immediately left onto Blaxland Road. The walk passes May St and Ethel Lane, and turns right into Ethel Street, following this road to the end where it comes to Eastwood Railway Station.

Maps for the Epping to Eastwood Station (via Terrys Creek) 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.

Parramatta River	1:25 000 Map Series	91303N PARRAMATTA RIVER	NSW-91303N
Sydney	1:100 000 Map Series	9130 SYDNEY	9130

Cross sectional view of the Epping to Eastwood Station (via Terrys Creek) bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Epping to Eastwood Station (via Terrys Creek)

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	4.1 km
		Time	1 hr 30 mins
		.
Grade 3/6 Moderate track	AS 2156.1	Gradient	Gentle hills with occasional steps (2/6)
		Quality of track	Formed track, with some branches and other obstacles (3/6)
		Signs	Clearly signposted (1/6)
		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

Around 3km of this walk has gentle hills with occasional steps, whilst the remaining 1.1km is flat with no steps.

Quality of track

2.4km of this walk follows a smooth and hardened path and another 1.7km follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles. The remaining (35m) follows a clear and well formed track or trail.

Signs

This whole walk, 4.1km is clearly signposted.

Experience Required

Around 2.5km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 1.7km requires some 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 3.1km of this walk is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats), whilst the remaining 1km has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced).

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Epping to Eastwood Station (via Terrys Creek) walk starts at the Epping Station (gps: -33.772518, 151.08242)
Your transport options to Epping Station are by;

Train. (get details)
Bus. (get details)
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)
Train. (get details)

The Epping to Eastwood Station (via Terrys Creek) ends at the Eastwood Railway Station (gps: -33.790145, 151.08226)
Your transport options to Eastwood Railway Station 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-lcnp-etestc
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

Forecast snapshot

Park Information & Alerts

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

Epping to Cheltenham Station via Whale Rock

And Walk

Epping to Cheltenham Station via Whale Rock

Download & Print Map and Notes

(0km) Epping Station → Int of Derby street service trail

940 m
18 mins
3m
-33m

Very easy

The walk exits Epping Station on the Oxford St side. The walk then crosses Cambridge St and continues down Oxford St. The walk follows the footpath past the shops down Oxford St passing Chester St, Surrey St. Just after Surry St the walk turns left onto Derby St to the end. Nearing the end of Derby St the walk tends left around the yellow gate and onto the concrete driveway which veers left off the road. The walk continues towards the tunnel to come to an intersection just before the tunnel entrance.

(0.94km) Int of Derby street service trail → Int of Epping Trk and Malton Rd Trail

1.5 km
25 mins
7m
-21m

Moderate track

Veer right: From the intersection this walk follows the Great North Walk arrow up the couple of steps then down along the footpath through the tunnel under the M2 (keeping the creek and wider management trail to your left). Out of the tunnel this walk follows the track as it winds up and around the fenced sewage vent and then continues through the dense bushland in the gully passing a sign marking the entrance to Lane Cove National Park. A little while later the track leads to a signposted intersection with the ‘Belinda Crs’ management trail.
Turn left: From the intersection the track follows the Whale Rock sign down the service trail which narrows into a bushtrack and follows Devlin creek through the gully all the way along until it widens out into a rocky service trail again and comes to the intersection of the Cheltenham service trail.

(2.43km) Int of Epping Trk and Malton Rd Trail → Big Ducky Waterhole

190 m
3 mins
3m
-1m

Easy track

Continue straight: From the intersection the track follows the Lane Cove River arrow along the servicetrail for a while before it loops around the top of Big Ducky Waterhole.

Big Ducky Waterhole

The servicetrail loops around the top of the Big Ducky waterhole and there is a nice rock overhang in which to break. Is also a popular bird watching area. Unfortunately, recently there has been large quantities of rubbish in the area. (If going down to the waterhole please consider carrying out some of the rubbish if every walker carrys out a bit it will make a difference)

(2.61km) Big Ducky Waterhole → Whale Rock

480 m
8 mins
6m
-9m

Easy track

Continue straight: From the top of Big Ducky Waterhole the continues through the valley keeping Devlins Creek below on the left of the track all the way to Whale Rock.

Whale Rock

This is a large boulder that looks eerily like a whale, complete with eye socket. It is a good place to break and climb around the Rock.

(3.09km) Whale Rock → Int of Powerline and Develin creek bushtracks

2.5 km
54 mins
110m
-95m

Hard track

Continue straight: From Whale Rock the track follows the Penant Hills Park arrow along the service trail as it winds through the valley, crossing several small concrete creek crossings until it comes to the signposted intersection of the Pennant Hills ovals service trail.
Turn left : From the intersection the track follows the Pennant Hills ovals sign up the steep rocky service trail winding all the way up the side of the valley, flattening out to a gentle climb as it approaches the top and passing the intersection of a powerline service trail, continuing along the top of the ridge all the way to the intersection of the second second powerline service trail. From here the track continues along the ridge, following the service trail through the thick bushland all the way to the intersection of the third powerline service trail.
Turn left : From the intersection the track heads south along the service trail all the way to the power lines where it turns right and continues to the end of the service trail following the powerlines.
Continue straight: From the intersection the track follows the rocky bushtrack from the end of the service trail to the base of the large power tower, continuing all the way down the side of the ridge to the intersection of the develin creek bushtrack.

(5.64km) Int of Powerline and Develin creek bushtracks → Int of North Epping service trail

310 m
7 mins
11m
-16m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the intersection the track heads north through the bush, winding down and across Develin creek, coming up the other side to the intersection of the Pennant Hills park entry bushtrack, at a telegraph pole.
Turn left: From the intersection the bushtrack follows the powerlines, down the gentle hill and down the long set of steps to the bottom where it crosses the creek to the signposted intersection of the Cheltenham bushtrack.
Turn right: From the intersection the track follows the Cheltenham sign up the bushtrack and up some steps to the intersection of the North Epping service trail

(5.95km) Int of North Epping service trail → End of Malton Rd

120 m
2 mins
7m
0m

Moderate track

Veer right: From the intersection the track follows the service trail up the hill, winding through the bush until it flattens out and follows the powerlines through the metal gate to the end of Malton road.

(6.07km) End of Malton Rd → Cheltenham Train Station

770 m
15 mins
37m
-3m

Very easy

Continue straight: From the intersection the track follows Malton Road away from the bush which soon turns into Day Rd the track then turn right onto Sutherland Road. Once on Sutherland Road, Cheltenham Train Station is only about 200m further.

Maps for the Epping to Cheltenham Station via Whale Rock 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
Parramatta River	1:25 000 Map Series	91303N PARRAMATTA RIVER	NSW-91303N
Sydney	1:100 000 Map Series	9130 SYDNEY	9130

Cross sectional view of the Epping to Cheltenham Station via Whale Rock bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Epping to Cheltenham Station via Whale Rock

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	6.8 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

3.4km of this walk has gentle hills with occasional steps and another 1.7km is flat with no steps. Whilst another 1.3km is very steep and the remaining 430m has short steep hills.

Quality of track

2.7km of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles and another 2.5km follows a clear and well formed track or trail. The remaining (1.7km) follows a smooth and hardened path.

Signs

Around 3.5km of this walk has directional signs at most intersection, whilst the remaining 3.3km is clearly signposted.

Experience Required

Around 4.7km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 2.1km requires some bushwalking experience.

weather

Around 6km of this walk is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation), whilst the remaining 790m is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety.

Infrastructure

Around 3.5km of this walk is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats), whilst the remaining 3.3km has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced).

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Epping to Cheltenham Station via Whale Rock walk starts at the Epping Station (gps: -33.772529, 151.08242)
Your transport options to Epping Station are by;

Train. (get details)
Bus. (get details)
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)
Train. (get details)

The Epping to Cheltenham Station via Whale Rock ends at the Cheltenham Train Station (gps: -33.755809, 151.07879)
Your transport options to Cheltenham Train Station 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-lcnp-etcsvwr
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

Forecast snapshot

Park Information & Alerts

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

Lane Cove Tourist Park River Circuit

And Walk

Lane Cove Tourist Park River Circuit

Download & Print Map and Notes

Lane Cove River tourist park

(0km) Lane Cove Tourist Park → Riverside Dr

540 m
11 mins
6m
-43m

Moderate track

(0.54km) Riverside Dr → 13 Cottonwood Glen

130 m
3 mins
0m
-11m

Easy track

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Riverside walk’ arrow post down the steps[17] and then follows the road down past the ’12 Blackbutt’ picnic area[18]. Soon the road leads to a Y-intersection[19] and veers right down to the car park[20] beside ’13 Cottonwood Glen’ picnic area[21] and the Lane Cove River.

(0.67km) 13 Cottonwood Glen → Porters Creek bridge East

2.1 km
35 mins
34m
-26m

Moderate track

Turn left: From the car park, this walk follows riverside walk arrow across ’13 Cottonwood Glen’ picnic area, over the small bridge, keeping the river on the rightOnce back into the bush the track continues for approximately 400m to come to the ’18 Korong’ picnic area.
Continue straight: From ’18 Korong’ picnic area, this walk heads across the clearing and up the road to the sign marked ’19 Halfway Point’. The walk passes this sign and the gate next to it, heading to the bottom of the grass clearing. The track then turns left and follows the Lane Cove River for approximately 1km, passing through some small clearings. The track then rounds to the left over a rocky section, then passes a creek fed by a drain high on the left. The track winds right, into the picnic area ’20 Fern Valley’ where there are picnic tables.
Continue straight: From Fern Valley, this walk heads north along the river. The track winds and undulates for approximately 1km, following the Lane Cove River. The track then turns left to head up Porters Creek for approximately 100m, then heads up some stairs to Porters Creek bridge, on Riverside Drive.

(2.73km) Porters Creek bridge East → Porters Creek bridge West

30 m
1 mins
0m
-1m

Very easy

Turn right: At the bridge, this walk crosses the creek using the road/bridge, to the signposted intersection with the bush track, on the right.

(2.76km) Porters Creek bridge West → Int. Riverside Trk and Riverside Dr at park entrance

1.5 km
28 mins
53m
-23m

Hard track

Turn right: From Porters Creek bridge, this walk heads down the stairs and along the creek bank, with the creek on the right, for approximately 100m. The track then turns left to follow the Lane Cove River, on the right of the track, for approximately 400m, passing some cliffs on the left. From the cliffs, the walk continues for approximately 600m to lead left up some stairs to the signposted intersection on the road.

(4.28km) Int. Riverside Trk and Riverside Dr at park entrance → Int. Riverside Trk and Ryde Rd Access Trk SE

280 m
6 mins
8m
-12m

Very easy

Turn right: From the intersection the track follows the sign ‘Great North Walk Access via Deburghs bridge’ arrow. The track leads along a near straight fence footpath for approximately 150m to a sign posted intersection.

(4.55km) Int. Riverside Trk and Ryde Rd Access Trk SE → DeBurghs Bridge South

30 m
1 mins
6m
0m

Moderate track

Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the Great North Walk access sign up the stairs to Ryde Rd.

(4.58km) DeBurghs Bridge South → DeBurghs Bridge North

270 m
8 mins
23m
-29m

Very easy

Turn right: From the intersection, this follows the NPWS arrow marker[22] along the footpath[23] across ‘De Burghs Bridge’[24][25], keeping the traffic to your left. On the other side of the bridge, this walk continues along the concrete footpath for 70m (passing under the ‘Lane Cove National Park’ sign[26]) to come to an intersection beside a locked gate[27] (on your right).

(4.85km) DeBurghs Bridge North → Sandstone caves

940 m
23 mins
44m
-59m

Hard track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads directly away from the road and around the locked gate. The walk turns right and follows the track past the ‘Lane Cove National Park’ sign[28] and around the scrubby clearing for about 130m. Here, the track leads down some timber steps and comes to a clear three-way intersection, where a ‘Lane Cove River Weir via Riverside walk’ sign[29] points back up the steps.
Veer left: From the intersection, the walk follows the sign to ‘Lane Cove River Weir via Great North Walk’[30] down the hill and steps, keeping the valley to your right. The track soon leads down some stone steps[31], then a little further along, partway down some timber steps, this walk comes to a three-way intersection[32], marked with a GNW arrow post.
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post along the flat track[33], keeping the valley to your right. The track soon bends left then follows a GNW arrow post down off a rock platform[34] to cross the rocky Blackbutt Creek[35][36]. Here, the walk heads up a series of timber steps[37], then the track flattens out and turns right at another GNW arrow post[38]. Here the track widens into a trail and leads up over a partially buried, green metal pipeline[39] (sometimes hissing[40]) then follows the power lines[41] for about 50m before turning left and coming to a signposted intersection partway up the hill[42]. There is a ‘Great North Walk – Deburghs Bridge’ sign pointing back downhill[43].
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post down the steps and along the narrower track[44], directly away from the face of the ‘Great North Walk’ sign. This track soon passes under some power lines[45] then continues through the open forest[46] for about 50m to head down some rocky steps[47]. From here, the walk follows the base of the rock wall[48] to head through a long tunnel-like sandstone overhang[49][50]. Here the track leads down to cross a mossy and rocky gully[51], then heads up around the left side of a large cube boulder[52] (know as ‘The Block’). The walk then follows along the base of long sandstone wall[54] (on your left) for about 130m and then enters a sandstone overhang[55].

Sandstone caves

This fairly large sandstone overhang is found on the eastern side of the Lane Cove Valley. The walking track leads through the two caves that run in series, with the northern cave being larger. The lip of the overhang hangs down a bit, providing some extra protection from wind and rain. The cave also provide some shade and a cooler spot on hot days, and there are also a couple of well placed boulders forming nice seats[56].

(5.79km) Sandstone caves → Fiddens Wharf Oval Trk

1.6 km
32 mins
49m
-62m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the cave, this walk follows the track through the second cave[57], keeping the valley to your right. Soon after the second cave, the track bends right and leads down to an unfenced rock platform[58]. Here the walk turns left and follows the rocky track down for 100m, then crosses a small flat timber bridge[59]. Just past the bridge, this walk turns right at the top of a smaller unfenced cliff and heads down the small gully, where the track then turns sharply left[60][61] to follow along the base of this cliff[62].
The track continues for just shy of 400m, passing a few more rock walls[63][64] (on your left), to then pass along the top of an unfenced cliff[65] (to your right). The track continues through the eucalypt and grass tree forest[66] and soon starts leading down the side of the hill, then follows the track along the bank of the Lane Cove River for about 250m. The track leaves the river and climbs a small rise to a signposted intersection.
The walk continues straight, following the ‘Visitors Centre’ sign downhill, then soon goes down some steps[67] to cross the creek on a timber foot bridge[68]. The track turns right on the other side of the bridge and leads out of the lush gully to follow the bank of the Lane Cover River[69] again for about 120m, coming to rock platform and small beach on the bank of the river[70]. Here the walk heads over the rock and follows the short section of timber boardwalk[71], where the track then leads past a small sandstone overhang[72]. About 60m later, the track crosses over a flat timber boardwalk bridge[73] and comes to a signposted three-way intersection and a ‘Blue Hole’ sign[74] pointing back along the track.

(7.35km) Bottom of Fiddens Wharf Oval Trk → Int. Great North Walk and Thistlethwaytes Picnic Area Trk

800 m
16 mins
44m
-23m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the intersection, the track follows the ‘Visitors Centre Loop’ arrow[75][76] along the track, keeping the river to your right. After about 50m, this walk heads over a short timber boardwalk[77] and crosses the ‘weedy’[78][79] creek. The walk then heads up some steps and a staircase to the top of a rock platform, where there is a ‘Blackbutts’ information sign[80]. The track leads gently up along the side of hill for about 70m, passing an unfenced cliff to your right[81], where the track bends left to lead across a rock gully[82]. The track then leads past the ‘Sydney Peppermint’[83] and ‘Sandstone Gully Community’[84] information signs and across a ferny gully to find a ‘Sydney Red Gum’ information sign[85]. From here, the walk heads up a series of timber steps[86] to where the track suddenly widens into a mostly flat trail. This trail soon bends right and leads through the casuarina forest, past the ‘Scribbly Gum’ information sign[87] to an intersection (with a narrower track on your left), just before the ‘Sandstone Hillslope Community’ information sign[88][89].

(8.14km) Int. Great North Walk and Thistlethwaytes Picnic Area Trk → Int. Max Allen Dr and Jenkins Hill Trk

970 m
21 mins
31m
-50m

Moderate track

Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[90] along the narrower track, across a small ditch then up the timber steps[91]. The track meanders through the bush[92], passing a few rocky outcrops before heading up a longer series of timber stairs[93]. Just beyond the top of this climb, the track leads down a short section of steps[94] and comes to a T-intersection[95] with a sealed road, marked with a NPWS arrow post[96].
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the NPWS arrow up along the road[97] for a short distance and comes to another signposted intersection with another track[98] (on your right), a short distance before the locked gate.
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow posts[99] down a couple of timber steps then along the narrow track. The track gently meanders through the open forest[100] for a short time until heading up some timber steps and coming to a T-intersection with a wide management trail.
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[101] downhill along the wide management trail (keeping the house up to your left). The trail soon follows the power line[102] down to an intersection where a ‘Blue Hole – Fiddens Wharf’ sign[103] points back up the hill.
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Park Visitors Centre’ sign[104] downhill, away from the houses. Just over 100m later, the wide trail bends left[105] and follows a cliff line to an intersection with a narrower track[106] (marked with a GNW arrow post) about 10m before a locked gate.
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[107] downhill along the narrow track and soon comes to an intersection with Max Allen Dr[108], beside a large ‘Great North Walk’ sign[109].
Turn right: From the intersection, the walk follows the road up the hill. The road passes over the hill, to an intersection with a track on the left, marked by wooden posts. Now Turn left to rejoin the main walk .

(8.14km) Int. Great North Walk and Thistlethwaytes Picnic Area Trk → Thistlethwaytes Picnic Area

350 m
7 mins
5m
-28m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads around the hillside, with the river below on the right. The walk tends left as it contours around the hill. It then descends over speed bumps for approximately 50m to the car park of Thistlethwaytes picnic area.

(8.49km) Thistlethwaytes Picnic Area → Int. Opposite Bakers Flat

620 m
12 mins
13m
-13m

Very easy

Continue straight: From the picnic area, this walk heads down the road, with the water to the right. The walk continues down the road for a short time, to the intersection with the entrance of the National Parks and Wildlife Service’s Depot on the left, and the Schwartz Homestead a short distance up the hill.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads along the road, with the water on the right. The walk tends left, continuing up the road to pass a brick building on the right, before coming to the signposted intersection, opposite Baker’s Flat.

(9.12km) Int. Opposite Bakers Flat → Baker’s Cottage

120 m
3 mins
10m
-1m

Moderate track

Turn left : From the intersection, the walk heads up the stairs tending right, up the hill. The walk passes a sign about native grasses before continuing right, to Baker’s Cottage. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Turn left.

Baker’s Cottage

Baker’s Cottage was built in 1865 as the residence of William Baker and his family. The cottage once stood in the middle of a well-kept garden and orchard. The cottage itself was once larger, with more rooms and a verandah surrounding it. The residence changed hands only twice, and was then appropriated by the Minister of Lands in 1938.

(9.12km) Int. Opposite Bakers Flat → Lane Cove Weir South

590 m
13 mins
15m
-19m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads down the road towards the car park at ’29 Bakers Flat’. The walk continues along the road to pass the clearing and tend right, up the hill, to an intersection with a bush track on the right.
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads down the path for approximately 50m to pass a toilet block on the left of the track. The track continues to an intersection with a railed footpath.
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk heads down the slight gradient, away from the toilet block to the large concreted area above the weir.
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads directly down the hill to the weir at the water.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[110] (past a seat

[Seat]

on the right) to cross over the concrete ford

[Trip Hazard]

(top of the weir wall[111]) to the other side of Lane Cove River to find an intersection marked with another GNW arrow post[112]. After heavy or prolonged rain, this crossing may be closed. It is unsafe to cross if water is flowing over the top.

Lane Cove Weir

The Lane Cove River Weir was built in 1938 during the depression. The motivation for building the lake was to make the area more appealing for visitors’ picnics. The weir created environmental issues such as silting and a decline in native fish populations. In more recent years, a ‘fish ladder’[114] has been constructed to allow fish to undertake their natural migration route for breeding. The weir proves an easy way for walkers to cross the Lane Cove River whilst enjoying the views up[116] and downstream[117].

(9.71km) Lane Cove Weir South → Lane Cove River Lookout

50 m
1 mins
0m
0m

Very easy

Continue straight: From the southern side of the weir[118], this walk follows the sealed trail up (away from the weir) for about 10m to turn right and follow the ‘Riverside walking track’ sign[119] along the concrete footpath[120]. The path soon leads to and follows a timber boardwalk for 40m to come to a fenced lookout with a few seats

[Seat]

(and a stepped seating area[121]) and great views over the Lane Cove River[122].

(9.76km) Lane Cove River Lookout → Illoura Picnic Area

310 m
6 mins
7m
-7m

Easy track

Continue straight: From the lookout, this walk heads along the timber boardwalk for about 80m (enjoying more river views to the right) to then head down a timber ramp at the edge of a grassy clearing. The walk now follows the ‘Riverside walking track’ sign[123] along the wide dirt track between the river and ‘Spoonbill’[124] picnic area

[Seat]

[Bbq]

[Seat]

for about about 80m. The walk then leads past a grove of trees to the far side of the next picnic area, ‘Illoura’[125] picnic area

, to find an intersection at the ‘Riverside Walking Track’ sign (pointing back to ‘Lane Cove River weir 0.35km’[126]).

(10.07km) Illoura Picnic Area → Boat Shed

160 m
3 mins
1m
-1m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the picnic area, this walk follows the ‘Boatshed 0.15km’ arrow[127] on the ‘Riverside Walking Track’ sign along the track keeping the river to the right. After 50m this walk leads below a large brick picnic area[128] then about 15m later leads through an acacia grove with a short rough steep

[Wheelchair Rough]

section then a narrow

[Pinch Point]

section of track. After another 60m the track leads to a grassy clearing with a large picnic table[129]

[Picnic Table]

then continues to head along the concrete path[130] on the river side of the sandstone building[131] coming to the hire and kiosk area of the boatshed[132].

Lane Cove Boatshed

Lane Cove Boatshed, in Lane Cove National Park, is situated on the bank of the (you guessed it) Lane Cove River. You can hire rowboats, kayaks, pedal boats, bikes and canoes[133], for different ways to enjoy the river. The shop also sells ice-creams, chips and drinks. The shed is open on weekend from 10am – 5pm. During summer school holidays, the shop is also open from 12-5pm. For more info, call Greg on 0418600695.

(10.22km) Boat Shed → 9 Carters Creek

690 m
13 mins
17m
-14m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the shop-front side of the boatshed, this walk follows the riverside track upstream, keeping the river just to your right. The track soon narrows and after about 80m, comes to a large clearing, the ‘7 Moola’ picnic area (with toilets[136] and water). The track leads over a small flat timber bridge[137] in the middle of the picnic area to then find a NPWS arrow post[138] on the far side. Here this walk follows the arrow along the track for about 70m to then climb up the metal staircase[139], where the track continues for another 180m, first up and over a rocky outcrop[140] then along a flat track to find another large clearing. On the far side of this picnic area, just past the ‘8 Ironbarks’ sign[141], this walk comes to a three-way intersection[142] (with a concrete path on your left).
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the NPWS arrow post[143] along the narrow management trail, keeping the river to your right. After about 60m, this walk heads around a locked gate[144], then heads up over the grass to find a picnic area[145]. Here the walk heads over the timber bridge[146], past the ‘9 Carters Creek’ sign[147] and into the picnic area. The walk veers left across the picnic area[148] to come back to the car park, just below the toilet block[149] on the far side of the picnic area.

9 Carters Creek

Carters Creek Picnic Area is the ninth formal picnic space along this stretch of the Lane Cove River. This picnic area is home to a couple of sheltered picnic tables[150], a gas BBQ[151] a large open grassy area[152], garbage bins, toilets[153] and a car park[154]. There is some limited access to the river view[155]. A pleasant spot among the tall gums.

(10.91km) 9 Carters Creek → 13 Cottonwood Glen

360 m
6 mins
2m
-5m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the picnic area, this walk follows the NPWS arrow post[156] across a small creek and up the footpath, away from the picnic area. From the the top of the small hill, the track now leads (keeping the river on your right) for almost 300m, passing through a re-vegetating tall gum forest[157] then a pleasant she-oak stand[158], to come to a large gravel car park[159] just before Cottonwood Glen picnic area.

13 Cottonwood Glen

Cottonwood Glen picnic area is a large open grassy spot on the bank of the Lane Cove River. There is a grove of trees along the edge of the river, but you can still get clear views across the water from the car park area. There are several picnic tables[160] and a small toilet block[161][162] just up the hill.

(11.28km) 13 Cottonwood Glen → Riverside Dr

130 m
3 mins
11m
0m

Easy track

Turn left: From car park beside ’13 Cottonwood Glen’ picnic area[163], this walk follows the ‘Lane Cove Tourist Park’ arrow post[164] up the road. This walk soon veers left[165] to head up beside the ’12 Blackbutt’ picnic area[166], then up some steps[167] to come to a signposted intersection with Riverside Drive[168].

(11.41km) Riverside Dr → Lane Cove Tourist Park

540 m
11 mins
43m
-6m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Tourist Park’ sign[169] gently up the track (away from the road) for about 30m to pass a ‘Native Fauna’ information sign[170] and cross a small metal bridge[171] beside the tall fern trees[172]. Here the walk continues gently up through the forest for another 30m to pass the ‘Bush Regeneration’ information sign[173], then the track continues to wind gently uphill for almost 180m, passing the ‘Native Flora’[174] information sign and coming to a three-way intersection beside a large gum, where a sign points back down to ‘Lane Cove River Weir’ sign[175].
Turn left: From the intersection, the walk heads uphill directly away from the face of the ‘Scribbly Gums picnic area’ sign[176] and past the large scribbly gum[177]. The track leads under a banksia tree[178] and after about 40m starts to climb a series of stone steps[179]. After climbing these steps for about 60m, this walk heads through a gap in a fence[180] to come to the edge of the Lane Cove Tourist Park[181].
From here, this walk head directly away from the face of the ‘Lane Cove National Park’ sign[182] and straight up the internal road[183]. This road soon bends left then leads though the campsite for about 100m before bending right just past the laundry[184]. Here the walk heads up this road for about 50m, past the boom gates[185], to come to the front of the the ‘Lane Cove Tourist Park’ office[186].

Maps for the Lane Cove Tourist Park River Circuit 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.

Parramatta River	1:25 000 Map Series	91303N PARRAMATTA RIVER	NSW-91303N
Sydney	1:100 000 Map Series	9130 SYDNEY	9130

Cross sectional view of the Lane Cove Tourist Park River Circuit bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Lane Cove Tourist Park River Circuit

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	11.9 km
		Time	5 hrs
		.
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	Minimal directional signs (4/6)
		Experience Required	Some bushwalking experience recommended (3/6)
		Weather	Storms may impact on navigation and safety (3/6)
		Infrastructure	Limited facilities (such as cliffs not fenced, significant creeks not bridged) (4/6)

Some more details of this walks Grading

Here is a bit more details explaining grading looking at sections of the walk

Gradient

5km of this walk has short steep hills and another 2.8km is flat with no steps. Whilst another 2.5km has gentle hills with occasional steps and the remaining 1.5km is very steep.

Quality of track

7km of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles and another 2.1km follows a smooth and hardened path. Whilst another 1.9km follows a rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely and the remaining 800m follows a clear and well formed track or trail.

Signs

5km of this walk is clearly signposted and another 5km has directional signs at most intersection. The remaining (1.5km) has minimal directional signs.

Experience Required

Around 10km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 1.9km requires some bushwalking experience.

weather

Around 12km of this walk is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation), whilst the remaining 55m is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety.

Infrastructure

6km of this walk is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats) and another 4.5km has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced). The remaining (1.5km) has limited facilities (such as cliffs not fenced, significant creeks not bridged).

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Lane Cove Tourist Park River Circuit walk starts and ends at the Lane Cove Tourist Park (gps: -33.789442, 151.14332)
Your transport options to Lane Cove Tourist Park 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-lcnp-lctprc
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

Forecast snapshot

Park Information & Alerts

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

Fiddens Wharf walking track

And Walk

Fiddens Wharf walking track

Download & Print Map and Notes

(0km) Max Allen Drive Bridge → Int. Great North Walk near Naamaroo

220 m
5 mins
14m
0m

Easy track

From the bridge, this walk heads gently uphill along the road[1] to the intersection with the visible concrete stairs just below the National Parks Office[2].
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the road uphill, keeping the short sandstone wall and National Parks office on your left[3]. The road soon bends left and leads up past the staff parking[4], to an intersection (with a track on your right) marked with a large ‘Great North Walk’ sign[5].

(0.22km) Int. Great North Walk near Naamaroo → Int. Great North Walk and Naamaroo Service Trail

20 m
1m
0m

Moderate track

Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[6] up the timber steps away from the road. The track passes a ‘Caution – Swimming in Lane Cover River is not advisable…’ sign[7] and then comes to an intersection with a wider management trail[8].

(0.24km) Int. Great North Walk and Naamaroo Service Trail → Int. Great North Walk and Bradfield Rd Access Trk

300 m
8 mins
31m
-1m

Moderate track

Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the wide trail uphill[9], initially keeping the cliff line to your right[10]. The trail bends right then leads uphill for about 130m, coming to an intersection (just below the power lines) where a ‘Park Visitors Centre’ sign[11] points back down the hill.
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follow the ‘Blue Hole – Fiddens Wharf’ sign[12] and power line[13] up along the wide management trail. Just as the trail flattens out, this walk comes to an signposted intersection with a narrower track[14] (on your left).

(0.53km) Int. Great North Walk and Bradfield Rd Access Trk → Northern Int. Bradfield Rd and Great North Walk

110 m
2 mins
4m
-1m

Moderate track

Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow posts[15] down the timber steps. The track gently meanders through the open forest[16] for a short time then heads up a few steps to come to a T-intersection[17] with a sealed road.

(0.64km) Northern Int. Bradfield Rd and Great North Walk → Southern Int. Bradfield Rd and Great North Walk

30 m
0m
-1m

Easy track

Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow[18] down along the road for a short distance and comes to another signposted intersection[19] with a track (on your right).

(0.67km) Southern Int. Bradfield Rd and Great North Walk → Int. Great North Walk and Thistlethwaytes Picnic Area Trk

430 m
9 mins
8m
-28m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the NPWS arrow[20] up the timber steps, away from the road. The track soon leads down[21] a longer set of timber steps where the track meanders[22] through the bush, passing a few rocky outcrops[23][24] before heading down the another series of timber stairs. Just beyond these steps, the track leads to a T-intersection[25] with a wide management trail, marked with a ‘Sandstone Hillslope Community’ information sign[26][27].

(1.1km) Int. Great North Walk and Thistlethwaytes Picnic Area Trk → Bottom of Fiddens Wharf Oval Trk

800 m
16 mins
23m
-44m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the upper arrow on the historic walk sign post[28], gently uphill along the wide trail. The trail leads through the casuarina forest[29] for about 30m then passes the ‘Scribbly Gum’ information sign[30]. The trail then bends left and leads downhill, narrowing significantly[31]. Here the track heads down a series of timber steps[32] to pass a ‘Sydney Red Gum’ information sign[33]. The track then crosses the ferny gully and passes the ‘Sandstone Gully Community’[34] and then the ‘Sydney Peppermint’[35] information signs. From here, the track leads across another gully[36] then up and along the side of a steep hill (with an unfenced cliff to your left[37]) for about 70m, coming to a rock platform with a ‘Blackbutts’ information sign[38]. Here the walk leads down the staircase[39] and stone path for a short time and crosses the ‘weedy’[40][41] creek on a short timber boardwalk[42]. The now flat track leads for another 50m to a signposted intersection (with some steps on your right), where a ‘Visitor Centre Loop’ sign[43] points back along the track.

(1.9km) Bottom of Fiddens Wharf Oval Trk → Thistlethwaytes Picnic Area

1.1 km
23 mins
49m
-51m

Moderate track

Turn around: From the intersection, the track follows the ‘Visitors Centre Loop’ arrow[44][45] along the track, keeping the river to your right. After about 50m, this walk heads over a short timber boardwalk[46] and crosses the ‘weedy’[47][48] creek. The walk then heads up some steps and a staircase to the top of a rock platform, where there is a ‘Blackbutts’ information sign[49]. The track leads gently up along the side of hill for about 70m, passing an unfenced cliff to your right[50], where the track bends left to lead across a rock gully[51]. The track then leads past the ‘Sydney Peppermint’[52] and ‘Sandstone Gully Community’[53] information signs and across a ferny gully to find a ‘Sydney Red Gum’ information sign[54]. From here, the walk heads up a series of timber steps[55] to where the track suddenly widens into a mostly flat trail. This trail soon bends right and leads through the casuarina forest, past the ‘Scribbly Gum’ information sign[56] to an intersection (with a narrower track on your left), just before the ‘Sandstone Hillslope Community’ information sign[57][58].
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads around the hillside, with the river below on the right. The walk tends left as it contours around the hill. It then descends over speed bumps for approximately 50m to the car park of Thistlethwaytes picnic area.

(3.05km) Thistlethwaytes Picnic Area → Schwartz Homestead

260 m
5 mins
4m
-6m

Very easy

Schwartz Homestead

The Schwartz Homestead is a neat little white and green 1920’s timber cottage with a balcony on three sides. It was probably built by orchardist George Warr, who leased the land from 1917. More info.

(3.3km) Schwartz Homestead → Int. Opposite Bakers Flat

370 m
7 mins
9m
-7m

Very easy

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads along the road, with the water on the right. The walk tends left, continuing up the road to pass a brick building on the right, before coming to the signposted intersection, opposite Baker’s Flat.

(3.67km) Int. Opposite Bakers Flat → Baker’s Cottage

120 m
3 mins
10m
-1m

Moderate track

Baker’s Cottage

(3.67km) Int. Opposite Bakers Flat → Int. Max Allen Dr and Jenkins Hill Trk

330 m
7 mins
15m
-10m

Easy track

(4km) Int. Max Allen Dr and Jenkins Hill Trk → Int. National Parks Office Trk and Max Allen Dr

210 m
5 mins
1m
-7m

Very easy

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads down the path for approximately 50m to pass a toilet block on the left of the track. The track continues to an intersection with a railed footpath.
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk heads down the slight gradient, away from the toilet block to the large concreted area above the weir.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads along the footpath to the road.

(4.21km) Int. National Parks Office Trk and Max Allen Dr → Max Allen Drive Bridge

50 m
1 mins
0m
-2m

Very easy

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads gently down along the road[60] to an intersection just before the bridge[61], marked with the ‘Great North Walk’ track head signs[62][63].

Maps for the Fiddens Wharf walking track 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.

Parramatta River	1:25 000 Map Series	91303N PARRAMATTA RIVER	NSW-91303N
Sydney	1:100 000 Map Series	9130 SYDNEY	9130

Cross sectional view of the Fiddens Wharf walking track bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Fiddens Wharf walking track

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	4.3 km
		Time	1 hr 27 mins
		.
Grade 3/6 Moderate track	AS 2156.1	Gradient	Short steep hills (3/6)
		Quality of track	Formed track, with some branches and other obstacles (3/6)
		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	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

2.2km of this walk has short steep hills and another 1.3km is flat with no steps. The remaining (840m) has gentle hills with occasional steps.

Quality of track

2.7km of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles and another 1.3km follows a smooth and hardened path. The remaining (250m) follows a clear and well formed track or trail.

Signs

Around 3.8km of this walk is clearly signposted, whilst the remaining 420m has directional signs at most intersection.

Experience Required

This whole walk, 4.3km requires no previous bushwalking experience.

weather

This whole walk, 4.3km is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation).

Infrastructure

Around 2.3km 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).

And Walk

Ferndale Park Loop

(0km) Chatswood Station → Int. Edgar St and Edgar St Reserve Trk

Moderate track

(0.62km) Int. Edgar St and Edgar St Reserve Trk → Int. Park Ave and Edgar St Reserve Trk

Moderate track

(0.96km) Int. Park Ave and Edgar St Reserve Trk → Int. Park Ave and Rail to River Trk

Easy track

(0.99km) Int. Park Ave and Rail to River Trk → Int. Ferndale Trk and Beresford Lane Trk

Moderate track

(1.89km) Int. Ferndale Trk and Beresford Lane Trk → Chatswood Station

Moderate track

Maps for the Ferndale Park Loop walk

Cross sectional view of the Ferndale Park Loop bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Ferndale Park Loop

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

Roseville to Chatswood Station via Lane Cove River

(0km) Roseville Train Station → Int. Shirley Rd and The Rifleway

Easy track

(0.41km) Int. Shirley Rd and The Rifleway → Longford St Steps

Very easy

(1.38km) Longford St steps → Valley View Close

Easy track

(1.46km) Valley View Close → End of Fullers Park

Moderate track

(2.05km) End of Fullers Park → Int. Lady Game Dr and Delhi Rd

Easy track

(2.52km) Int. Lady Game Dr and Delhi Rd → Riverside Cafe

Easy track

Riverside Cafe Bar & Grill

(2.52km) Int. Lady Game Dr and Delhi Rd → Int. Fairway and Delhi Rd

Easy track

(2.56km) Int. Fairway and Delhi Rd → Int. Behind the 8th Tee

Moderate track

(2.76km) Int. Behind the 8th Tee → Int. Rail to River Trk and Reid Drive

Hard track

(2.82km) Int. Rail to River Trk and Reid Drive → Eastern side of O.H. Reid Memorial Oval

Moderate track

(3.33km) Eastern side of O.H. Reid Memorial Oval → Int. Rail to River Trk and Hawthorne Ave

Moderate track

(3.4km) Int. Rail to River Trk and Hawthorne Ave → Harnett Pl sign post

Easy track

(4.48km) Harnett Pl sign post → Int. Park Ave and Rail to River Trk

Moderate track

(4.98km) Int. Park Ave and Rail to River Trk → Int. Park Ave and Edgar St Reserve Trk

Easy track

(5.01km) Int. Park Ave and Edgar St Reserve Trk → Bob Peirson Memorial Seat

Easy track

(5.2km) Bob Peirson Memorial Seat → Int. Edgar St and Edgar St Reserve Trk

Moderate track

(5.34km) Int. Edgar St and Edgar St Reserve Trk → Chatswood Station

Moderate track

Maps for the Roseville to Chatswood Station via Lane Cove River walk

Cross sectional view of the Roseville to Chatswood Station via Lane Cove River bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Roseville to Chatswood Station via Lane Cove River

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