Wahroonga to Mt Kuring-gai

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Time 5 hrs 30 mins
One way 14.7 km One way
Climb 607 m
Grade 4 Hard track
Train Bus Car
no_pets
Starting with a walk through the streets of Wahroonga, this walk then heads bush, following the Gibberagong Track to Bobbin Head. After a picnic or a bite to eat from the kiosk, the walk then heads up the Birrawanna track to lead to Apple Tree Bay. From here the track follows the picturesque Cowan Creek for a while before heading up the ridge to Mt Kuring-gai Station.
End of Grosvenor St Top of Gibbergong track Track to Gibberagong Lookout Gibbergong track east of lookout track The top part of the Gibbergong track is mostly service trail Gibbergong track near Lovers Jump creek crossing Crossing Lovers Jump Creek Gibbergong track along side the upper Cockle Creek Gibbergong water hole Sandstone overhang on Gibbergong track The Gibbergong track on the flats near Bobbin Head Intersection of Gibbergong and Rainforest track Bobbin Head Rainforest Axe groves site Axe Groves From Gibbergong track looking towards Bobbin Head Up close to the Crabs and Magroves Lookout on the boardwalk Bridge over Cockle Creek in at Bobbin Head Southern section of Bobbin Head playground and pine trees Kiosk at Bobbin Head Bobbin Head picnic area Lower end of Cockle Creek lookout track. Mossy Creek diversion Old Picnic area at base of Cockle Creek lookout track One of a few Birrawanna trackheads Birrawanna track Cockle Creek Lookout Birrawanna north of Cockle Creek lookout Birrawanna trackhead at regional office NPWS North Sydney Regional Office Apple Tree Flat picnic area View from Apple Tree Flat Lookout Track between Apple Tree bay and Flats Apple tree Flat track near Apple Tree Bay Apple Tree Bay Toilet block at Apple Tree Bay Walking across Apple Tree Creek Bridge Berowra Track near Apple Tree Bay Berowra track Meandering along the bank of Cowan Creek Intersection of Berowra and Mt Ku-ring-gai tracks Enjoying the ferns Flat section about half way along the Mt Ku-ring-gai track Rock steps north of the lookout track Welcome to Ku-ring-gai Chase national park Crossing the freeway Bridge across the freeway

(0km) Wahroonga Railway Station → End of Grosvenor St

distance 2.9 km time 50 mins climb 32m descent -53m Very easy
From Wahroonga Station, this walk heads north along Illoura Av, away from the round-about. The walk soon crosses Millewa Ave at the pedestrian crossing, then passes alongside Wahroonga Park (to the left). At the end of the park, the walk turns right into Stuart St (at the round-about) then left onto Cleveland St at the next roundabout. At the end of Cleveland St, the walk turns right onto Burns Road then immediately left onto Grosvenor St. The walk then follows Grosvenor St for approximately 2km to the end, where there is a green gate at the start of a management trail.

(3km) End of Grosvenor Rd → Gibberagong Track Lookout Int.

distance 120 m time 2 mins climb 3m descent -4m Easy track
Continue straight: From the very end of Grosvenor Rd[1] (Wahroonga), this walk follows the management trail gently downhill around the locked green metal gate[2] and past the 'No through road' sign[3]. The trail leads through a dip among a scribly gum forest for just over 100m to an intersection with a track (on your left) marked with a 'Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park - Gibberagon Trail sign[4].

(3km) Gibberagong Track Lookout Int. → End of Gibberagong trail

distance 1.2 km time 20 mins climb 5m descent -22m Easy track
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the NPWS arrow post[5] gently uphill along the wide trail, following the ridge line over a gently rise. After about 350m this walk leads past a small clearing[6] (on your right). Here the walk continue downhill through the scribbly gum forest[7] for another 900m to where the trail bends sharply right[8] (to end) and comes to an intersection with the fairly wide Gibberagon Track[9] (on your left, part way around the bend).

(4km) End of Gibberagong trail → Gibberagong AND Murrua Track Int.

distance 800 m time 18 mins climb 7m descent -103m Hard track
Veer left: From the intersection[10], this walk follows the fairly wide Gibberagong Track[11] north east, gently downhill. The track soon starts to narrow and lead a little steeper down a series of timber steps[12] for about 80m before heading down through a notably steep rocky pass[13]. Here the track continues to winds down the ridge moderately steeply for just shy of 250m, to step down a rock pass around a right hand hair-pin bend[14]. Then just 30m later the track bends sharply left at another hair-pin bend[15] then just shy of 50m later the track bends sharply right[16] again. From here the track leads down the series of timber and stone steps through then casurina forest[17] for about 200m to come to a 'Bobbin Head' sign[18], just before distinct gully. Here the walk veers left (following the arrow on the sign) and heads down the bank to cross Lovers Jump Creek[19] on the mossy rocks with carved steps[20]. After heading up the other bank this walk follows the clear track near Cockle Creek for just shy of 100m to a more open section providing clearer views over the creek[21] and the southern section of Gibberagong Waterholes. From here the track then leads further down the widening valley through the tall eucalypt and stringy bark forest[22] for 100m to a intersection with a faint track (on your right) at a tall smooth bark angophera[23], marked with an obvious sign pointing back 'To Grosvenor Street'.

(5km) Int of Gibberagong and Murrua Link Tracks → Gibberagong waterhole

distance 40 m time 1 mins climb 1m descent -2m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection, beside the large smooth bark angophera[24], this walk follows the 'To Bobbin Head' sign along the clear track gently downhill, keeping the creek a short distance to your left, for about 20m to pass a section of metal fencing[25] propped up by a tree. The walk continues for another 10m or so to come to a flat area beside[26] the northern end of Gibberagong waterholes[27], this is just before the track crosses a small side creek[28].

Gibberagong waterhole

Gibberagong waterhole
Gibberagong waterhole is an informal name for a wide section of Cockle Creek that run for over 150m north of the confluence with Lovers Jump creek. This secluded and shady spot is a great place to sit and enjoy the waterholes, cascading water and the view to the sandy banks on the other side. If you sit quietly enough you may see lyrebirds scratching through the bush by the creek.

(5km) Gibberagong waterhole → Int of Bobbin Head and Rainforest tracks

distance 3.2 km time 1 hr 9 mins climb 129m descent -170m Moderate track
Continue straight: From beside[29] the northern end of Gibberagong waterholes[30], this walk follow the track along the waters edge, keeping Cockle Creek to your left. After 25m this walk crosses a small side creek[31] them follows the track gently uphill for just shy of 100m to pass a rock platform[32] (on your left), with a good view over this bend in Cockle Creek[33]. The track continues up the side of the hill for another 100m to pass alongside an 2m high natural rock wall[34] then about 120m later this walk leads back down close to the edge of the creek[35]. Just over 120m later the track leads under two tall over hangs[36][37] (the first overhang has a notable hole high in the roof[38]), then just over 100m later the track leads under a set of power lines[39] (a bit tricky to see through the canopy). From here the track continues to gently undulate along the side of the hill, in view of the creek, for just over 1km to come back down to a pleasant, fairly open forest[40] on a sandy bank beside a long pool[41] on Cockle Creek (with a few small cascades upstream[42]). The track continues downstream for another 100m to cross over a mostly but mostly flat rock platform[43] then over the next 200m the track leads up the side of the hill to cross a shallow gully[44] with several tall palms among the mostly tall eucalypt forest[45]. Here the track passes under a two sets of high tension power lines[46]. The track continues to undulate along the side of hill for another 200m to lead down to to the rocky creeks edge again[47], near the upper reaches of the tidal section of the creek[48]. From here the now mostly flat track continues downstream beside the creek for 300m to come to a notably flat and open sandy area with some bracken fern beside the creek[49]. The track then leads alongside the tidal section of Cockle Creek among the mixed forest of casuarina[50], grass trees[51] and tall eucalypt[52] for just shy of 300m to then head through a 200m long section section of mangroves[53] with a scattering of open casuarina forest[54]. Here the rocky track leads up the side of the hill, up a few steps to the top of the ridge line. Just as the track comes to the top of this hill it bends right and comes to a three-way intersection[55], where a 'Wahroonga 5km' sign[56] points back down the track.

(8km) Int of Bobbin Head and Rainforest tracks → Bobbin Head Rainforest

distance 190 m time 5 mins climb 15m descent -7m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Rainforest 500m' sign[57] gently uphill along the clear track heading south east. After about 60m the track starts to lead gently down the side of the hill among the grass tree and eucalypt forest[58] for about 100m before leading down a series of timber steps into the more densely forest gully[59]. Here the walk comes to a sandstone rock bed[60] and creek in a pleasant rainforest setting[61]. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Turn right.

Bobbin Head Rainforest

Bobbin Head Rainforest
A well-protected piece of rainforest is found just a short walk from the popular Bobbin Head picnic area in Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park. The rainforest is distinct when compared to much of the dry eucalypt forests that dominate the area. The rainforest is beside a small creek, just below Bobbin Head Road, and is a safe haven for many birds that frequent the area.

(8km) Int of Bobbin Head and Rainforest tracks → Aboriginal Axe Grindings

distance 20 m time climb 0m descent -3m Easy track
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Bobbin Head 500m' sign[62], gently downhill following the track along the main ridge line for just shy of 20m to the signposted Aboriginal 'Axe Grinding Grooves' site[63] (which is on a short detour track, on your right).

Aboriginal Axe Grindings

Aboriginal Axe Grindings
This protected site clearly shows 23 oval-shaped grooves that were worn by Indigenous Australian people, making axe heads from hard rock. Using a blank axe head, the Aboriginal people would use this rock platform, with water from the nearby creek, to sharpen the stone into a useful tool. The rubbing ground the axe head to a sharp edge and left behind these tell-tale signs. More info.

(8km) Aboriginal Axe Grindings → South End of Bobbin Head Park

distance 600 m time 13 mins climb 25m descent -32m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the Aboriginal 'Axe Grinding Grooves' site[64] this walk follows the track gently downhill along the ridge, initially keeping the grinding site to your right. After about 20m this walk heads down some sandstone steps[65] the continues for another 60m along the sandy track down more steps[66] then up to the top of a small rise[67] where the is a unfenced[68] view over the water[69] (just off the track to your left). Here the walk continues generally down along the ridge for just shy of 300m where the track leads over a rock platform before heading down some steps that lead through a cleft in the rock[70]. The track then leads past a small sandstone overhang[71] to head down a timber ramp to find a timber boardwalk, marked with a 'More?' sign[72].
Continue straight: From the 'More? you want more?' information sign[73], this walk follows the timber boardwalk as it winds among the mangroves and saltmarsh[74]. Keep an eye out for missing boards
[Trip Hazard]Trip Hazard

A section of board is missing leaving a 7cm gap in the boardwalk. Other gaps on this section of the walk may develop.
and the lack of side capping on the edge of the boardwalk
[Trip Hazard]Trip Hazard

Approximately 120m of elevated timber boardwalk has no handrails, edge capping or markings - there is a risk of falling from the boardwalk. The board walk is 1.7m wide, with approximately 2cm gaps between boards.
. The boardwalk leads past the 'Land Developers?'[75] and 'Natural Recycler'[76] information signs as it winds for about 100m to a fenced viewing area[77] marked with a 'Teeming with life!' information sign[78].
Continue straight: From the viewing area[79], this walk follows the fenced timber boardwalk keeping the main body of visible water to your right. After about 25m this walk crossed Cockle Creek on a cable-stayed foot bridge[80]
[Wheelchair Steep]Wheelchair Steep

The bridge over Cockle Creek is 1.8m wide, has 1m high handrail and a timber decking. The steepest section is 5.3° (1:10 or 9.2% grade). The bridge is 40m long.
. There are some great water and cliff views from the bridge. On the other side the footpath the path bends right to find a sandstone cave (with a 1.9m clearance[81]) with a 'Rock Solid?' information sign[82]. Here the walk continues along the patterned concrete path for about 20m to pass a bench seat
[Seat]Seat

A timber slat bench seat, 43cm high, 30cm deep and 1.6m wide with a 41cm high backrest. The seat is on concrete beside the track.
, then another 20m there is another similar bench seat
[Seat]Seat

A timber slat bench seat, 43cm high, 30cm deep and 1.6m wide with a 41cm high backrest. The seat is on concrete beside the track.
. A short distance later the path leads past the sheltered 'Welcome to the Mangrove Boardwalk & Gibberagong Track' information sign[83] (on your left). This walk then continues along the footpath for another 20m to the car park[84]
[Parking Accessible]Parking Accessible

There are many car parking bays around Bobbin Head Picnic Area. There are two marked mobility parking bays at the southern end. The parking area is tarmac, 2.8m wide and 5.8m deep.
[Wheelchair Rough]Wheelchair Rough

There is a single ramp to access the path from the car park. The concrete ramp is 1.2m wide. The ramp is in a marked parking bay and may be blocked by a car.
and a small constructed sandstone wall with a 'Gibberagong Track. Mangrove Boardwalk.' sign[85]. There are a number of picnic tables
[Picnic Table]Picnic Table

A timber slat picnic table and bench seat. The table is 74cm high, 74cm deep and 2.9m wide. The seats are 40cm high, 23cm deep and 1.8m wide (no backrest). The table is centered on a 3.5x4.5m concrete slab.
[Picnic Table]Picnic Table

A series of 3 timber slat picnic tables and bench seats. The tables are 74cm high, 74cm deep and 2.9m wide. The seats are 40cm high, 23cm deep and 1.8m wide (no backrest). The tables are centred on 3.5x4.5m concrete slabs. Access over grass.
beside the car park.

(9km) South End of Bobbin Head Park → Bobbin Head Kiosk

distance 510 m time 9 mins climb 10m descent -5m Very easy
Veer right: From the southern end of the car park, this walk heads away from the face of the 'Gibberagong Track Mangrove Boardwalk' sign[86] following the asphalt footpath[87] beside the car park, keeping the water to your right. After about 100m this walk heads past the signposted 'Canoe Launch Area'[88] then continues along the compacted dirt foreshore path[89] for 100m where the path becomes asphalt again[90] to lead past the children's play ground[91] for just over 50m to the sandstone steps[92] (that provide access to Cockle Creek). The walk continues along the foreshore path for almost 200m until just before the road bridge over Cockle Creek[93], where the now brick paved path bends left[94]. Here the walk crosses the car park entrance[95] and continues straight, over the grass to the back of 'Bobbin Inn' cafe, just beside Ku-Ring-Gai Chase Rd (on your right).

Bobbin Head

Bobbin Head
Bobbin Head is a historic recreation area which is still popular today, suiting the needs of many people. At the center of the Bobbin Head area is the old 'Bobbin Inn'[96], built in the 1930s - it is now the park information center and cafe[97]. The area is popular with picnickers, boaters, walkers, canoeists, family groups and people who like to fish. Bobbin Head is roughly divided into three sections (north, south and east). Southern Bobbin Head is a popular picnic area for families and large groups. The area is surrounded by a car park[98] and dotted with picnic tables[99][100], electric BBQs[101], shelters and a large playground[102]. There are toilets[103]
[Toilet Accessible]Toilet Accessible

Two accessible unisex toilet toilets. There are handrails, a basin with running water. Door is 90cm wide. Access is via concreate path from the carpark. The toilet is located at the edge of 'The Station' BBQ area.
nearby, and 'The Station' is a sheltered accessible area with BBQ and tables[104][105] that can be booked NPWS. The northern Bobbin Head (Orchard Park)[107] area is a more formal picnic area. There is a large picnic shelter[108], surrounded by 14 smaller octagonal shelters[109], each of these divided into 4 walled-off compartments, ideal for small groups. The eastern side of Bobbin Head is dominated by the Empire Marina[110] and a public wharf. The marina is home to a nice restaurant[111] and public toilets[112].

Bobbin Inn Cafe

Bobbin Inn Cafe
At the centre of Bobbin Head picnic area, in the old 'Bobbin Inn' building[113], is a cafe offering inside and outdoor dining[114], and a range of foods and drinks. Food includes fish and chips, wraps, focaccia, sandwiches and snack foods. Tea, coffee and cold drinks are also on offer. Opening hours are 9 - 4pm Mon to Fri (closed Tuesdays) & 9 - 5pm weekends. For more information, phone the cafe on 9457 7170. The NPWS Bobbin Head Information Centre is open 7 days a week (closed Christmas Day) 10 - 4pm (closed 12 - 12:30pm lunch). Ramp access[115][116] available on the southwestern corner of the building. Ramp access to the information centre through the cafe.

(9km) Bobbin Inn Cafe → Bottom of the Birrawana track steps

distance 160 m time 4 mins climb 30m descent 0m Easy track
Continue straight: From the 'Bobbin Inn' cafe[117], this walk heads to the front of the building to the 'Information Centre' main entrance. From here this walk follows the 'Birrawana Loop Track'[118] alongside the road a few meters to find a metal 'Welcome to the Cockle Creek Lookout Track' sign and map[119]. Now the walk follows the track behind the safety barrier (keeping the road to your right) for about 70m to cross a small culverted creek[120] and pass a few old a couple of picnic tables[121] in a shaded and mossy gully. This walk continues for another 30m behind the safety barrier[122] to come to the bottom of the signposted 'Birrawanna Track'[123] steps.

(10km) Int of Birrawana track and Ku-Ring-Gai Chase Road → Int of Birrawana and Cockle Creek Lookout tracks

distance 300 m time 7 mins climb 38m descent -10m Hard track
Veer left: From beside Ku-Ring-Gai Chase Road[124], this walk heads down a few steps to cross a small flat concrete bridge[125], to then follow the 'Birrawanna Track' sign[126] up the timber steps. This walk leads quite steeply up the track as it zig-zags up a series of timber and rock steps[127][128] for just over 300m to find the top of small rocky ridge[129]. Here the walk leads down a series of timber steps[130] for about 50m to cross a moist gully[131] that is home to a disused telegraph pole[132]. Now this walk follows the clear rocky track leads uphill[133] for just shy of 200m to come to a faint intersection at the top of the ridge[134] (where the lookout track is on your right).

(10km) Int of Birrawana and Cockle Creek Lookout tracks → Cockle Creek Lookout

distance 110 m time 3 mins climb 1m descent -15m Moderate track
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the rocky track, east along the top of the ridgeline towards the rocky outcrop[135]. After about 50m this walk passes through a gap between two large rock outcrops[136], then around another rock to wind gently down the hill for just shy of 50m to come to an unfenced rock ledge overlooking Cockle Creek[137]. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Turn right.

Cockle Creek Lookout

Cockle Creek Lookout
Cockle Creek Lookout is an informal lookout with no facilities, on the Birrawanna track in Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park. The lookout provides Glimpses of Cockle and Cowan Creeks. The area is surrounded by some beautiful gum trees and rock boulders, making it a nice place to sit and reflect on the surroundings.

(10km) Int of Birrawana and Cockle Creek Lookout tracks → National Parks Regional Office

distance 420 m time 10 mins climb 26m descent -27m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads north gently down hill for a few meters to follow an NPWS arrow post[138] along the clear track. After just shy of 100m this track bends left[139] to then gently undulate along the side of the hill (with the road down to your right)[140] for about 300m. Here the track mostly flattens out and contours around the side of the hill[141] for about 150m to then lead up a very gently hill to a signposted three way intersection. The intersection is beside a small clearing behind the regional office (on your right) and is marked with a 'Cockle Creek Lookout' and 'Bobbin Head' sign[142] pointing back along the track.
Veer right: From the intersection, the walk head gently uphill across the grassy clearing[143], veering left a little to head across the car park and come the the driveway entrance[144] of the sandstone National Parks Regional Office building.

NPWS North Sydney Regional Office

NPWS North Sydney Regional Office
The NPWS North Sydney Regional Office is a lovely stone building on Bobbin Head Road at one of the trackheads for Birrawanna loop track. There is a car park and an open grassy area. On the opposite side of the road is the Apple Tree Flat Picnic Area with a few picnic tables. Other than this, there are no public facilities.

(10km) National Parks Regional Office → Apple Tree Flat Picnic Area

distance 40 m time 1 mins climb 0m descent -3m Easy track
Veer right: From the the NPWS Regional office, this walk heads out of the car park and crosses Ku-Ring-Gai Chase Road, veering right to find a small clearing on the other side[145]. From the clearing, the walk heads down some stone steps to almost immediately come to an intersession marked with an 'Apple Tree Flat' sign[146] just beside the picnic area[147].

Apple Tree Flat Picnic Area

Apple Tree Flat Picnic Area
Apple Tree Flat Picnic Area is opposite the NPWS North Sydney Regional office on Bobbin Head Rd, in Ku-Ring-Gai Chase national park. The small picnic area should not be confused with the more popular Apple Tree Bay Picnic Area and boat ramp further down the hill. The picnic area provides three bench platforms for sitting and dining. There is also a small, open grassy area and some large trees providing shade.

(10km) Apple Tree Flat Picnic Area → Apple Tree Flat Lookout

distance 70 m time 2 mins climb 0m descent -12m Easy track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads behind the 'Apple Tree Flat' sign[148] to follow the flat gravel path, past the picnic tables[149]. After about 30m this walk heads down a few stone steps[150] then just 30m later the path comes to a to the fenced Lookout[151] and views[152] over Cowan Creek. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Turn right.

Apple Tree Flat Lookout

Apple Tree Flat Lookout
Apple Tree Flat Lookout is a small fenced lookout high up the hill overlooking Apple Tree Bay and Cowan creek. The view is filtered through the tall gum trees. Being perched on a rock platform, the views are great. The lookout is not far from Bobbin Head Rd, near the NPWS North Sydney Regional Office, in Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park.

(10km) Apple Tree Flat Picnic Area → Int of Apple Tree Bay Road and Apple Tree Flat bushtrack.

distance 230 m time 7 mins climb 1m descent -60m Moderate track
Turn left : From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Apple Tree Bay' sign[153] downhill along the clear track. The track soon bends left then after 30m veers right at a faint intersection to follow the 'HH' AND NPWS arrow post further downhill[154]. The track the winds down the side of a gully[155] for about 200m to pass through a sharp left hand hair pin bend[156]. Here the walk continues downhill for just over 30m to an intersection with the sealed Apple Tree Bay road[157] where a 'Regional Office' sign points back up the hill[158].

(11km) Int of Apple Tree Bay Road and Harbour to Hawkesbury Track → Apple Tree Bay Kiosk

distance 170 m time 3 mins climb 4m descent -3m Very easy
Turn left: From the intersection at the bottom of the signposted 'Regional Office' track[159], this walk follows the sealed road gently downhill keeping the water and main valley to your right. After about 30m the road leads past a footpath (to a small gated marina[160], on your right) to continue down the road for 150m to the Apple Tree Bay car park[161]. Just across from the entrance this walk comes to a Kiosk and 'Welcome to Apple Tree Bay' sign[162].

Apple Tree Bay

Apple Tree Bay
Apple Tree Bay, in Ku-Ring-Gai Chase national park, has a popular boat ramp for accessing Cowan creek and plenty of parking. The area has kiosk, electric BBQ's, picnic benches, toilets, drinking water, garbage facilities, and shade provided by trees. If you are after a quiet spot, head to the western end (away from the boat ramp, past the BBQ's), just beyond the car park, to a lovely clearing by the water. The area is closed between sunset and sunrise. The kiosk/cafe[163] is open on weekend and services hot and cold drinks, ice creams and some hot food.

(11km) Apple Tree Bay → Int of Mt Kuring-gai and Berowra Tracks

distance 940 m time 26 mins climb 82m descent -66m Moderate track
Turn right: From the kiosk[164], this walk heads across the eastern end of the car park[165], keeping the water to your right for just shy of 100m to pass the top of the boat ramp[166] and find the sheltered 'Information' sign[167]. Here the walk crosses Apple Tree Creek on the timber bridge[168] to find a small clearing and picnic area where this walk turns right following the 'Berowra Track' sign[169]. The walk soon leaves the metal fence and follows the rocky track and stone steps[170] for about 100m where the track then mostly flattens out[171] for another 100m to cross a small rock gully and grove of sassafras[172]. The track then crosses another gully and continues along the shore for just over 200m leaving the Apple Tree Bay where the track veers left over a small rise using some timber steps[173]. From here this walk continues along the shoreline in a similar manor for 300m to come to a constructed stone wall[174] and series of disused stone steps (on your left)[175]. This is the site of the historic Woodnutts Boatshed that was built in 1910. The rusting water tank and a few other relics remain[177]. Here the walk continues along the clear track along the shoreline for another 40m to the intersection at the bottom of the signposted 'Mt Ku-ring-gai Track'[178] (on your left).

(12km) Int of Mt Kuring-gai and Berowra Tracks → Int of Lookout and Mt Kuring-gai Tracks

distance 1.9 km time 49 mins climb 190m descent -13m Hard track
Turn left : From the intersection, this walk follows the 'MT Ku-ring-gai Track' sign[179] up the rock and timber steps and past the small overhang[180]. The track leads fairly steeply up for 80m to then bend sharply right[181] and continue fairly steeply for another 200m to pass a natural rock wall[182] (on your left). Just 20m past this wall the track comes to a small flat area[183] with good views over Cowan Creek[184]. Here the walk continues more gently uphill along the rocky ridge line[185] for 300m where the track completely flattens out to pass along the side of a small hill[186] (on your left). Over the next 600m the track leads down across a saddle then up along the ridge to bend right onto[187] an exposed rock platform[188]. From there the sandy track soon bends left again to follow the ridge uphill for 100m to pass a small sandstone overhang[189] then continue up a long set of stone steps[190] where the sandy track mostly flattens out again[191]. Soon the track starts heading up more stone steps [192] for about 400m to pass between a large boulder (on your left) and along rock wall (on your right)[193]. At the end of this rock wall the track bends right and leads up the stone steps through the cleft in the rock[194] where the then mostly flat wide sandy track leads gently uphill for 250m to find a three-way intersection[195] marked with a NPWS arrow post[196].

(14km) Int of viewpoint and Mt Kuring-gai Tracks → Apple Tree Bay Viewpoint

distance 110 m time 2 mins climb 0m descent -14m Moderate track
Turn left : From the intersection, the walk heads east away from the main trail[197] to follow the wide sandy track gently downhill. The track begins to narrow[198] and after about 100m the now rocky track comes to an unfenced rock platform[199] with good views down over Apple Tree Bay and down along Cowan Creek valley[200]. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Veer left.

Mt Ku-Ring-Gai Track Lookout

Mt Ku-Ring-Gai Track Lookout
This informal, unfenced lookout is perched on some rocks, not far from the Mt Ku-Ring-Gai Track. It provides views across the valley to Cowan Creek and over much of Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park.

(14km) Int of Lookout and Mt Kuringai Tracks → Corner of Harwood Avenue and Young Street

distance 650 m time 11 mins climb 5m descent -12m Easy track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads away from the face of the face of the NPWS arrow post[201] to head south west over a small rise and along the sandy management trail. The trail passes through open wooded forest for just over 600m to pass a 'Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park - Mt Kuring gai Track' sign[202] as the trail bends right where this walk heads around the green metal National Park gate[203]. Here the walk heads past a few houses to find the intersection of 'Harwood Ave' and 'Young St'[204] (Mt Kuring-gai).

(14km) Corner of Harwood Avenue and Young Street → Mt Kuring-gai Railway Station

distance 400 m time 8 mins climb 19m descent -1m Easy track
Continue straight: From the corner of Harwood Avenue and Young Street, this walk follows Harwood Ave downhill along the footpath. The footpath then leads up past a 'Seaview St'[205] and across 'Low St'[206] to continue to the end of Harwood Ave to find a footbridge[207]. Here the walk crosses the the F3 freeway using the caged foot bridge[208] to head down the steps into a concrete tunnel[209]. Part way through the tunnel this walk comes to an intersection at the bottom of the steps at Mt Kuring-gai Railway Station. Here there is a sign that points back to 'Mt Ku-ring-gai Walking Track'[210]

Maps for the Wahroonga to Mt Kuring-gai walk

You can download the PDF for this walk to print a map.
These maps below cover the walk and the wider area around the walk, they are worth carrying for safety reasons.

Hornsby1:25 000 Map Series91304S HORNSBYNSW-91304S
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Tourist Map1:40 000 Map SeriesCMA Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Tourist MapCMA Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Tourist Map
Sydney1:100 000 Map Series9130 SYDNEY9130

Cross sectional view of the Wahroonga to Mt Kuring-gai bushwalking track

Terrain profile for Wahroonga to Mt Kuring-gai

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Wahroonga to Mt Kuring-gai

Altitude analysis for Wahroonga to Mt Kuring-gai

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.

Length14.7 km
Time5 hrs 30 mins
.




Grade 4/6



Hard track		AS 2156.1GradientVery steep (4/6)
Quality of trackFormed track, with some branches and other obstacles (3/6)
SignsDirectional signs along the way (3/6)
Experience RequiredSome bushwalking experience recommended (3/6)
WeatherStorms may impact on navigation and safety (3/6)
InfrastructureLimited 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

7km of this walk has gentle hills with occasional steps and another 4.5km is flat with no steps. Whilst another 3km is very steep and the remaining 230m has short steep hills.

Quality of track

8km of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles and another 4.3km follows a smooth and hardened path. The remaining (2.3km) follows a clear and well formed track or trail.

Signs

Around 8km of this walk is clearly signposted, whilst the remaining 7km has directional signs at most intersection.

Experience Required

Around 8km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 7km 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 4km is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety.

Infrastructure

Around 8km 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).

Similar walks

A list of walks that share part of the track with the Wahroonga to Mt Kuring-gai walk.

Bobbin Head Boardwalk

552 m Return, 15 mins

Bobbin Head Boardwalk

This is a short and pretty walk that can be enjoyed by everyone. It makes a nice addition to a picnic or paddle at Bobbin Head. Starting from the southern end of the Bobbin Head picnic area, you will enjoy great views of Cockle Creek from the bridge, then meander along the boardwalk through the mang

Total climbing: 17m

Grade 1 Wheelchair accessible
  • Car

Very easy

Cockle Creek Lookout Return

1.1 km Return, 1 Hr

Cockle Creek Lookout Return

This is a great walk for visitors looking for a reasonably short adventure after lunch. The leisurely walk starts from the cafe and information centre at Bobbin Head and follows the Warrimoo Track up the hill to the Cockle Creek Lookout, before returning along the same route.

Total climbing: 94m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Bobbin Head Rainforest walk

1.6 km Return, 40 mins

Bobbin Head Rainforest walk

This pleasant walk starts from the southern end of Bobbin Head, and enjoys blend of mangrove and rainforest environs. The well-signposted track gives you the opportunity to see the mangrove wildlife up close, and also a historic Aboriginal axe grinding stone and some temperate rainforest.

Total climbing: 82m

Grade 3
  • Car

Moderate track

Apple Tree Bay Birrawanna Loop

3.9 km Circuit, 2 hrs

Apple Tree Bay Birrawanna Loop

This walk enjoys some great views and quiet bushland in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. From Apple Tree Bay, the walk soon heads over the hill and loops down to Bobbin Head, with the option of a bite to eat at the kiosk before returning along a similar but different route to Apple Tree Bay. The wal

Total climbing: 281m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Kalkari and Birrawanna Loop Tracks

5.2 km Circuit, 2 hrs 15 mins

Kalkari and Birrawanna Loop Tracks

This great circuit walk enjoys some views of Cowan Creek and explores the many ferns through the open forest. The walk starts at the Kalkari Discovery Centre and follows the Birrawanna Loop Track down to Bobbin Head, a large picnic area with kiosk, toilets, BBQ's and more. The walk then continues u

Total climbing: 298m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Bobbin Head to Mt Kuring-gai via Apple Tree Bay

5.3 km One way, 2 hrs 30 mins

Bobbin Head to Mt Kuring-gai via Apple Tree Bay

Exploring Cockle Creek at water level and Ku-ring-gai National Park from the ridge, this is an enjoyable short walk to Mt Kuring-gai. Pop into the cafe at Bobbin Head for a cup of coffee or a light meal. The short side trip to the lookout up on the ridge offers an amazing view. As there are no buses

Total climbing: 364m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Train

Hard track

Gibberagong Track

6.5 km One way, 2 hrs 30 mins

Gibberagong Track

Starting in suburban Wahroonga, this well-maintained track follows Cockle Creek down to Bobbin Head in the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. There are a number of great waterviews, and two short side trips to add to this venture. The lower section the walk follows a boardwalk, getting up close to the

Total climbing: 180m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus

Hard track

Berowra to Bobbin Head

8.7 km One way, 4 hrs

Berowra to Bobbin Head

Following Cowan Creek, this walk is one of the most pleasant in the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, with great views over the water as well as nice views from the ridge at Berowra. Be sure to stop at the cafe for a cuppa in Bobbin Head before going home. Apple Tree Bay is also a very pleasant spot

Total climbing: 473m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Train

Hard track

Berowra to Mt Kuring-gai

9.4 km One way, 4 hrs 30 mins

Berowra to Mt Kuring-gai

From the ridges above Cowan Creek, this walk takes in some great lookouts (especially around Mt Kuring-gai) as well as enjoying an extremely pleasant bush track along the creek. Easily accessible by public transport, this track gives walkers a good taste of what Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park has t

Total climbing: 551m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Train

Hard track

Sphinx to Mt Kuring-gai

10.7 km One way, 4 hrs 45 mins

Sphinx to Mt Kuring-gai

This walk starts at the Sphinx War Memorial and follows some well maintained and popular walking tracks down to Cowan Creek. Enjoy the water views as you head through Bobbin Head and Apple Tree Bay. The walk continues through the National Park and up the hill to Mt Kuring-gai. There are plenty of

Total climbing: 673m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus
  • Train

Hard track

Sphinx War Memorial to Mt Kuring-gai Station

11 km One way, 4 hrs 30 mins

Sphinx War Memorial to Mt Kuring-gai Station

Starting at the Sphinx War Memorial in North Turramurra, this walk follows a series of well-used tracks exploring the waterways and Bobbin Head. The walk drops through Bobbin Head picnic area before passing through Apple Tree Bay on its way to Mt Kuring-gai. The scenic views and variety of things to

Total climbing: 518m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus
  • Train

Hard track

Bobbin Head Loop

12.9 km Circuit, 5 hrs

Bobbin Head Loop

This great circuit walk enjoys a variety of landscapes in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. The walk starts at the historic Sphinx war memorial and follows a series of popular walking tracks that loop around Bobbin Head, including historic Aboriginal engravings, temperate rainforest and a lookout. As

Total climbing: 619m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus

Hard track

Darri and Warrimoo Tracks to Mt Kuring-gai

14.6 km One way, 6 hrs 30 mins

Darri and Warrimoo Tracks to Mt Kuring-gai

Starting in North Turramurra, this walk follows the Darri and Warrimoo Tracks through Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park and down along the picturesque Cowan Creek. Bobbin Head makes a great spot to take a break and have some lunch at the cafe, kiosk or picnic area. From Bobbin Head, the track continue

Total climbing: 852m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus
  • Train

Hard track

Other Nearby walks

A list of walks that start near the Wahroonga to Mt Kuring-gai walk.

Darri and Warrimoo Tracks to Bobbin head

9.4 km One way, 4 hrs 15 mins

Darri and Warrimoo Tracks to Bobbin head

This pleasant walk starts in North Turramurra and follows the Darri and Warrimoo tracks into the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. The walk follows the picturesque Cowan Creek through one of the most serene parts of the park, and finishes at Bobbin Head, a great place to enjoy the cafe or have a pic

Total climbing: 457m

Grade 3
  • Car
  • Bus

Moderate track

Darri and Warrimoo to the Sphinx Memorial

6.6 km One way, 2 hrs 45 mins

Darri and Warrimoo to the Sphinx Memorial

This nice walk starts from North Turramurra and follows the Darri and Warrimoo tracks into Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. The walk follows Cowan Creek through the lush green forest, then takes the Sphinx Track, climbing out of the valley to the war memorial, finishing on Bobbin Head Road.

Total climbing: 366m

Grade 3
  • Car
  • Bus

Moderate track

Darri Track

4.2 km One way, 1 hr 45 mins

Darri Track

Named after the traditional owners, the Darri People, this track starts at Bedford Ave, Turramurra. The track follows a narrow piece of bushland along the upper reaches of Cowan Creek, into Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park. The official Darri track finishes at the intersection with Warrimoo track,

Total climbing: 200m

Grade 3
  • Car
  • Bus

Moderate track

Hornsby Blue Gum Walk

6.7 km Circuit, 3 hrs

Hornsby Blue Gum Walk

This delightful loop is one of the prettiest and most popular walks in the Hornsby area. Going from an environment of ferns and clear bushland to dry sandstone bush near Berowra Creek, this walk has a good complement of environments. The side trip out to Joe's Mountain doesn't have the most fantasti

Total climbing: 374m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus
  • Train

Hard track

Hornsby station to Crosslands

16.1 km One way, 6 hrs 45 mins

Hornsby station to Crosslands

This section of the Great North Walk starts from Hornsby train station and winds down along the Blue Gum Walk into Fishponds. Enjoy the wonderful water hole at fishponds before continuing along Berowra Creek, passing through the Tunks Ridge Reserve and into Galston Gorge. From the Gorge the track

Total climbing: 938m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus
  • Train

Hard track

Hornsby to Brooklyn three day walk

43.1 km One way, 3 Days

Hornsby to Brooklyn three day walk

This three day walk follows the Great North Walk from Hornsby Station to Brooklyn, staying overnight at the Crosslands Reserve and the Great North Walk ridge top campsite. Some of the highlights along this walk are the sandstone cliffs at Fishponds, the great restaurants at Berowra Waters, and the b

Total climbing: 2695m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus
  • Train

Hard track

Hornsby to Fishponds

5.6 km Return, 2 hrs 30 mins

Hornsby to Fishponds

A short walk from Hornsby to reach a great spot for admiring Berowra Creek. This walk explores several different environments in the Regional Park along the way. Allow some time to sit and enjoy the view at Fishponds. Expect to see other people along the track as this is one of the most popular walk

Total climbing: 296m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus
  • Train

Hard track

Hornsby to Galston Gorge

9.7 km One way, 4 hrs

Hornsby to Galston Gorge

Starting at Hornsby station, you soon head into the bush and down the steep depression era stone steps through the volcanic Old Mans Valley, to a picnic area at the end of Rosemead Rd. Here you follow the Blue Gum walk through one of Sydney’s rare Blue Gum Forest stands to then cross Berowra Creek a

Total climbing: 473m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus
  • Train

Hard track

Hornsby to Mt Kuring-gai

22.3 km One way, 9 hrs

Hornsby to Mt Kuring-gai

This section of the Great North Walk starts from Hornsby train station and winds down along the Blue Gum Walk into Fishponds and along Berowra Creek. The walk passes through the Tunks Ridge Reserve and then into Galston Gorge. From here the walk keeps following the Berowra Creek through the Crossl

Total climbing: 1319m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus
  • Train

Hard track

Wareemba Ave to Thornleigh Station

8.6 km One way, 3 hrs 45 mins

Wareemba Ave to Thornleigh Station

This pleasant half day walk starts from Wareemba Avenue in Thornleigh and winds down into the valley along service trails and bush tracks. The walk then follows a section of the Blue Gum Walk to the Great North Walk. From here the walk follows the Great North Walk to Thornleigh train station. Along

Total climbing: 472m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus
  • Train

Hard track

Elouera Lookout

828 m Return, 30 mins

Elouera Lookout

A short walk to a beautiful lookout with views over the Berowra Creek valley, near Westleigh. This is a short and interesting walk to one on those really beautiful pockets of bush in the middle of the suburbs. The lookout is in the Berowra Valley Regional Park and also on the Great North Walk.

Total climbing: 44m

Grade 3
  • Car
  • Bus

Moderate track

Sheldon Forest Walk

1.8 km One way, 50 mins

Sheldon Forest Walk

This is a pleasant walk exploring the Sheldon Forest from the 1st Turramurra Scout Hall to Troon place in Pymble. The forest is one of the few remaining pieces of the Blue Gum high forest in the Sydney Basin, and is supported by community bushcare programs. This walk meanders through rainforest for

Total climbing: 33m

Grade 3
  • Car
  • Bus
  • Train

Moderate track

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Wahroonga to Mt Kuring-gai walk starts at the Wahroonga Railway Station (gps: -33.717619, 151.11710)

train Train. (get details) bus Bus. (get details) car Car. There is free parking available.<br /> (get details) train Train. (get details)

The Wahroonga to Mt Kuring-gai ends at the Mt Kuring-gai Railway Station (gps: -33.653814, 151.13674)

bus Bus. (get details) car Car. There is free parking available.<br /> (get details)

Weather Forecast

This walk starts in the Metropolitan weather district.

Current Alerts

Park Information

Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

A largely untouched wilderness on the northern boundary of Sydney, Ku-ring-gai Chase NP is one of Australia's oldest national parks. Here at the head of the Hawkesbury River, you'll find Aboriginal engravings and sites, as well as sandstone escarpments,

Berowra Valley National Park

Following the Berowra Creek the Berowra Valley National Park is located on the Hornsby Plateau and is made up of typical Hawkesbury Sandstone. The great North walk, Benowie walking track, and many other great walks stretch spann this park. The area has varied vegetation including many different sorts of Eucalyptus and plenty of native animals, includingl swamp wallibies, water dragons, bandicoots, Lyre Birds, and bush turkeys. There are several campsites within the Park, and Crosslands Reserve is also a popular spot near the middle of the park.

Lovers Jump Creek Reserve

Lovers Jump Creek Reserve is a large bushland reserve owned and managed by Ku-ring-gai council. The reserve in in North Wahroonga and is bound by Ku-ring-gai Chase National park in the north, Bobbin head road, Grosvenor St, and the southern tip reaches Burns Rd. The park is home to Lovers Jump creek and to many bush tracks and service trails.

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