Browns Waterhole Track
And Walk
Browns Waterhole Track

30 mins


49 m

Moderate track
(0km) End of Kissing Pt Rd, Turramurra → Int of Great North Walk and Kissing Point road trail
320 m
7 mins
1m
-19m
Moderate track
(0.32km) Int of GNW and Kissing Point Road trail → Browns Waterhole int
260 m
5 mins
1m
-17m
Easy track
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk heads fairly steeply downhill along the concrete path. The path passes a few signs[6] over about 100m, then comes to an intersection with a track (on your left), marked with a timber barricade and a GNW arrow post[7].
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[8]. This intersection is beside the Lane Cove River crossing[9] (on your left) and is marked with a ‘The Great North Walk’ sign here[10].
(0.58km) Browns Waterhole int → Browns Waterhole
90 m
2 mins
5m
-1m
Moderate track
Browns Waterhole

(0.67km) Browns Waterhole → Int of Terry’s Creek Walking Track and Brown’s Waterhole Servicetrail
40 m
1 mins
3m
0m
Very easy
(0.71km) Int of Terry’s Creek Walking Track and Brown’s Waterhole Servicetrail → End of Vimiera Rd
630 m
14 mins
39m
-6m
Moderate track
Maps for the Browns Waterhole 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 Browns Waterhole Track bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Browns Waterhole 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 | 1.3 km | ||
Time | 30 mins | ||
. | |||
![]() Grade 3/6 Moderate track |
AS 2156.1 | Gradient | Short steep hills (3/6) |
Quality of track | Smooth and hardened path (1/6) | ||
Signs | Clearly signposted (1/6) | ||
Experience Required | No experience required (1/6) | ||
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
630m of this walk has short steep hills and another 470m has gentle hills with occasional steps. The remaining (240m) is flat with no steps.
Quality of track
This whole walk, 1.3km follows a smooth and hardened path.
Signs
This whole walk, 1.3km is clearly signposted.
Experience Required
This whole walk, 1.3km requires no previous bushwalking experience.
weather
Around 1.3km of this walk is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation), whilst the remaining 90m is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety.
Infrastructure
Around 1km of this walk is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats), whilst the remaining 320m has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced).
Similar walks
A list of walks that share part of the track with the Browns Waterhole Track walk.
Other Nearby walks
A list of walks that start near the Browns Waterhole Track walk.
Plan your trip to and from the walk here
The Browns Waterhole Track walk starts at the End of Kissing Pt Rd, Turramurra (gps: -33.75841, 151.1098)
Your transport options to End of Kissing Pt Rd, Turramurra are by;
Bus. (get details)
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)
The Browns Waterhole Track 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
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.
Weather Forest
This walk starts in the Metropolitan weather district always check the formal BOM forecast or pdf before starting your walk.
Forecast snapshot
Park Information & Alerts
Short URL = http://wild.tl/bwt
Gallery images
There are other downloads I am still working on.
You will probably need to login to access these — still all free.
* KML (google earth file)
* GPX (GPS file)
Special Maps/ brochures
* A3 topo maps
* PDF with Lands Topo map base
* PDF with arial image (and map overlay)
I wanted to get the main site live first, this extra stuff will come in time.
Happy walking
Matt 🙂
Fairylands Loop Track
And Walk
Fairylands Loop Track

2 hrs 30 mins


175 m

Hard track



This walk loops around a section of the Lane Cove River. Starting at Fullers Bridge, the walk follows the Great North walk through the historic site of Fairylands to Epping road before crossing the Lane Cove river and heading up the other bank of the river, passing through a variety of environments including a Golf Course. The walk then returns to Fullers Bridge.
(0km) Corner of Delhi Rd and River Ave → Int. of Quebec Rd and Fairyland Track
880 m
19 mins
43m
-39m
Hard track
Continue straight: From the locked gate, this walk follows the sealed Quebec Rd[7], keeping the fenced Northern Suburbs Memorial Gardens on your right. The narrow road continues for about 300m passing a couple of driveways[8] (to your left) to come to a T-intersection with Quebec Rd and Fairylands Ave[9][10]. Here the walk turns right and follows the now wider Quebec Rd as it bends left and leads downhill[11]. Just before the road bends left again (near the bottom of this hill) this walk comes to an intersection with a track[12] (on your right), marked with a GNW arrow post.
(0.88km) Int of Quebec Rd and Fairyland Track → River view
130 m
3 mins
6m
-5m
Easy track
Lookout

(1.01km) River view → Fairyland
360 m
7 mins
6m
-14m
Easy track
Fairyland

(1.37km) Fairyland → Int. Corporate Park Scenic Trail and Great North Walk
420 m
10 mins
30m
-12m
Easy track
(1.79km) Int. Corporate Park Scenic Trail and Great North Walk → Mowbray car park (near oval)
860 m
18 mins
20m
-33m
Moderate track
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Great North Walk’ sign[47] down a few steps and along the footpath under the bridge[48][49]. On the other side of the bridge[50], this walk turns right and heads up the stairs[51] to an intersection with a wide shared footpath beside Epping Rd[52].
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[53] down across the main bridge span, keeping the traffic to your left. After almost 100m, this walk comes to the other side of the bridge, where there is an intersection[54] with another set of stairs[55] (on your right) and another GNW arrow[56].
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads down the stairs away from the main road, to turn right under the bridge. The track heads under the bridge to come out the other side, continuing along the river bank for approximately 50m to the car park.
(2.65km) Mowbray car park (near oval) → 8th Green
1.7 km
34 mins
58m
-63m
Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk leads across the grassed area to a ‘Mowbray Park’ sign before a bridge. The track passes the sign and bridge to continue to wind through the bush for approximately 60m, to a signposted intersection.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads up the hill away from the athletics oval, keeping the valley of the river on the left. The track winds through the bush, passing by a track (which leads to a rockshelf lookout on the left) and continuing on to a signposted intersection.
Turn left: From the intersection, the walk heads down the stairs with a large boulder to the left of the track. The track passes under a large fig tree to continue down to a signposted intersection.
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk heads along the Lane Cove River, with the water to the left of the track. The track quickly opens out onto a clearing next to the river bank. The track continues left for a few more metres, before two sections of boardwalked track lead to a signposted intersection.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the direction of the ‘River Track’ arrow, keeping the river below on the left of the track. Large sections of track are suspended above the mangroves on a boardwalk. The track winds along the Lane Cove River bank for approximately 400m to a signposted intersection.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads south-east, keeping the river below on the left. The track has boardwalks in sections which are raised above the mangroves. The track continues to a signposted intersection.
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk heads along the line of mangroves and river (on the left of the track). The walk continues for a short time to come out onto the management trail, behind the green of the 8th fairway on Chatswood Golf Course.
(4.32km) 8th Green → Int. Fairway and Delhi Rd
670 m
11 mins
6m
-3m
Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads away from the golf course, following the Lane Cove River (on the left of the track). The walk continues under the river bank’s shady vegetation for a short time to the intersection of Delhi Rd and Lady Game Dr.
(5km) Int. Fairway and Delhi Rd → Corner of Delhi Rd and River Ave
320 m
5 mins
6m
-4m
Moderate track
Turn sharp right: From the intersection, the walk follows Lady Game Drive towards the set of traffic lights, and soon reaches the intersection with Delhi Rd.
Turn right: From the corner of Lady Game Drive and Delhi Rd, this walk follows the footpath beside Delhi Rd, across Fullers Bridge[57]. Just on the far side of the bridge, this walk comes to an intersection with a footpath[58] (and steps, on your right) about 15m before the bus stop shelter[59].
Turn right: From the intersection between the bus stop and bridge, this walk heads down the steps[60] (away from the road) to almost immediately come to an intersection with another footpath[61].
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the footpath under Fullers Bridge[62] and comes to the end of a minor road[63], in front of the ‘Riverside Cafe Bar AND Grill’[64].
Turn right: From in front of ‘Riverside Cafe Bar & Grill’[65], this walk heads up along the minor road[66]. At the T-intersection with River Ave, this walk crosses the road to find a ‘Great North Walk’ signposted intersection[67].
Riverside Cafe Bar & Grill

Maps for the Fairylands Loop 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 Fairylands Loop Track bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Fairylands Loop 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 | 5.3 km | ||
Time | 2 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 | 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
3km of this walk has gentle hills with occasional steps and another 1.1km is flat with no steps. Whilst another 930m has short steep hills and the remaining 330m is very steep.
Quality of track
2.2km of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles and another 1.9km follows a clear and well formed track or trail. Whilst another 920m follows a smooth and hardened path and the remaining 330m follows a rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely.
Signs
Around 2.8km of this walk has directional signs at most intersection, whilst the remaining 2.5km is clearly signposted.
Experience Required
Around 5km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 330m requires some bushwalking experience.
weather
This whole walk, 5km is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation).
Infrastructure
Around 3.5km of this walk is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats), whilst the remaining 1.8km has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced).
Similar walks
A list of walks that share part of the track with the Fairylands Loop Track walk.
Other Nearby walks
A list of walks that start near the Fairylands Loop Track walk.
Plan your trip to and from the walk here
The Fairylands Loop Track walk starts and ends at the Corner of Delhi Rd and River Ave (gps: -33.793026, 151.15614)
Your transport options to Corner of Delhi Rd and River Ave are by;
Bus. (get details)
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)
Fire Danger
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.
Weather Forest
This walk starts in the Metropolitan weather district always check the formal BOM forecast or pdf before starting your walk.
Forecast snapshot
Park Information & Alerts
Comments
Short URL = http://wild.tl/fllt
Gallery images
There are other downloads I am still working on.
You will probably need to login to access these — still all free.
* KML (google earth file)
* GPX (GPS file)
Special Maps/ brochures
* A3 topo maps
* PDF with Lands Topo map base
* PDF with arial image (and map overlay)
I wanted to get the main site live first, this extra stuff will come in time.
Happy walking
Matt 🙂
Epping to Pennant Hills Station (via Lane Cove River)

3 hrs 15 mins


249 m

Hard track




This walk, from Epping to Pennant Hills Station, is a great way to see the upper Lane Cove River Valley. The walk does pass near major roads, but there are times along the track, near Browns Water Hole and along the Lane Cove River, where you forget how close you are to the city. Allow time to enjoy some of the lovely spots along the way.
(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 Terry’s Creek Walking Track and Brown’s Waterhole Servicetrail
2 km
36 mins
37m
-46m
Moderate track
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
Browns Waterhole

(3.18km) Browns Waterhole → Browns Waterhole int
90 m
2 mins
1m
-5m
Moderate track
(3.27km) Browns Waterhole int → Int of Pennant Hills park road
3.2 km
1 hr 5 mins
147m
-53m
Hard track
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[18] downhill along the management trail for about 30m to cross a small culverted creek[19]. The walk then follows the trail up the short hill to come to an intersection with the signposted ‘STEP track’[20][21] (on your right).
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[22] and STEP Track markers[23] along the management trail, whilst keeping the river to your left. The trail undulates through the valley (weedy in places[24]) and tall forest[25] for just shy of 600m, to come to a clear intersection at the bottom of a sealed management trail[26] (on your right). This intersection is marked with another ‘STEP Track’ map/sign[27] and a ‘The Great North Walk’ sign[28].
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[29]. Keeping the river to your left, the trail leads downhill for about 80m to come to a Y-intersection[30], where there is a ‘Lane Cove Valley’ map/sign[31] and a ‘Lane Cove River Park’ sign[32] pointing back along the trail.
Veer left: From the Intersection the track follows the lower branching serverice trail accross the river before climbing a small but steep bank. Immediately upon reaching the top of this small climb the track comes to an intersection of the Pennant Hills Park service trail.
Turn right: 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.
Continue straight: From the intersection the track follows the service trail winding up the gentle hill and turning right at the archery warning sign, continuing through the bush to the intersection of the airfield service trail.
Turn left: From the intersection the track follows the service trail west through the bush up a long gentle hill and through a metal gate to the intersection of the Pennant Hills park road.
Pennant Hills Park

(6.43km) End of Pennant Hills Park → Pennant Hills station
2 km
34 mins
62m
-16m
Easy track
Continue straight: From the intersection the track heads up the road keeping the sports oval on the right of the road as it comes to the round about.
Turn right: From the roundabout the track follows Britannia street up past the two large ovals and continuing all the way along, winding around the left and right hand bends in the road which becomes the Cresant, and heads up the hill to the intersection of Pennant Hills road. From the intersection the track turns left at the main road and follows it along the footpath for a short distance to the bottom of the overpass, turning left up the ramp that winds all the way up and over the road coming back down to the intersection of Railway street. From the intersection the track follows Railway street down the hill and past the bus stops to the entrance to the train station.
Maps for the Epping to Pennant Hills 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.
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 Pennant Hills Station (via Lane Cove River) bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Epping to Pennant Hills 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 | 8.4 km | ||
Time | 3 hrs 15 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
4.6km of this walk has gentle hills with occasional steps and another 2.5km is flat with no steps. The remaining (1.3km) is very steep.
Quality of track
3.2km of this walk follows a smooth and hardened path and another 3.2km follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles. The remaining (2km) follows a clear and well formed track or trail.
Signs
Around 4.7km of this walk is clearly signposted, whilst the remaining 3.7km has directional signs at most intersection.
Experience Required
Around 8km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 770m requires some bushwalking experience.
weather
Around 8km of this walk is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation), whilst the remaining 90m 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 2.8km has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced).
Similar walks
A list of walks that share part of the track with the Epping to Pennant Hills Station (via Lane Cove River) walk.
Other Nearby walks
A list of walks that start near the Epping to Pennant Hills Station (via Lane Cove River) walk.
Plan your trip to and from the walk here
The Epping to Pennant Hills Station (via Lane Cove River) 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)
The Epping to Pennant Hills Station (via Lane Cove River) ends at the Pennant Hills station (gps: -33.738042, 151.07288)
Your transport options to Pennant Hills station are by;
Train. (get details)
Bus. (get details)
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)
Fire Danger
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.
Weather Forest
This walk starts in the Metropolitan weather district always check the formal BOM forecast or pdf before starting your walk.
Forecast snapshot
Park Information & Alerts
Comments
Short URL = http://wild.tl/etphslcr
Gallery images
There are other downloads I am still working on.
You will probably need to login to access these — still all free.
* KML (google earth file)
* GPX (GPS file)
Special Maps/ brochures
* A3 topo maps
* PDF with Lands Topo map base
* PDF with arial image (and map overlay)
I wanted to get the main site live first, this extra stuff will come in time.
Happy walking
Matt 🙂
Eastwood to Hornsby
And Walk
Eastwood to Hornsby

8 hrs


810 m

Hard track




Initially following Terry’s Creek, and then the Lane Cove River, this walk goes through some of the prettier sections of the Lane Cove National Park before climbing up to Thornleigh and continuing into the Berowra Valley Regional Park. Following Berowra Creek and the side of the valley, the surrounds change from the wet environment of Lane Cove to the dry scrub and bushland of Berowra. The walk continues until climbing out, up to Hornsby Railway Station, through a remnant of the old Blue Gum High Forest.
(0km) Eastwood Railway Station → Forrester Park
1.3 km
23 mins
20m
-28m
Easy track
(1.28km) Forrester Park → Int of Eastwood station and waterfall loop tracks
690 m
13 mins
15m
-17m
Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection the track follows the bushtrack down stream past the short rock wall and up a small rocky hill, through a few grass trees and down the other side coming to the un signposted intersection of the waterfall loop track.
(1.98km) Int of Eastwood station and waterfall loop tracks → Terrys Creek Waterfall
30 m
1 mins
0m
-3m
Moderate track
Terrys Creek Waterfall

(1.98km) Int of Eastwood station and waterfall loop tracks → Int of Eastwood station and Dence park tracks
240 m
5 mins
7m
-6m
Moderate track
Turn left: From the intersection the track follows the bushtrack heading down stream and along side Terrys creek, winding through the bush and through a thick patch of bamboo, coming out the other side and along the creek for a short while to the intersection of the Browns Waterhole and Dence park tracks.
(2.21km) Int of Eastwood station and Dence park tracks → Int of Eastwood station and Pembroke park tracks
20 m
1 mins
0m
-3m
Moderate track
(2.24km) Int of Eastwood station and Pembroke park tracks → Int of Eastwood Station and Rest area tracks
720 m
13 mins
7m
-15m
Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection the track follows the bushtrack heading north along the right hand side of the creek, passing the number 12 signpost and a sewage access point as it heads through the bush to the intersection of the rest area and Terrys creek steps.
(2.96km) Int of Eastwood Station and Rest area tracks → Int of Eastwood Station and Epping road track
110 m
2 mins
0m
-1m
Moderate track
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.
(3.07km) Int of Eastwood Station and Epping road track → Signpost 16 int
630 m
10 mins
7m
-8m
Moderate track
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.
(3.7km) Signpost 16 int → Signpost 18 int
210 m
4 mins
10m
0m
Moderate 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.
(3.91km) Signpost 18 int → Int of Terry’s Creek Walking Track and Brown’s Waterhole Servicetrail
1 km
20 mins
20m
-37m
Moderate track
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.
(4.93km) Int of Terry’s Creek Walking Track and Brown’s Waterhole Servicetrail → Browns Waterhole
40 m
1 mins
0m
-3m
Very easy
Browns Waterhole

(4.97km) Browns Waterhole → Browns Waterhole int
90 m
2 mins
1m
-5m
Moderate track
(5.06km) Browns Waterhole int → Int of GNW and the STEP track (east)
570 m
12 mins
24m
-14m
Easy track
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[8] downhill along the management trail for about 30m to cross a small culverted creek[9]. The walk then follows the trail up the short hill to come to an intersection with the signposted ‘STEP track’[10][11] (on your right).
(5.63km) Int of GNW and the STEP track (east) → Int of GNW and the STEP track (west)
580 m
10 mins
8m
-9m
Easy track
(6.21km) Int of GNW and the STEP track (west) → Int of GNW and the Pennant Hills Park track
1 km
18 mins
25m
-8m
Moderate track
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Thornleigh Station’ sign[23] 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[24]. This crossing may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain. On the other side of the river, this walk continues along the trail[25] for about 400m (with the river now close by on your right) to come to an intersection with a faint track[26] (on your left, that leads up towards Pennant Hills Park).
(7.24km) Int of GNW and the Pennant Hills Park track → Int of the GNW and the Morona Ave trail
1.2 km
21 mins
29m
-15m
Moderate track
(8.41km) Int of the GNW and the Morona Ave trail → Conscript Pass
330 m
8 mins
24m
-8m
Moderate track
(8.74km) Conscript Pass → Int of the GNW and Lorna Pass tracks
100 m
3 mins
19m
0m
Moderate track
Conscript Pass

(8.84km) Int of the GNW and Lorna Pass tracks → Int of Handley and Ferguson Avenues
580 m
14 mins
50m
0m
Hard track
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post and ‘Thornleigh Station’ sign[55] uphill along the wide rocky track[56]. After just over 150m, the track bends left (ignoring a faint track on your right[57]) and heads uphill for another 40m to come to the back (south-east corner) of Thornleigh Oval[58], marked with a ‘Lane Cove National Park’ signpost[59].
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[60] (there are toilets[61] and a water tap[62] on your right) to pass a ‘Great North Walk’ sign[63] and come to the corner of ‘Handley’ and ‘Ferguson’ Avenues[64] in front of the ‘Thornleigh Oval’ sign[65].
Thornleigh Oval

(9.42km) Int of Handley and Ferguson Avenues → Int of Railway Parade and Pennant Hills Road overpass steps
810 m
14 mins
18m
-4m
Very easy
(10.24km) Int of Railway Parade and Pennant Hills Road overpass steps → Morgan Rd
1.1 km
20 mins
8m
-48m
Easy track
Continue straight: From the western (north bound) side of Thornleigh Station[83], this walk follows the ‘Jungo Rest Area’ sign[84] along the footpath towards the car park and The Esplanade[85]. The walk then heads down a short distance further to turn left and cross ‘The Esplanade’ at the traffic lights[86], then continue straight along the footpath down along Eddy Rd[87]. Following a couple of GNW arrows[88] down Eddy Rd as it then bends left[89], turning into Tilock St, and shortly later this walk then turns right into Morgan St[90]. Continuing down till just before the end of this street[91][92], this walk comes to an intersection marked with a GNW arrow[93] and the ‘Elouera Bushland Natural Park’ sign[94] (on the right).
(11.34km) Morgan Rd → Int of Bike Trail and Morgan Rd tracks
230 m
4 mins
3m
-7m
Moderate track
(11.56km) Int of Bellamy trail and Morgan Rd tracks → Zig Zag Creek Bridge int.
130 m
2 mins
0m
-6m
Easy track
. The walk continues down into the valley[105] along the concrete trail for another 110m to come to a signposted intersection marked with a ‘Great North Walk’ sign[106][107] (on your left), just before ‘Zig Zag Creek’[108] and the long bridge[109].
Thornleigh zigzag railway

(11.69km) Zig Zag Creek Bridge intersection → The Jungo
1.4 km
25 mins
16m
-37m
Moderate track
The Jungo

(13.12km) Jungo campsite → Int of GNW and Stringybark Ridge trail
100 m
2 mins
1m
0m
Moderate track
(13.23km) Int of GNW and Stringybark Ridge trail → Elouera Lookout
1 km
27 mins
81m
-58m
Moderate track
Elouera Lookout

(14.27km) Elouera Lookout → Int of the Great North Walk and the Quarter Sessions Road track
2.2 km
54 mins
152m
-130m
Moderate track
(16.43km) Int of the Great North Walk and the Quarter Sessions Road track → Int of the Great North Walk and the Blue Gum Walk (SW)
690 m
18 mins
43m
-73m
Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads north along the clear track, keeping the valley down to your left for about 100m, where the walk comes to a three-way intersection and ‘The Jungo’ sign[156] points back along the track.
(17.12km) Int of the Great North Walk and the Blue Gum Walk (SW) → Fishponds Lookout
990 m
21 mins
21m
-87m
Hard track
After stopping to enjoy cool spot, this walk continues left along the unfenced rock platform[168] (keeping the creek down to your left). The walk soon steps off this large rock (at the far right-hand corner, through the fork in a tree[169]). This walk heads over another rock platform[170], then along a notably flat section of track[171] (now with Berowra Creek on your left), passing beside some cascades[172] for about 100m before climbing up and over some rocks and under a sandstone overhang[173]. The track leads around the side of the hill for about 100m, then down to cross a small creek using the small flat timber bridge[174]. The walk then climbs up some timber steps[175] to a fenced lookout[176] over Fishponds, at a well-signposted intersection[177]. A sign points back along the track to ‘Thornleigh Station’[178].
Fishponds Lookout

(18.11km) Fishponds Lookout → Int of Blue Gum Walk and Joes Mountain Service Trail
300 m
7 mins
39m
0m
Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the ‘Hornsby Station’ sign up[183] along the track a short distance to come to an intersection with a wide management trail[184].
(18.4km) Int of Blue Gum Walk and Joes Mountain Service Trail → Int of Great North Walk and Rosemead Rd service trail
850 m
19 mins
35m
-45m
Moderate track
(19.26km) Int of Great North Walk and Rosemead Rd service trail → Berowra Valley Bushland Park
30 m
1 mins
4m
0m
Easy track
Berowra Valley Bushland Park

(19.29km) Berowra Valley Bushland Park → Int of Quarry Road and Great North Walk
540 m
14 mins
89m
-12m
Hard track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post up a couple of timber steps[208] and then follows the track as it winds up over the gentle rise. Once over the rise, the track then leads down to the intersection with Quarry Rd, where a ‘Great North Walk’ sign[209] points back up the track.
(19.83km) Int of Quarry Road and Great North Walk → Hornsby Train Station
720 m
14 mins
34m
-8m
Easy track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows Quarry Rd up the gentle hill[212] for about 180m, then follows the GNW arrow[213] left onto Dural St[214]. The footpath leads past the unit block, then past a few shops to come to an intersection with the Pacific Hwy. Following the GNW arrow, this walk turns right across ‘Dural St’[215], passes a few more shops, then crosses ‘Dural Lane’[216] before turning left across the Pacific Hwy at the traffic lights[217]. Here the walk continues straight across the ‘Station St’ pedestrian crossing[218], past the large ‘Great North Walk’ sign[219] and across the bus lane to the western entrance of Hornsby Station[220].
Maps for the Eastwood to Hornsby walk
You can download the PDF for this walk to print a map.
These maps below cover the walk and the wider area around the walk, they are worth carrying for safety reasons.
Hornsby | 1:25 000 Map Series | 91304S HORNSBY | NSW-91304S |
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 Eastwood to Hornsby bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Eastwood to Hornsby

Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001
Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.
Length | 20.6 km | ||
Time | 8 hrs | ||
. | |||
![]() Grade 4/6 Hard track |
AS 2156.1 | Gradient | Very steep (4/6) |
Quality of track | Formed track, with some branches and other obstacles (3/6) | ||
Signs | Directional signs along the way (3/6) | ||
Experience Required | Moderate level of bushwalking experience recommended (4/6) | ||
Weather | Storms may impact on navigation and safety (3/6) | ||
Infrastructure | Limited facilities, not all cliffs are fenced (3/6) |
Some more details of this walks Grading
Here is a bit more details explaining grading looking at sections of the walk
Gradient
10km of this walk has gentle hills with occasional steps and another 7km has short steep hills. Whilst another 2.3km is flat with no steps and the remaining 1.6km is very steep.
Quality of track
10km of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles and another 8km follows a clear and well formed track or trail. The remaining (2.7km) follows a smooth and hardened path.
Signs
Around 10km of this walk is clearly signposted, whilst the remaining 10km has directional signs at most intersection.
Experience Required
11km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience and another 9km requires some bushwalking experience. The remaining (990m) requires a leader a with moderate level of bushwalking experience.
weather
Around 17km of this walk is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation), whilst the remaining 3.5km is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety.
Infrastructure
Around 12km of this walk has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced), whilst the remaining 8km is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats).
Similar walks
A list of walks that share part of the track with the Eastwood to Hornsby walk.
Other Nearby walks
A list of walks that start near the Eastwood to Hornsby walk.
Plan your trip to and from the walk here
The Eastwood to Hornsby walk starts at the Eastwood Railway Station (gps: -33.790145, 151.08226)
Your transport options to Eastwood Railway Station are by;
Train. (get details)
Bus. (get details)
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)
The Eastwood to Hornsby ends at the Hornsby Train Station (gps: -33.703509, 151.09801)
Your transport options to Hornsby Train Station are by;
Train. (get details)
Bus. (get details)
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)
Fire Danger
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.
Weather Forest
This walk starts in the Metropolitan weather district always check the formal BOM forecast or pdf before starting your walk.
Forecast snapshot
Park Information & Alerts
Comments
Short URL = http://wild.tl/tctbgr
Gallery images
There are other downloads I am still working on.
You will probably need to login to access these — still all free.
* KML (google earth file)
* GPX (GPS file)
Special Maps/ brochures
* A3 topo maps
* PDF with Lands Topo map base
* PDF with arial image (and map overlay)
I wanted to get the main site live first, this extra stuff will come in time.
Happy walking
Matt 🙂
Baker’s Cottage
And Walk
Baker’s Cottage

45 mins


56 m

Moderate track


The Baker’s Cottage Heritage Track is a quick and interesting walk. The track itself is mainly drivable road, and turns to bush track before going up the hill to the cottage itself. At 140 years of age, Baker’s Cottage is the oldest unmodified structure, still standing, in the Ku-ring-gai area. All entrances to the cottage are blocked, so you can’t see inside. It is worth looking around the ground to see some other historic remains.
(0km) Max Allen Drive Bridge → Int. Opposite Bakers Flat
640 m
14 mins
24m
-21m
Easy track
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].
Continue straight: 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.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads down the hill with the river below, on the left. The walk meets a clearing on the left marked as ’28 Turramburra Flat’. This walk passes a parking area on the left, and toilets on the right. The road then comes to a signposted intersection, on the right.
(0.64km) Int. Opposite Bakers Flat → Baker’s Cottage
120 m
3 mins
10m
-1m
Moderate track
Baker’s Cottage

Maps for the Baker’s Cottage 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 Baker’s Cottage bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Baker’s Cottage

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 | 1.5 km | ||
Time | 45 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 | Clearly signposted (1/6) | ||
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
380m of this walk is flat with no steps and another 260m has gentle hills with occasional steps. The remaining (120m) has short steep hills.
Quality of track
470m of this walk follows a smooth and hardened path and another 170m follows a clear and well formed track or trail. The remaining (120m) follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles.
Signs
This whole walk, 760m is clearly signposted.
Experience Required
This whole walk, 760m requires no previous bushwalking experience.
weather
This whole walk, 760m is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation).
Infrastructure
Around 640m of this walk is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats), whilst the remaining 120m has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced).
Similar walks
A list of walks that share part of the track with the Baker’s Cottage walk.
Other Nearby walks
A list of walks that start near the Baker’s Cottage walk.
Plan your trip to and from the walk here
The Baker’s Cottage walk starts and ends at the Max Allen Drive Bridge (gps: -33.79072, 151.15604)
Your main transport option to Max Allen Drive Bridge is by;
Car. Parking fees apply in the area.
(get details)
Fire Danger
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.
Weather Forest
This walk starts in the Metropolitan weather district always check the formal BOM forecast or pdf before starting your walk.
Forecast snapshot
Park Information & Alerts
Comments
Short URL = http://wild.tl/o
Gallery images
There are other downloads I am still working on.
You will probably need to login to access these — still all free.
* KML (google earth file)
* GPX (GPS file)
Special Maps/ brochures
* A3 topo maps
* PDF with Lands Topo map base
* PDF with arial image (and map overlay)
I wanted to get the main site live first, this extra stuff will come in time.
Happy walking
Matt 🙂
Chatswood Station to Mowbray Park
And Walk
Chatswood Station to Mowbray Park

2 hrs


137 m

Hard track



This walk leads down through the valleys beneath the houses, high on the ridge tops, to reaching the banks of the Lane Cove River at the Chatswood Golf Course. The walk then follows the scenic river, using boardwalks at times. The walk sees another side of Chatswood, with many natural treasures hidden along the way.
(0km) Chatswood Station → Int. Edgar St and Edgar St Reserve Trk
620 m
13 mins
9m
-37m
Moderate track
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
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
(0.99km) Int. Park Ave and Rail to River Trk → Harnett Pl sign post
500 m
13 mins
22m
-30m
Moderate track
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 right: From the intersection, the walk heads along the creek (which remains on the left) for approximately 60m to turn up the steps to a signposted intersection.
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Rail to River Walk’ sign up the hill. The track zigzags up through mossy rock outcrops to a house on the left. This walk continues up the stairs to the intersection with the road.
(1.49km) Harnett Pl sign post → Int. Hawthorne Ave and Bellevue Ave
1 km
20 mins
22m
-35m
Easy track
Turn left: From the gate on Greville St, this walk passes through the park diagonally, past the play equipment and BBQs, to the gate on the Fullers Rd side of Lowanna Park.
Turn left: From Lowanna Park, this walk heads along Fullers Rd towards the mechanics, initially keeping the park on the left. The walk continues along Fullers Rd, as Millwood Ave breaks off to the right. The first left is the signposted intersection with Bellevue Ave.
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Rail to River Walk’ signs down Bellevue Ave for approximately 500m, tending right to the signposted intersection.
(2.51km) Int. Hawthorne Ave and Bellevue Ave → Int. Rail to River Trk and Hawthorne Ave
50 m
1 mins
0m
-5m
Easy track
(2.56km) Int. Rail to River Trk and Hawthorne Ave → O.H. Reid Memorial Oval car park
210 m
4 mins
0m
-17m
Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk heads across the oval to the car park to the left of the toilet block.
(2.77km) O.H. Reid Memorial Oval car park → Int. Rail to River Trk and Reid Drive
380 m
7 mins
6m
-9m
Easy track
(3.15km) Int. Rail to River Trk and Reid Drive → Int. River Trk and Avian Cr Trk
1.4 km
27 mins
35m
-37m
Hard track
Turn left : From the intersection, this walk follows the track past the metal fence and along the right-hand side of the 8th fairway of Chatswood Golf Course, keeping the river on the right of the track. The walk continues up the fairway and over a bridge, passing two sand bunkers on the left. Approximately 20m after the second bunker, the walk comes to an intersection with a management trail, on the right.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk leaves the golf course and heads along the mangroves and waterline, to the right of the track. The walk follows the mangroves for a short time to the signposted intersection.
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the arrow for the ‘River Walk’, keeping the Lane Cove River on the right. The track continues along some boardwalk sections which are raised above the mangroves in places. The track continues to a signposted intersection.
(4.51km) Int. River Trk and Avian Cr Trk → Mowbray Park
540 m
10 mins
9m
-15m
Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads west along the Lane Cove River bank, with the water to the right of the track. The track quickly opens out onto a clearing next to the river bank. The walk continues over two sections of boardwalked track, leading to a signposted intersection.
Turn right: From the signposted intersection, this walk heads towards the large rock next to the water (below on the right). The walk uses pins bolted into the rock as handholds, and climbs to the other side of the river bank. The track then continues along the gap between the mangroves and a rocky outcrop, to come to the Mowbray Park athletics field.
(5.05km) Mowbray Park → Int. River Trk and Bus Stop Trk
270 m
6 mins
21m
-11m
Moderate track
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads along the hillside towards the oval (below on the right). The track winds through the bush for approximately 60m to pass over a bridge and a ‘Mowbray Park’ sign in a grassed area. The walk crosses this grass area to come to the intersection with the footpath.
(5.31km) Int. River Trk and Bus Stop Trk → Mowbray car park (near oval)
120 m
2 mins
0m
-7m
Moderate track
(5.31km) Int. River Trk and Bus Stop Trk → Mowbray Park bus stop
40 m
2 mins
12m
0m
Moderate track
Maps for the Chatswood Station to Mowbray Park 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 Chatswood Station to Mowbray Park bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Chatswood Station to Mowbray Park

Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001
Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.
Length | 5.4 km | ||
Time | 2 hrs | ||
. | |||
![]() Grade 4/6 Hard track |
AS 2156.1 | Gradient | Very steep (4/6) |
Quality of track | Formed track, with some branches and other obstacles (3/6) | ||
Signs | Directional signs along the way (3/6) | ||
Experience Required | Some bushwalking experience recommended (3/6) | ||
Weather | 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
2.5km of this walk is flat with no steps and another 2.2km has gentle hills with occasional steps. Whilst another 540m has short steep hills and the remaining 55m is very steep.
Quality of track
Around 2.9km of this walk follows a smooth and hardened path, whilst the remaining 2.4km follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles.
Signs
Around 3km of this walk has directional signs at most intersection, whilst the remaining 2.4km is clearly signposted.
Experience Required
Around 5km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 140m requires some bushwalking experience.
weather
Around 5km of this walk is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation), whilst the remaining 140m is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety.
Infrastructure
Around 3.6km of this walk is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats), whilst the remaining 1.7km has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced).
Similar walks
A list of walks that share part of the track with the Chatswood Station to Mowbray Park walk.
Other Nearby walks
A list of walks that start near the Chatswood Station to Mowbray Park walk.
Plan your trip to and from the walk here
The Chatswood Station to Mowbray Park walk starts 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)
The Chatswood Station to Mowbray Park ends at the Mowbray Park bus stop (gps: -33.801252, 151.14757)
Your transport options to Mowbray Park bus stop are by;
Bus. (get details)
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)
Fire Danger
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.
Weather Forest
This walk starts in the Metropolitan weather district always check the formal BOM forecast or pdf before starting your walk.
Forecast snapshot
Park Information & Alerts
Comments
Short URL = http://wild.tl/cstmp
Gallery images
There are other downloads I am still working on.
You will probably need to login to access these — still all free.
* KML (google earth file)
* GPX (GPS file)
Special Maps/ brochures
* A3 topo maps
* PDF with Lands Topo map base
* PDF with arial image (and map overlay)
I wanted to get the main site live first, this extra stuff will come in time.
Happy walking
Matt 🙂
Epping Station Lane Cove River Loop
And Walk
Epping Station Lane Cove River Loop

3 hrs


168 m

Moderate track




A great way to explore the Lane Cove Valley from Epping Station, this walk loops around North Epping, returning to the station. There are many sights to be seen along this walk, with Whale Rock and Brown’s Waterhole being a couple of highlights. The walk explores Devlins Creek, upper Lane Cove River and Terry’s Creek. A lovely way to spend a few hours.
(0km) Epping Station → Int of Derby street service trail
940 m
18 mins
3m
-33m
Very easy
(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
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
Big Ducky Waterhole
(2.61km) Big Ducky Waterhole → Whale Rock
480 m
8 mins
6m
-9m
Easy track
Whale Rock

(3.09km) Whale Rock → Browns Waterhole int
2.1 km
40 mins
47m
-66m
Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection the track follows the Thornleigh via Great North Walk arrow down the short but steep hill and across the river at the causeway. On the other side of the river the track comes up to the intersection of the Great North Walk service trail.
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Lane Cove River Park’ sign[1], 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[2] (on the left), marked with a STEP Track map/sign[3].
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘The Great North Walk’ sign[4] along the mostly flat management trail, initially keeping the sealed ‘Canoon Rd’ trail up to your left. The trail undulates through the tall forest[5] and valley (weedy in places[6]), keeping the river to your right, for just shy of 600m to come to an intersection marked with a ‘STEP track’ sign[7][8] (on your left).
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows GNW arrow post[9] down the short, fairly steep hill, following the management trail over a small culverted creek[10]. The walk then heads gently uphill for about 30m to come to a clear three-way intersection[11], marked with a GNW arrow post.
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[12] 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[13], where there is a mostly clear view over the river[14] (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[15]), beside the Lane Cove River crossing[16] (on your right), marked with a ‘The Great North Walk’ sign[17].
(5.16km) Browns Waterhole int → Browns Waterhole
90 m
2 mins
5m
-1m
Moderate track
Browns Waterhole

(5.25km) Browns Waterhole → Int of Terry’s Creek Walking Track and Brown’s Waterhole Servicetrail
40 m
1 mins
3m
0m
Very easy
(5.29km) Int of Terry’s Creek Walking Track and Brown’s Waterhole Servicetrail → Int of Eastwood Station and Pembroke street tracks
2 km
36 mins
46m
-37m
Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection the track follows the bushtrack south through the bush winding up some steps and crossing underneath the M2 moter way and back down and around to the signposted intersection of the Crimea road and Epping road tracks.
Turn right: From the intersection the tack follows the Epping road arrow down across the creek and up the other side to the signposted intersection of the Eastwood Station track at the number 18 plaque
Turn right: From the intersection the track follows the Eastwood Station arrow through the bush winding all the way along to a rock platform where you can see the M2 motorway and continues along the track, all the way through until it comes to the signposted intersection of the signposted intersection of the Eastwood Station track
Continue straight: From the intersection the track heads west through the bush winding down a gentle hill and around a sewage access point, coming back up the other side to the signposted intersection of the Eastwood Station track.
Turn left: From the intersection the track heads south, up the short hill and through the bush passing 2 sewage access points as it winds along the left hand side of the creek, all the way to the intersection of the Eastwood Station track, a short distance after passing the 3rd sewage access point.
Continue straight: From the intersection the track follows the bushtrack south alongside the creek, passing a sewage access point and continuing up a short hill to the intersection of the unnamed bushtrack.
Veer left: From the intersection the track heads south west along the bushtrack winding up and down along the left side of the creek until it crosses a small wooden bridge and continues through the bush, all the way to the intersection of the unnamed bushtrack.
Continue straight: From the intersection the track follows the Eastwood Station arrow along the creek and through the bush past signpost 15, and a sewage access point. continuing up a short hill to the intersection of the Epping road track.
Continue straight: From the intersection the track follows the bushtrack down the gentle hill, winding around and under the Epping road bridge and across the rocks until it comes to the intersection of the Pembroke road path and the Eastwood Station track at the base of the wooden steps.
(7.24km) Int of Eastwood Station and Pembroke street tracks → Int on Epping Rd east of Terrys Creek
50 m
1 mins
0m
0m
Moderate track
Turn left: From the intersection (marked with the no.13 post[20]) this walk follows the track uphill, towards the busy road (through the re-vegetating clearing) for about 30m to come to a T-intersection with a concrete path[21], beside Epping Road.
(7.3km) Int on Epping Rd east of Terrys Creek → End of Pembroke St
110 m
2 mins
2m
-1m
Very easy
(7.41km) End of Pembroke street → Epping Station
1 km
18 mins
46m
-1m
Very easy
Maps for the Epping Station Lane Cove River 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 Epping Station Lane Cove River Loop bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Epping Station Lane Cove River 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 | 8.4 km | ||
Time | 3 hrs | ||
. | |||
![]() 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 | 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
Around 6km of this walk has gentle hills with occasional steps, whilst the remaining 2.2km is flat with no steps.
Quality of track
3.8km of this walk follows a clear and well formed track or trail and another 2.5km follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles. The remaining (2.2km) follows a smooth and hardened path.
Signs
Around 5km of this walk is clearly signposted, whilst the remaining 3.2km has directional signs at most intersection.
Experience Required
Around 7km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 1.9km requires some bushwalking experience.
weather
Around 8km of this walk is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation), whilst the remaining 880m 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 2.6km has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced).
Similar walks
A list of walks that share part of the track with the Epping Station Lane Cove River Loop walk.
Other Nearby walks
A list of walks that start near the Epping Station Lane Cove River Loop walk.
Plan your trip to and from the walk here
The Epping Station Lane Cove River Loop walk starts and ends 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)
Fire Danger
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.
Weather Forest
This walk starts in the Metropolitan weather district always check the formal BOM forecast or pdf before starting your walk.
Forecast snapshot
Park Information & Alerts
Comments
Short URL = http://wild.tl/esl
Gallery images
There are other downloads I am still working on.
You will probably need to login to access these — still all free.
* KML (google earth file)
* GPX (GPS file)
Special Maps/ brochures
* A3 topo maps
* PDF with Lands Topo map base
* PDF with arial image (and map overlay)
I wanted to get the main site live first, this extra stuff will come in time.
Happy walking
Matt 🙂
Gordon to Hornsby (overnight at Scout camp)

2 Days


1024 m

Hard track




This overnight walk starts from Gordon train station and winds through bush filled valleys to Hornsby station. From Gordon station, the walk winds down past the Gordon golf course to the Great North Walk, then continues north through the Lane Cove Valley before staying overnight at the Baden Powell scout camp. The next day, the walk continues along the Great North Walk, through Thornleigh and down into the Berowra Valley Regional Park, following Berowra creek to the beautiful Fishponds waterhole. From here, the walk passes up through a piece of the old Blue Gum High Forest to Hornsby Quarry, and on to Hornsby train station.
(0km) Gordon Station → Int. Blackbutt Creek Trk and Vale St
980 m
20 mins
6m
-54m
Easy track
Continue straight: From Gordon Station bus depot, this walk heads up the hill of St Johns Ave to the Pacific Highway. The walk crosses to the other side at the pedestrian crossing. From here, this walk follows the shop fronts up the Pacific Highway, then turns left onto Moree St. This street is followed until the walk turns right onto Vale St. This walk continues along Vale St for a short time to the intersection with the bush track on the left of the street.
(0.98km) Int. Blackbutt Creek Trk and Vale St → Int. Blackbutt Ck Pathway and Blackbutt Ck Trail
430 m
8 mins
0m
-12m
Moderate track
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk heads down the hill, passing a concrete sewerage inspection hole on the right. The trail continues along the creek line for another 20m, to the intersection which leads down to the creek on the right.
(1.41km) Int. Blackbutt Ck Pathway and Blackbutt Ck Trail → Int. Lady Game Drive and Falls Creek Trk
1.3 km
25 mins
7m
-42m
Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the left-hand arrow on the ‘Blackbutt Creek Track’ sign, down the hill. The track contours with the creek on the right, and the houses high on the left, for approximately 1km to then steeply descend to the intersection above the concreted water-crossing.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads down the hill, across the concrete ford (creek), to then turn right and follow along side the creek. The trail tends left away from the creek, up to a white gate.
(2.74km) Int. Lady Game Drive and Falls Creek Trk → Allen Park
1.2 km
23 mins
49m
-23m
Easy track
(3.95km) Allen Park → Int of GNW and Ryde Road trail (west)
1.1 km
23 mins
22m
-55m
Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the ‘Great North Walk – Deburghs Bridge’ sign[4] downhill along the wide management trail. The trail soon bends right and follows the power lines[5] down, stepping over a partially buried, green metal pipeline[6] (sometimes hissing[7]). After this, the trail follows a GNW arrow[8] left as the trail significantly narrows and leads down a series of timbers steps[9] then across the rocky Blackbutt Creek[10][11]. Here, the walk follows the GNW arrow up onto the rock platform[12], where the track turns left then leads along the flat to a T-intersection with a GNW arrow post[13], and a set of steps[14] (up to your right AND down to your left).
Turn right: From the intersection, the walk follows the GNW arrow post up the timber steps[15]. The track then leads up some stone steps[16] and comes to a three-way intersection, where a sign points back to ‘Lane Cove River Weir via Great North Walk’[17].
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Thornleigh via Great North Walk’ sign[18] down a couple of steps[19] 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[20], with some graffiti[21]. On the other side of the bridge, the track bends right to head up over some rocks, following two sections of hand railing[22][23]. From the end of these handrails, the track leads gently up among the grass trees[24] for about 400m (and a weedy section of track) to come to a clear T-intersection[25] with a management trail, where a ‘Great North Walk’ sign[26] points back down the track.
(5.07km) Int of GNW and Ryde Road trail (west) → Int of GNW and Gloucester Ave service trail (sth)
900 m
19 mins
35m
-30m
Moderate track
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Thornleigh Oval’ sign[31] west, gently down the track, away from the management trail. The track almost immediately passes the large metal pipe (crossing the Lane Cove River[32]) then winds down the rocky track[33] for about 200m, through open eucalypt forest[34] with some limited views left over the valley, to come to a weedy section of track marked with a concrete sewerage access point[35]. 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[36]. The walk then heads up some steps and follows the track for another 30m to come to a T-intersection[37] with the Gloucester Ave fire trail, marked with a GNW and NPWS arrow post[38].
Turn left: From the intersection, the walk follows the GNW arrow post[39] 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[40] (just under the high tension power lines[41]).
(5.97km) Int of GNW and Gloucester Ave service trail (sth) → Int of the GNW and mid Gloucester Ave fire trail access track
690 m
15 mins
22m
-11m
Moderate track
Continue straight: From the green shed, this walk follows the track[47] 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[48].
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[49]. After about 70m, this walk heads down a few timbers steps to cross a small gully[50], where the track continues for another 100m (passing close to a few houses[51]), then crosses two flat timber bridges[52] over Congham Creek. Here the walk veers left up onto the rock platform[53] and follows the track gently uphill for another 80m to come to a three-way intersection, marked with a GNW arrow post[54] (and a sign pointing left to ‘Marsfield’[55]).
Veer right: From the intersection, the walk follows the GNW arrow post[56] north, uphill for about 30m to come to a faint intersection with a track (on your right) marked with a GNW arrow post[57].
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[58] 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[59] and a pile of rocks[60] (on your left).
(6.66km) Int of the GNW and mid Gloucester Ave fire trail access track → Int of the Great North Walk and the West Pymble service trail link track
620 m
14 mins
29m
-36m
Hard track
(7.28km) Int of the GNW and the West Pymble service trail link track → Int of the GNW and the Avondale creek service trail
210 m
4 mins
5m
-7m
Moderate track
(7.48km) 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
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[75].
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[76] along the track, keeping the Lane Cove River a short distance to your left[77]. After about 80m, the track steps up to and crosses a short section to timber boardwalk/bridge[78]. Here the walk climbs up the rocky hill following a series of concrete access points[79] and timber steps[80] for about 230m to come to a T-intersection with a management trail, marked with a GNW arrow post[81].
(7.97km) Int of the GNW and the Turramurra High School service trail → Creek crossing
840 m
17 mins
23m
-35m
Moderate track
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[84]. The trail then heads gently down for about 400m before a short steep hill[85] leads down to a metal high tension power line tower[86]. 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[87] and head behind a few houses. Just behind the second house, this walk comes to ephemeral creek on a rock platform[88].
(8.81km) Creek crossing → Browns Waterhole int
300 m
6 mins
2m
-17m
Moderate track
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post downhill[91] along the wide, shared, concrete path. After about 50m, this path leads under some high tension power lines[92] then bends right[93]. About 50m after passing under the power lines, this path leads to an intersection with a track[94] (on your left, that leads to an informal unfenced lookout), just before a GNW arrow post[95].
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk heads fairly steeply downhill along the concrete path. The path passes a few signs[96] over about 100m, then comes to an intersection with a track (on your left), marked with a timber barricade and a GNW arrow post[97].
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[98]. This intersection is beside the Lane Cove River crossing[99] (on your left) and is marked with a ‘The Great North Walk’ sign here[100].
Browns Waterhole

(9.11km) Browns Waterhole int → Int of GNW and the STEP track (east)
570 m
12 mins
24m
-14m
Easy track
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[108] downhill along the management trail for about 30m to cross a small culverted creek[109]. The walk then follows the trail up the short hill to come to an intersection with the signposted ‘STEP track’[110][111] (on your right).
(9.68km) Int of GNW and the STEP track (east) → Int of GNW and the STEP track (west)
580 m
10 mins
8m
-9m
Easy track
(10.26km) Int of GNW and the STEP track (west) → Int of the GNW and the Morona Ave trail
2.2 km
39 mins
54m
-23m
Moderate track
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Thornleigh Station’ sign[123] 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[124]. This crossing may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain. On the other side of the river, this walk continues along the trail[125] for about 400m (with the river now close by on your right) to come to an intersection with a faint track[126] (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[127], then continues along the valley floor among the fern trees (and concrete pipe access points[128]) for about 900m to cross the Lane Cove River again at another rocky ford[129]. (These crossings may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain). The trail then continues along the valley floor[130] (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[131] (on your right), marked with a ‘Lane Cove Valley’ map/sign[132] and a GNW arrow post[133].
(12.46km) Int of the GNW and the Morona Ave trail → Conscript Pass
330 m
8 mins
24m
-8m
Moderate track
(12.79km) Conscript Pass → Int of the GNW and Lorna Pass tracks
100 m
3 mins
19m
0m
Moderate track
Conscript Pass

(12.9km) Int of the GNW and Lorna Pass tracks → BP camping area
840 m
20 mins
55m
-34m
Hard track
Turn left : From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Baden Powell Scout Centre’ sign[155] 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[156] points back along the track.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Baden-Powell Scout Centre’ sign[157] and the GNW arrow post[158] west along the narrow track. The track leads through the dense heath[159] for about 120m to come to an intersection and clearing at a rocky outcrop[160], marked with a GNW arrow post[161].
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[162] 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[163]). Following the GNW arrow post, this walk soon bends right to step down to the edge of a creek[164]. Here the walk turns left and follows the creek downstream for about 20m to then bend right and cross Scout Creek[165]. The walk then heads uphill along the widening track for about 130m (passing a few scout constructions[166], and a track on the left[167]) then walks up under the high ropes course[168]. About 20m after the ropes course, this walk comes to an intersection with a dirt driveway[169], beside the green Pioneer Hut[170] (shed on the left). There is also a tap and drinking fountain here[171].
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the gravel driveway[172] east, away from the Pioneer Hut[173] and towards the picnic shelters. After about 30m (just after the left bend), this walk comes to some of these picnic shelters[174] and several tiered platforms (on your right) – this is the camping area (there is a stone building up to your right).
Baden Powell Scout Centre

For walkers, there is dorm/hostel style accommodation and several bush camping areas[177].
Bush camping – is found near the lower (south-eastern) end of the grounds for $9 per person per night. Facilities include tap water[178], picnic shelters[179], toilets[180] and even a shower block[181]. 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).
End of day 1
(13.74km) BP camping area → Int of BP camp and unnamed track
450 m
10 mins
20m
-21m
Hard track
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the track downhill, initially keeping the green Pioneer Hut[183] (shed) on your right. After about 20m, the track begins to narrow and heads under the high ropes course[184]. The walk continues downhill for about 130m (passing a track on the right[185] and a few scout constructions[186]) to cross Scout Creek[187]. Here the walk bends left and follows the creek for about 20m before turning right, and stepping up, at a faint intersection. The track then veers left to find a clearing (with a campfire scar[188]) then about 20m through the heath on the other side, this walk finds another flat clearing[189]. Here the walk turns right and follows the GNW arrow post up along the rocky track for about 120m to come to a rocky outcrop and clearing marked with another GNW arrow post[190].
(14.19km) Int of BP camp and unnamed track → Back of Thornleigh Oval
370 m
7 mins
27m
0m
Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Thornleigh Oval’ sign[194] gently up along the side for the hill for about 40m to come to an intersection with ‘Lorna Pass’ (on your right), and a large Great North Walk sign pointing back to the ‘Baden Powell Scout Centre’[195].
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post and ‘Thornleigh Station’ sign[196] uphill along the wide rocky track[197]. After just over 150m, the track bends left (ignoring a faint track on your right[198]) and heads uphill for another 40m to come to the back (south-east corner) of Thornleigh Oval[199], marked with a ‘Lane Cove National Park’ signpost[200].
(14.55km) Back of Thornleigh Oval → Int of Handley and Ferguson Avenues
160 m
3 mins
3m
0m
Easy track
Thornleigh Oval

(14.71km) Int of Handley and Ferguson Avenues → Thornleigh Train Station
920 m
16 mins
19m
-5m
Easy track
Veer left: From the base of the steps, this walk follows the GNW arrow across ‘Railway Pde’[220], heading towards the train line. At the fence, this walk veers left and leads along the pedestrian alley[221] for about 60m before turning right and climbing up the railway bridge steps[222], coming to the ‘Thornleigh’ Train Station[223].
(15.63km) Thornleigh Train Station → Morgan Rd
990 m
18 mins
7m
-47m
Easy track
(16.62km) Morgan Rd → Int of Bike Trail and Morgan Rd tracks
230 m
4 mins
3m
-7m
Moderate track
(16.85km) Int of Bellamy trail and Morgan Rd tracks → Zig Zag Creek Bridge int.
130 m
2 mins
0m
-6m
Easy track
. The walk continues down into the valley[246] along the concrete trail for another 110m to come to a signposted intersection marked with a ‘Great North Walk’ sign[247][248] (on your left), just before ‘Zig Zag Creek’[249] and the long bridge[250].
Thornleigh zigzag railway

(16.97km) Zig Zag Creek Bridge intersection → The Jungo
1.4 km
25 mins
16m
-37m
Moderate track
The Jungo

(18.41km) Jungo campsite → Int of GNW and Stringybark Ridge trail
100 m
2 mins
1m
0m
Moderate track
(18.51km) Int of GNW and Stringybark Ridge trail → Elouera Lookout
1 km
27 mins
81m
-58m
Moderate track
Elouera Lookout

(19.56km) Elouera Lookout → Int of the Great North Walk and the Blackfellows Head lookout track
2.8 km
1 hr 10 mins
188m
-194m
Moderate track
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk heads north along the main rocky track, keeping the valley down to your left. The track leads along beside a rock wall (which is on your right) and through a rock outcrop[291], where the track soon heads quite steeply uphill along the eroded track[292] for a short time. At the top of this steep section, the rocky track continues to meander much more gently up along the side of the hill[293] for about 300m, then crosses a small, rocky gully[294], just below some houses[295]. The track then continues gently uphill for about 100m to an intersection with the unsignposted Blackfellows Head track[296] (on your right).
(22.33km) Int of the Great North Walk and the Blackfellows Head lookout track → Fishponds Lookout
1.1 km
23 mins
28m
-96m
Hard track
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Fishponds’ sign[298] past the ‘Berowra Valley Regional Park’ sign[299], gently uphill along the narrow ridge[300]. The track is mostly flat for about 200m before it starts to head fairly steeply down over some rocks[301] and down a set of rock steps[302]. This area comes alive with Patersonia lilies and pink wax flowers in early spring. The track then continues fairly gently down along the narrow ridge[303] for another 200m before leading through a crack in a rock, then down a bit further to climb down through a particularly steep rocky section[304]. Near the bottom of this descent, this walk passes a couple of arrow posts[305], where the track bends right to pass below a large rock overhang[306]. Just beyond this overhang, the track bends left and leads across Waitara Creek at the interesting holes in the rock know as ‘the spa’[307]. This creek may become impassable after heavy rain, the rocks can also be slippery. Across the creek, the walk comes to a large rock platform and a Blue Gum Track post[308].
After stopping to enjoy cool spot, this walk continues left along the unfenced rock platform[309] (keeping the creek down to your left). The walk soon steps off this large rock (at the far right-hand corner, through the fork in a tree[310]). This walk heads over another rock platform[311], then along a notably flat section of track[312] (now with Berowra Creek on your left), passing beside some cascades[313] for about 100m before climbing up and over some rocks and under a sandstone overhang[314]. The track leads around the side of the hill for about 100m, then down to cross a small creek using the small flat timber bridge[315]. The walk then climbs up some timber steps[316] to a fenced lookout[317] over Fishponds, at a well-signposted intersection[318]. A sign points back along the track to ‘Thornleigh Station’[319].
Fishponds Lookout

(23.39km) Fishponds Lookout → Fishponds crossing
70 m
2 mins
3m
-4m
Moderate track
Fishponds

(23.39km) Fishponds Lookout → Int of Blue Gum Walk and Joes Mountain Service Trail
300 m
7 mins
39m
0m
Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the ‘Hornsby Station’ sign up[335] along the track a short distance to come to an intersection with a wide management trail[336].
(23.69km) Int of Blue Gum Walk and Joes Mountain Service Trail → Int of Great North Walk and Rosemead Rd service trail
850 m
19 mins
35m
-45m
Moderate track
(24.54km) Int of Great North Walk and Rosemead Rd service trail → Berowra Valley Bushland Park
30 m
1 mins
4m
0m
Easy track
Berowra Valley Bushland Park

(24.57km) Berowra Valley Bushland Park → Int of Quarry Road and Great North Walk
540 m
14 mins
89m
-12m
Hard track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post up a couple of timber steps[360] and then follows the track as it winds up over the gentle rise. Once over the rise, the track then leads down to the intersection with Quarry Rd, where a ‘Great North Walk’ sign[361] points back up the track.
(25.12km) Int of Quarry Road and Great North Walk → Hornsby Train Station
720 m
14 mins
34m
-8m
Easy track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows Quarry Rd up the gentle hill[364] for about 180m, then follows the GNW arrow[365] left onto Dural St[366]. The footpath leads past the unit block, then past a few shops to come to an intersection with the Pacific Hwy. Following the GNW arrow, this walk turns right across ‘Dural St’[367], passes a few more shops, then crosses ‘Dural Lane’[368] before turning left across the Pacific Hwy at the traffic lights[369]. Here the walk continues straight across the ‘Station St’ pedestrian crossing[370], past the large ‘Great North Walk’ sign[371] and across the bus lane to the western entrance of Hornsby Station[372].
Maps for the Gordon to Hornsby (overnight at Scout camp) 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 Gordon to Hornsby (overnight at Scout camp) bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Gordon to Hornsby (overnight at Scout camp)

Daily actual walking time estimates
Day | Walking Time | Length |
---|---|---|
1 | 4 hrs 39 mins | 13.7 km |
2 | 4 hrs 24 mins | 12.2 km |
Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001
Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.
Length | 25.8 km | ||
Time | 2 Days | ||
. | |||
![]() Grade 4/6 Hard track |
AS 2156.1 | Gradient | Very steep (4/6) |
Quality of track | Rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely (4/6) | ||
Signs | Minimal directional signs (4/6) | ||
Experience Required | Moderate level of bushwalking experience recommended (4/6) | ||
Weather | Storms may impact on navigation and safety (3/6) | ||
Infrastructure | Limited facilities, not all cliffs are fenced (3/6) |
Some more details of this walks Grading
Here is a bit more details explaining grading looking at sections of the walk
Gradient
13km of this walk has short steep hills and another 8km has gentle hills with occasional steps. Whilst another 3.6km is flat with no steps and the remaining 1.6km is very steep.
Quality of track
11km of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles and another 10km follows a clear and well formed track or trail. Whilst another 2.7km follows a smooth and hardened path and the remaining 1.4km follows a rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely.
Signs
14km of this walk has directional signs at most intersection and another 11km is clearly signposted. The remaining (800m) has minimal directional signs.
Experience Required
16km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience and another 9km requires some bushwalking experience. The remaining (990m) requires a leader a with moderate level of bushwalking experience.
weather
Around 22km of this walk is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation), whilst the remaining 4.1km is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety.
Infrastructure
Around 16km of this walk has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced), whilst the remaining 10km is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats).
Similar walks
A list of walks that share part of the track with the Gordon to Hornsby (overnight at Scout camp) walk.
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