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Bairne walking track

Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

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Visitor info

All the practical information you need to know about Bairne walking track.

Track grading

Grade 3

Learn more about the grading system

Features of this track

Distance

9.6km return

Time

3hrs - 3hrs 30min

Quality of markings

Clearly sign posted

Experience required

No experience required

Gradient

Short steep hills

Steps

Occasional steps

Quality of path

Formed track

Getting there and parking

Get driving directions

Get directions

    Bairne walking track starts at number 8 post on West Head Road in The Basin precinct of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. To get there, follow West Head Road and follow the signs to Number 8 post.

    Parking

    Parking is available near number 8 gate on West Head Road. It can be a busy on the weekend, so parking might be limited then.

    Best times to visit

    Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park offers an exceptional visit all year round. You're sure to find a walk, tour, activity or attraction to appeal, regardless of the season.

    Spring

    If you're interested in wildflower displays, set aside a day in August or September to stroll through the park's blooming heathlands.

    Summer

    Bring your fishing gear and go camping at The Basin.

    Winter

    Barrenjoey Head (on the other side of Pittwater, but still in the park) is an excellent spot for whale watching. Take the Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk between May and August or celebrate International Lighthouse and Lightship Weekend in August.

    Weather, temperature and rainfall

    Summer temperature

    Average

    17°C and 31°C

    Highest recorded

    43.1°C (1994)

    Winter temperature

    Average

    5°C and 20°C

    Lowest recorded

    -3.5°C (1986

    Rainfall

    Wettest month

    February and March

    The area’s highest recorded rainfall in one day

    253mm

    Facilities

    Toilets and picnic facilities are located at The Basin picnic area

    Maps and downloads

    Safety messages

    Beach safety

    Beaches in this park are not patrolled, and can sometimes have strong rips and currents. These beach safety tips will help you and your family stay safe in the water.

    Bushwalking safety

    If you're keen to head out on a longer walk or a backpack camp, always be prepared. Read these bushwalking safety tips before you set off on a walking adventure in national parks.

    Mobile safety

    Dial Triple Zero (000) in an emergency. Download the Emergency Plus app before you visit, it helps emergency services locate you using your smartphone's GPS. Please note there is limited mobile phone reception in this park and you’ll need mobile reception to call Triple Zero (000).

    Permitted

    Cycling is permitted on this track.

    Prohibited

    Gathering firewood

    Gathering firewood and the use of heat beads is not permitted.

    Pets

    Pets and domestic animals (other than certified assistance animals) are not permitted. Find out which regional parks allow dog walking and see the pets in parks policy for more information.

    Smoking

    NSW national parks are no smoking areas.

    Bairne walking track

    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

    Visitor centre