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Bushwalking track notes, photographs, maps and more for Berowra to Hornsby are found in each of the tabs below
Berowra to Hornsby
Time: 9 hrs 18 mins Walking time
Please allow extra time to rest and to explore
1.2 km NNE of Berowra
Length: 22.6 km Walk Length
As this is a One Way walk, the 22.6 km only includes the walking distance from the start to the end point
Berowra Valley National Park
Climb: 1423 m Total Climbing
This walk has a total cumulative climb of 1423 m, this is the total of the elevation gains made in each of the walks uphill sections
There is car access and parking near the start and end of this walk There is a bus stop within 2km of the start and end of this walk There is a train station near the start and end of this walk
Style: One way
Track: Hard

One of the longer day walks in Berowra Valley National Park, this walk mostly follows Berowra Creek along the Great North Walk. Excellent views of the creek can be expected, especially at places like Crosslands and Fishponds. Be sure to pace yourself and take regular breaks. Crosslands and Tunks Ridge Reserve are popular rest places. Note this walk was re-routed in early 2016 to go via the streets of Hornsby Heights. This re-route is due to the multi-agency decision to close the Fishponds to Steele Bridge section of the Benowie Track. This decision has upset many people and the protest continues. (open in app)


There are Safety alerts in Berowra Valley National Park
Today's Fire rating
LOW MODERATE (No fire ban)
  Bushwalking track notes photographs, maps and camping spots for Berowra to Hornsby

Map of Walk

Location

                Sponsor of Berowra to Hornsby bushwalking tracknotes
Map of Berowra to Hornsby
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Map Controls - Show Contours | Hide Path | Hide Distances | Hide Names
Map Scale 5 km
Berowra Station
Crowley Road track head
Int of Great North Walk and unnamed bushtrack
Int of Berowra service trail and Great North Walk
Int of Great North Walk and Joalah trail
Int of Great North Walk and Berowra Link tracks
Sams Creek Crossing
Sams Creek Ridge Clearing
Calna Creek Bridge intersection
Somerville Ridge
Estuaries viewing platform int.
Crosslands North
Northern end of Crosslands carpark
Crosslands Carpark
Crosslands southern toilet block
Berowra Creek campsite track
Unnamed Falls
Galston Gorge track head
Int of Great North Walk and Galston Gorge track
Tunks Ridge Rest Area
Steele Bridge
Int of Stewart Ave service trail and waterfall track
Unnamed Waterfall
Int of Clarinda St trail and waterfall track
Int of Clarinda St and Simon Pl trails
End of Clarinda St
Int of Rosamond St and Stewart Ave
Corner of Dilkera and Manor Rd
Int of Great North Walk and Manor Rd Bushtrack
Fishponds Lookout
Int of Great North Walk and Manor Rd Bushtrack
Int of Blue Gum Walk and Joes Mountain Service Trail
Int of Great North Walk and Rosemead Rd service trail
Berowra Valley Bushland Park
Int of Great North Walk and Quarry Road service trail
Int of Quarry Road and Great North Walk
Int of Quarry Rd and Old Man Valley Service Trail
Starting point for this hiking track: Berowra Station

Base maps are used under licence and is © Department of lands   Panorama Avenue Bathurst 2795   www.lands.nsw.gov.au

Maps that cover the walk area (please always carry maps of the area)

Print a map and track notes here
 Hornsby 1:25 000 Map Series NSW-91304S 
 Cowan 1:25 000 Map Series NSW-91304N 
 Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Tourist Map 1:40 000 Map Series CMA Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Tourist Map 
 Sydney 1:100 000 Map Series 9130 

Photo Gallery

 
Path down from Berowra
 
Path down from Berowra +
 
Following the Great North Walk
 
Following the Great North Walk +
 
GNW sheltered chair
 
GNW sheltered chair +

 
small unofficial campsites
 
small unofficial campsites +
 
Great North Walk boardwalk
 
Great North Walk boardwalk +
 
 
+

 
climbing up over ridge
 
climbing up over ridge +
 
berowra creek lookout
 
berowra creek lookout +
 
crosslands boardwalk
 
crosslands boardwalk +

 
crosslands reserve
 
crosslands reserve +
 
Small falls
 
Small falls +
 
Climbing down into Galston Gorge
 
Climbing down into Galston Gorge +

 
Galston Gorge
 
Galston Gorge +
 
short peg ladder
 
short peg ladder +
 
Tunks Ridge Reserve
 
Tunks Ridge Reserve +

 
Steele bridge
 
Steele bridge +
 
Fishponds Bridge
 
Fishponds Bridge +
 
winding back up the ridge
 
winding back up the ridge +

 
North of Intersection of Great North Walk and Blue Gum Walk (Nth)
 
North of Intersection of Great North Walk and Blue Gum Walk (Nth) +
 
fenced off rock shelf
 
fenced off rock shelf +
 
Environment north of Rosemead Road
 
Environment north of Rosemead Road +

 
winding through the blue gum forest
 
winding through the blue gum forest +
 
Blue Gums and Bracken Ferns
 
Blue Gums and Bracken Ferns +
 
Track just north of Berowra Valley Bushland Park
 
Track just north of Berowra Valley Bushland Park +

 
Rosemead road park
 
Rosemead road park +
 
stone steps leading up out of Berowra Valley
 
stone steps leading up out of Berowra Valley +
 
Quarry road Great North Walk Track intersection
 
Quarry road Great North Walk Track intersection +

Terrain

Cross sectional view of the Berowra to Hornsby bushwalking track

Cross Section of the Berowra to Hornsby bushwalking track



Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Berowra to Hornsby bushwalking track

Summary of the gradients over the the lenght of the Berowra to Hornsby bushwalking track

Overview of this walks Grading - Based on the AS 2156.1 - 2001
These details are new. This new feature still requires more testing and refining. Please use the 'Walker Feedback' for report specific issues. Please e-mail Matt if you have any general comments. Hope you find it helpful.

Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.
Length 23km
Time 9 hrs 18 mins
.


Grade 4/6

Track: Hard
AS 2156.1 Gradient Very steep (4/6)
Quality of track Rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely (4/6)
Signs Directional signs along the way (3/6)
Experience Required Moderate level of bushwalking experience recommended (4/6)
Weather Weather generally has little impact on safety (1/6)
Infrastructure Limited facilities, not all cliffs are fenced (3/6)
*This summary of grading information is new and still in testing

Some more detail of this walks Grading
Here is a bit more details explaining the grading looking at sections of the walk.
Gradient
10km of this walk has short steep hills and another 7km has gentle hills with occasional steps. Whilst another 3.3km is very steep and the remaining 3.1km is flat with no steps.

Quality of track
8km of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles and another 7km follows a clear and well formed track or trail. Whilst another 3.6km follows a smooth and hardened path and the remaining 3.4km follows a rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely.

Signs
Around 15km of this walk has directional signs at most intersection, whilst the remaining 8km is clearly signposted.

Experience Required
11km of this walk requires some bushwalking experience and another 11km requires no previous bushwalking experience. The remaining (670m) requires a leader a with moderate level of bushwalking experience.

Weather
This whole walk, 23km is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation).

Infrastructure
Around 13km of this walk is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats), whilst the remaining 10km has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced).

Track Notes


Catch the train to Berowra Station
Public transport (train) available to this Bushwalk Check out the facilities at Berowra Station
You can phone 131500 (the transport info line) for up to date running times.
Use these links to plan your train trip to the end of the walk.
Plan your trip from --> Castle Hill|Chatswood|Dural|Epping|Gosford|Hornsby|Katoomba|Manly|Parramatta|Penrith|Strathfield|Sutherland|Sydney|
Catch the bus to Berowra Station
Public transport (bus) available to this Bushwalk You can phone 131500 (the transport info line) for up to date running times.
Use these links to plan your Bus (and train) trip to the end of this walk.
(Links currently not working sorry)
Plan your trip from --> Castle Hill|Chatswood|Dural|Epping|Gosford|Hornsby|Katoomba|Manly|Parramatta|Penrith|Strathfield|Sutherland|Sydney|
Drive to Berowra Station
You can drive or ride to this start of this Bushwalk There is free parking available.
You can drive or ride to the start of this walk
Use these links to plan your trip to the start of this walk.
Plan your trip from --> Castle Hill|Chatswood|Dural|Epping|Gosford|Hornsby|Katoomba|Manly|Parramatta|Penrith|Strathfield|Sutherland|Sydney|

(0 km) Berowra Station to Crowley Road track head
Path: Easy - Wheelchair accessible - footpath
Length = 709 m Time = 14 mins
Climb = 25 m Descent = -15 m
From the entrance to Berowra train station[1], this walk follows the 'Berowra Waters' arrow on the 'Great North Walk' sign, crossing the highway at the traffic lights[2]. On the other side of the highway, this walk turns left and follows the footpath past a series of local shops and cafes[3][4] for about 150m, then turns right onto Berowra Waters Rd[5]. The footpath passes the post office[6] then Caltex service station[7], then the walk crosses 'The Gully Rd'[8]. Continuing along the Berowra Waters Rd footpath, this walk passes the park[9][10] and then crosses the road just to the right of the roundabout[11]. Turning left in front of the community hall, this walk immediately turns right at Crowley Rd, and comes to the open grassy area[12] behind the community hall[13], where a sign in the park points back to 'Berowra Station'[14].

(0.71 km) Crowley Road track head to Int of Berowra service trail and Great North Walk
Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 899 m Time = 21 mins
Climb = 18 m Descent = -106 m
Turn right: From the small park on Crowley Rd, this walk follows the 'Crosslands' sign[15] downhill, tending left behind the houses[16]. The track soon bends right and leads quite steeply[17] down a series of steps for about 120m, then tends left and flattens out on an unfenced rock platform[18]. From here, the track leads down a metal staircase[19][20] then heads fairly steeply[21] down along a rocky track.
The track begins to flatten out over the next 400m, crossing the gully twice, then leads down to a three-way intersection marked with a couple of arrow posts[22].
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the arrow post[23] downhill and soon crosses a small creek[24]. The track then continues up the other side of the valley, over a small rise, then leads down to an intersection with a management trail[25], marked with a couple more arrow posts.

(1.61 km) Int of Berowra service trail and Great North Walk to Int of Great North Walk and Berowra Link tracks
Track: Moderate - servicetrail
Length = 1.11 km Time = 27 mins
Climb = 69 m Descent = -57 m
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the Great North Walk arrow[26] down the wide management trail for about 40m, then continues up the moderately steep hill to a wide three-way intersection[27], where a sign points back towards 'Berowra Station'[28].
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Crosslands' sign [29] as the trail bends left, leading down the hill. The trail then undulates around the side of valley for about 300m and crosses a small creek (where the trail is gravel[30]). The trail then heads generally uphill for about 600m, before a last little downhill stretch leads to an intersection (with a track on your left) and a 'Berowra Station' sign[31] pointing back along the track.

(2.72 km) Int of Great North Walk and Berowra Link tracks to Sams Creek Crossing
Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 670 m Time = 30 mins
Climb = 44 m Descent = -181 m
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Crosslands' sign[32] down the narrower track. The track soon becomes quite steep as it leads down a series of steps and stairs for about 150m to come to a bench seat in a small sandstone cave[33]. After a rest, this walk continues down more steps (and staircases) as the track zigzags steeply down the hill for another 350m, and then flattens out beside a rocky gully. Here the walk crosses the mossy and rocky gully[34], then veers right following the GNW arrow across Sams Creek on the boulders[35]. This creek may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain. The walk then comes to a flat area with a sign pointing back across the creek to 'Berowra Waters'[36].

(3.39 km) Sams Creek Crossing to Sams Creek ridge clearing
Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 501 m Time = 11 mins
Climb = 23 m Descent = -20 m
Turn right: From the south side of Sams Creek, this walk follows the 'Crosslands' sign[37] downstream (keeping Sams Creek to your right), as the track heads over a rocky point[38] then along the flat track. After about 350m, this track then leads to a large flat clearing[39] beside Sams Creek[40] (subject to flooding).
Continuing past this clearing through the saltmarsh[41], the walk heads left[42] (ignoring the track leading straight into the mangroves[43]) then goes up the side of the hill for about 100m to a small, flat, pleasant clearing, surrounded by large boulders[44].

(3.89 km) Sams Creek Ridge Clearing to Calna Creek Bridge intersection
Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 1.15 km Time = 27 mins
Climb = 58 m Descent = -67 m
Continue straight: From the clearing, this walk follows the track south, down the side of this ridge, keeping Berowra Creek valley to your left. The track leads steeply down at first then gently undulating along the side of Berowra Creek for about 650m among the casuarinas[45] and grass tress[46]. The track then begins to bend left away from Berowra Creek, and leads along the side of the saltmarsh[47] for almost 200m through the casuarina forest. Here the walk turns right to follow the boardwalk for about 80m across the large, open, flat saltmarsh[48] to find a three-way intersection just before a bridge[49], marked with a 'Fragile Marsh' information sign[50].

(5.04 km) Calna Creek Bridge intersection to Estuaries viewing platform
Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 781 m Time = 20 mins
Climb = 57 m Descent = -54 m
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Crosslands' sign[51] across the long, metal footbridge[52] over Calna Creek. The track then winds fairly steeply up the side of the hill, initially passing the 'Rock n Roll' information sign[53]. The track continues up the timber steps[54] to the ridge line, marked with a GNW arrow and a 'Stop! Look! Listen! and Smell!' information sign[55].
Continue straight: From the ridge line, this walk follows the GNW arrow west downhill, initially keeping the 'Stop! Look! Listen! and Smell!' information sign[56] on your left. The track bends left and gently heads down the side of the hill for a short time before heading more steeply down the timber[57] and stone[58] steps. Then the rocky track mostly flattens out beside the wide creek to find the 'Bush Supermarket' information sign[59].
Next the track leads among some grass tress[60] for just over 100m to the 'The Rock Club' information sign[61], then the track leads up past a bench seat and onto a lookout and a 'Catch the Threats' information sign[62]. About 100m further along the track, this walk heads along a short section of timber boardwalk[63], then soon after, comes to the 'All creatures great and small' information sign[64]. The track leads for another 200m alongside the wide creek to a timber ramp[65] and an intersection[66] in the boardwalk with an estuaries viewing platform[67] (on your right).

Berowra Creek (Estuarie) Lookout Alt = 3 m
The Estuarie lookout over Berowara Creek is found at the end of the wheelchair-accessible walk in Crosslands area. The timber lookout platform provides great views over Berowra Creek[68], the timber fence is 95cm high[69]. There are also information signs about the local flora and fauna[70] and the 'Original Inhabitants'[71]. There are two timber bench seats[fac=8053][72] encouraging you to take some time to soak up this view.

(5.82 km) Estuaries viewing platform int. to Crosslands North
Path: Easy - Wheelchair accessible - duckboard
Length = 215 m Time = 4 mins
Climb = 5 m Descent = -7 m
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the timber boardwalk as it winds along beside the mangroves, keeping the water to the right. The boardwalk leads for about 70m past a 'Mangrove Food Cycle' information sign[73] to where the timber stops and the firm dirt track[74] starts. This walk leads along the dirt track for 60m about to then follow a second section of timber boardwalk[75] for another 60m, across the mangrove wetland[76] to the end of the boardwalk[fac=8085]. Here there is a clear intersection marked with a large 'Crosslands' information board[77] and a 'Great North Walk' sign[78] pointing back along the boardwalk. This intersection is on the edge of the northern Crosslands picnic area[79], not far from the toilet block[80][fac=8052].

Crosslands North Picnic area Alt = 1 m
The northern section of Crosslands is in Berowra Valley NP and is a less formal picnic area compared with the southern area. There is a toilet block[fac=8052][81][82] and a few sandy beaches with direct access to the water[83]. Here you will find a few picnic tables[fac=8044][fac=8045][fac=8046][fac=8047][fac=8049][fac=8048] and shelters[fac=8050][fac=8051][84], as well as garbage bins[85]. The eastern side is home to a boardwalk exploring the estuarine wetland[86]. A pleasant area to rest and enjoy the water. Fires are only permitted in formally established fire places[87] .

(6.03 km) Crosslands North to Northern end of Crosslands Carpark
Path: Easy - Wheelchair accessible - footpath
Length = 263 m Time = 4 mins
Climb = 2 m Descent = -1 m
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk leads across about 20m of grass to then follow the old sealed road out of this picnic area, directly away from the face of the large 'Crosslands' information board[88]. The path soon leads past the 'Place of Winds' sign[89] and wetland[90] (on your left). The walk continues straight and over the next 150m this walk passes 4 picnic tables[fac=8047][fac=8046][fac=8045][fac=8044], then comes to a locked gate[91] and a large 'Great North Walk' sign[92]. Here the walk leads around the locked gate[fac=8043] to find the northern end of the car park[93] (at the far northern end of Somerville Rd, Hornsby Heights).

(6.3 km) Northern end of Crosslands carpark to Crosslands Carpark
Path: Easy - Wheelchair accessible - footpath
Length = 247 m Time = 4 mins
Climb = 0 m Descent = -1 m
Continue straight: From the northern end of Crosslands car park[94], this walk follows the 'Sydney Cove' sign[95] along the dirt path[96] between the road (car park) and the creek (on your right). After 120m this path leads past a boat ramp[97] then after another 120m, (just as the road bends left[98]), this walk comes to the start of the southern picnic area[99]. There is a 'Crosslands Conventions Centre & Field Study' sign[100] here, pointing across Berowra Creek.

Crosslands Alt = 1 m
Crosslands Reserve is lovely and long mixed use picnic area, spanning along the edge of Berowra Creek. There are picnic tables[101], electric barbecues[102], toilets[103], car parking[104], a children's playground[105], garbage bins[106], camping area, toilets[fac=8086] and town water[107]. The southern part of Crosslands is managed by Hornsby Council[108] and the northern half by the NPWS within the Berowra Valley National Park[109].
The first inhabitants of this area were a subgroup of the Dharug people who enjoyed the sandstone caves, fish and abundant plant life in the area. It is now managed by Hornsby Shire Council, but in 1856 Matthew Charlton asked Burton Crossland to be caretaker on this area. Burton built a house and made a living by harvesting timber, growing fruit, fishing and boat-building[110].

(6.54 km) Crosslands Carpark to Crosslands southern toilet block
Path: Easy - Wheelchair accessible - footpath
Length = 335 m Time = 5 mins
Climb = 5 m Descent = -2 m
Continue straight: From near the car park[111], this walk follows the concrete footpath through the open parkland, keeping the creek to your right (through the trees)[112]. The path leads past the tap[113], garbage bins[114] and children's play area [115] and soon comes to a viewing platform[116] (on your right) with a 'A place between the tides' sign[117]. Here the walk continues on the path alongside the picnic shelters[118] and BBQ's[119], to continue straight along the wide dirt path[120]. The path soon leads past another viewing platform[121][122] (on your right), then past the 'Authorised fire pit'[123][124] and main camping area (on your left). This walk then follows the path to the left, up to the large corrugated iron toilet block[125].

Crosslands Campsite Alt = 2 m
On the far southern end of Crosslands Reserve is a toilet block and campsite. The campsite is well set up and managed by Hornsby Council. There are picnic tables[126], electric barbecues[127], toilets[128], a children's playground[129], garbage bins[130] and town water[131]. There is a large flat grassy areas to camp and a single authorised fire pit[132]. The campsite must be booked and fees apply - $9 per night for adults and $6 for children (infants under 4 are free). The gate at the top of the hill is locked at 5.30pm EST and 7.30pm (daylight savings time)[133]. A pleasant and well established campsite beside the river[134]. More info

(6.88 km) Crosslands southern toilet block to Berowra Creek campsite track
Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 1.36 km Time = 33 mins
Climb = 84 m Descent = -85 m
Veer right: From the toilet block[135], this walk follows the wide, dirt track[136] away from the main open area of Crosslands, whilst keeping the creek to your right. The track soon passes 'Crosslands Reserve' Sign[137] as the track starts to narrow. Soon the track starts to climb the side of the hill and comes to a high, unfenced view across the creek[138] (to Crosslands Youth and Convention Centre[139]).
The walk then leads down the stone steps and along the flat track for about 100m, passing a small clearing used as a campsite[140] (on your left). Almost 200m later, the track crosses a small creek using a timber bridge with a handrail[141] and comes to an overgrown but signposted campsite[142] (on your right). After another 250m of walking through the the fern and turpentine forest, the track leads across a rocky gully[143]. Here the track continues to wind along near the creek[144] for about 300m then crosses another small flat timber bridge[145]. About 30m after this, the walk comes to an intersection[146] with a track on your left (which to a clearing[147] and campsite[148]).

Berowra Creek campsite Alt = 5 m
This shady campsite is located on the Benowie Track a short distance back from Berowra Creek, south of the Crosslands Reserve. Providing plenty of tree cover[149], flat ground[150] and an established fire scar[151], this campsite is a great spot for those walkers who want a quiet night's sleep away from the more popular Crosslands Reserve. The creek water is brackish at this point, so it is not drinkable (except after heavy rain and lower tide, but then the water is more polluted) - best to bring your own water.

(8.24 km) Berowra Creek campsite track to Unnamed Falls
Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 3.43 km Time = 1 hr 28 mins
Climb = 297 m Descent = -217 m
Continue straight: From the intersection near the campsite, this walk follows the clear track alongside Berowra Creek, whilst keeping the creek to your right. After about 300m, the track leads under a sandstone overhang[152], and uses the handrail to climb up and over a rocky point[153]. Over the next 600m, the track crosses a couple of small, flat timber bridges[154][155] and passes alongside the lovely creek[156] before climbing up a rock with a couple of metal pegs[157].
The track continues near the creek for another 300m (passing under the power lines), then crosses a rocky and mossy gully[158]. Continuing along the side of the valley, the track leads across another rocky gully[159]. As the track climbs out of the gully, it passes close to the creek a couple more times[160], then leads along a mostly flat section of track with plenty of grass trees[161] for about 300m. Here the track bends left and starts a fairly steep climb for about 120m, which leads to a clearing on a flat rock platform[162], marked with a GNW arrow post[163]. Here the walk turns right and leads up along the track for about 150m to come to a fenced rock platform, where there are some good valley views[164]. From the end of this fence, the track continues for about 600m along the series of unfenced rock platforms[165] (passing under the high-tension power lines[166]) to then climb down some carved steps[167] and find a long rock wall[168]. The rocky track soon leads down the the side of the hill[169] for about 600m, moderately steeply at times, to enter a mossy gully[170] with large boulders[171] and a small waterfall[172]. This gully is marked with a few GNW markers[173].

Gulley Creek Falls Alt = 84 m
This is a nice little creek crossing[174] on the Great North Walk in Galston Gorge. The small falls[175][176] flow just upstream of the track, even after a small amount of rain. Enjoy the cool shade of the trees at the creek crossing from the track.

(11.67 km) Unnamed Falls to Galston Gorge track head
Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 1.27 km Time = 41 mins
Climb = 109 m Descent = -161 m
Continue straight: From the cool gully, this walk crosses the creek (keeping the falls up to your left) and follows the GNW arrows[177] up out of the gully. The track soon bends right and leads gently up and along the flat[178] for about 100m, through the more open forest[179]. Then, the track bends right and starts to lead downhill[180] before heading down a steep set of stone steps (through a gap in the rock)[181]. From here, the track continues a short distance further downhill through the now-moister forest[182] and crosses a smaller mossy and rocky gully[183]. The track continues out of the gully and around the side of the hill for about 100m, coming to a small, flat rock platform[184]. Here the walk bends left (ignoring the steep track down to the right). The rocky track winds up through a lovely grass tree[185] and boulder[186] forest for about 600m, then passes above an old rusted car[187] (some distance down the hill to your right). The walk continues along the widening, mostly flat track for almost 200m, then bends right and heads down the timber steps to find the paved Galston Gorge trackhead[188] and a 'Crosslands' sign[189] pointing back up the track.

Galston Gorge track head Alt = 24 m
Galston Gorge track head is located at a small car park[190] on the eastern side of Berowra Creek, near the bottom of the gorge on Galston Road. This track head is a good access point for those wanting to do sections of the Great North Walk and is well signposted[191]. Keep an eye open for the local chickens[192].

(12.93 km) Galston Gorge track head to Int of Great North Walk and Galston Gorge track
Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 546 m Time = 16 mins
Climb = 119 m Descent = -14 m
Turn right: From the Galston Gorge trackhead, this walk follows the 'Fishponds' sign[193] down the steps towards the creek. The track then leads along the bank until just before the bridge, where this walk crosses the creek (usually a little more than ankle deep[194]). This creek may be impassable after rain - the road bridge above offers an alternate way across[195], but watch and listen for traffic. On the other side, the track turns left and heads under the bridge[196] then bends right and climbs up to a flat spot beside the road[197]. The track follows the 'Fishponds Waterhole' sign up the steps, following the fence on the rocky climb, and finds a metal peg ladder[198] just after passing through a crack in the rock[199]. This walk climbs the metal pegs then follows another fence[200] up the steep rocky climb, past a cave[201] to where the track flattens out for while. The walk then leaves the fence and heads along the rocky track, and after about 150m, the track turns left and passes through another crack in a rock[202]. The track leads up the fairly steep hill for about 70m to the 'Great North Walk - Walkers Registration' box[203]. After leaving your comments, this walk continues to climb up the rocky track and soon comes to a signposted T-intersection with a management trail. There is a 'Galston Gorge' sign[204] here, pointing back down the hill.

(13.48 km) Int of Great North Walk and Galston Gorge track to Tunks Ridge Rest Area
Track: Moderate - servicetrail
Length = 1.36 km Time = 28 mins
Climb = 68 m Descent = -38 m
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'The Great North Walk' sign[205] along the wide trail, as the trail bends left. Over the next 250m, the trail passes a few 'Regeneration Area' signs[206][207] before coming to a three-way intersection[208]. Here the trail continues straight for another 500m down across a saddle[209], then the trail bends left to avoid the tall rock wall. The trail now leads along the side of the hill for about 700m (passing along the base of a long rock wall[210], up to your right) to come to the well-signposted 'Tunks Ridge Rest Area' where the 'Galston Gorge' AND 'Crosslands Reserve' signs[211] point back along the trail.

Tunks Ridge Rest Area Alt = 165 m
Tunks Ridge Rest Area is a large, shady and gently sloping campsite[212] at the junction of three management trails. There is no water or other facilities (you will need to carry your own in). A sign at the top of the campsite reminds campers that there is a one night limit and that it is a fuel stove only area (no campfires)[213]. Please note that the composting toilet[214] has been removed and no longer available.

(14.84 km) Tunks Ridge Rest Area to Steele Bridge
Track: Hard - servicetrail
Length = 1.78 km Time = 44 mins
Climb = 33 m Descent = -160 m
Turn left: From lower side of Tunks Ridge Rest Area, this walk follows the 'Stewart St' AND 'Rosemead Rd Hornsby Trackhead' signs[215] downhill along the wide management trail. The trail leads gently downhill for about 300m, and then quite steeply down for about 600m, over two concreted sections and to the bottom of the sealed section[216]. Here the trail continues fairly (though less) steeply for another 400m (enjoying the valley views to the left[217]). Then the trail bends right and flattens out for a short time. The trail soon heads down again (over another concreted section[218]), then heads more gently for another 200m, past a few nice rock formations[219] (on your right), to come to a couple of signs[220] just before a metal bridge[221]. This walk crosses the 'Historic Military Steele Bridge'[222], and comes to a clearly signposted[223][224] T-intersection on the other side.

Historic Military 'Steele' Bridge Alt = 38 m
This large steel and timber bridge spans Berowra Creek north of Fishponds. The creek is fairly wide at this point and the bridge provides a great view of the sandstone overhangs along the creek's edge. The bridge was commissioned in 1965 to allow access for fire trucks. The bridge was designed by Major General Sir Clive Steele in 1942. Bridges of this type were critical during the WWII South West Pacific campaigns. The bridge is designed on the Warren truss style and is one of only 4 'Steele' bridges still in use in NSW. More info

(16.61 km) Steele Bridge to Int of Stewart Ave service trail and waterfall track
Walk: Easy - servicetrail
Length = 396 m Time = 8 mins
Climb = 29 m Descent = -5 m
Veer left: From Steele Bridge, this walk head up the wide management trail following the 'Alternative route' and 'Fishponds 4km' arrows[225], initially keeping Berowra Creek to the left. The trail turns right and gently works its way up the hill, soon coming to another large 'Great North Walk' sign[226] at an intersection with a track on the left.

(17.01 km) Int of Stewart Ave service trail and waterfall track to Int of Clarinda St and waterfall track
Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 473 m Time = 13 mins
Climb = 98 m Descent = -9 m
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Fishponds 4km' arrow[227] along the narrow track. The walk soon comes to the top of a small cliff and turns right, heading down a flight of stone steps to the bottom of an unnamed waterfall.
Veer left: From the waterfall, this walk heads up out of the gully using the stone stairs whilst keeping the waterfall on the right-hand side. Take care as the track climbs around some small cliffs while winding up the hill. Steps have been made from rocks and logs, making this track a bit more gentle, and there are some carved steps in the steeper sections. The track then heads through a banksia grove, coming to a 'T' intersection with the wide Clarinda St management trail.

(17.48 km) Int of Clarinda St trail and waterfall track to End of Clarinda St
Walk: Easy - servicetrail
Length = 1.08 km Time = 24 mins
Climb = 66 m Descent = -51 m
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the management trail, keeping the small cliffs and house up the hill to the left. The track gently meanders around the hill, passing some lovely ferns and sandstone rocks until coming to a 'Y' intersection at a clearing just before Simon Pl.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the Great North Walk arrow down the hill, keeping the road and houses up the hill to the left. The wide management trail heads down the hill and crosses a small creek before continuing up the other side of the valley. At the top of the climb, the walk flattens out and then gently meanders around the hill. There are nice rock formations on the left and the occasional view of the valley on the right. After a little while, the trail comes to a brick wall and turns right, coming to the end of Clarinda St and the signposted 'Clarinda Wetlands'.

(18.56 km) End of Clarinda St to Corner of Dilkera and Manor Rd
Walk: Easy - road
Length = 1.66 km Time = 31 mins
Climb = 49 m Descent = -36 m
Turn left: From the end of the road, this walk heads up Clarinda St, then turn right onto Rosamond St. Soon the walk comes to the intersection with Stewart Ave on the right (and Carrington Rd on the left).
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads south along Rosamond St (initially keeping Stewart Avenue on the right), soon passing Mount Wilga Hospital, where the road changes name to Manor Rd. The walk follows Manor Rd around the hospital and for another 600m to the intersection with Dilkera Close.

(20.22 km) Corner of Dilkera and Manor Rd to Int of GNW and Manor Rd Bushtrack
Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 226 m Time = 13 mins
Climb = 0 m Descent = -95 m
Continue straight: From the corner of Manor Rd and Dilkera Cl, this walk follows the Great North Walk marker west to the cliffs and down the metal staircase. At the bottom of the cliffs, the track continues down the steep hill, zigzagging in several section. Just past the dip (small creek), the walk comes to a T-intersection at a large Great North Walk signpost[228].

(20.44 km) Int of Great North Walk and Manor Rd Bushtrack to Fishponds crossing
Optional sidetrip: Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 341 m Time = 8 mins
Climb = 3 m Descent = -40 m
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Fishponds' sign[229] along the flat narrow track past the 'Berowra Valley Regional Park' sign[230]. The track soon bends left (passing along the top of an unfenced cliff) then winds down some steep carved rock steps (with a hand rail)[231]. The rocky track then leads down along the side of the valley for just over 100m to cross a timber foot bridge[232]. The track then continues for another 70m to find a fenced rock platform[233] and signposted intersection[234].
Turn right: From the lookout[235], this walk follows the 'Galston Gorge' sign[236] along the fenced rock shelf (keeping the fence to your left). The track leads down the rocky steps to the edge of Berowra Creek[237]. The walk crosses the creek using the stepping stones, and comes to a small cave[238] on the other side. This creek may be impassable after rain[239].
(Retrace your steps back to the main track, then continue straight to continue along this walk.)

Fishponds Alt = 49 m
Fishponds is a long waterhole[240] on Berowra Creek in Berowra Valley Regional Park. The waterhole is lined with tall cliffs[241] and a few sandstone caves. At the southern end, there are stepping stones to help cross the creek[242], and a small timber bridge[243] at the northern end. This is a beautiful spot and a worthy place to rest and enjoy the water passing by[244]. The waterhole is fairly popular with local teens in summer, cooling off. Swimming and jumping at the Fishponds waterhole has resulted in fatalities[245] - please heed the signs and Cora's parents' plea and enjoy the water from the edge.

(20.44 km) Int of Great North Walk and Manor Rd Bushtrack to Int of Blue Gum Walk and Joes Mountain Service Trail
Walk: Easy - bushtrack
Length = 27 m Time = 1 mins
Climb = 3 m Descent = 0 m
Turn sharp left: From the intersection, the walk follows the 'Hornsby Station' sign up[246] along the track a short distance to come to an intersection with a wide management trail[247].

(20.47 km) Int of Blue Gum Walk and Joes Mountain Service Trail to Int of Great North Walk and Rosemead Rd service trail
Track: Moderate - servicetrail
Length = 854 m Time = 19 mins
Climb = 35 m Descent = -45 m
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the Great North Walk arrow south along the wide management trail, keeping the gully to your left[248]. The walk climbs up the gentle hill for just over 300m, passing through the turpentine forest[249] to a saddle and small clearing. Here the walk continues along the trail as it bends right[250] (ignoring the track to the left) to leads downhill through the blue gum and bracken fern forest[251]. The trail continues moderately steeply down until it bends left to cross Old Mans Creek at the concrete stepping stones[252]. The trail leads left and gently up the hill, passing some houses (on your right) and soon comes to an intersection with a narrower track (on your left) after about 150m.

(21.32 km) Int of Great North Walk and Rosemead Rd service trail to Berowra Valley Bushland Park
Walk: Easy - bushtrack
Length = 33 m Time = 1 mins
Climb = 4 m Descent = 0 m
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the Great North Walk arrow[253] along the narrower track[254] for a short distance, to Berowra Valley Bushland Park[255] at the end of Rosemead Road[256].

Berowra Valley Bushland Park Alt = 82 m
'Berowra Valley Bushland Park'[257] is also known as Rosemead Rd Park and is found at the bottom end of Rosemead Rd[258], Hornsby. This is an open area park surrounded by shady eucalyptus trees[259], making a pleasant spot to rest on a walk. It has a picnic table with bench seats[260], and a sheltered free electric BBQ[261]. There is a water tap[262] in the park, near the road. There is also a 'Welcome to Old Mans Valley' information sign with information about the traditional country of the Darug and Guringai peoples[263].

(21.36 km) Berowra Valley Bushland Park to Int of Quarry Road and Great North Walk
Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 544 m Time = 14 mins
Climb = 89 m Descent = -12 m
Veer left: From the lower side of 'Berowra Valley Bushland Park'[264], this walk follows the 'Hornsby Station' sign[265] across the park, then follows the GNW arrow[266] up the stone steps, keeping the houses to your right. The walk winds steeply up the steps[267], leaving the view of the house and finding a welcome flat section of track[268] midway up. The steps then lead more steeply up[269] the side of the valley, along the sheer rock walls for about 100m, and come to an intersection with the Quarry Road management trail, where a 'Great North Walk' sign[270] points back down the the hill.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post up a couple of timber steps[271] and then follows the track as it winds up over the gentle rise. Once over the rise, the track then leads down to the intersection with Quarry Rd, where a 'Great North Walk' sign[272] points back up the track.

(21.9 km) Int of Quarry Road and Great North Walk to Hornsby Train Station
Walk: Easy - road
Length = 717 m Time = 14 mins
Climb = 34 m Descent = -8 m
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows Quarry Road gently uphill away from the face of the 'Great North Walk' sign[273] until just past a couple of house, this walk comes to an intersection with the gated 'Old Mans Valley' management trail[274] (on your left).
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows Quarry Rd up the gentle hill[275] for about 180m, then follows the GNW arrow[276] left onto Dural St[277]. The footpath leads past the unit block, then past a few shops to come to an intersection with the Pacific Hwy. Following the GNW arrow, this walk turns right across 'Dural St'[278], passes a few more shops, then crosses 'Dural Lane'[279] before turning left across the Pacific Hwy at the traffic lights[280]. Here the walk continues straight across the 'Station St' pedestrian crossing[281], past the large 'Great North Walk' sign[282] and across the bus lane to the western entrance of Hornsby Station[283].

Catch the train from Hornsby Station
Public transport (train) available from this Bushwalk Check out the facilities at Hornsby Station
You can phone 131500 (the transport info line) for up to date running times.
Use these links to plan your train trip from the end of the walk.
Plan your trip to --> Castle Hill|Chatswood|Dural|Epping|Gosford|Hornsby|Katoomba|Manly|Parramatta|Penrith|Strathfield|Sutherland|Sydney|
Catch the bus from Hornsby Train Station
Public transport (bus) available from this Bushwalk You can phone 131500 (the transport info line) for up to date running times.
Use these links to plan your Bus (and train) trip from the end of this walk.
(Links currently not working sorry)
Plan your trip to --> Castle Hill|Chatswood|Dural|Epping|Gosford|Hornsby|Katoomba|Manly|Parramatta|Penrith|Strathfield|Sutherland|Sydney|
Drive from Hornsby Train Station
You can drive or ride from this end of this Bushwalk There is free parking available.
You can drive or ride from the end of this walk
Use these links to plan your trip from the end of this walk.
Plan your trip to --> Castle Hill|Chatswood|Dural|Epping|Gosford|Hornsby|Katoomba|Manly|Parramatta|Penrith|Strathfield|Sutherland|Sydney|

Getting there

Plan your trip to the start of the walk and back from the end of the walk

Public Transport links currently not working, sorry
Public Transport Timetables

To the start of the walk

From
Castle Hill
Chatswood
Dural
Epping
Gosford
Hornsby
Katoomba
Manly
Parramatta
Penrith
Strathfield
Sutherland
Sydney
From the end of the walk

To
Castle Hill
Chatswood
Dural
Epping
Gosford
Hornsby
Katoomba
Manly
Parramatta
Penrith
Strathfield
Sutherland
Sydney

Driving Directions
Map Car Shuffle
To the start of the walk

Drive from:
From the end of the walk

Drive to:


Near by



Nearest know Outdoor Stores near the start of this walk
Store Address Phone Distance (straight line)
Kathmandu 236 Pacific Hwy (Westfield), Hornsby (02) 9476 1399 10.3 km
CampHikeClimb 20 George St, Hornsby (02) 9476 5767 10.2 km
Paddlecraft 3B / 1714 Pittwater Road, Bayview 02 9997 8015 14 km
All Camping Supplies 12 Railway Pde, Thornleigh (02) 9481 0473 13.9 km
Mountain Equipment 72 Archer St , Chatswood (02) 9419 6955 19.5 km


A list of the nearest UHF CB repeaters I found to Berowra to Hornsby.
Channel Call sign
(more info)
Site Distance and dir from Berowra to Hornsby
Click to re-center search
6 VMB7 CB Repeater Site 16 Alan Rd BEROWRA HEIGHTS 2 km (to the NW)
5 SYD05 Sydney Adventist Hospital 185 Fox Valley Rd WAHROONGA
Emergency use only
13 km (to the SSW)
8 MDC08 Gencom Site Lot 6 Wakefield Close KARIONG 24 km (to the NNE)
7 SYD07 7 Glamorgan St BLACKTOWN 29 km (to the SW)
1 SYD01 12/14 Ormonde Parade HURSTVILLE 39 km (to the S)

Weather and Park info

Fire Danger
This walk passes Greater Sydney Region fire area which currently has a LOW MODERATE rating and No fire ban in place.
(Tomorrow the Fire Danger Rating is LOW MODERATE, No fire ban.) (Downloaded 9 years ago)
Please Note: Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.

Weather and Climate
Weather and Climate summary detailed weather and climate information here
°C (feels like °)
km/h from the
% humidity     (as at )
Wed      29°Showers. Likely storm developing.
Thu19°|25°Possible shower.
Fri18°|30°Partly cloudy.
Sat16°|24°Possible late shower.
A graph displaying the average daily temperature range for the year

Berowra Valley National Park Link to official closures and fire bans page
Following the Berowra Creek the Berowra Valley National Park is located on the Hornsby Plateau and is made up of typical Hawkesbury Sandstone. The great North walk, Benowie walking track, and many other great walks stretch spann this park. The area has varied vegetation including many different sorts of Eucalyptus and plenty of native animals, includingl swamp wallibies, water dragons, bandicoots, Lyre Birds, and bush turkeys. There are several campsites within the Park, and Crosslands Reserve is also a popular spot near the middle of the park.
Region: Sydney & Surrounds
Park fees Camping
Current Park Closure information for Berowra Valley National Park
Closure information last downloaded Sunday 27th of September 2015 07:00 AM
Safety alerts: Quarry trail and Benowie walking track restricted access
Access restrictions are in place along trails that traverse the land managed by the Hornsby Rifle Range. Restricted areas include:
  • an 800m section of trail, 2km in from the Quarry Road entrance at Dural
  • an 800m section of trail, 300m in from the Stewart Avenue entrance at Hornsby
  • a 750m section of the Benowie walking track between Steele Bridge and Fishponds Waterholes.
Shooting times are between 9am and 4.30pm, 7 days a week. All visitors wishing to access the restricted sections of trail during these times must request prior authorisation by contacting the Hornsby Rifle Range on their 24 hour contact number 0417 201 606. Consult the map on Page vii of the Berowra Valley National Park Draft Plan of Management to plan alternative routes during these hours. Visit the website for further information about the Hornsby Rifle Range.



Manor Road Bushland Manor Road Bushland is a small parcel of natural bushland between Manor road and the Hornsby quarry. The blue Gum walk and the Great North walk Hornsby track head pass through the section of land where there are some wonderful tall Blue gums and Black Buts. There is also a lovely array of ferns and Turpentine trees.
Region:
I am not aware of any closures in this park at the moment.

Walker Feedback

Comments
Add NewSearch
David & Nancy Morley - Easy track mistake! IP:121.213.172.xxx | 2010-07-04 09:05:30
Hi all, we completed the Berowra to Hornsby walk in reverse and came across a potential problem! Around 10-15minutes after leaving the bridge at Galston Gorge you approach a large rock where it looks like the track naturally cuts down to the left - it is very well worn and looks like the main track and continues for some time until you reach a stream that feeds into the river. As pretty as it is, the track doesn't actually cut down at all, it continues along across the rock platform and then onto the other side. The rock is kind of long and the track kind of dog legs off the other side so it's not immediately easy to spot.
Mon IP:124.187.172.xxx | 2010-08-12 07:10:03
Massive vegetation explosions after the bushfires a number of years back really brought the area to life. I used to bush bash very easily down from barnetts road reserve to the service trail when I was younger, but its too difficult at the moment its like a rainforest in places. Quiet enough, you can often come across many groups of wallabies. I see atleast 2 everytime I walk to berowra waters for a fish. Lots of varied birdlife too. Sounds incredible down around the creeks.
Glenn & marlitt IP:124.184.241.xxx | 2012-09-24 11:49:20
This was our first long hard walk after wenthworth falls. Enjoyed it so much we are now committed confirmed bushwalkers. Can not wait till our next walk. Springwood to faulcon bridge
Bring it on
Question - Question IP:203.45.50.xxx | 2013-03-17 07:26:47
Need information about flora and fauna (mainly fauna) anybody help? Will do the walk after this.
Tristan - Can also do it from Cowan IP:130.155.98.xxx | 2013-03-18 03:54:44
I decided to start the walk at Cowan, the next station along from Berowra. This takes the total distance up to about 30km but means you get to pass through Berowra Waters, which I really enjoyed. Cowan to Hornsby took me about 8.5hrs, and I'm not particularly fit. There are quite a few steep bits so it might not be for everyone. It's a lovely walk, I really enjoyed the views of Berowra Creek along the way.

The whole track was well marked, except for the bit at Galston Gorge. It wasn't obvious you had to cross the river, without the track notes I would have ended up going in completely the wrong direction.

I saw a lot of lizards along the way, including a few enormous specimens, very cool! Some crazy people at Crosslands were feeding them so I guess they're there quite regularly.
Maurice van Creij - Bridge out IP:203.217.18.xxx | 2013-05-15 03:27:22
Please note that the bridge across the Calna Creek was out until further notice at the time of writing. Check before setting out if this has been fixed yet.

There's no practical way around that apart from walking up to Mount Kuring-gai, taking the train to Hornsby and continuing from there.
Molly - Bridge replaced IP:129.78.233.xxx | 2015-08-25 22:49:51
I think the bridge has been replaced, largely due to Wildwalk's Matt urging local government. Going to check it out later this week on this walk.
http://monthlychronicle.com.au/2015/08/14/calna-creek-bridge-open-for-business/
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Loading the images not too much longer now :)


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