Search bushwalks in Greater Hunter, Page 96

Starting from Mountain Creek car park, Paddys River, this walk takes you on a circuit in Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve via the Cascades Trail. You'll be met by a lovely little set of cascades dropping over some granite boulders. The sound of burbling water combined with the lyrebirds in the area is quite rejuvenating, to say the least. You'll also have a chance to see yellow-tailed black cockatoos along with other wildlife. The track is quite shady thanks to the rainforest canopy. This can allow you to take your time if you want to take some photos or simply soak up the ambience. Remember to sign in and out at the trail register. If coming by car, you'll need to pay a fee at the visitor centre (unless you have an annual pass). 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

Mountain Creek Cascades

1.8 km circuit

30 min to 1 h

Mountain Creek Cascades

Birdwatching

Waterfall

Environment

Starting from the car park opposite the truck stop on Mount Ousley Road, Mount Keira, this walk takes you to the Brokers Nose Lookout and back via the Brokers Nose Walk. This moderately easy walk meanders along the top of the Illawarra Escarpment to the Brokers Nose Lookout, located within the Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area, which offers incredible views of Wollongong's pristine coastline from an elevation of approximately 440m above sea level. The walk initially follows the escarpment cliff line through dense bushland, then emerges into a clearing with excellent views over Balgownie. From there, the walk continues through the rainforest, passing a television transmission tower before reaching the cliff edge lookout, which offers panoramic views over the greater Wollongong area below and the ocean beyond. In late winter and spring, colourful displays of wildflowers can be seen along the trail, which attract a variety of birdlife. The trail is quite straightforward yet has no signage, only a closed gate at the start, and can get very muddy and slippery after rainfall. This walk consists of wide and narrow, gently undulating walking trails, with compacted natural surfaces, uneven natural surfaces and rocky sections, 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

Brokers Nose Walk

4.6 km return

1 h to 1 h 30 min

Birdwatching

Environment

Starting from the car park along Burma Road, Pemberton, this walk takes you on a stroll in Gloucester National Park. It is a lightly trafficked circuit that offers a glimpse at nature through the marri and karri forest. The plantation is pretty diverse and suitable for enthusiasts. In addition, it is possible to climb the Gloucester Tree to enjoy the amazing view it provides. It is one of the tallest trees that can be climbed in the world. The picnic facilities and seats are also provided at the beginning of the track. 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

Karri Views Circuit

1.1 km circuit

20 min to 30 min

Environment

Rural

The Lakes of Cherrybrook Loop

The Lakes of Cherrybrook Loop

410 m circuit

10 min to 15 min

This short, pleasant loop walk is a nice one to do if you are having a picnic in the Lakes of Cherrybrook Park, enjoying the atmosphere, free electric BBQs and playground. There is a good viewing platform extending onto the lake and there are usually ducks to be seen. The nearby shopping centre has some good cafes and eateries. 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

Cafe

Environment

Bus

Gordon to Chatswood Station

Gordon to Chatswood Station

12.3 km oneway

3 h 30 min to 5 h 30 min

12.3 km

Oneway

Walk

3 h 30 min to 5 h 30 min

This walk is a great way to get into the bush without being far from civilisation. The walk wanders through untouched valleys and along the Lane Cove River, passing over many roads and footpaths to connect such unspoilt bush. The side trip to Baker's cottage is definitely worth the short stroll, with the heritage building having a long history. 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

Cafe

Environment

Starting from Kathleen Springs Carpark, Petermann, this return walk takes you to a waterhole fed by Kathleen Creek via a singular paved track that is wheelchair accessible. Throughout the track you’ll be informed about the history and Aboriginal culture of the area through interpretive signposts. Sit down at the bench near the waterhole and just embrace the tranquility of the place for a moment. Enjoy a peaceful picnic if you’d like to, but please keep the area clean. Bring insect repellent with you as there can be lots of flies depending on the weather conditions and time of day. 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

Kathleen Springs Track

2.6 km return

45 min to 1 h 15 min

Kathleen Springs Track

Environment

Starting from the car park at the end of Kersbrook Forest Road, Kersbrook, this walk takes you on a circuit within the Mount Crawford Forest Reserve via the Mary Gully, Ke36, Ke30, Ke16, Purdies, Ke21 and Ke26 tracks. You’ll be walking on fire trails with great views of the surrounding area. The Old Kersbrook Loop is marked with yellow markers and has clear signage along the way. The tracks are wide, and the gradient is mostly gentle, with some hilly sections towards the end. 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

Old Kersbrook Loop

7.5 km circuit

2 h to 2 h 30 min

Environment

Carnarvon Gorge Nature Trail

Carnarvon Gorge Nature Trail

1.3 km circuit

20 min to 30 min

Starting from Carnarvon National Park car park and camping area, this short circuit walk will take you along Carnarvon Creek for a chance to see platypus in their natural environment. If you go at dusk or dawn and you walk lightly you'll have the greatest chance to see this amazing animal. Let us begin by acknowledging the Bidjara and Karingbal people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Environment

This pleasant return walk starts from the end of the Davidson Reserve picnic area and follows the Lyrebird Track through the bush, along the edge of Middle Harbour Creek, to the stepping stone crossing on Carroll Creek. The stepping stones are a great place to take a break before returning along the same route to Davidson Reserve for a picnic. 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.

Environment

The Lyrebird Track

5.2 km return

1 h 45 min to 2 h

Bus

Starting from the car park off Old Padbury Road, Balingup, this circuit walk gives you a taste of Golden Valley Tree Park along with the Oaks Picnic Area near the start. Located just three kilometres outside of Balingup in Western Australia, the Golden Valley Tree Park offers a delightful escape into the ambience of rural England with its Pear Walk in the World Collection area. This former farming property boasts an impressive array of over 250 Northern Hemisphere tree species, lending an authentic charm with the presence of a few grazing sheep. Meandering gently up and down hills across rolling pastures, Pear Walk leads to Pear Lookout, offering breathtaking vistas across the park and its surroundings. The leisurely stroll, lasting approximately 30 minutes, presents opportunities to marvel at oak trees and a diverse range of other Northern Hemisphere specimens, making it a key highlight of Western Australia's largest arboretum. With trees labelled for easy identification, visitors can immerse themselves in the park's seasonal transformations, from the vibrant hues of deciduous foliage in autumn to the verdant greenery and lively fauna of spring, providing an enchanting experience year-round. Let us begin by acknowledging the Wadandi, Pibulmun and Ganeang people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Pear Walk

910 m circuit

20 min to 30 min

Pets

Environment

Starting from Harding’s Paddock Picnic Area & Campground, Goolman, this walk takes you on a circuit in the northern parts of Flinders - Goolman Conservation Estate, visiting the Goolman Lookout with a side trip. Expect a peaceful & quiet walk that gives you a bit of a challenge with its elevation changes along with lovely views of the Scenic Rim between the trees. The lookout provides westerly views over the city of Peak Crossing. You’ll be walking along mostly even and wide fire trails that are well-maintained. After the hike, you can enjoy a good picnic at Harding’s Paddock as you take in the scenery. Keep in mind that the tracks don’t have much shade, therefore lots of water and a hat can go a long way. Try to avoid doing this track midday in summer. 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

Goolman Lookout Circuit

5 km circuit

2 h to 3 h 15 min

Goolman Lookout Circuit

Environment

Starting from the car park on River Road, Lane Poole Reserve, Island Pool Circuit offers a picturesque retreat for a day of tranquillity. Embark on the Situated along the serene eastern banks of the Murray River, this delightful one-hour loop will walk you through the enchanting jarrah forest. Admire the abundant presence of majestic grass trees dotting the landscape as well as the serene ambience of this secluded spot. During spring, the trail transforms into a vibrant tapestry with blooming wildflowers attracting visitors seeking the seasonal spectacle. Indulge in a leisurely picnic or a refreshing swim, or venture out onto the water with canoes. Steps are available near the water's edge. Dog-friendly and offering opportunities for various recreational activities, Island Pool promises a rejuvenating experience amidst nature's splendour. Please note that camping is prohibited, and the site is best suited for smaller groups. Let us begin by acknowledging the Pinjarup & Wiilman people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Island Pool Circuit

2.1 km circuit

45 min to 1 h 15 min

Environment

Starting from the Honeyeater Hollow car park off Rushton Road, Martin, this walk takes you on a circuit via the Easy Walk Trail. This short and easy loop passes through Wandoo Woodland in Ellis Brook Valley Reserve, a thriving nesting and feeding area for birds renowned for the richness of its flora and fauna. The trail is symbolised by a red echidna, with informative signage dotted along the route. The compacted earth path is suitable for prams and wheelchairs. Keep an eye out for birds and echidnas. The best time to visit is spring, between mid-September and early November when the wildflowers are in bloom. The reserve is also dog friendly, as long as they're kept on a leash. Toilets, gas barbecues and parking are provided at Honeyeater Hollow. Drinking water is not available, so it is advisable to bring a water bottle. 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.

Environment

Easy Walk Trail

550 m circuit

10 min to 15 min

Starting from the Mount Hassell car park off Stirling Range Drive, Stirling Range National Park, this walk takes you to the summit of Mount Hassell and back. Prepare for an amazing range of colours in the wildflower season. The track to the summit has steps that begin moderate, leaving their place for steep scree sections later on. Many rocky platforms are located on or near the trail, where walkers can take a break and enjoy the views. As you come closer to a ridge, the track gets steeper. You'll then cross a saddle through some thick bush. The final scramble up the small section of rock that forms the summit is easier than it looks from below, though extra care should be taken when the rocks are wet and slippery. After negotiating the rock face, walkers are rewarded with a close-up view of Toolbrunup and sweeping views of the remainder of the national park. The trail is well marked and easy to navigate, with some steep climbs and moderately difficult scrambling. Wear sturdy footwear and weatherproof clothing, and carry plenty of drinking water. There may be sudden temperature changes that can lead to rain or even hail, so come prepared. The upper parts of this track should not be walked under bad weather conditions. 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 Hassell

2.9 km return

1 h 30 min to 3 h

Environment