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Fairfax walk

Sydney Harbour National Park

Affected by closures, check current alerts 

Visitor info

All the practical information you need to know about Fairfax walk.

Track grading

Grade 2

Learn more about the grading system Features of this track

  • Time

    30min - 1hr

  • Quality of markings

    Clearly sign posted

  • Gradient

    Flat

  • Distance

    1km loop

  • Steps

    Occasional steps

  • Quality of path

    Well-formed track

  • Experience required

    No experience required

Getting there and parking

Get driving directions

Get directions

    The Fairfax Walk starts at the North Head precinct of Sydney Harbour National Park.

    To get there, take Sydney Road to Manly, then take Darley Road onto North Head Scenic Drive.

    Park entry points

    Parking

    Parking is available at North Head. 

    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 - easy

    • There are steps down to the northern lookout, making it unsuitable for wheelchairs and strollers. 
    • Assistance may be required to access this area
    • All other lookouts are easily accessible.

    Easy access is free of obstacles such as steps, rough terrain or significant slopes, and may have ramps or boardwalks.

    Prohibited

    Drones

    Flying a drone for recreational purposes is prohibited in this area. Drones may affect public enjoyment, safety and privacy, interfere with park operations, or pose a threat to wildlife. See the Drones in Parks policy.

    This area may be a declared Drone Exclusion Zone, or may be subject to Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) rules for flying near airports, aerodromes and helicopter landing sites. See CASA's Drone Flyer Rules.

    Commercial filming and photography

    Commercial filming or photography is prohibited without prior consent. You must apply for permission and contact the local office.

    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.

    Fairfax walk

    Operated by

    Park info

    • in Sydney Harbour National Park in the Sydney and surrounds region

    • Sydney Harbour National Park is open sunrise to sunset but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

    • Park entry fees:

      Bradleys Head carpark: $8 per vehicle per day. North Head carpark: $5 per vehicle per day. There are pay and display machines that accept cards and coins - no change given. Chowder Bay Road parking: Monday-Friday: $3 per hour, to a maximum of $16 per day. Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays: $4 per hour, to a maximum of $20 per day. If you hold an NPWS All Parks or Multi Parks Pass, you can park free for up to four hours per day - additional time can be purchased. Car parks operated by Sydney Harbour Federation Trust or Mosman Council are not covered by your pass. Please check signs carefully.

      Other fees:

      Landing fees or tour fees apply to visit Sydney Harbour islands. All public visitors to Shark, Clark, Goat or Rodd Island, or Fort Denison, need to pay a $7 per person landing fee. To arrange, please contact 1300 072 757 (13000 PARKS). Annual NSW Parks Passes do not cover landing fees.

      Buy annual pass