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Environment

This walk has a lovely mix of natural and war history combined within the scenic Botany Bay National Park. The track follows beaches and cliff tops as it visits World War One and Two gun and lookout stations. The side trip to the coastal cemetery is worthwhile, giving a glimpse into lives from the past. The Jennifer Street section of this circuit allows access through a section of endangered native Banksia scrub that once occupied a much larger part of the Sydney region. A varied and interesting day out in the Botany Bay National Park. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Henry Head Circuit

6.6 km circuit

2 h 15 min to 3 h

Environment

Bus

Starting from the Thomas Carter Lookout car park off Charles Knife Road, Cape Range National Park, this walk takes you on a circuit past the Shothole Lookout via the Badjirrijirra Trail. The Thomas Carter Lookout is the start and end of the Badjirrijirra Trail, a moderately difficult loop that traverses the top of Cape Range. Starting high in the range, the trail winds through a largely barren landscape of rocky gullies, small gorges and open spinifex bushland, leading to spectacular views down into the epic Shothole Canyon. There is a clear trailhead at the start of the walk, with waypoint poles and signs at trail junctions. The walk is mostly along a gently undulating terrain, with some steep ascents and descents. The trail has some rough, uneven surfaces and there is no shade along the way, requiring a moderate to high level of fitness. The conditions of Cape Range are harsh, with temperatures often soaring over 40°C in summer. Hiking isn't advised between December and March due to extreme heat and limited resources within the park, so either avoid hiking at those times of the year or start out very early in the day. Hikers are advised to take caution when exploring, wear suitable footwear and clothing, carry plenty of water and notify a friend or park ranger before leaving. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Badjirrijirra Walk Trail

6.6 km circuit

2 h to 3 h

Badjirrijirra Walk Trail

Environment

Starting from the car park on Cunningham Highway(National Highway 15), Tregony, this walk takes you to the Mount Cordeaux Lookout and back, visiting the Allan Cunningham Memorial along the way. Seconds away from the start you’ll come across Alan Cunningham Memorial, put up in the hundredth year of his exploration of the Darling Downs. The renowned English botanist and explorer collected many plants in Australia in the early 1800s. As you’re climbing up through the subtropical eucalypt rainforest, observe the interchanging flora and environment while listening to the tunes of lyrebirds. Mount Cordeaux will welcome you with spectacular views to the east, over the Tarome countryside and beyond. You can bring your kids and enjoy a meal whilst taking in the scenery, as the gradient is not too punishing. Remember to check the forecast beforehand to make sure you’re not there on a foggy day. The lookout can be windy, so wear layers of clothing to stay warm. Come early on a weekend to avoid crowds. A weekday may be quieter, but that means you’ll need to deal with the noise coming from trucks air braking down the road. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Mount Cordeaux

6.6 km return

3 h 45 min to 5 h

Environment

Mount May and Waterfall Creek Circuit

Mount May and Waterfall Creek Circuit

6.7 km circuit

4 h to 6 h

Starting from Waterfall Creek Road, Maroon, this circuit walk takes you to both of the summits of Mount May, crossing the Waterfall Creek multiple times along the way. Expect a physical and navigational challenge that will reward you with stunning views over the surrounding area. Mount Barney looks exceptional along with the picturesque peaks of Moogerah. You’ll be hiking and scrambling along the scenic ridge, and parts of the track may require bush-bashing due to the overgrowth. A decent level of fitness and bushwalking/scrambling experience is recommended. Keep an eye out for snakes, especially in the warmer months. Avoid this track under wet conditions as it can become extremely slippery and dangerous. Bring a GPS device to be safe. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

Starting from the car park at the Welcome Mine off Arkaroola Road, Arkaroola, this walk takes you on a circuit around Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary via the Bararranna Gorge Walk. Located in the northern Flinders Ranges, Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary is a spectacular private wilderness sanctuary founded by the Sprigg family in 1968, home to a wide range of birds, reptiles and mammals, including the endangered yellow-footed rock-wallaby. The sanctuary is a haven for outback explorers, featuring rolling countryside, rugged mountains, gorges, creeks, waterholes and many unique rock formations. This loop explores the complex geology of Arkaroola, from the ancient fossil seabeds now forming near-vertical cliffs in Bararranna Gorge to the ancient glacial rocks from past ice ages at Stubbs Waterhole, winding across shaly hills and passing between the high walls of Arkaroola Creek. The hike starts and ends at the Welcome Mine, an old copper mine located to the west of the Arkaroola Village, usually accessible by two-wheel drive vehicles. This loop consists of narrow walking trails, with some short steep hills and uneven natural surfaces, suitable for moderate fitness levels. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Bararranna Gorge Walk

6.7 km circuit

2 h to 3 h

Bararranna Gorge Walk

Environment

This challenging one way walk in Dorrigo National Park will take you past Callicoma and Casuarina Falls along Endiandra and Sassafras Creeks. Have a picnic at the end before heading home or perhaps returning the same way. Let us begin by acknowledging the Gumbaynggirr people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Blackbutt Walking Track

6.7 km oneway

3 h to 4 h

Blackbutt Walking Track

Waterfall

Environment

Starting from North Bobbin Head Road, North Turramurra, this walk takes you through Wahroonga Reserve, crossing Lovers Jump Creek, Cayleys Brook and Frasers Brook along the way. Wahroonga Reserve is a natural oasis showcasing the sandstone bushland's beauty and tranquil creekside trails. As you explore this reserve, you'll be treated to stunning views that stretch towards the picturesque Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. The reserve is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including rare bird species. Along the way, you'll be delighted by the vibrant display of wildflowers that adorn the landscape, creating a kaleidoscope of colours amidst the tall eucalyptus trees. Dogs are permitted on-lead here, allowing you to enjoy the experience with your furry companion. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Wahroonga Reserve

6.7 km oneway

2 h 15 min to 3 h 15 min

2 h 15 min to 3 h 15 min

Environment

Mount Barney Creek via Lower Portals

Mount Barney Creek via Lower Portals

6.7 km return

2 h 30 min to 4 h

Starting from Lower Portals Carpark, Mount Barney, this return walk takes you to the swimming hole along Mount Bartney Creek via the Lower Portals Track, optionally visiting Five Peaks View Lookout along the way. An undulating straight track going through the diverse vegetation will take you to a gorgeous rock pool, sitting beautifully amidst nature. Don’t be shy, jump in and enjoy the cool waters of Mount Barney Creek and listen to the peaceful sounds of the forest to relieve some stress. You can pack some food and have a little creekside picnic after the refreshing swim if you’d like to. If lucky, you might even spot a Goanna whilst eating. Take the side trip and visit the lookout if you have time, you’ll be surprised how much you can see from there. Take plenty of water as the track is quite exposed and hot, even in winter. You may want to opt for an early morning walk if you’d like to avoid the relentless heat. This track may involve a little bit of rock hopping. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

Cooleman Hill and Mount Arawang Circuit

Cooleman Hill and Mount Arawang Circuit

6.7 km circuit

2 h to 3 h 15 min

Starting from Monkman Street, Chapman, this circuit walk takes you into the grasslands of Cooleman Ridge Nature Reserve, visiting Cooleman Hill and Mount Arawang along the way. Start the hike with a climb up the hill to get your heart pumping. As you’re enjoying the panoramic views over the reserve, look out for birds such as the Diamond Firetrail and the Flame Robin. Get on the hammock atop of the hill for an extra comfortable birdwatching session. Other animals residing in the area include the Eastern bearded dragon and the endangered Pink-tailed worm-lizard. When you make it to the summit of Mount Arawang, expect a 360 degree clear view of everything around you, with a good balance of urban and natural scenery. Specifically, the aesthetic view of the distant mountains covered with dense forests is well worth the effort. Keep in mind that horse riding is allowed on marked equestrian trails. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

Pheasants Peak Walking Track

Pheasants Peak Walking Track

6.7 km return

2 h 30 min to 3 h 45 min

Return

This walk will take you through the forest to the summit of Pheasants Peak for stunning views over the Monaro Plains and the Snowy Mountains. Let us begin by acknowledging the Ngarigo people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

2 h 30 min to 3 h 45 min

Environment

Starting from the car park off Lynn Road, Targinnie, this walk takes you to the summit of Mount Larcom and back via the same-titled hiking trail. You’ll be rewarded by unimpeded panoramic views over Queensland as you make it to the summit. You can have a little picnic here whilst enjoying the landscape. There are some solar panels and antennas along with a sturdy metal cross at the top. Take at least 2 litres of water(per person) to avoid dehydration. Also, hiking poles and sturdy shoes may come in handy while dealing with loose rocks. Avoid warmer months as you may experience a heatstroke. You can take your fluffy friends with you, but don’t forget to get water for them too. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Mount Larcom

6.7 km return

3 h to 4 h

Pets

Environment

Lindfield Park and Little Digger Track Loop

Lindfield Park and Little Digger Track Loop

6.7 km circuit

2 h 30 min to 2 h 45 min

Circuit

This pleasant walk starts from Lindfield Park and heads through the bushland to the Two Creeks Track, which it follows through the National Park to, and along, Middle Harbour Creek. The walk returns to Lindfield Park via the picturesque Little Digger Track, and through a few shortcut alley ways in East Lindfield. Let us begin by acknowledging the Darug people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

2 h 30 min to 2 h 45 min

Environment

Bus

Stringybark, Mount Bold Ridge and Shingleback Track Loop

Stringybark, Mount Bold Ridge and Shingleback Track Loop

6.7 km circuit

1 h 30 min to 2 h 30 min

Circuit

Starting from the Gate 3 car park at the intersection of Matthews Road and Scott Creek Road, Dorset Vale, this walk takes you on a circuit around Scott Creek Conservation Park via the Stringybark, Mount Bold Ridge and Shingleback tracks. Scott Creek Conservation Park features some of the most diverse native vegetation in the Adelaide Hills, with dense stringybark forests, steep-sloped valleys and seasonal creeks that provide habitat for an abundance of birds and animals, including southern brown bandicoots, western grey kangaroos, koalas and ringtail possums. In spring, plenty of wildflowers can be seen dotted along the trails. This relatively easy and straightforward loop begins by entering the stringybark forest along the Bandicoot Track, then ascends steadily along the Stringybark Track, offering excellent views of the park. The next section is fairly flat and easy-going, following the Mount Bold Ridge Track alongside the road before descending along the Shingleback Track back to the car park. This loop consists of well-signposted fire tracks, with some uneven natural surfaces and short steep hills, suitable for average fitness levels. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

1 h 30 min to 2 h 30 min

Run

45 min to 1 h 15 min

Birdwatching

Environment

Bairne Track to Towlers Bay Lookout

Bairne Track to Towlers Bay Lookout

6.7 km return

2 h 15 min to 2 h 30 min

Return

This relatively flat walk takes you through some woodland forest, open shrub and rock platforms to a lookout. The views look over Narrabeen and along Pittwater. The track is well defined, and the views are well worth the walk. Let us begin by acknowledging the Guringai people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

2 h 15 min to 2 h 30 min

Environment