Check out the New Wildwalks site -- This site is no longer maintained and is just for archive

Home arrow Hiking near Sydney arrow Macquarie Park to Thornleigh     

Bushwalking track notes, photographs, maps and more for Macquarie Park to Thornleigh are found in each of the tabs below
Macquarie Park to Thornleigh
Time: 4 hrs 30 mins Walking time
Please allow extra time to rest and to explore
1.2 km NE of North Ryde
Length: 11.6 km Walk Length
As this is a One Way walk, the 11.6 km only includes the walking distance from the start to the end point
Lane Cove National Park
Climb: 413 m Total Climbing
This walk has a total cumulative climb of 413 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 of this walk
Style: One way
Track: Hard

Starting from the Macquarie Park train station, you wander down Lane Cove Rd and over De Burghs Bridge to join the main spine of the Great North Walk in the Lane Cove Valley. Here the walk heads under De Burghs bridge then explores the dry grass tree and eucalypt forest along the side of the ridge. The track soon leads you down into the ferny and moist valley beside Lane Cove River. Near the top of the valley, you walk up some stone steps built during the depression to find some rock engravings with 1930's style political satire, Conscript Pass. The side trip provides access to the scout campsite, where the main walk continues leads up through the streets to find Thornleigh train station. (open in app)


There are Closed areas in Lane Cove National Park
Today's Fire rating
LOW MODERATE (No fire ban)
  Bushwalking track notes photographs, maps and camping spots for Macquarie Park to Thornleigh

Map of Walk

Location

                Sponsor of Macquarie Park to Thornleigh bushwalking tracknotes
Map of Macquarie Park to Thornleigh
Problem loading PDF Try here
Map Controls - Show Contours | Hide Path | Hide Distances | Hide Names
Map Scale 5 km
Macquarie Park Station
Eden Gardens
DeBurghs Bridge South
DeBurghs Bridge North
Int GNW and Ryde Rd Access Trk NE
Int of GNW and Ryde Road trail (west)
Int of GNW and Yanko Road tracks
Int of GNW and Gloucester Ave fire trail (east)
Int of GNW and Gloucester Ave service trail (sth)
Green Shed
Int of the GNW and Powerline access track
Int of GNW and Christie Park track
Int of the GNW and Powerline access track
Int of the GNW and mid Gloucester Ave fire trail access track
Int of the GNW and the West Pymble service trail link track
Int of the GNW and the Avondale creek service trail
Int of GNW and the old weir track
Int of GNW and the Turramurra High School bushtrack
Int of the GNW and the Turramurra High School service trail
Int near the end of Koombalah Ave
Creek crossing
Int of GNW and Kissing Point Road trail
Int of flat rock view
Int of Browns waterhole trail and pipe bridge track
Browns Waterhole int
Int of GNW and Cove St trail
Int of GNW and the STEP track (east)
Int of GNW and the STEP track (west)
Int of GNW and Whale Rock trail
Int of GNW and the Pennant Hills Park track
Int of the GNW and the Morona Ave trail
Conscript Pass
Int of the GNW and Lorna Pass tracks
Int of GNW and BP camp track
Int of City View Lookout and BP camp tracks
Int of BP camp and unnamed track
Int beside Pioneer Hut
Int of GNW and BP scout camp tracks
Back of Thornleigh Oval
Int of Handley and Ferguson Avenues
Int of Railway Parade and Pennant Hills Road overpass steps
Starting point for this hiking track: Eden Gardens

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 
 Parramatta River 1:25 000 Map Series NSW-91303N 
 Sydney 1:100 000 Map Series 9130 

Photo Gallery

 
Macquarie Park railway station
 
Macquarie Park railway station +
 
A few options for something to eat
 
A few options for something to eat +
 
Crossing the M2
 
Crossing the M2 +

 
Eden Gardens
 
Eden Gardens +
 
MM_20110120_061521
 
MM_20110120_061521 +
 
Approaching De Burghs Bridge
 
Approaching De Burghs Bridge +

 
Crossing De Burghs Bridge
 
Crossing De Burghs Bridge +
 
Lane Cove River and Blue Pool from De Burghs Bridge
 
Lane Cove River and Blue Pool from De Burghs Bridge +
 
Track near north eastern corner for De Burghs Bridge
 
Track near north eastern corner for De Burghs Bridge +

 
Looking down the to the Great North Walk
 
Looking down the to the Great North Walk +
 
Walking under De Burghs Bridge
 
Walking under De Burghs Bridge +
 
Fenced section of track near De Burghs Bridge
 
Fenced section of track near De Burghs Bridge +

 
Grass Trees abound
 
Grass Trees abound +
 
Pine leaf Geebung (Persoonia pinafolia)In bloom
 
Pine leaf Geebung (Persoonia pinafolia)In bloom +
 
Dry forests on ridge in the Lane Cove Valley
 
Dry forests on ridge in the Lane Cove Valley +

 
A weedy section of track west of Lane Cove Road
 
A weedy section of track west of Lane Cove Road +
 
GNW arrow post pointing along the trail
 
GNW arrow post pointing along the trail +
 
Crossing Rudder Creek
 
Crossing Rudder Creek +

 
Well signposted section in Lane Cove NP
 
Well signposted section in Lane Cove NP +
 
A fairly open section of dry forest
 
A fairly open section of dry forest +
 
The rocky track on Lane Cove Valley
 
The rocky track on Lane Cove Valley +

 
Crossing Quarry Creek
 
Crossing Quarry Creek +
 
Walking through the dense forest in the Lane Cove Valley
 
Walking through the dense forest in the Lane Cove Valley +
 
Crossing Congham Creek
 
Crossing Congham Creek +

 
Walking through the tall heath
 
Walking through the tall heath +
 
Sandy beach on Lane Cove River near Avondale Creek
 
Sandy beach on Lane Cove River near Avondale Creek +
 
Walking down to Lane Cove River near Avondale Creek
 
Walking down to Lane Cove River near Avondale Creek +

 
Weir and bridge over Avondale Creek
 
Weir and bridge over Avondale Creek +
 
The Lane Cove River near Avondale Creek
 
The Lane Cove River near Avondale Creek +
 
Boardwalk north of Avondale Creek
 
Boardwalk north of Avondale Creek +

 
Rocky track through the dry forest
 
Rocky track through the dry forest +
 
Walking along the wide trails near Koombalah Ave
 
Walking along the wide trails near Koombalah Ave +
 
A few high tension power line towers near the trail
 
A few high tension power line towers near the trail +

 
Great North Walk near Kissing point Rd
 
Great North Walk near Kissing point Rd +
 
Lane Cove River at Browns Water Hole
 
Lane Cove River at Browns Water Hole +
 
Browns Water Hole
 
Browns Water Hole +

 
Just north of Browns Water Hole
 
Just north of Browns Water Hole +
 
The tall wooded forest near the STEP track
 
The tall wooded forest near the STEP track +
 
Intersection at the bottom of the Canoon Road trail
 
Intersection at the bottom of the Canoon Road trail +

 
Intersection of of the GNW and Whale Rock trail
 
Intersection of of the GNW and Whale Rock trail +
 
Crossing the upper Lane Cove River
 
Crossing the upper Lane Cove River +
 
Fern trees and moist forest in the upper Lane Cove Valley
 
Fern trees and moist forest in the upper Lane Cove Valley +

 
The rocky trail beside the upper Lane Cove River
 
The rocky trail beside the upper Lane Cove River +
 
Crossing the Lane Cove River
 
Crossing the Lane Cove River +
 
Fern tree in the upper Lane Cove Valley
 
Fern tree in the upper Lane Cove Valley +

 
Stepping stones over the upper Lane Cove River
 
Stepping stones over the upper Lane Cove River +
 
Well signposted track near Conscript Pass
 
Well signposted track near Conscript Pass +
 
Steps below Conscript Pass
 
Steps below Conscript Pass +

 
Conscript Pass
 
Conscript Pass +
 
Conscript Pass engraving
 
Conscript Pass engraving +
 
Bertram Stevens
 
Bertram Stevens +

 
Sir Bertram Stevens
 
Sir Bertram Stevens +
 
Steps near Lorna Pass
 
Steps near Lorna Pass +
 
Lorna Pass
 
Lorna Pass +

 
Baden Powell Scout Camp - campsite
 
Baden Powell Scout Camp - campsite +
 
Baden Powell Scout Camp - Hall
 
Baden Powell Scout Camp - Hall +
 
Baden Powell Scout Camp - accomodation
 
Baden Powell Scout Camp - accomodation +

 
Thornleigh Oval
 
Thornleigh Oval +
 
Walking along Handley Ave
 
Walking along Handley Ave +
 
Bridge near Pennant Hills Rd
 
Bridge near Pennant Hills Rd +

 
Walking over Pennant Hills Rd
 
Walking over Pennant Hills Rd +
 
Thornleigh Station
 
Thornleigh Station +
 
Thornleigh trackhead sign on west side of train station
 
Thornleigh trackhead sign on west side of train station +

Terrain

Cross sectional view of the Macquarie Park to Thornleigh bushwalking track

Cross Section of the Macquarie Park to Thornleigh bushwalking track



Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Macquarie Park to Thornleigh bushwalking track

Summary of the gradients over the the lenght of the Macquarie Park to Thornleigh 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 12km
Time 4 hrs 30 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 Some bushwalking experience recommended (3/6)
Weather Storms may impact on navigation and safety (3/6)
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
6km of this walk has gentle hills with occasional steps and another 3.5km has short steep hills. Whilst another 1.8km is flat with no steps and the remaining 230m is very steep.

Quality of track
6km of this walk follows a clear and well formed track or trail and another 3.2km follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles. Whilst another 1.5km follows a smooth and hardened path and the remaining 620m follows a rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely.

Signs
Around 7km of this walk is clearly signposted, whilst the remaining 4.2km has directional signs at most intersection.

Experience Required
Around 8km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 3.6km requires some bushwalking experience.

Weather
Around 9km of this walk is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation), whilst the remaining 3.1km is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety.

Infrastructure
Around 6km of this walk is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats), whilst the remaining 6km has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced).

Track Notes


Catch the train to Macquarie Park
Public transport (train) available to this Bushwalk Check out the facilities at Macquarie Park
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 Macquarie Park 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 Macquarie Park Station
You can drive or ride to this start of this Bushwalk Parking fees apply in the area.
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) Macquarie Park Station to Eden Gardens
Walk: Easy - footpath
Length = 860 m Time = 15 mins
Climb = 9 m Descent = -13 m
From Macquarie Park train station, this walk crosses 'Waterloo Road' to find the Shell service station, Coles Express[1] on the otherside. Here th walk follows the footpath downhill, keeping Lane Cove Road immediately to your left for about 250m, to a shopping complex with a 'McDonalds'[2], 'KFC'[3], some other restaurants and sandwich shops[4]. After a further 130m alongside the main road, this walk comes to 'Talavera Rd'[5]. This walk turns left here to cross 'Lane Cove Road' then turns right to cross 'Talavera Rd' on the otherside of the intersection. Here the walk follows the footpath beside Lane Cove Road for 110m to then cross the freeway on-ramp using the pedestrian crossing. The walk then continues along the footpath on the road bridge that leads over the freeway then crosses the freeway-off ramp at two sets of traffic lights. The walk then continues along the footpath (beside Lane Cove Road) for 130m to the lights at 'Fontenoy Road'. Here the walk turns right to cross 'Lane Cove Road' at the lights and come to the front of Eden Gardens[6][7][8].

Eden Gardens Alt = 54 m
Eden Gardens is a popular plant nursery at the intersection of Fontenoy and Ryde Roads. It is a pleasant place to explore and is also home to 'Dragonfly Cafe'[9]. The cafe is open 7 days, 8:30am to 4pm (5pm on weekends) and serves a variety of hot and cold meals. PH: 9491 9900.
The centre is closed over Christmas and on News Year Day More info

(0.86 km) Eden Gardens to Int. Great North Walk and Ryde Rd Access Trk NE
Walk: Easy - bushtrack,footpath,bushtrack
Length = 845 m Time = 21 mins
Climb = 25 m Descent = -67 m
Turn left: From in front of 'Eden Gardens' nursery, this walk crosses the nursery driveway (at the traffic lights), keeping 'Lane Cove Rd' immediately to your left. This walk then follows the footpath beside the road for about 130m, past a bus stop[10] to cross Riverside Drive[11] (a signposted entrance to 'Lane Cove National Park'[12][13]). Here the walk follows the grassy verge down alongside the main road for 250m to come to an intersection marked with an NPWS arrow marker[14][15], immediately before DeBurghs Bridge.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this follows the NPWS arrow marker[16] along the footpath[17] across 'De Burghs Bridge'[18][19], keeping the traffic to your left. On the other side of the bridge, this walk continues along the concrete footpath for 70m (passing under the 'Lane Cove National Park' sign[20]) to come to an intersection beside a locked gate[21] (on your right).
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads directly away from the road and around the locked gate. The walk turns right and follows the track past the 'Lane Cove National Park' sign[22] and around the scrubby clearing for about 130m. Here, the track leads down some timber steps and comes to a clear three-way intersection, where a 'Lane Cove River Weir via Riverside walk' sign[23] points back up the steps.

(1.71 km) Int GNW and Ryde Rd Access Trk NE to Int of GNW and Ryde Road trail (west)
Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 542 m Time = 11 mins
Climb = 19 m Descent = -15 m
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Thornleigh via Great North Walk' sign[24] down a couple of steps[25] and along the track towards Deburghs Bridge, keeping the valley to your left. After about 50m, the track leads under the large concrete Deburghs Bridge[26], with some graffiti[27]. On the other side of the bridge, the track bends right to head up over some rocks, following two sections of hand railing[28][29]. From the end of these handrails, the track leads gently up among the grass trees[30] for about 400m (and a weedy section of track) to come to a clear T-intersection[31] with a management trail, where a 'Great North Walk' sign[32] points back down the track.

(2.25 km) Int of GNW and Ryde Road trail (west) to Int of GNW and Gloucester Ave fire trail
Track: Moderate - servicetrail,bushtrack
Length = 867 m Time = 18 mins
Climb = 35 m Descent = -29 m
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'The Great North Walk' sign[33] north, gently downhill along the management trail. After about 80m, this trail crosses a concrete bridge[34] over Rudder Creek (beside a concrete sewerage pipe[35]). From here, the trail leads uphill for just shy of 200m to come to an intersection with the GNW track (on your left), where a 'Lane Cove Weir' sign[36] points back down along the trail.
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Thornleigh Oval' sign[37] west, gently down the track, away from the management trail. The track almost immediately passes the large metal pipe (crossing the Lane Cove River[38]) then winds down the rocky track[39] for about 200m, through open eucalypt forest[40] with some limited views left over the valley, to come to a weedy section of track marked with a concrete sewerage access point[41]. Here the track mostly flattens out and leads along the side of the hill for about 400m to head down a few steps and cross Quarry Creek[42]. The walk then heads up some steps and follows the track for another 30m to come to a T-intersection[43] with the Gloucester Ave fire trail, marked with a GNW and NPWS arrow post[44].

(3.11 km) Int of GNW and Gloucester Ave fire trail (east) to Int of GNW and Christie Park track
Track: Moderate - servicetrail,bushtrack,bushtrack,bushtrack
Length = 582 m Time = 12 mins
Climb = 9 m Descent = -12 m
Turn left: From the intersection, the walk follows the GNW arrow post[45] gently uphill along the management trail, away from the gate whilst keeping the power line poles on your left. After about 30m (just past the second power pole), this trail leads to an intersection with a track (on the left), marked with another set of NPWS & GNW arrow posts[46] (just under the high tension power lines[47]).
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[48] south, downhill along the track and under the high tension power lines[49]. The track winds gently downhill for almost 150m until, just after passing close to the the high tension power line tower[50], this walk comes to a locked green shed[51] opposite a fenced-off pipe bridge[52] (down in the valley to your left).
Continue straight: From the green shed, this walk follows the track[53] along the side of the hill, keeping the valley to your left (running parallel with the high tension power lines, up to your right). After about 150m, this walk comes to an intersection with a faint track on your right (that leads a short distance to a management trail), marked with a GNW arrow post[54].
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post along the mostly flat track, through the dense forest, and almost immediately passes a concrete sewerage access point[55]. After about 70m, this walk heads down a few timbers steps to cross a small gully[56], where the track continues for another 100m (passing close to a few houses[57]), then crosses two flat timber bridges[58] over Congham Creek. Here the walk veers left up onto the rock platform[59] and follows the track gently uphill for another 80m to come to a three-way intersection, marked with a GNW arrow post[60] (and a sign pointing left to 'Marsfield'[61]).

(3.7 km) Int of GNW and Christie Park track to Int of the GNW and mid Gloucester Ave fire trail access track
Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 145 m Time = 4 mins
Climb = 13 m Descent = 0 m
Veer right: From the intersection, the walk follows the GNW arrow post[62] north, uphill for about 30m to come to a faint intersection with a track (on your right) marked with a GNW arrow post[63].
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[64] gently uphill along the side of the hill (keeping the valley to your left) for about 100m to come to a small clearing and three way intersection, marked with yet another GNW arrow post[65] and a pile of rocks[66] (on your left).

(3.84 km) Int of the GNW and mid Gloucester Ave fire trail access track to Int of the GNW and the Avondale creek service trail
Track: Hard - bushtrack,servicetrail
Length = 824 m Time = 18 mins
Climb = 34 m Descent = -43 m
Turn left : From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[67] up the short rocky hill[68] and away from the high tension power lines[69]. The track (rocky early on[70]) leads along the side of the hill among some grass trees[71] for about 300m before passing under the power lines again. Here the track continues for another 300m along the side of the valley to come to a clear intersection with intersection with a wide management trail[72].
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[73] downhill along the management trail. The trail leads down for about 70m to cross a small gully[74] then runs closely beside the Lane Cove River[75] (on your left) for another 120m to come to an intersection marked with a GNW arrow post and a 'Lane Cove Valley' aluminum sign and map[76].

(4.67 km) Int of the GNW and the Avondale creek service trail to Int of the GNW and the South Turramurra High School trail
Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 489 m Time = 13 mins
Climb = 46 m Descent = -12 m
Turn left : From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post, directly away from the face of the 'Lane Cove Valley' aluminum sign and map[77], down the track and timber steps[78] to a sandy beach on the Lane Cove River[79]. Here the walk turns right to cross the weir and bridge[80] over Avondale Creek, (this may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain) then climb gently uphill for about 120m to come to a faint intersection with a faint track (on your left - this faint track leads down to another old weir).
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads gently uphill following the main track, whilst keeping the valley to your left for about 30m to come to a clear Y-intersection marked with a GNW arrow post[81].
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[82] along the track, keeping the Lane Cove River a short distance to your left[83]. After about 80m, the track steps up to and crosses a short section to timber boardwalk/bridge[84]. Here the walk climbs up the rocky hill following a series of concrete access points[85] and timber steps[86] for about 230m to come to a T-intersection with a management trail, marked with a GNW arrow post[87].

(5.15 km) Int of the GNW and the Turramurra High School service trail to Int of GNW and Kissing Point Road path
Track: Moderate - servicetrail
Length = 873 m Time = 18 mins
Climb = 24 m Descent = -35 m
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[88] gently downhill along the management trail for about 40m to come to an intersection with a short trail (on the right, which leads to the gate[89] at the end of Koombalah Ave).
Continue straight: From the intersection just below the Koombalah Ave gate, this walk follows the management trail gently downhill, whilst keeping the valley to your left. The trail initially leads over a rock platform, then about 50m later, leads down a steep hill[90]. The trail then heads gently down for about 400m before a short steep hill[91] leads down to a metal high tension power line tower[92]. Here the trail bends right and leads down and along the side of the hill for another 200m to pass another high tension power line tower[93] and head behind a few houses. Just behind the second house, this walk comes to ephemeral creek on a rock platform[94].
Continue straight: From here, this walk crosses the ephemeral creek[95] (keeping the houses up to your right) and continues along the trail for about 30m to come to a T-intersection with a wide, shared, concrete path, marked with several signposts[96].

(6.03 km) Int of GNW and Kissing Point Road trail to Browns Waterhole int
Walk: Easy - footpath
Length = 263 m Time = 5 mins
Climb = 1 m Descent = -17 m
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post downhill[97] along the wide, shared, concrete path. After about 50m, this path leads under some high tension power lines[98] then bends right[99]. About 50m after passing under the power lines, this path leads to an intersection with a track[100] (on your left, that leads to an informal unfenced lookout), just before a GNW arrow post[101].
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk heads fairly steeply downhill along the concrete path. The path passes a few signs[102] over about 100m, then comes to an intersection with a track (on your left), marked with a timber barricade and a GNW arrow post[103].
Veer right: From the intersection, this follows the concrete path downhill for just shy of 50m to come to a intersection with a dirt management trail[104]. This intersection is beside the Lane Cove River crossing[105] (on your left) and is marked with a 'The Great North Walk' sign here[106].

Browns Waterhole Alt = 31 m
Browns Waterhole is a wide, shallow section of the Lane Cove River, downstream of a concrete weir[107]. There is a concrete shared cycle/footpath crossing over the top of the weir, linking Kissing Point Road, South Turramurra to Vimiera Rd, Macquarie Park. On the western side of the waterhole, there is a picnic table[108] and small clearing with a view over this section of the river.

(6.29 km) Browns Waterhole int to Int of GNW and Cove St trail
Walk: Easy - servicetrail
Length = 515 m Time = 11 mins
Climb = 24 m Descent = -9 m
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'The Great North Walk' sign[109] along the dirt management trail, keeping the Lane Cove River to your left. After about 80m, the trail leads under some high tension power lines[110], where there is a mostly clear view over the river[111] (to your left). The trail then gently leads down through the valley[112] for about 400m to come to an intersection with Cove St trail, marked with a GNW arrow post[113].

(6.81 km) Int of GNW and Cove St trail to Int of GNW and Whale Rock trail
Walk: Easy - servicetrail
Length = 713 m Time = 12 mins
Climb = 8 m Descent = -14 m
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[114] downhill along the management trail for about 30m to cross a small culverted creek[115]. The walk then follows the trail up the short hill to come to an intersection with the signposted 'STEP track'[116][117] (on your right).
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[118] and STEP Track markers[119] along the management trail, whilst keeping the river to your left. The trail undulates through the valley (weedy in places[120]) and tall forest[121] for just shy of 600m, to come to a clear intersection at the bottom of a sealed management trail[122] (on your right). This intersection is marked with another 'STEP Track' map/sign[123] and a 'The Great North Walk' sign[124].
Veer left: From the intersection, the walk follows the 'The Great North Walk' sign gently downhill along the management trail, directly away from the face of the 'STEP Track' map/sign[125]. Keeping the river to your left, the trail leads downhill for about 80m to come to a Y-intersection[126], where there is a 'Lane Cove Valley' map/sign[127] and a 'Lane Cove River Park' sign[128] pointing back along the trail.

(7.52 km) Int of GNW and Whale Rock trail to Int of the GNW and the Morona Ave trail
Track: Moderate - servicetrail
Length = 2.13 km Time = 38 mins
Climb = 54 m Descent = -23 m
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Thornleigh Station' sign[129] past the 'Lane Cove Valley' map, initially keeping the other trail and river to your left. The trail follows the valley floor, keeping the river just to your left, for a bit over 500m, to then cross the Lane Cove River at a rocky ford[130]. This crossing may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain. On the other side of the river, this walk continues along the trail[131] for about 400m (with the river now close by on your right) to come to an intersection with a faint track[132] (on your left, that leads up towards Pennant Hills Park).
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the management trail, keeping the river just to your right. After about 60m, the trail bends right and crosses the Lane Cove River at a rocky ford[133], then continues along the valley floor among the fern trees (and concrete pipe access points[134]) for about 900m to cross the Lane Cove River again at another rocky ford[135]. (These crossings may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain). The trail then continues along the valley floor[136] (with the river now on your left) for just over 150m to come to an intersection at the bottom of the sealed Morona Ave trail[137] (on your right), marked with a 'Lane Cove Valley' map/sign[138] and a GNW arrow post[139].

(9.64 km) Int of the GNW and the Morona Ave trail to Conscript Pass
Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 329 m Time = 8 mins
Climb = 24 m Descent = -8 m
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post along the valley floor, away from the two trails, keeping the river just to your left. The track soon narrows, leading past a water depth indicator[140], and becomes rocky for about 150m before coming to a faint intersection, where GNW arrow post points left[141]. Here, the walk turns left and crosses the Lane Cove River using the concrete stepping stones[142] (this crossing may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain) to follow the 'Thornleigh Station' sign[143] up the timber steps for about 40m and find a GNW registration box[144] (damaged at time of writing). The track bends sharply right[145] and zigzags up the rocky hill for another 30m, before bending sharply left to find the 'Conscript Pass' and 'B Stevens'[146][147] engravings (at the third metal hand rail).

Conscript Pass Alt = 85 m
Conscript Pass is a small sandstone pass between the Lane Cove River and Thornleigh, on the Great North Walk. During the 1930s, some stone steps were built through a cleft in the rock[148] as part of a public works program, in response to the depression. The pass has two main engravings. Firstly 'Conscript Pass' is followed with a downwards pointing arrow[149] and a series of initials and numbers. On another wall (that you face when walking up) is engraved 'B Stevens' followed a surprisingly good caricature[150][151] of the then Premier of NSW, Bertram Stevens[152]. Stevens (later knighted) replaced Jack Lang[153] in 1932 as Premier of NSW, when Lang was dismissed by the Governor (just two months Lang after opening the Sydney Harbour Bridge).

(9.97 km) Conscript Pass to Int of GNW and BP scout camp tracks
Track: Hard - bushtrack
Length = 332 m Time = 10 mins
Climb = 53 m Descent = 0 m
Continue straight: From 'Conscript Pass', this walk heads up the stone steps through the cleft in the rock[154] to follow the track and more stone steps uphill for about 100m, coming to a T-intersection with Lorna Pass track, marked with a GNW arrow post[155].
Veer left: From the intersection, the walk follows the 'Thornleigh' sign[156] uphill along the rocky track, keeping the valley to your left. The track leads up a series of timber steps[157] for about 230m, becoming steeper as they go[158], to come to a clear T-intersection signposted with a large 'The Great North Walk' sign[159], and a stone 'Lorna Pass' arrow[160] pointing back down the track.

(10.31 km) Int of GNW and BP camp track to BP camping area
Optional sidetrip: Track: Hard - bushtrack,servicetrail
Length = 615 m Time = 13 mins
Climb = 21 m Descent = -34 m
Turn left : From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Baden Powell Scout Centre' sign[161] gently down along the side of the hill for just shy of 40m to come to a four-way intersection, where a 'Thornleigh Oval' sign[162] points back along the track.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Baden-Powell Scout Centre' sign[163] and the GNW arrow post[164] west along the narrow track. The track leads through the dense heath[165] for about 120m to come to an intersection and clearing at a rocky outcrop[166], marked with a GNW arrow post[167].
Turn right: From the clearing, this walk follows the GNW arrow post north, downhill along the narrow track. After about 120m the rocky track leads to a small flat clearing[168] where this walk turn left (following the GNW arrow post) passing through about 20m of heath to come to another clearing (with a campfire scar[169]). Following the GNW arrow post, this walk soon bends right to step down to the edge of a creek[170]. Here the walk turns left and follows the creek downstream for about 20m to then bend right and cross Scout Creek[171]. The walk then heads uphill along the widening track for about 130m (passing a few scout constructions[172], and a track on the left[173]) then walks up under the high ropes course[174]. About 20m after the ropes course, this walk comes to an intersection with a dirt driveway[175], beside the green Pioneer Hut[176] (shed on the left). There is also a tap and drinking fountain here[177].
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the gravel driveway[178] east, away from the Pioneer Hut[179] and towards the picnic shelters. After about 30m (just after the left bend), this walk comes to some of these picnic shelters[180] and several tiered platforms (on your right) - this is the camping area (there is a stone building up to your right).
(Retrace your steps back to the main track, then continue straight to continue along this walk.)

Baden Powell Scout Centre Alt = 131 m
The Baden Powell Scout Centre is a large camping and training area on the edge of Pennant Hills and Thornleigh[181] (at the end of Pomona St). There are several large buildings including dining and training halls[182].
For walkers, there is dorm/hostel style accommodation and several bush camping areas[183].
Bush camping - is found near the lower (south-eastern) end of the grounds for $9 per person per night. Facilities include tap water[184], picnic shelters[185], toilets[186] and even a shower block[187]. They also provide an indoor area in case the weather turns during the night and you need to retreat.
There are kitchen facilities available for an extra $5.
Dorm-style accommodation - at $29 per person per night, you can share a room with other campers in a bunk room, you will need to bring a sleeping bag and towel.
Hostel-style accommodation - at $35 per person per night, you will be provided a smaller room (still shared) with bedding (sheets and blankets) as well as access to a kitchen.
The friendly staff here are also happy to put together a food hamper for your meals, or organise a delivery meal, just chat with them when booking.
Pre-booking is essential, phone Michael New (02) 9484 2278 (weekdays).

(10.31 km) Int of GNW and BP scout camp tracks to Int of Handley and Ferguson Avenues
Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 353 m Time = 7 mins
Climb = 16 m Descent = 0 m
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post and 'Thornleigh Station' sign[188] uphill along the wide rocky track[189]. After just over 150m, the track bends left (ignoring a faint track on your right[190]) and heads uphill for another 40m to come to the back (south-east corner) of Thornleigh Oval[191], marked with a 'Lane Cove National Park' signpost[192].
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post along the fence line around the oval, keeping the oval to your left. After about 100m, this walk passes in front of the clubhouse[193] (there are toilets[194] and a water tap[195] on your right) to pass a 'Great North Walk' sign[196] and come to the corner of 'Handley' and 'Ferguson' Avenues[197] in front of the 'Thornleigh Oval' sign[198].

Thornleigh Oval Alt = 155 m
Thornleigh Oval is found at the intersection of Handley and Ferguson Avenues, Thornleigh. There is a large playing field[199], tap water[200], public toilets[201][202] and some shelter in the awning of the club house[203]. The oval has a car park, and a number io signs for the Great North walk[204] and other local tracks[205].

(10.66 km) Int of Handley and Ferguson Avenues to Thornleigh Train Station
Walk: Easy - footpath
Length = 923 m Time = 16 mins
Climb = 19 m Descent = -5 m
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Thornleigh Station' sign across the road to follow the footpath beside 'Handley Ave'. After about 130m, the walk crosses Clifford Ave[206] then after about 250m, crosses 'Orchard St' to follow 'Station St' almost directly ahead[207]. About 190m along 'Station St', this walk continues straight across 'Wood St'[208] (you can get to Parkway Plaza if you turn right here) and continues for just over 200m to find a footbridge[209] beside Pennant Hills Rd. Here the walk heads up the ramp and crosses over the busy road[210] then down the ramp (or steps) to find the intersection with Railway Parade[211].
Veer left: From the base of the steps, this walk follows the GNW arrow across 'Railway Pde'[212], heading towards the train line. At the fence, this walk veers left and leads along the pedestrian alley[213] for about 60m before turning right and climbing up the railway bridge steps[214], coming to the 'Thornleigh' Train Station[215].

Zacs Great Food Alt = 170 m
This restaurant can be found on Pennont Hills road just a stones throw from the station. They are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner with a continental menu ranging from about $20. for a meal. The opening hours are from 6.oo am to 10.00 pm from Tuesdays to Saterdays, and closed Sundays and Mondays. For more information on bookings call (02) 9484 6799.

Subway Alt = 167 m
This branch of the popular sandwich chain Subway, who make a variety of subs and sandwiches as you order them. For more details contact the store on (02) 9481 4200 or visit at Shop 2, 291 Pennant Hills Rd, Thornleigh, NSW 2120. More info

Catch the train to Thornleigh Station
Public transport (train) available to this Bushwalk Check out the facilities at Thornleigh 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 from Thornleigh 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 Thornleigh 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


Campsites in the park
Lane Cove River tourist park


Nearest know Outdoor Stores near the start of this walk
Store Address Phone Distance (straight line)
One Stop Adventure Shop 1045 Victoria Rd , West Ryde (02) 9858 5844 4.6 km
Mountain Equipment 72 Archer St , Chatswood (02) 9419 6955 5.4 km
Larry Adler Ski & Outdoor 77 Archer St , Chatswood (02) 9412 4777 5.4 km
Mountain Designs Shop 16/ 9 Spring St , Chatswood (02) 9415 4566 5.4 km
Kangaroo Tent City & BBQs 165-167 Victoria Avenue, Chatswood (02) 9884 9199 6.2 km


A list of the nearest UHF CB repeaters I found to Macquarie Park to Thornleigh.
Channel Call sign
(more info)
Site Distance and dir from Macquarie Park to Thornleigh
Click to re-center search
5 SYD05 Sydney Adventist Hospital 185 Fox Valley Rd WAHROONGA
Emergency use only
6 km (to the NNW)
6 VMB7 CB Repeater Site 16 Alan Rd BEROWRA HEIGHTS 19 km (to the N)
7 SYD07 7 Glamorgan St BLACKTOWN 20 km (to the W)
1 SYD01 12/14 Ormonde Parade HURSTVILLE 21 km (to the S)
8 MDC08 Gencom Site Lot 6 Wakefield Close KARIONG 42 km (to the NNE)

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 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 )
A graph displaying the average daily temperature range for the year

Lane Cove National Park Link to official closures and fire bans page
This small but picturesque city park is a haven of peaceful bushland along the winding Lane Cove River. Home to the Kukundi Wildlife Shelter and 27 km of the Great North Walk, you can also hire a boat, take a stroll or enjoy a picnic by the weir.
Region: Sydney & Surrounds
Park fees Camping Facilities
Current Park Closure information for Lane Cove National Park
Closure information last downloaded Sunday 27th of September 2015 07:00 AM
Closed areas: Terrys Creek walking track maintenance
Some areas of this park will experience temporary disruptions and delays due to walking track maintenance, unless the closure is otherwise extended or removed. Closed areas are:
  • Terrys Creek walking track
Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, please contact Bobbin Head Information Centre on (02) 9472 8949 or visit the NSW National Parks safety page for park safety guidelines.



Bradley Reserve Bradley Reserve is a large natural bushland area owned and managed by Ku-ring-gai council. The reserve extends from Lane Cove River to the end of Kissing Point Road north to George Christie playing fields. The reserve is home to the locally well know STEP track, and is cared for by the STEP inc, the "South Turramurra Environment Protection". The Great north walk also heads through this reserve, and is also home to Browns water hole.
Region:
I am not aware of any closures in this park at the moment.


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.


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 0.046287 seconds Copyright | Privacy | About us | Disclaimer | Contact Us | Sponsorship | Newsletter