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Waratah walking track

Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

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Overview

The long, yet gentle, Waratah walking track takes in wildflowers and scenic water views over Akuna and Yeomens Bay in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.

Distance
10km return
Time suggested
2hrs 30min - 3hrs 30min
Grade
Grade 4
Trip Intention Form

It's a good idea to let someone know where you're going. Fill in a trip intention form to send important details about your trip to your emergency contact.

Entry fees
Park entry fees apply
What to
bring
Sunscreen, drinking water, hat
Please note

You'll find toilets and picnic facilities at Resolute picnic area

A brilliant walk when the weather warms up, Waratah walking track delights with heady scents and a colourful display that’s sure to put a spring in your step. This track takes in the western area off West Head Road through heathland, with lovely water views over Yeomens Bay in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.

It’s perfect for a day trip, so don’t forget to pack a picnic lunch as the track leads through sandy heath dotted with boronia and waratahs. Stop and enjoy the scenic water views down to Akuna Bay and Yeomens Creek. Near the end of the walk, a large rock shelf brims with islands of wildflowers.

Unroll the picnic rug and enjoy a snack while soaking up the escarpment view overlooking Yeomens Bay and Coal and Candle Creek. When you’ve had your fill of scenery and wildflowers, retrace your steps.

Take a virtual tour of Waratah walking track captured with Google Street View Trekker.

For directions, safety and practical information, see visitor info

 

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A family walk a boardwalk section of Bouddi coastal walk, Bouddi National Park. Photo: John Spencer/OEH.

General enquiries

Operated by

Park info

  • in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park in the Sydney and surrounds region
  • Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is open sunrise to sunset but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

    • The entrance to Bobbin Head and Appletree Bay is closed from 8pm to 6am during daylight savings periods, and from 5.30pm to 6am the rest of the year.
    • Gates to West Head are closed from 8.30pm to 6am during daylight savings periods, and from 6pm to 6am the rest of the year.
  • Park entry fees:

    $12 per vehicle per day. You can also pay for your visit via the Park’nPay app.

    Vehicles over 8 seats: $4.40 per adult, $2.20 per child (per day). Students on educational programs: $1.10 per student. Teachers/educational supervisors: free (1 adult per 10 students).

    Other fees:

    A $3 per adult, $2 per child landing fee may apply for day visitors to The Basin campground. Please pay at the campground wharf. Landing fees are included in your camping fees.

    Group bookings:

    Under the Plan of Management for this park, prior written approval is required for organised groups of 40 or more people planning to visit this park. Contact the park office before your visit.

    Buy annual pass
See more visitor info