Check out the New Wildwalks site -- This site is no longer maintained and is just for archive

Home arrow Hiking near Sydney arrow Blackbutt Circuit Walk     

Bushwalking track notes, photographs, maps and more for Blackbutt Circuit Walk are found in each of the tabs below
Blackbutt Circuit Walk
Time: 2 hrs 30 mins Walking time
Please allow extra time to rest and to explore
2.4 km W of adamstown
Length: 6.5 km Walk Length
As this is a Circuit style walk, the 6.5 km includes the walking distance from the start around the loop and back to the start again
Newcastle(LGA)
Climb: 245 m Total Climbing
This walk has a total cumulative climb of 245 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
Style: Circuit
Track: Moderate

This walk is a good longer option walking experience at Blackbutt Reserve. This walk visits the two larger picnic areas of Richley Reserve and Carnley Reserve, as well as the Lily pond and Rain Forest picnic areas. A highlight to this walk is the throughly recommended side trip to the Wildlife Exhibits at Carnley Reserve. This enjoyable walk is highly recommended. (open in app)


Today's Fire rating
LOW MODERATE (No fire ban)
  Bushwalking track notes photographs, maps and camping spots for Blackbutt Circuit Walk

Map of Walk

Location

                Sponsor of Blackbutt Circuit Walk bushwalking tracknotes
Map of Blackbutt Circuit Walk
Problem loading PDF Try here
Map Controls - Show Contours | Hide Path | Hide Distances | Hide Names
Map Scale 1 km
Richley Reserve (Car Park)
Richley Reserve (Ponds end)
Int of Forest Way & Tall Trees Walks
Int of Forest Way Walk & Mahogany Drive Trail
Lily Pond Picnic Area
Int of Forest Way & Bower Bird Creek Trails
End of Ridgeway Road
Int of Lookout Road AND Forest Way
Tall Trees & Forest Way Walks
Main Ridge & Lookout Road Trails
Int of Main Ridge & Tall Trees Walks
Int of Main Ridge and Blueberry Ash Walks
Int of Lookout Road & Main Ridge Trail
Int of Rain Forest Walk AND Lookout Road
Int of Lookout Trail & Rain Forest Walk
Int of Rain Forest Walk & Link Track
Main Ridge & Rain Forest Walks
Int of Main Ridge Trail & Lookout Road
Int of Boardwalk & Main Ridge Trail
Int of Boardwalk & Main Ridge Trail
Int of Boardwalk & Carnley Trail
Carnley Avenue Reserve
Int of Carnley Trail & Blueberry Ash Walk
Main Ridge & Carnley Trails
Int of Main Ridge & Tall Trees Walks
Richley Reserve (Short Cut Intersection)
Int of Richley Reserve & Tall Tree Walk (loop)
Richley Reserve (Short Cut Intersection)
Richley Reseve (four way intersection)
Starting point for this hiking track: Richley Reserve (Ponds end)

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
 Wallsend 1:25 000 Map Series NSW-92323S 
 Newcastle 1:100 000 Map Series 9232 

Photo Gallery

 
Richley Reserve Car Park, Blackbutt Reserve
 
Richley Reserve Car Park, Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Sign at Richley Reserve in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Sign at Richley Reserve in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Sign and sheltered picnic tables in Richley Reserve
 
Sign and sheltered picnic tables in Richley Reserve +

 
Large pond with black swan in Richley Reserve
 
Large pond with black swan in Richley Reserve +
 
Trail by pond in Richley Reserve in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Trail by pond in Richley Reserve in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Trail near pond at Richley Reserve
 
Trail near pond at Richley Reserve +

 
Trail intersection at Richley Reserve
 
Trail intersection at Richley Reserve +
 
Trail by pond in Richley Reserve in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Trail by pond in Richley Reserve in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Trail and pond in the distance at Richley Reserve
 
Trail and pond in the distance at Richley Reserve +

 
Trail through forest in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Trail through forest in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Trail close to Richley Reserve in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Trail close to Richley Reserve in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Uphill trail near Richley Reserve in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Uphill trail near Richley Reserve in Blackbutt Reserve +

 
Trail through forest at Blackbutt Reserve
 
Trail through forest at Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Track intersection in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Track intersection in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Wide forested trail in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Wide forested trail in Blackbutt Reserve +

 
Trail through forest in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Trail through forest in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Forested trail in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Forested trail in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Trail near Mahognay Picnic Area in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Trail near Mahognay Picnic Area in Blackbutt Reserve +

 
Trail near Lily Pond Picnic Area in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Trail near Lily Pond Picnic Area in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Lily Pond Picnic Area in the middle of Blackbutt Reserve
 
Lily Pond Picnic Area in the middle of Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Seating bench at Lily Pond Picnic Area in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Seating bench at Lily Pond Picnic Area in Blackbutt Reserve +

 
Nymphaea flower on Lily Pond at Lily Pond Picnic Area in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Nymphaea flower on Lily Pond at Lily Pond Picnic Area in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Lush leaves and flowers of the Nymphaea Lily at Lily Pond Picnic Area in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Lush leaves and flowers of the Nymphaea Lily at Lily Pond Picnic Area in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Trail through forest in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Trail through forest in Blackbutt Reserve +

 
Rocky dry creek bed with bridge in Lily Pond Picnic Area in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Rocky dry creek bed with bridge in Lily Pond Picnic Area in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Forested track near the Lily Pond Picnic Area in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Forested track near the Lily Pond Picnic Area in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Green metal posted near Bower Bird Creek in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Green metal posted near Bower Bird Creek in Blackbutt Reserve +

 
Locked gate at the end of Ridgeway Road in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Locked gate at the end of Ridgeway Road in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
The end of Ridgeway road in New Lambton Heights, close to Blackbutt Reserve
 
The end of Ridgeway road in New Lambton Heights, close to Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Ridgeway Road in New Lambton Heights which is close to Blackbutt Reserve
 
Ridgeway Road in New Lambton Heights which is close to Blackbutt Reserve +

 
Road intersection on Ridgeway Road in New Lambton Heights
 
Road intersection on Ridgeway Road in New Lambton Heights +
 
Ridgeway road in New Lambton Heights
 
Ridgeway road in New Lambton Heights +
 
The top of Ridgeway Road in New Lambton Heights
 
The top of Ridgeway Road in New Lambton Heights +

 
Sign post for Ridgeway Road in New Lambton Heights
 
Sign post for Ridgeway Road in New Lambton Heights +
 
Water tank and picnic area on Ridgeway Road in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Water tank and picnic area on Ridgeway Road in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Trail into Blackbutt Reserve, and near Lookout Road
 
Trail into Blackbutt Reserve, and near Lookout Road +

 
Locked gate and Blackbutt Reserve sign near Lookout Road
 
Locked gate and Blackbutt Reserve sign near Lookout Road +
 
Trail in Blackbutt Reserve and near Lookout Road
 
Trail in Blackbutt Reserve and near Lookout Road +
 
Trail through forest near Lookout Road in New Lambton Heights
 
Trail through forest near Lookout Road in New Lambton Heights +

 
Flower in forest in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Flower in forest in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Trail through forest with houses nearby in blackbutt Reserve
 
Trail through forest with houses nearby in blackbutt Reserve +
 
Signage in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Signage in Blackbutt Reserve +

 
A trail intersection near Lookout Road in Blackbutt Reserve
 
A trail intersection near Lookout Road in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Trail through forest in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Trail through forest in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Trail through forest in the Blackbutt Reserve
 
Trail through forest in the Blackbutt Reserve +

 
Intersection and sign in the Blackbutt Reserve
 
Intersection and sign in the Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Attractive plants on the Main Ridge Walk in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Attractive plants on the Main Ridge Walk in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Small picnic area in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Small picnic area in Blackbutt Reserve +

 
Trail on the Main Ridge Walk in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Trail on the Main Ridge Walk in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Brick building on the Main Ridge in the Blackbutt Reserve
 
Brick building on the Main Ridge in the Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Old brick building in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Old brick building in Blackbutt Reserve +

 
Track to Rain Forest in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Track to Rain Forest in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Beautiful large tree at the end of Lookout Rd in the Blackbutt Reserve
 
Beautiful large tree at the end of Lookout Rd in the Blackbutt Reserve +
 
An intersection at the end of Lookout Rd in the Blackbutt Reserve
 
An intersection at the end of Lookout Rd in the Blackbutt Reserve +

 
The end of Lookout Rd in the Blackbutt Reserve
 
The end of Lookout Rd in the Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Trail on Lookout Ridge Trail in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Trail on Lookout Ridge Trail in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Track to Rain Forest in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Track to Rain Forest in Blackbutt Reserve +

 
The end of Lookout Road in the Blackbutt Reserve
 
The end of Lookout Road in the Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Timber sign in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Timber sign in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Timber fence over Rain Forest Creek in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Timber fence over Rain Forest Creek in Blackbutt Reserve +

 
Timber fencing over Rain Forest Creek in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Timber fencing over Rain Forest Creek in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Timber fence by bridge over Rain Forest Creek in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Timber fence by bridge over Rain Forest Creek in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Sign and trail at the Rain Forest Picnic Area in the Blackbutt Reserve
 
Sign and trail at the Rain Forest Picnic Area in the Blackbutt Reserve +

 
Flying Foxes nesting in trees at the Rain Forest Picnic Area in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Flying Foxes nesting in trees at the Rain Forest Picnic Area in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
The Rain Forest Picnic Area at Blackbutt Reserve
 
The Rain Forest Picnic Area at Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Views of the sky through trees in the Blackbutt Reserve
 
Views of the sky through trees in the Blackbutt Reserve +

 
Dense forest close to the Rain Forest Picnic Area in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Dense forest close to the Rain Forest Picnic Area in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
A small picnic area at the Blackbutt Reserve
 
A small picnic area at the Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Closed toilet block in the Blackbutt Reserve
 
Closed toilet block in the Blackbutt Reserve +

 
Trail going uphill in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Trail going uphill in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Sealed trail close to Carnley Reserve car park in the Blackbutt Reserve
 
Sealed trail close to Carnley Reserve car park in the Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Wildlife Exhibit boardwalk entrance at Carnley Ave Reserve in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Wildlife Exhibit boardwalk entrance at Carnley Ave Reserve in Blackbutt Reserve +

 
Blackbutt Reserve 'Wildlife Exhibits' sign in Carnley Ave Reserve
 
Blackbutt Reserve 'Wildlife Exhibits' sign in Carnley Ave Reserve +
 
Trail next to Black Duck pond in Carnley Reserve in the Blackbutt Reserve
 
Trail next to Black Duck pond in Carnley Reserve in the Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Information centre at Carnley Reserve in the Blackbutt Reserve
 
Information centre at Carnley Reserve in the Blackbutt Reserve +

 
Picnic table by pond at Carnley Ave Reserve
 
Picnic table by pond at Carnley Ave Reserve +
 
Trail and metal ring fence in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Trail and metal ring fence in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Sealed trail with metal post near Richley Reserve in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Sealed trail with metal post near Richley Reserve in Blackbutt Reserve +

 
North facing foot path down to Richley Reserve in Blackbutt Reserve
 
North facing foot path down to Richley Reserve in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Metal post in footpath with a large grassy clearing in Richley Reserve
 
Metal post in footpath with a large grassy clearing in Richley Reserve +
 
Large grassy picnic area in Richley Reserve
 
Large grassy picnic area in Richley Reserve +

 
Trail in Richley Reserve near the large ponds in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Trail in Richley Reserve near the large ponds in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Large pond with outlet at Richley Reserve in Blackbutt Reserve
 
Large pond with outlet at Richley Reserve in Blackbutt Reserve +
 
Timber bridge by large pond in Richley Reserve
 
Timber bridge by large pond in Richley Reserve +

Terrain

Cross sectional view of the Blackbutt Circuit Walk bushwalking track

Cross Section of the Blackbutt Circuit Walk bushwalking track



Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Blackbutt Circuit Walk bushwalking track

Summary of the gradients over the the lenght of the Blackbutt Circuit Walk 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 6km
Time 2 hrs 30 mins
.


Grade 3/6

Track: Moderate
AS 2156.1 Gradient Gentle hills with occasional steps (2/6)
Quality of track Clear and well formed track or trail (2/6)
Signs Directional signs along the way (3/6)
Experience Required No experience required (1/6)
Weather Weather generally has little impact on safety (1/6)
Infrastructure Generally useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats) (1/6)
*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
Around 4.1km of this walk is flat with no steps, whilst the remaining 2.4km has gentle hills with occasional steps.

Quality of track
Around 4.6km of this walk follows a smooth and hardened path, whilst the remaining 1.9km follows a clear and well formed track or trail.

Signs
Around 3.8km of this walk is clearly signposted, whilst the remaining 2.7km has directional signs at most intersection.

Experience Required
This whole walk, 6km requires no previous bushwalking experience.

Weather
This whole walk, 6km is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation).

Infrastructure
This whole walk, 6km is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats).

Track Notes


Catch the bus to Richley Reserve (Car Park)
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 Richley Reserve (Car Park)
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|

Blackbutt Reserve Alt = 73 m
Blackbutt Reserve, near Newcastle, occupies over 182 hectares of land and provides visitors with the chance to enjoy nature trails[1], wildlife exhibits[2][3], children's playgrounds[4] and recreational facilities. The reserve is the perfect place for a relaxing family picnic or to explore on a bushwalk. Native wildlife, such as the Powerful Owl and the Grey-headed flying fox[5] can be seen within the park. There is an information cottage[6] at Carnley Avenue, which is open 7am to 5pm, or 7am to 7pm during daylight savings. The reserve has car parking at Carnley Avenue, Richley Reserve, Lookout Road and Mahonoy Drive. For more information, phone 02 4904 3344.

Richley Reserve Alt = 38 m
The Richley Reserve, within Blackbutt Reserve, has a park office[7], large pond areas[8] with swans (beware the swans[9] as they defend their territory), sheltered picnic tables[10], water taps[11], toilets[12], open grassed areas[13], a children's playground[14], electric barbecues[15] and a car park[16]. The Richley Reserve car park has disability friendly parking and is open from 7am to 5pm or 7am to 7pm during daylight savings. For further information phone 02 4904 3344.

(0 km) Richley Reserve (Car Park) to Richley Reserve (Ponds end)
Path: Easy - Wheelchair accessible - servicetrail
Length = 143 m Time = 3 mins
Climb = 8 m Descent = 0 m
From the Richley Reserve Car Park[17] (Freybery St, New Lambton), this walk follows the 'Tall Tree Ridge Walk' sign[18][19] and sealed trail gently uphill, while keeping the sheltered picnic table and large pond on your left. This walk continues through forest, with a pond on your left, for about 140m until coming to a four-way intersection[20], with a timber post[21] with chain attached (on the right) and another large pond[22] (on your left and ahead).

(0.14 km) Richley Reserve (Ponds end) to Int of Forest Way AND Tall Trees Walks
Track: Moderate - servicetrail
Length = 341 m Time = 6 mins
Climb = 14 m Descent = -1 m
Turn right: From the intersection[23][24], this walk follows the sealed trail gently uphill, while initially keeping the timber post with chain[25] attached on your right and keeping the large pond[26] directly behind. This walk continues through attractive forest[27] (ignoring side tracks[28]) for about 300m, until coming to a level T-intersection[29][30], with a 'Richley Carpark' sign[31] directly ahead.

(0.48 km) Int of Forest Way & Tall Trees Walks to Lily Pond Picnic Area
Track: Moderate - servicetrail
Length = 675 m Time = 13 mins
Climb = 9 m Descent = -28 m
Turn right: From the intersection[32], this walk follows the sealed trail gently downhill, while initially keeping the 'Tall Trees Walk to Carnley Ave Carpark' sign[33] on your left. This walk continues through forest for about 180m, to find an open picnic area[34] (on the right). Then this walk continues straight ahead for about 210m until coming to a three-way intersection[35][36], with a 'Forest Way Walk' sign (on the left) and a toilet[37] (on the right ahead).
Turn left: From the intersection[38][39], this walk follows the 'Forest Way Walk' sign[40] and trail gently downhill, while initially keeping the toilets[41] on your right and the sign on your left. This walk continues for about 45m to find a picnic table[42] (on the right). Then this walk continues through forest[43][44] for about 260m, until coming to Lily Pond Picnic Area[45][46][47][48].

Lily Pond Picnic Area Alt = 44 m
The Lily Pond picnic area in Blackbutt Reserve feels like a small, watery oasis surrounded by eucalyptus forest[49]. There is an attractive tropical water lily pond[50] with a healthy cover of Nymphaea[51], which is particularly beautiful when flowering. Also at this picnic area are bench seats[52], picnic tables[53], small grassed areas[54] and an elevated timber barbecue[55].

(1.16 km) Lily Pond Picnic Area to End of Ridgeway Road (New Hampton Heights)
Track: Moderate - servicetrail
Length = 564 m Time = 11 mins
Climb = 33 m Descent = -8 m
Continue straight: From the Lily Pond Picnic Area[56][57][58], this walk follows the trail gently uphill, while initially keeping the 'Lily Pond Picnic Area' sign on your left. This walk continues for about 170m, to find a three-way intersection[59] with a faint track (on the left) and a 'Forest Way Walk' sign[60] (on the right). Then this walk continues straight ahead through forest for about 30m to cross a bridge over a dry rocky creek[61][62]. This walk then continues for about 280m, with houses visible[63] on the left, until coming to a T-intersection[64][65] with a level trail and two green metal posts[66] directly ahead.
Turn sharp left: From the intersection[67], this walk follows the trail gently uphill, while initially keeping the two green metal posts[68] on your right. This walk continues through forest for about 60m, until passing around a locked metal gate[69] and coming to the end of Ridgeway Road[70][71] (amongst houses).

(1.72 km) End of Ridgeway Road to Int of Lookout Road & Forest Way
Track: Moderate - footpath
Length = 758 m Time = 14 mins
Climb = 45 m Descent = -3 m
Continue straight: From the end of Ridgeway Rd[72][73] (in New Lampton Heights), this walk follows Ridgeway Rd gently uphill, while leaving the locked gate[74] and 'Blackbutt Reserve - Ridgeway Rd Entrance' sign directly behind. This walk continues for about 250m, beside houses[75], to find a four-way intersection[76], with Croudace Rd. Then this walk continues straight ahead for about 400m, until coming to a level section of road as Ridgeway Road[77][78] bends sharply right[79] (there is a water tower[80] in a park on the left). This walk turns left and follows the footpath (while keeping the water tank on your left) next to Lookout Rd for about 100m, until coming to a three-way intersection[81][82] with a wide track and 'Blackbutt Reserve - Ridgeway Rd Entrance' sign[83] on the left.

(2.48 km) Int of Lookout Road AND Forest Way to Int of Tall Trees AND Forest Way Walks
Walk: Easy - servicetrail
Length = 247 m Time = 6 mins
Climb = 0 m Descent = -26 m
Veer left: From the intersection[84][85](Lookout Rd, New Lambton Heights), this walk follows the track gently downhill, while passing the 'Blackbutt Reserve - Forest Way Entrance' sign[86] (on your left) and keeping Lookout Road on your right. After about 20m, the walk passes around a locked metal gate[87]. Then this walk continues through forest for about 240m, with houses[88] visible on the right, until coming to a three-way intersection[89] with a trail and 'Forest Way Walk' sign[90][91] on the right.

(2.73 km) Tall Trees & Forest Way Walks to Int of Main Ridge & Tall Trees Walks
Walk: Easy - servicetrail
Length = 637 m Time = 13 mins
Climb = 33 m Descent = -16 m
Turn sharp right: From the intersection[92], this walk follows the 'Tall Tree Ridge Walk' sign[93] and sealed trail gently downhill, while keeping the valley on the left. This walk continues, undulating through thick forest[94] for about 290m until coming to a three-way intersection[95], with a 'Tall Trees Walk to Richley Carpark' sign[96] directly ahead.
Turn left: From the intersection[97], this walk follows the 'Tall Trees Walk to Carnley Ave Carpark' sign[98] gently downhill, while keeping the valley on your right. This walk continues, undulating through forest for about 400m until coming to a level three-way intersection[99][100], with a 'Tall Trees Walk to Richley Carpark' sign[101] (on the left) and a sealed trail (on the right).

(3.37 km) Int of Main Ridge & Tall Trees Walks to Int of Main Ridge & Blueberry Ash Walks
Walk: Easy - servicetrail
Length = 154 m Time = 3 mins
Climb = 2 m Descent = -8 m
Turn right: From the intersection[102], this walk follows the sealed trail[103] gently downhill, while walking directly away from the 'Main Ridge Walk to Carnley Carpark' sign[104] and keeping the valley on the left. This walk continues through dense forest for about 170m until coming to a three-way intersection[105], with a 'To Tall Trees Walk' sign[106] (on the right) and a gently downhill trail[107] (on the left).

(3.52 km) Int of Main Ridge and Blueberry Ash Walks to Int of Rain Forest Walk and Lookout Road
Walk: Easy - road
Length = 424 m Time = 9 mins
Climb = 22 m Descent = -17 m
Continue straight: From the intersection[108], this walk follows the 'Main Ridge Walk to Lookout Rd Car Park' sign[109] and sealed road gently downhill, while keeping the valley on your left. This walk continues, undulating for about 400m through attractive forest[110][111] until coming to a three-way intersection[112] with a road and brick buildings[113] (on the left) and yellow metal posts and a 'Main Ridge Walk (Loop)' sign[114][115] (on the right).

(3.94 km) Int of Lookout Road & Main Ridge Trail to Int of Lookout Trail AND Rain Forest Walk
Walk: Easy - road,bushtrack
Length = 326 m Time = 7 mins
Climb = 13 m Descent = -17 m
Turn right: From the intersection[116], this walk passes through the yellow metal posts and crosses the car park gently uphill[117], while initially passing the 'Main Ridge Walk (loop) sign[118] on the right. This walk continues for about 25m, until coming to a three-way intersection[119][120] with a trail and 'Sensory Trail (return)' sign[121] on the left.
Turn left: From the intersection[122], this walk follows the 'Sensory Trail (return)' sign[123] and trail gently downhill. This walk continues through forest for about 140m, to pass a 'Rain Forest Area/Picnic Park' sign[124] (on the right). Then this walk continues for about 170m, passing the 'Senses Track 150m' sign[125][126] (on the left), until crossing a bridge[127] with a timber fence and coming to a three-way intersection, with a 'Lookout Rd 420m' sign[128] ahead.

(4.27 km) Int of Lookout Trail & Rain Forest Walk to Int of Rain Forest Walk & Lookout Trail
Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 120 m Time = 3 mins
Climb = 5 m Descent = -8 m
Turn left: From the intersection[129], this walk follows the trail[130] gently uphill, while initially leaving the bridge[131] on the left and passing the 'Lookout Rd 420m' sign[132] on the right. This walk continues through rainforest for about 130m, passing a 'Rainforest Restoration Project' sign[133][134] (on the right), until coming to a three-way intersection[135], with a gently uphill trail on the right and a gently downhill trail on the left.

Rod Earp Rainforest Picnic Area Alt = 99 m
This secluded, dense rainforest within Blackbutt Reserve has bench seats[136] and a picnic table[137]. The forest in this area hosts a large population of grey-headed flying foxes[138]. These large bats[139] migrate for food and then return to roost during the day. Watch out for the bat guano the ground. This picnic area feels a world away from downtown Newcastle.

(4.39 km) Int of Rain Forest Walk & Link Track to Main Ridge & Rain Forest Walks
Walk: Easy - bushtrack
Length = 530 m Time = 13 mins
Climb = 14 m Descent = -44 m
Continue straight: From the intersection[140], this walk follows the gravel trail[141] gently downhill, while initially keeping the gently downhill trail[142] behind you on your left and keeping the valley on your left. This walk continues (passing a 'Rainforest Picnic Area' sign[143] on your right) through dense rainforest for about 400m, until coming to a three-way intersection[144][145], with a sealed road and 'Rainforest Walk' sign[146][147] (on the right). Then this walk turns left onto the gently downhill sealed road[148] and after about 30m, crosses a bridge[149] at the Rainforest picnic area[150]. This walk then follows the road gently uphill, passing a closed toilet block[151] (on the right) for about 110m, until coming to a three-way intersection[152] with a sealed road (on the left) and a 'Wildlife Exhibit' sign[153] (on the right).

(4.92 km) Main Ridge & Rain Forest Walks to Int of Main Ridge Trail & Lookout Road
Walk: Easy - road
Length = 251 m Time = 5 mins
Climb = 4 m Descent = -15 m
Turn right: From the intersection[154], this walk follows the 'Wildlife Exhibit' sign[155] and sealed road gently downhill, while keeping the valley on the right. This walk continues, undulating for about 260m until coming to a three-way intersection[156], with a 'Lookout Road Carpark' sign[157] and gently uphill sealed road on the left.

(5.17 km) Int of Main Ridge Trail & Lookout Road to Int of Boardwalk & Main Ridge Trail
Track: Moderate - road
Length = 132 m Time = 3 mins
Climb = 2 m Descent = -9 m
Continue straight: From the intersection[158], this walk follows the 'Wildlife Exhibitions 120m' sign[159] and sealed road[160] gently downhill, while keeping the 'Lookout Road Carpark' sign[161] directly behind you. This walk continues through forest[162] for about 140m, until coming to a four-way intersection[163] with the Wildlife Exhibits boardwalk[164] (on the left), a car park[165] ahead and a disabled car park (on the right).

(5.3 km) Int of Boardwalk & Main Ridge Trail to Int of Boardwalk & Carnley Trail
Alternate Route: Path: Easy - Wheelchair accessible - duckboard ( Show detail)
Length = 383 m Time = 8 mins
Climb = 12 m Descent = -13 m
Turn left: From the intersection[166][167][168], this walk follows the 'Animals' sign[169] and timber boardwalk gently uphill, while initially keeping the car park[170] on the right. This walk continues, undulating for about 300m on an elevated boardwalk[171] through large and small animal enclosures[172][173], with a fascinating selection of native animals[174][175] and birds[176][177][178]. Then this walk continues on a sealed footpath for about 70m, until passing through a high timber fenced gate and coming to a three-way intersection, with a sealed trail[179] (on the left towards the pond[180]) and a trail[181] directly ahead.
Turn left to rejoin the main walk, following the notes from 5.4km 'Int of Boardwalk & Carnley Trail'.

Blackbutt Wildlife Exhibits Alt = 47 m
This boardwalk in the Blackbutt Reserve offers wildlife exhibits[182] on an elevated timber boardwalk which is wheelchair accessible. Some of the wildlife that you are likely to encounter are kangaroos, koalas[183], wombats[184], Lace monitors[185], Wonga Pigeons, Red-winged Parrots, Black-winged Stilt[186], Buff-banded Rail, Herons[187], Eastern long-necked Turtle, Kingfishers[188], Turquoise Parrot, Banded Plover, Peaceful Dove[189], Cockatoos, Lorikeets, True Parrots, Major Mitchell Cockatoo, Bush Stone Curlew, Long-tailed Finch and Barking Owls[190]. Entry is free and the exhibit is open from 9.00am to 5.00pm every day (closed Christmas Day, Good Friday and until 1pm ANZAC Day). Personal koala encounters[191] are available at 2pm daily and cost $3.50/person. For further information, phone: 02 4904 3344. More info

(5.3 km) Int of Boardwalk & Main Ridge Trail to Int of Boardwalk & Carnley Trail
Path: Easy - Wheelchair accessible - servicetrail
Length = 97 m Time = 2 mins
Climb = 2 m Descent = -2 m
Veer left: From the intersection[192], this walk follows the sealed trail gently downhill, while initially keeping the 'Animals' sign[193] and elevated timber boardwalk[194] on the left. This walk continues for about 90m, passing an 'Animals' sign[195] and 'Information' sign (on the left) and concrete stairs (on the right), until coming to a three-way intersection[196][197], with a large timber fenced gate[198] (on the left).

Carnley Ave Reserve Alt = 39 m
The Carnley Avenue Reserve, within Blackbutt Reserve, is wheelchair accessible and has toilets[199], drinking fountains[200], gas/electric barbeques[201], sheltered picnic tables[202], a children's playground[203], fenced displays of kangaroos and emu[204], a large black duck pond[205] and an information centre[206] that is housed within a replica pioneering cottage. The information cottage has a range of souvenirs, focusing on quality and affordable products. A fee of $4 per vehicle can be paid from the automatic machines[207] in the car park. The information centre is open 7am to 5pm, or 7am to 7pm during daylight savings. For further information phone: 02 4904 3344.

(5.4 km) Int of Boardwalk & Carnley Trail to Int of Blueberry Ash Walk & Carnley Trail
Walk: Easy - road
Length = 147 m Time = 2 mins
Climb = 9 m Descent = -3 m
Turn right: From the intersection[208], this walk follows the sealed trail[209] gently downhill and towards the Black Duck Pond[210], while initially keeping the large timber fenced gate[211] on your left. This walk continues for about 20m until coming to a four-way intersection[212], with the replica pioneering cottage[213][214], Black Duck Pond and a 'Richley Reserve' sign[215] (on the left).
Continue straight: From the intersection[216][217], this walk follows the sealed road, while initially keeping the Black Duck Pond[218] on your left and the replica pioneering cottage[219][220] directly behind you. This walk continues, passing the Black Duck Pond (on the left) and continues gently uphill[221] for about 150m (passing a sheltered picnic area[222] and children's playground on the right) until coming to a three-way intersection[223] with a gravel trail (on the left), a metal ring fence (on the right) and a 'Main Ridge Walk (loop)' sign[224].

(5.55 km) Int of Carnley Trail & Blueberry Ash Walk to Int of Carnley & Tall Trees Trails
Track: Moderate - servicetrail
Length = 305 m Time = 6 mins
Climb = 18 m Descent = 0 m
Veer right: From the intersection[225], this walk follows the 'Main Ridge Walk (loop)' sign[226] on your left and trail gently downhill. This walk continues through forest with a metal ring fence (on the left) for about 170m, until coming to a three-way intersection[227][228] with a gently downhill trail[229] (on the right) and the end of the metal ring fence.
Continue straight: From the intersection[230][231], this walk follows the gently downhill trail and moves directly away from the metal ring fence, while initially keeping the trail and fence[232] on your right. This walk continues, undulating for about 170m until coming to a three-way intersection[233][234], with a 'Richley Car Park' sign[235].

(5.85 km) Int of Main Ridge & Tall Trees Walks to Richley Reserve (Short Cut Intersection)
Track: Moderate - footpath
Length = 191 m Time = 4 mins
Climb = 0 m Descent = -25 m
Continue straight: From the intersection[236], this walk passes around a metal post[237] and follows the 'Richley Carpark 400m' sign[238] and sealed footpath gently downhill, while leaving the bench seat[239] directly behind. This walk continues through forest for about 140m, to pass around a metal post[240] and find a large grassy picnic area[241][242]. Then this walk continues straight ahead over grass and through some trees for about 70m, until coming to a sealed trail[243][244][245] (with the valley beyond).

(6.04 km) Richley Reserve (Short Cut Intersection) to Richley Reserve (Car Park)
Alternate Route: Path: Easy - Wheelchair accessible - servicetrail,road ( Show detail)
Length = 290 m Time = 6 mins
Climb = 6 m Descent = -9 m
Turn right: From the trail[246][247] below the large elevated grassed picnic area[248], this walk follows the trail gently downhill, while keeping the valley on your left. This walk continues through grassed parkland[249] for about 120m, until coming to a three-way intersection[250] with a sealed trail and a 'Tall Tree Walk (loop)' sign[251] (on the right).
Turn left: From the intersection[252][253], this walk follows the sealed trail gently downhill, keeping the 'Tall Tree Walk (loop)' sign[254] directly behind you while walking towards the road and car park. This walk continues for about 45m, passing through a metal gate[255] to find a three-way intersection, with a road[256] on the right and the car park[257] on the left. Then this walk turns left and follows the car park gently uphill for about 150m, until coming to a 'Tall Tree Ridge Walk' sign[258] and sheltered picnic tables[259][260] ahead.
Continue straight to rejoin the main walk, following the notes from 0km 'Richley Reserve (Car Park)'.

(6.04 km) Richley Reserve (Short Cut Intersection) to Richley Reserve (Four Way Intersection)
Path: Easy - Wheelchair accessible - servicetrail
Length = 257 m Time = 5 mins
Climb = 10 m Descent = -8 m
Turn left: From the trail[261][262] below the large elevated grassed picnic area, this walk follows the gently downhill trail west, while keeping the valley on your right. This walk continues for about 120m to find a sheltered picnic area[263] (on the right). Then this walk continues straight ahead and gently uphill for about 160m, becoming gently downhill and passing timber steps[264] (on the left) and a toilet block (on the right), until coming to a four-way intersection[265], with a playground[266] on the right and a timber footbridge[267] directly ahead.

(6.3 km) Richley Reseve (four way intersection) to Richley Reserve (car park)
Path: Easy - Wheelchair accessible - footpath
Length = 184 m Time = 3 mins
Climb = 2 m Descent = -7 m
Turn right: From the intersection[268], this walk follows the footpath[269] gently downhill, while initially keeping the timber footbridge[270] on your left. This walk continues for about 180m, beside a pond[271] (on your left), until coming to a car park[272] with a sheltered picnic table[273] and 'Tall Tree Ridge Walk' sign[274] (on the left).

Catch the bus from Richley Reserve (car park)
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 Richley Reserve (car park)
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
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 6 Northcott Drv, Kotara (02) 4952 1233 1.2 km
Aussie Disposal Newcastle 4/ 14 Northcott Drv, Kotara (02) 4965 5500 1.2 km
Boots Great Outdoors 27 Lambton Rd , Broadmeadow (02) 4969 4655 3.3 km
Wallsend Army Disposal Store Cnr Tyrrell & Council Sts, Wallsend (02) 4951 5725 4.5 km
Mountain Designs Cnr King & National Park Sts, Newcastle West (02) 4962 3311 5.7 km


A list of the nearest UHF CB repeaters I found to Blackbutt Circuit Walk.
Channel Call sign
(more info)
Site Distance and dir from Blackbutt Circuit Walk
Click to re-center search
1 CHT01 Our Town Repeater Group 244 Pacific Highway CHARLESTOWN 3 km (to the S)
5 CHN05 Our Town Repeater Group 244 Pacific Highway CHARLESTOWN
Emergency use only
3 km (to the S)
6 NEW06 Gencom Site 1 Sugarloaf Range via NEWCASTLE 17 km (to the W)
2 VMB4 Auzcom Communications Site 1 Sugarloaf Range Via NEWCASTLE 17 km (to the W)
4 BOR04 Redgums Property 331 Lowes Lane BOORAL 54 km (to the NNE)

Weather and Park info

Fire Danger
This walk passes Greater Hunter 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 8 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      27°Showers. Likely storm developing.
Thu21°|25°Possible shower.
Fri20°|30°Becoming windy. Partly cloudy.
Sat19°|24°Possible late shower.
A graph displaying the average daily temperature range for the year

Walker Feedback

Comments
Add NewSearch
Only registered users can write comments!
 
Loading the images not too much longer now :)


-server web1.wildwalks.com- Page was generated in 0.069407 seconds Copyright | Privacy | About us | Disclaimer | Contact Us | Sponsorship | Newsletter