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Bushwalking track notes, photographs, maps and more for Taronga Zoo to Spit Bridge are found in each of the tabs below
Taronga Zoo to Spit Bridge
Time: 5 hrs Walking time
Please allow extra time to rest and to explore
2.1 km SSE of Mosman
Length: 10.4 km Walk Length
As this is a One Way walk, the 10.4 km only includes the walking distance from the start to the end point
Sydney Harbour National Park
Climb: 410 m Total Climbing
This walk has a total cumulative climb of 410 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 ferry stop near the start of this walk
Style: One way
Track: Hard

This is a scenic and culturally rich walk with views over Sydney Harbour and many interesting heritage buildings along the way. The start at the zoo allows for a possible visit. The walk then passes the Bacino Bar on the way through the military heritage buildings. This is an excellent walk to do on a hot summer's day, with access to beautiful beaches along the whole walk. (open in app)


There are closures in Sydney Harbour National Park
Today's Fire rating
LOW MODERATE (No fire ban)
  Bushwalking track notes photographs, maps and camping spots for Taronga Zoo to Spit Bridge

Map of Walk

Location

                Sponsor of Taronga Zoo to Spit Bridge bushwalking tracknotes
Map of Taronga Zoo to Spit Bridge
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Map Scale 1 km
Taronga Zoo Wharf
Taronga Zoo Entrance
Int. Borogegal Walking Trail and Athol Hall Corner Trk
Int. Borogegal Walking Trail and Athol Hall Trk
Athol Hall
Athol Hall car park
Int. Borogegal Walking Trail and Athol Hall Trk
Int. Borogegal Walking Trail and Cannons picnic area Trk
Int. Bradleys Head Amphitheatre Trk and Borogegal Walking Trail
HMAS Sydney Mast, Bradleys Head
Int. Borogegal Walking Trail and Taylors Bay Lookout track
Int. Borogegal Walking Trail and Taylors Bay Lookout track
Taylors intersection
Bottom of the Iluka and Morella access track
Chowder Head track intersection
Chowder Head track intersection
Bottom of Morella Rd track
Morella St lookout
Bottom of Sarahs walk steps
Western end of Clifton Gardens
Clifton Gardens Baths
Chowder Bay Lower Gate
Chowder Bay Wharf
Roundabout at end of Chowder Bay Road
Int. Bacino Bar back deck and Chowder Bay Trk
Int. Bacino Bar back deck and Chowder Bay Trk
Int. Gunners' Barracks drive way and Chowder Bay Trk
Int. Chowder Bay Trk and Georges Heights Rd
Georges Head Lookout
Int. Chowder Bay Trk and Georges Heights Rd
Int. WW1 Hospital and Chowder Bay Trk
Int. Middle Head Rd and Chowder Bay Trk
Int. Balmoral Park car park and Chowder Bay Trk
Balmoral Park car park
Rocky Point Bridge
Rocky Point Bridge
Int. Wyargine Reserve Trk and Balmoral Beach
Int. Stanton Rd and Wyargine Reserve Trk
Int. Armitage Lane and Hopetoun Ave
Int. Wyargine Reserve Trk and Balmoral Beach
Chinamans Beach Reserve South
Middle of Chinamans Beach
Int. Grecia Lane Trk and Chinamans Beach Reserve North
Int. Grecia Lane Trk and Chinamans Beach Reserve North
Middle Harbour Yacht Club entrance
Int. Middle Harbour Yacht Club car park and Spit Rd
Spit Bridge South
Int. Spit Rd and Ellery's Punt Reserve Road
Int. Ellery's Punt Rd and Avona Cres Trk
Int. Ellery's Punt Reserve Rd and Manly Scenic Walkway
End of Battle Boulevard
Starting point for this hiking track: Taronga Zoo Entrance

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
 Parramatta River 1:25 000 Map Series NSW-91303N 
 Sydney Heads 1:25 000 Map Series NSW-91302N 
 Sydney 1:100 000 Map Series 9130 

Photo Gallery

 
Looking Down road from Lower end of Taronga Zoo
 
Looking Down road from Lower end of Taronga Zoo +
 
An inviting view on track near Taronga Zoo
 
An inviting view on track near Taronga Zoo +
 
Atholl Hall
 
Atholl Hall +

 
The amphitheater at Bradleys Head
 
The amphitheater at Bradleys Head +
 
Track on western side of Bradleys head
 
Track on western side of Bradleys head +
 
Track over Chowder Head
 
Track over Chowder Head +

 
Steps above Clifton Gardens
 
Steps above Clifton Gardens +
 
Chowder Bay
 
Chowder Bay +
 
Balmoral beach
 
Balmoral beach +

 
Chinamans Beach
 
Chinamans Beach +
 
View out from rocky headland
 
View out from rocky headland +
 
Spit Rd
 
Spit Rd +

 
Spit Bridge footpath
 
Spit Bridge footpath +
 
Ellery's Punt Reserve
 
Ellery's Punt Reserve +
 
Battle Boulevard
 
Battle Boulevard +

Terrain

Cross sectional view of the Taronga Zoo to Spit Bridge bushwalking track

Cross Section of the Taronga Zoo to Spit Bridge bushwalking track



Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Taronga Zoo to Spit Bridge bushwalking track

Summary of the gradients over the the lenght of the Taronga Zoo to Spit Bridge 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 10km
Time 5 hrs
.


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 Minimal directional signs (4/6)
Experience Required Moderate level of bushwalking experience recommended (4/6)
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
3.3km of this walk is flat with no steps and another 3.2km has gentle hills with occasional steps. Whilst another 2.1km is very steep and the remaining 1.9km has short steep hills.

Quality of track
4.1km of this walk follows a smooth and hardened path and another 3.1km follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles. Whilst another 1.7km follows a rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely and the remaining 1.5km follows a clear and well formed track or trail.

Signs
7km of this walk is clearly signposted and another 1.7km has directional signs at most intersection. The remaining (1.7km) has minimal directional signs.

Experience Required
Around 9km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 1.7km requires a leader a with moderate level of 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 1.7km is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety.

Infrastructure
Around 8km of this walk is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats), whilst the remaining 2.6km has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced).

Track Notes


Catch the ferry to Taronga Zoo
Public transport (ferry) available to this Bushwalk You can phone 131500 (the transport info line) for upto date running time info
Use these links to plan your Ferry (and train) trip to the end of this walk.

Plan your trip from --> Castle Hill|Chatswood|Dural|Epping|Gosford|Hornsby|Katoomba|Manly|Parramatta|Penrith|Strathfield|Sutherland|Sydney|
Catch the bus to Taronga Zoo Wharf
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 Taronga Zoo Wharf
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) Taronga Zoo Wharf to Taronga Zoo Entrance
Path: Easy - Wheelchair accessible - footpath
Length = 218 m Time = 4 mins
Climb = 11 m Descent = -5 m
From the wharf, the walk heads uphill along the footpath beside the road to the Taronga Zoo entrance at the pedestrian crossing.

Taronga Zoo Alt = 14 m
Taronga Zoo was founded in 1916, with the vision of imitating the Hamburg Zoo's bar-less exhibits. Since its opening, Taronga Zoo has directed more attention to research, education and conservation efforts to support the animals. Taronga Zoo is open everyday 9am- 5pm. Phone: +61 2 9969 2777 or email: groups@zoo.nsw.gov.au. More info

(0.22 km) Taronga Zoo Entrance to Int. Borogegal Walking Trail and Athol Hall Trk
Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 412 m Time = 9 mins
Climb = 24 m Descent = -15 m
Turn right: From the opposite the zoo entrance, the walk heads down the ramp leaving the road up to the left. The track soon leads to a a lookout with a set of bench seats and good harbour views. The walk continues along the footpath to a wire fence then follows the 'Walking Track' sign along the hillside to climb a few steps and cross a wooden bridge. The track comes to the corner of Athol Hall's grass clearing.
Veer right: From the intersection, the walk heads down the stairs then continues along the hill for a short time. The walk descends more stairs to a signposted intersection.

Athol Hall Alt = 33 m
Athol Hall, built in 1908, was once a hotel. Sections of the original building date back to the 1800's. The hall has an excellent vantage point over the harbour with the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge and city all well within its scope. Athol Hall today is a cafe and function centre with the cafe open Tues-Fri and Sun, 11am -3pm. More info

(0.63 km) Int. Borogegal Walking Trail and Athol Hall Trk to Int. Borogegal Walking Trail and Taylors Bay Lookout track
Alternate Route: Track: Moderate - footpath,bushtrack ( Show detail)
Length = 283 m Time = 6 mins
Climb = 14 m Descent = -10 m
Turn left : From the intersection, this walk follows the sign to 'Athol Hall' up the stairs, crossing a large grassy area. The walk then continues up to Athol Hall entrance.
Turn left: From the entrance to Athol Hall, this walk heads up the hill, with the views of Sydney Harbour on the left. The walk continues up the road, where it crosses to the parking toll booth.
Continue straight: From the corner of Bradley Head Rd and the car park, this walk heads down the hill just behind the parking pay booth. The track meanders down the hill to a signposted intersection.
Turn left to rejoin the main walk, following the notes from 2.09km 'Int. Borogegal Walking Trail and Taylors Bay Lookout track'.

(0.63 km) Int. Borogegal Walking Trail and Athol Hall Trk to HMAS Sydney Mast, Bradleys Head
Walk: Easy - footpath
Length = 671 m Time = 16 mins
Climb = 31 m Descent = -40 m
Continue straight: From the stairs, this walk heads around the hillside with the harbour below on the right. The walk travels across large sections of boardwalk which undulate slightly as the walk comes up to a trail (which leads to a bench overlooking Sydney Harbour). From the trail, this walk keeps contouring along the hillside, south and tending left, to the intersection, signposted as the way to 'Cannons picnic area'.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads towards the car park, keeping the harbour to the right. The walk leads approximately 10m to the intersection with a track (leading down to Bradleys Head Amphitheatre).
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk heads along the footpath next to the car park for a short distance, until it comes to be above the flag pole, HMAS Sydney Mast.

HMAS Sydney Memorial Mast Alt = 13 m
The HMAS Sydney Memorial Mast was erected in 1934, following the HMAS Sydney's decommissioning in 1928[1]. The mast stands as a sign of respect for 'Australian officers, sailors and ships lost at sea and in combat'[2]. HMAS Sydney itself was a Chatham Class light cruiser which saw action in WW1.
More info

(1.3 km) HMAS Sydney Mast, Bradleys Head to Int. Borogegal Walking Trail and Taylors Bay Lookout track
Walk: Easy - footpath
Length = 787 m Time = 17 mins
Climb = 42 m Descent = -29 m
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads along the footpath, keeping the road to the left, for about 150m to where the road bends sharply left. From this point, this walk heads along boardwalk, on your right, keeping the water glimpses to your right. The board walk soon end and this walk follows the track along the side of the hill for about 600m to come to an intersection with a sign pointing back to 'Bradleys Head'.

(2.09 km) Int. Borogegal Walking Trail and Taylors Bay Lookout track to Taylors Bay Lookout
Optional sidetrip: Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 49 m Time = 1 mins
Climb = 0 m Descent = -6 m
Turn right: From the intersection, the walk heads away from the main tracks winding into the bush. The track winds past two white benches, to a small rock shelf overlooking the water.
(Retrace your steps back to the main track, then turn right to continue along this walk.)

(2.09 km) Int. Borogegal Walking Trail and Taylors Bay Lookout track to Bottom of the Iluka and Morella access track
Track: Moderate - footpath,bushtrack
Length = 1.09 km Time = 27 mins
Climb = 67 m Descent = -77 m
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads into Taylors Gully, with Taylors Bay below on the right. The track continues for approximately 300m, contouring around the hill with views of Taylors Bay on the right. Tending right, this walk enters and exits Taylors Gully, to continue approximately 250m to the signposted intersection at the beginning of the houses, on the left.
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk heads along the line of the houses, on the left, for approximately 140m. The track passes a Japanese Submarine information sign on the right as it continues along sections of boardwalk track, to the intersection next to the last house. The walk heads up the stairs below the last house to be met by a large sandstone staircase on the left and a track to the front.

(3.18 km) Bottom of the Iluka and Morella access track to Chowder Head track intersection
Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 154 m Time = 4 mins
Climb = 21 m Descent = -4 m
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads away from the house and clearing along the fairly flat track keeping the water glimpses to your right. The path soon leads to a clear three-way intersection with a 'Ashton Park' sign pointing back along the track.

(3.33 km) Chowder Head track intersection to Chowder Head
Optional sidetrip: Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 87 m Time = 2 mins
Climb = 0 m Descent = -10 m
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Chowder Head' sign[3] south-west along the clear track. The track heads gently downhill and bends left past some dead gums[4] to find an unfenced rock platform with great harbour views[5]. (Note the informal track continues down becoming steeper, leading to a small bay.)
(Retrace your steps back to the main track, then veer right to continue along this walk.)

Chowder Head Alt = 23 m
Chowder Head provides a small unfenced rocky outcrop to enjoy the wide harbour views. From this vantage point, there are views across the water to South Head, Vaucluse, Rose Bay, Shark Island and Bradleys Head. A great spot to watch the sailing boats on a clear day.

(3.33 km) Chowder Head track intersection to Morella St lookout
Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 278 m Time = 6 mins
Climb = 15 m Descent = -16 m
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows 'Clifton Gardens'[6] sign gently up the hill. The track leads through the bush for a short time to soon come to another three-way intersection, this one marked with a 'Morella Rd' sign[7] (on your left).
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the main track keeping the water glimpses to your right (and the Morella Rd track to your left). The track gently works is way around the hill to come to a sign point back to 'Ashton Park' and a large clearing with good views behind some houses.

Morella St lookout Alt = 29 m
This informally named clearing behind some houses[8] on Morella St provides a great view across the harbour[9]. The fairly large clearing has been maintained and is a good place to stop if wanting to avoid the large groups at Clifton Gardens.

(3.61 km) Morella St lookout to Bottom of Sarahs walk steps
Walk: Easy - footpath
Length = 75 m Time = 3 mins
Climb = 0 m Descent = -17 m
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows 'Clifton Gardens' sign[10] downhill along the concrete path, behind the line of houses[11]. The path leads down the hill, following a series of steps[12] past a bench seat to come to a 'T' intersection (with Sarah's Walk, part way down a set of steps)[13][14].

(3.68 km) Bottom of Sarahs walk steps to Clifton Gardens baths
Track: Moderate - footpath
Length = 251 m Time = 5 mins
Climb = 3 m Descent = -16 m
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads down the steps[15] that soon flatten out as the footpath leads around the headland under a few sandstone overhangs[16]. The walk soon comes to a 'Foreshore Path'[17] sign pointing back along the path at the south-western end of Clifton Gardens.
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads down onto the beach, towards the wharf in the middle of the beach. The walk passes an Illawarra Flame tree, as it heads approximately 100m along the beach to the start of the wharf.

Clifton Gardens Reserve Alt = 2 m
Clifton Gardens was developed as a picnic spot in the late 1800s, with a local hotelier building a wharf and dance pavilion. In 1909, Sydney Ferries Ltd purchased the estate, and further developed the area, including a large swimming enclosure. The structure burned down in 1956.[18]
Today, Clifton Gardens is touted as 'remnant bushland'[19], offering birdwatching, a netted swimming enclosure, change rooms, a fenced playground[20], and of course, spectacular views over Chowder Bay. A short bush track leads through to Rawson Oval.

(3.94 km) Clifton Gardens Baths to Chowder Bay Lower Gate
Track: Moderate - beach
Length = 207 m Time = 5 mins
Climb = 13 m Descent = -10 m
Continue straight: From the wharf, this walk heads towards the playground-end of the beach. The walk leads along the beach, passing the playground and rocky outcrop on the left to tend right onto a boardwalk. The boardwalk takes the walk to the lower gate of Chowder Bay.

Bacino Kiosk Alt = 5 m
The Bacino Kiosk, just next to Clifton Gardens, is a smaller version of the Bacino Bar above at Chowder Bay. This kiosk supplies passers-by with a home-blend coffee and sandwiches, and all at a reasonable price ($5-12). The Kiosk is open from 7am-4pm every day, except Christmas and bad weather. More info

(4.14 km) Chowder Bay Lower Gate to Roundabout at end of Chowder Bay Road
Track: Moderate - footpath
Length = 230 m Time = 4 mins
Climb = 19 m Descent = -5 m
Continue straight: From the gate, this walk heads towards the wharf approximately 80m away. The walk soon passes Bacino Kiosk on the left, and continues along the foreshore footpath to the start of the wharf.
Turn left: From the wharf, this walk heads directly away from that wharf, heading up the stairs. At the top of the stairs, this walk follows the footpath right, around a flag pole and house on the left. The walk continues past a round-about, to the start of a car park, opposite Bacino Bar.

Chowder Bay Alt = 19 m
Chowder Bay looks over Sydney Harbour, to Vaucluse and Rose Bay. The bay is named after the food of the American whalers stationed at Clifton Gardens, 'clam chowder'. Chowder Bay then became a Submarine Mining Depot in 1889. Today, Chowder Bay still has great views from the remaining military buildings on the hillside. One of the newer buildings houses a cafe, and other buildings stand as monuments to their former use. Chowder Bay offers great views with easy access to Clifton Gardens for a swim.

(4.37 km) Roundabout at end of Chowder Bay Road to Int. Bacino Bar back deck and Chowder Bay Trk
Track: Moderate - footpath
Length = 18 m Time = 1 mins
Climb = 6 m Descent = 0 m
Turn left: From the road, this walk heads north away from the harbour to the base of the stone steps on the left hand side of Bacino Bar.

(4.39 km) Int. Bacino Bar back deck and Chowder Bay Trk to Bacino Bar
Optional sidetrip: Track: Moderate - footpath
Length = 26 m Time = 1 mins
Climb = 0 m Descent = -3 m
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads onto the decking of Bacino Bar.
(Retrace your steps back to the main track, then turn right to continue along this walk.)

Bacino Cafe Alt = 23 m
The Bacino Bar is in Building No.2 at Chowder Bay, with great views across Sydney Harbour. The bar sells pastas, panini, arancini, tramezzini, stuffed eggplant and biscotti, along with homemade sandwiches and treats. The Bacino Bar prices are reasonable, ranging between $5-12 for the delicacies, and their coffee is made of their own blend. The bar is open every day from 7am- 4pm except for Christmas. A public toilet is available at the Eastern end of the building. More info

(4.39 km) Int. Bacino Bar back deck and Chowder Bay Trk to Georges Head Lookout
Track: Moderate - bushtrack,footpath,footpath
Length = 403 m Time = 9 mins
Climb = 49 m Descent = -5 m
Continue straight: From the intersection behind Bacino Bar, the walk heads up the steep stone steps, away from the cafe. The track then tends right, across the hill for a short time climbing the uneven stairs to meet the road and signposted intersection.
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads across the road to head up the bush track on the hill for approximately 50m, to the signposted intersection behind 'Georges Head Lookout'.
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the sign to Georges Head Lookout, down the hill to the circular paved lookout above the fortifications.

Georges Heights Alt = 69 m
Georges Heights is a gun emplacement with a commanding 180degree view over the entrance to the harbour. The old gun emplacements are still in position, with their arcs of fire explained in the signs nearby. The view from this lookout is magnificent.

(4.79 km) Georges Head Lookout to Int. WW1 Hospital and Chowder Bay Trk
Walk: Easy - footpath
Length = 452 m Time = 8 mins
Climb = 15 m Descent = -11 m
Turn around: From the circular lookout of Georges Head Lookout, this walk follows the sandstone pavement back to the road at the signposted intersection.
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the signs to 'Balmoral Beach' up the hill for a short while. The track opens out to a clearing on the left which has some old structures in it. This is the World War 1 hospital.

WW1 Hospital Alt = 77 m
This military hospital was in use from 1916 to 1923, and could treat up to 420 troops at any one time. Sydney Harbour Trust completed restoration of the buildings mid-2005. These buildings are New South Wales' only surviving military hospital buildings from WW1.

(5.25 km) Int. WW1 Hospital and Chowder Bay Trk to Rocky Point Bridge
Track: Hard - footpath,beach
Length = 1.7 km Time = 35 mins
Climb = 14 m Descent = -87 m
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk heads up and across the hill, leaving the WW1 hospital behind on the left. The path continues up the hill, passing a sculpture (a bit overgrown on the right), then bending left (passing through a gate that is locked overnight at 6pm) up to Middle Head Rd. The walk crosses the road to the signposted intersection on the other side.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the sign to 'Balmoral Beach' downhill away from the road. The walk heads down many flights of stairs and turns right, through a fence. The track then turns left to continue down more stairs, which lead the walk across a bridge and next to an oval with a signposted intersection.
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads toward the sea, keeping the oval to your left. The walk passes '1st Balmoral Sea Scouts' on the right before coming to the car park.
Continue straight: From Balmoral Park car park, this walk heads onto the beach and follows along it, past the pipe and wharf, then continues up the beach to then head up the stairs onto the bridge, connecting the small rocky island to the promenade above the beach.

Balmoral Beach Alt = 2 m
Balmoral Beach takes its name from the royal castle at Braemar in Scotland. This is a beautiful beach, with a great foreshore walk overlooking the sandy beach. The beach is a popular spot with locals and visitors, for sun baking, swimming and having a picnic. Balmoral Beach has very little surf, with a sheltered, easterly aspect. There is also a shark-net swimming area, toilets, shops, cafes and plenty of beach to share on a sunny day.

(6.94 km) Rocky Point Bridge to Rocky Point
Optional sidetrip: Track: Moderate - bushtrack
Length = 109 m Time = 2 mins
Climb = 0 m Descent = -1 m
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads up the hill towards the sea. The walk passes a few bench seats and bins on the way out to the edge of the point.
(Retrace your steps back to the main track, then turn right to continue along this walk.)

(6.94 km) Rocky Point Bridge to Int. Wyargine Reserve Trk and Balmoral Beach
Track: Moderate - beach
Length = 475 m Time = 8 mins
Climb = 8 m Descent = -3 m
Continue straight: From the bridge, this walk heads along the beach to the north, keeping the sea to the right, towards the headland. The walk heads along the beach for approximately 200m, to the intersection just off the beach, past the last beachfront house.

(7.42 km) Int. Wyargine Reserve Trk and Balmoral Beach to Chinamans Beach Reserve South
Alternate Route: Track: Moderate - bushtrack,road,bushtrack ( Show detail)
Length = 853 m Time = 18 mins
Climb = 42 m Descent = -43 m
Veer left: From the intersection just behind the beach, this walk winds up stairs away from the beach, to a rocky outcrop where the track turns. The walk then continues up the hill to meet the signposted intersection at the end of Stanton Rd.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads up the road following 'Stanton Rd' then 'Burran Ave' signs, to veer left onto Hopetoun Ave. The walk soon passes Kirk Oswald Ave (off to the left). After a while the road again splits into two levels, opposite the intersection of Armitage Rd.
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads down the hill, following the sign 'Armitage Lane' along the road, and around to the left into Rosherville Rd. The walk continues along the footpath, passing a large boulder and a bench on the right before winding down behind the playground in Rosherville Reserve. The track passes the playground, taking the closest access track to the southern end of Chinamans Beach.
Turn sharp left to rejoin the main walk, following the notes from 8.26km 'Chinamans Beach Reserve South'.

(7.42 km) Int. Wyargine Reserve Trk and Balmoral Beach to Middle of Chinamans Beach
Track: Hard - notrack,beach
Length = 1 km Time = 19 mins
Climb = 25 m Descent = -30 m
Turn right: (This section is only possible at low tide and with calm seas.) From the intersection, this walk heads away from the houses and towards the rockshelf, keeping the bush on the left. The walk keeps the water to the right as it weaves around the rockshelf for approximately 500m, to some boat sheds with rail tracks into the water. From these boat sheds, the walk continues to follow the rocky headland to the beach.
Turn right: From the end of the beach, this walk heads along the sand, keeping the water to the right, until near the middle of Chinamans Beach. A wood-railed track heads off to the toilet block on the left, marking the intersection.

Chinamans Beach and Reserve Alt = 3 m
Chinamans Beach and Reserve are wonderful places to have a picnic or a swim, with lots of areas to sit in the sun or shade beside the clear water. The beach does not provide any surf with its north-easterly aspect, but is perfect for launching your kayak or boat into the harbour. Chinamans Reserve has some parking, play equipment, toilets and road access by McLean Cres.

(8.42 km) Middle of Chinamans Beach to Int. Grecia Lane Trk and Chinamans Beach Reserve North
Track: Moderate - beach
Length = 66 m Time = 1 mins
Climb = 3 m Descent = 0 m
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads along the beach with the water to the right. The walk leads to the stairs at the end of the beach.

(8.49 km) Int. Grecia Lane Trk and Chinamans Beach Reserve North to Int. Middle Harbour Yacht Club car park and Spit Rd
Alternate Route: Track: Moderate - footpath ( Show detail)
Length = 1.11 km Time = 25 mins
Climb = 55 m Descent = -56 m
Turn left: From the base of the stairs (at the northern end of Chinamans Beach), this walk heads up the stairs away from the beach, to the intersection with Cyprian St. The track heads to the right, up Cyprian St, to the intersection with Parriwi Rd. At Parriwi Rd, the walk turns right, around the railing and up the hill. The walk continues along Parriwi Rd for some time, down to the intersection with Spit Rd. The walk continues along Spit Rd, to the driveway entry to Middle Harbour Yacht Club car park.
Veer right to rejoin the main walk, following the notes from 9.42km 'Int. Middle Harbour Yacht Club car park and Spit Rd'.

(8.49 km) Int. Grecia Lane Trk and Chinamans Beach Reserve North to Middle Harbour Yacht Club entrance
Track: Hard - notrack
Length = 862 m Time = 16 mins
Climb = 18 m Descent = -19 m
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk heads along the rocky shoreline with the water to the right, as it weaves around the houses to a small beach. The walk continues over some sandy sections between the rocks for approximately 700m, to come to a large Sydney Water building, the Spit Syphon. The walk climbs onto the concrete platform of the Spit Syphon to continue along the road, passing 'The Shores' restaurant and a boat ramp. The walk continues past the Middle Harbour Yacht Club building to the main entrance facing the car park.

Spit Syphon Alt = 3 m
The Spit Syphon was built between 1922 and 1925 by the Public Works Department. It was necessary in order to pump sewage from the north without interfering with water transport. The building is styled with Egyptian influences as displayed by its tall, square concrete walls. More info

(9.35 km) Middle Harbour Yacht Club entrance to Spit Bridge South
Walk: Easy - road,footpath
Length = 355 m Time = 6 mins
Climb = 2 m Descent = -5 m
Veer left: From the entrance of Middle Harbour Yacht Club, this walk heads away from the buildings to the road.
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads along Spit Rd towards the bridge, keeping the shops on your right. The walk heads along the road to where it splits, to go over the bridge, opposite 'Sydney Harbour Kayaks'.

Sydney Harbour Kayaks Alt = 2 m
Sydney Harbour Kayaks, at the southern end of the Spit Bridge, provide sales and rentals of kayaks. One hour in a single plastic kayak costs $20, and a double $40. The enterprise also provides tours of the harbour, catering for individuals through to large groups. For further information and bookings, contact: info@sydneyharbourkayaks.com.au or (02) 99604389 More info

(9.7 km) Spit Bridge South to Int. Spit Rd and Ellery's Punt Reserve Road
Walk: Easy - footpath
Length = 351 m Time = 6 mins
Climb = 11 m Descent = -2 m
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads over the Spit Bridge, with the road to the left of the footpath. The walk crosses the bridge to where it meets the road down to Ellery's Punt Reserve, first on the right.

Spit Bridge Alt = 0 m
The Spit Bridge was originally built in 1924 to replace the punt service. The current Spit Bridge was built during the 1950's. The bridge is a bascule bridge, as it's middle section can be raised to allow tall ships through. This ability of the bridge does, however, stop traffic on a major arterial road, which has caused the bridge to be the centre of some controversy. The Spit Bridge carries the Spit Rd and the Manly Scenic Walkway.

(10.05 km) Int. Spit Rd and Ellery's Punt Reserve Road to Int. Ellery's Punt Reserve Rd and Manly Scenic Walkway
Walk: Easy - footpath,road
Length = 104 m Time = 2 mins
Climb = 2 m Descent = -7 m
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk heads downhill away from the main road for approximately 20m to the intersection below the bridge, on the left.
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk heads down the hill towards the water. The walk soon comes to Ellery's Punt Reserve car park on the right. This walk continues past this, down the footpath to the signposted intersection.

Ellery's Punt Reserve Alt = 6 m
Ellery's Punt Reserve is a very nice grassed area on the north eastern side of the Spit Bridge. The reserve has road access and parking, and seems to be a popular spot for fishing from the bank. There is also seating and shaded areas.

(10.16 km) Int. Ellery's Punt Reserve Rd and Manly Scenic Walkway to Int. Battle Boulevard and Manly Rd
Track: Moderate - footpath
Length = 232 m Time = 5 mins
Climb = 11 m Descent = 0 m
Turn right: From the 'Manly Scenic Walkway' map and info sign, this walk heads across the grass following the coast line, keeping the water to the left and heading towards the "Ellery's Punt Reserve" sign. From the sign, the walk passes under the Spit Bridge and then up the flight of stairs that come to the end of Battle Boulevard.
Continue straight: From the end of the cul-de-sac, this walk follows Battle Bvd up the road to the car park just near the intersection with Manly Road.

Catch the bus from Int. Battle Boulevard and Manly Rd
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 Int. Battle Boulevard and Manly Rd
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)
Outdoor Equipment 60 Spring St , Bondi Junction (02) 9389 8122 5.2 km
Inski 46 York St , Sydney (02) 9233 3200 4.1 km
Mitchells Adventure 81 York St , Sydney (02) 9299 6321 4.1 km
Venus Repair Workshop Suite 36a 104 Bathurst St , Sydney (02) 9267 0706 4.3 km
Wildsports Upper Floor 447 Kent St , Sydney (02) 9264 2095 4.4 km


A list of the nearest UHF CB repeaters I found to Taronga Zoo to Spit Bridge.
Channel Call sign
(more info)
Site Distance and dir from Taronga Zoo to Spit Bridge
Click to re-center search
5 SYD05 Sydney Adventist Hospital 185 Fox Valley Rd WAHROONGA
Emergency use only
18 km (to the NW)
1 SYD01 12/14 Ormonde Parade HURSTVILLE 19 km (to the SW)
6 VMB7 CB Repeater Site 16 Alan Rd BEROWRA HEIGHTS 27 km (to the NNW)
7 SYD07 7 Glamorgan St BLACKTOWN 31 km (to the WNW)
8 MDC08 Gencom Site Lot 6 Wakefield Close KARIONG 46 km (to the N)

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 7 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

Sydney Harbour National Park Link to official closures and fire bans page
One of Sydney's most diverse parks, Sydney Harbour National Park is formed from 11 pockets of harbour islands and shoreline. Highlights include coastal walks and swimming, breath-taking viewpoints, tours of colonial buildings and Aboriginal cave art.
Region: Sydney & Surrounds
Park fees Camping Facilities
Current Park Closure information for Sydney Harbour National Park
Closure information last downloaded Sunday 27th of September 2015 07:00 AM
Closed areas: Park closure sunset to sunrise for pest management
Pest management activities are taking place between sunset and sunrise at the following selected sites within Sydney Harbour National Park. Please abide by all park signage. Closed areas are:​
  • Middle Head
  • North Head
  • Quarantine Station
Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, please contact Bobbin Head Information Centre (02) 9472 8949 or visit the NSW National Parks safety page for park safety guidelines.

Closed areas: Shark Island upcoming closures
Shark Island in Sydney Harbour will be closed to public access due to essential wharf repairs on the following dates:
16 to 17 September 2015
24 to 27 September 2015.

Other incidents: Sydney Harbour National Park accommodation
Constables, Green Point and Steele Point Cottages are no longer available for accomodation bookings. New options are being considered for the conservation, management and use of these buildings.

Closed areas: Collins Flat Beach unavailable for venue hire
Collins Flat Beach is currently unavailable for venue hire due to the impact of high visitation on the critical habitat found at this location. Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, please contact NPWS Mosman office on (02) 9960 6266 or visit the NSW National Parks safety page for park safety guidelines.


Walker Feedback

Comments
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alanm - Fun Walk IP:125.254.73.xxx | 2015-01-14 23:44:48
This is a very pleasant walk - that I did on a beautiful Sydney summer's day.
If following the rocks make sure it is low tide. I was an hour or so off and had to wade through water - quite refreshing.

Video of my walk at http://youtu.be/b-6NrnKyoCQ
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Loading the images not too much longer now :)


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