Welcome to the Great North walk, an epic hike linking Sydney to Newcastle
The Great North walk - a mammoth 260km one-way walk stretching between Sydney and Newcastle is famous for challenging trails and incredible scenery. It sounds ambitious, but it’s actually split into stages, so it is practically a walk in the (national) park. Here are some of the best sections, which you can explore at your own leisure. Add them all up and you've got yourself a pretty unreal hiking experience.
Where: Starts and ends at Hornsby station, Berowra Valley National Park.
Distance: 16km
On this 7hr hike, you’ll pass waterholes, rock overhangs and a variety of plant life in Sydney’s north. Take in various vantage points around the rim and upper sections of Galston Gorge. Stop for some snacks and a photo op’ at the historic ‘Steele Bridge’. Next, follow the creek as it descends toward the valley floor. Finally, climb to the top of the ridge where the track emerges at Hornsby Heights.
Where: Hornsby to Berowra stations, Berowra Valley National Park.
Distance: 12km
Explore the hidden valleys of Berowra Valley National Park. Start by following a steep downhill route to the path through lyrebird country. From there, emerge at Berowra Creek near Crosslands Reserve. Shortly into the walk you'll come across Calna Bridge. Here you'll see the spectacular scenery of a wooden pathway passing over a delicate salt marsh. Continue the journey north along Berowra Creek for most of the day.
If running on time, lunch will be at the subterranean 'sandstone settee' just above Sams Creek. From there you’ll climb to Naa Badu lookout to see the breathtaking views of the track. The last part of the journey will be a steep climb to the top of the ridge. This leads to Berowra where you'll get a chance to stop for a well-earned coffee near the station.
Where: Berowra to Cowan stations, Berowra Valley National Park
Distance: 14km
Enjoy spectacular views across Berowra Valley and Marramarra national parks, where the hidden valleys open. On a clear day, see the distinctive shape of Mount Banks in the centre of the Blue Mountains. From Berowra, the track heads sharply downhill on its meandering path to Berowra Waters. The final stretch of the day is on a much gentler track, finishing up at Cowan railway station.
Ranger’s tip: This is not an easy walk as there are more than 900m of ascents and descents. Bring at least two litres of drinking water, lunch and snacks. It's a good idea to wear enclosed shoes and bring a hat, rain gear, sunscreen and insect protection.
Where: Cowan to Hawkesbury River stations, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.
Distance: 13km
Pass through beautiful foreshore areas such as Jerusalem Bay and across the dry ridges and pocket areas of warm-temperate rainforest. As the views unfold, so too do the wildflowers that line the track. Spectacular sandstone overhangs and outcrops feature throughout the day. As the path gets closer to Brooklyn, sweeping views of the Hawkesbury River open. Before the final descent into the village and Hawkesbury River railway station, you’ll visit Brooklyn Dam.
