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Bridle trail

Arakoon National Park

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Visitor info

All the practical information you need to know about Bridle trail.

Track grading

Grade 2

Learn more about the grading system

Features of this track

Distance

0.6km one-way

Time

15 - 45min

Quality of markings

Clearly sign posted

Experience required

No experience required

Gradient

Gentle hills

Steps

Occasional steps

Quality of path

Formed track: The track is 2-3m wide and hard-packed gravel along its length.

Other barriers

Pinch points: The track may narrow at points due to rocks, plants and other natural features.

Getting there and parking

Bridle trail starts at Little Bay picnic area in the Trial Bay Gaol precinct of Arakoon National Park. To get there:

From South West Rocks:

  • Follow Phillip Drive (it becomes Wilson Street)
  • Turn right onto Gladstone Street which becomes Carri Street
  • Continue along Carri Street until you reach Little Bay picnic area

Parking

Parking is available in an asphalt carpark at Little Bay picnic area.

Best times to visit

There are lots of great things waiting for you in Arakoon National Park. Here are some of the highlights.

Spring

The wildflowers will be out so it’s a great time to hike the park’s walking tracks. Keep an eye out for the glossy black cockatoos that feed on the seeds of ripe she-oak fruit during spring.

Summer

School's out and it's a great time for a family camping holiday – spend your days swimming, snorkelling, fishing and exploring the park's attractions.

Winter

Catch the whales on their journey north along the coast.

Weather, temperature and rainfall

Summer temperature

Average

20°C and 26°C

Highest recorded

41.7°C

Winter temperature

Average

12°C and 20°C

Lowest recorded

4°C

Rainfall

Wettest month

March

Driest month

September

The area’s highest recorded rainfall in one day

343.7mm

Facilities

Facilities are located at Little Bay picnic area, where this walk begins, including:

  • Accessible toilets
  • Picnic tables
  • An outdoor cold water shower

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).

Accessibility

Disability access level - medium

Bridle trail is a 2-3m wide hard-packed gravel trail. The track may narrow at points due to rocks, plants and other natural features.

Permitted

Fishing

A current NSW recreational fishing licence is required when fishing in all waters.

Prohibited

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.

Bridle trail

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Park info