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The Welcome walk

Hunter Wetlands National Park

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Visitor info

All the practical information you need to know about The Welcome walk.

Track grading

Grade 2

Learn more about the grading system Features of this track

  • Distance

    1km one-way

  • Time

    20 - 40min

  • Quality of markings

    Clearly sign posted

  • Experience required

    No experience required

  • Gradient

    Flat

  • Steps

    Occasional steps

  • Quality of path

    Formed track

Getting there and parking

Get driving directions

Get directions

    The Welcome walk is in the Ash Island precinct of Hunter Wetlands National Park. To get there:

    • Cross the Ash Island Bridge off the Pacific Highway at Hexham
    • Turn right onto Schoolhouse Road
    • Park at the information shelters, where the walk begins.

    Parking

    Parking is available at the starting point for The Welcome walk.

    Best times to visit

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

    Autumn

    With the weather mild, now is the time to get those bicycles out and ride the paths around Ash Island.

    Spring

    Pack a picnic to eat at Scotts Point or Riverside Park This is also the time you'll see the cream flowers of the mangroves .

    Summer

    This is the best time for birdwatching at Stockton Sandspit, as many of the migratory birds are here feeding. Make sure you're there at low-tide.

    Weather, temperature and rainfall

    Summer temperature

    Average

    20°C and 25°C

    Highest recorded

    42°C

    Winter temperature

    Average

    10°C and 18°C

    Lowest recorded

    1.8°C

    Rainfall

    Wettest month

    March

    Driest month

    November

    The area’s highest recorded rainfall in one day

    283.7mm

    Facilities

    Drinking water is not available in this area so it’s a good idea to bring your own.

    Maps and downloads

    Safety messages

    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

    Assistance may be required to access this area.

    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.

    The Welcome walk

    Operated by

    Park info