Thornleigh to Mt Kuring-Gai

This overnight walk starts from Thornleigh train station and follows the Great North Walk down through the Berowra Valley Regional Park and along Berowra creek. The walk passes through Fishponds and up to the top of Galston Gorge to the campsite. From there, the walk continues along the Great North Walk, down through the gorge and along Berowra Creek to Crosslands Reserve, then back out the well signposted Mt Kuring-gai link track. The walk finishes at the train station, soon after leaving the bush. Note this walk was re-routed in early 2016 to go via the streets of Hornsby Heights. This re-route is due to the multi-agency decision to close the Fishponds to Steele Bridge section of the Benowie Track. This decision has upset many people and the protest continues.

(0km) Thornleigh Train Station → Morgan Rd

990 m
18 mins
7m
-47m

Easy track

From the western (north bound) side of Thornleigh Station[1], this walk follows the ‘Jungo Rest Area’ sign[2] along the footpath towards the car park and The Esplanade[3]. The walk then heads down a short distance further to turn left and cross ‘The Esplanade’ at the traffic lights[4], then continue straight along the footpath down along Eddy Rd[5]. Following a couple of GNW arrows[6] down Eddy Rd as it then bends left[7], turning into Tilock St, and shortly later this walk then turns right into Morgan St[8]. Continuing down till just before the end of this street[9][10], this walk comes to an intersection marked with a GNW arrow[11] and the ‘Elouera Bushland Natural Park’ sign[12] (on the right).

(0.99km) Morgan Rd → Int of Bike Trail and Morgan Rd tracks

230 m
4 mins
3m
-7m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the end of Morgan Street, the walk follows the GNW arrow[13] and the ‘Elouera Bushland Natural Park’ sign[14] between houses[15] no. 28 and 26. Once behind the houses at a small clearing[16], the track turns left and follows down the rocky side of Zig Zag Creek[17]. Soon after passing behind the third house, the track comes to an intersection with a wide concrete trail[18], where a sign points back along the track to ‘Sydney Cove’[19].

(1.22km) Int of Bellamy trail and Morgan Rd tracks → Zig Zag Creek Bridge int.

130 m
2 mins
0m
-6m

Easy track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘The Jungo’ arrow[20] downhill along the wide concrete trail for 25m to cross over the culverted creek[21] (with a green rail[22] on one side)

[Trip Hazard]

. The walk continues down into the valley[23] along the concrete trail for another 110m to come to a signposted intersection marked with a ‘Great North Walk’ sign[24][25] (on your left), just before ‘Zig Zag Creek’[26] and the long bridge[27].

Thornleigh zigzag railway

The Thornleigh zigzag railway originally ran from the main rail line near Thornleigh to a historic quarry, near present day De Saxe Cl, Thornleigh. There are only minor fragments still visible today. The ‘Heritage Trail’ in Thornleigh has interpretive signs for the railway and the old Thornleigh Quarry. A book is available with some detail on railway and associated quarry: ‘Sydney’s Forgotten Quarry Railways’ by John Oakes, ISBN 0 9757870 3 9

(1.34km) Zig Zag Creek Bridge intersection → The Jungo

1.4 km
25 mins
16m
-37m

Moderate track

Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Great North Walk’ sign[28] along the narrower track, keeping the gully to your right. The pleasant track leads into, then through, the ferny forest[29] with tall trees for about 700m, before crossing a side creek on a timber bridge[30]. The track then continues in a similar manner for another 700m, coming to a large clearing and campsite[31], The Jungo. On the far side of this clearing is a well-signposted intersection with a ‘Bellamy Street’ sign[32] pointing back through the campsite.

The Jungo

The Jungo is a relatively small clearing and campsite near the junction of Berowra and ZigZag Creeks at a well signposted intersection[33]. There is often water in the creeks (treat well before drinking) but there are no facilities[34]. Speculation on the source of the name ‘Jungo’ includes the Aussie tendency to abbreviate words (‘Junction’ gets corrupted to ‘jung-o’ etc) as well as a possible derivation from one of a few similar sounding aboriginal words.

(2.78km) Jungo campsite → Int of GNW and Stringybark Ridge trail

100 m
2 mins
1m
0m

Moderate track

Veer right: From the campsite, this walk follows the ‘Fishponds’ sign[35] down across the concrete ford, over the usually small creek[36]. Here, the concrete management trail[37] leads uphill, becoming dirt as it starts to flatten out[38]. This walk then comes to a signposted intersection[39] of the ‘Great North Walk’[40] and the Stringybark Ridge management trail (signposted ‘Cherrybrook Lakes’ trail[41]).

(2.88km) Int of GNW and Stringybark Ridge trail → Elouera Lookout

1 km
27 mins
81m
-58m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Great North Walk’ sign[42] down the narrower track. The track leads downhill for about 70m, getting steeper[43] as it goes, and then crosses Berowra Creek[44] – this creek may become impassable after rain. On the other side, the walk comes to an intersection on a small sandy beach. Here, the walk turns left, following the GNW arrows downstream for about 250m among the grass trees and crossing a flat timber bridge[45]. The rocky track then continues for just shy of 250m and crosses a mossy gully on a large flat rock[46]. The track then continues, staying fairly flat[47] for another 170m before bending right and heading steeply uphill[48]. At the top of this climb, the track soon leads to a section of fenced cliff[49]. At the end of the fence, the walk passes through casuarina forest[50] for a short distance before passing alongside another (longer) fenced cliff and coming to the Elouera Lookout[51], where there is an intersection with the ‘Westleigh’ track[52] (on your right).

Elouera Lookout

This fenced lookout is on the Benowie Track close to Westleigh. There are uninterrupted views from the clifftop across the Berowra Creek valley, which is rare for the area[53]. As well as being on the Great North Walk, this lookout can be accessed by a short walk from Elouera Rd, Westleigh. This section of fenced rock platform is about 100m long[54], and there is some limited shade[55] from the casuarina near the lookout if you want to take a rest.

(3.93km) Elouera Lookout → Int of the Great North Walk and the Quarter Sessions Road track

2.2 km
54 mins
152m
-130m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From Elouera Lookout[56], this walk follows the ‘Great North Walk’ sign[57] along the track, keeping the fence and valley to your left[58]. At the end of the fence, the walk bends left following the rocky flat track for about 200m, where the track then becomes progressively steeper for about 250m, winding steeply down then across a flat timber bridge[59]. From here, the track leads beside Berowra Creek[60] for a short time before crossing another flat timber bridge[61]. The track then passes among the pleasant grass trees for about 200m (crossing a couple of small creeks with timber plank spans[62]) to then climb a few sets of timber steps and cross a small (often dry) creek[63]. From here, the track gently winds up along the side of the hill for about 800m, passing through a pleasant casuarina forest[64] then heading across a rocky creek on another small, flat, timber bridge[65]. Just over 100m later, the track crosses a smaller (often dry) creek[66] to then wind uphill for about 100m to a three-way intersection with the signposted ‘Quarter Sessions Rd’ track[67] (on your right).

(6.08km) Int of the Great North Walk and the Quarter Sessions Road track → Int of the Great North Walk and the Blue Gum Walk (SW)

690 m
18 mins
43m
-73m

Moderate track

Veer left: From the intersection, this walk heads north along the main rocky track, keeping the valley down to your left. The track leads along beside a rock wall (which is on your right) and through a rock outcrop[68], where the track soon heads quite steeply uphill along the eroded track[69] for a short time. At the top of this steep section, the rocky track continues to meander much more gently up along the side of the hill[70] for about 300m, then crosses a small, rocky gully[71], just below some houses[72]. The track then continues gently uphill for about 100m to an intersection with the unsignposted Blackfellows Head track[73] (on your right).
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads north along the clear track, keeping the valley down to your left for about 100m, where the walk comes to a three-way intersection and ‘The Jungo’ sign[74] points back along the track.

(6.77km) Int of the Great North Walk and the Blue Gum Walk (SW) → Fishponds Lookout

990 m
21 mins
21m
-87m

Hard track

Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Fishponds’ sign[75] past the ‘Berowra Valley Regional Park’ sign[76], gently uphill along the narrow ridge[77]. The track is mostly flat for about 200m before it starts to head fairly steeply down over some rocks[78] and down a set of rock steps[79]. This area comes alive with Patersonia lilies and pink wax flowers in early spring. The track then continues fairly gently down along the narrow ridge[80] for another 200m before leading through a crack in a rock, then down a bit further to climb down through a particularly steep rocky section[81]. Near the bottom of this descent, this walk passes a couple of arrow posts[82], where the track bends right to pass below a large rock overhang[83]. Just beyond this overhang, the track bends left and leads across Waitara Creek at the interesting holes in the rock know as ‘the spa’[84]. This creek may become impassable after heavy rain, the rocks can also be slippery. Across the creek, the walk comes to a large rock platform and a Blue Gum Track post[85]. After stopping to enjoy cool spot, this walk continues left along the unfenced rock platform[86] (keeping the creek down to your left). The walk soon steps off this large rock (at the far right-hand corner, through the fork in a tree[87]). This walk heads over another rock platform[88], then along a notably flat section of track[89] (now with Berowra Creek on your left), passing beside some cascades[90] for about 100m before climbing up and over some rocks and under a sandstone overhang[91]. The track leads around the side of the hill for about 100m, then down to cross a small creek using the small flat timber bridge[92]. The walk then climbs up some timber steps[93] to a fenced lookout[94] over Fishponds, at a well-signposted intersection[95]. A sign points back along the track to ‘Thornleigh Station’[96].

Fishponds Lookout

Fishponds Lookout is a fenced rock platform at the intersection of the Benowie walking track and the Rosemead trackhead. It is marked with a number of Great North Walk signs. This informally named lookout has good views down over Fishponds, a large waterhole on Berowra Creek. Looking north across the creek, there are views to the upper waterhole and the cliffs on the other side.

(7.76km) Fishponds Lookout → Fishponds crossing

70 m
2 mins
3m
-4m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the lookout[97], this walk follows the ‘Galston Gorge’ sign[98] along the fenced rock shelf (keeping the fence to your left). The track leads down the rocky steps to the edge of Berowra Creek[99]. The walk crosses the creek using the stepping stones, and comes to a small cave[100] on the other side. This creek may be impassable after rain[101]. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Continue straight.

Fishponds

Fishponds is a long waterhole[102] on Berowra Creek in Berowra Valley Regional Park. The waterhole is lined with tall cliffs[103] and a few sandstone caves. At the southern end, there are stepping stones to help cross the creek[104], and a small timber bridge[105] at the northern end. This is a beautiful spot and a worthy place to rest and enjoy the water passing by[106]. The waterhole is fairly popular with local teens in summer, cooling off. Swimming and jumping at the Fishponds waterhole has resulted in fatalities – please heed the signs and Cora’s parents’ plea and enjoy the water from the edge.

(7.76km) Fishponds Lookout → Corner of Dilkera and Manor Rd

500 m
19 mins
131m
0m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the lookout, this walk follows the ‘Rosemead Rd Trackhead’ sign[108] directly away from the view over Berowra Creek. After about 70m, the track leads over a timber footbridge[109], then leads up the side of the valley for about 100m to climb up the steep carved rock steps (with a hand rail)[110]. Here the track leads along the top of this unfenced cliff and soon comes to a well signposted three-way intersection, where a ‘Fishponds’ sign[111] points back along the track.
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Alternative Route’ arrow on the GNW sign[112]. The track dips before heading steeply uphill, zigzagging in several sections. The walk leads you up a large metal staircase to the top of the cliffs, coming to the intersection of Manor Rd and Dilkera Cl.

(8.26km) Corner of Dilkera and Manor Rd → End of Clarinda St

1.7 km
31 mins
36m
-49m

Easy track

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows Manor Rd as it initially heads up a gentle hill. After about 600m, Manor Road turns to skirt about Mount Wilga Hospital, and the road changes name to Rosamond St. The walk continues along to the intersection with Stewart Ave on the left (this is a four-way intersection, with Carrington Rd on the right).
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads north along Rosamond St following the Great North Walk arrow. The walk then turns left into Clarinda St and follows it to the end of the road, to find the ‘Clarinda Wetlands’ sign.

(9.91km) End of Clarinda St → Int of Clarinda St trail and waterfall track

1.1 km
24 mins
51m
-66m

Easy track

Turn right: From the end of Clarinda St Hornsby, this walk heads around the green gate with the ‘Berowra Valley Regional Park’ sign on it, keeping the ‘Clarinda wetlands’ to the left. The walk follows the management trail, which soon bends left and gently winds through the bushland. There are some interesting rock formations on the right and the occasional valley view on the left. The track is fairly flat most of the way, until a left-hand bend that leads down to cross a small creek, and then up the other side of the valley. Once the track flattens out again, it comes to an intersection with the Simon Pl management trail on the right, at a fairly large clearing.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the flat management trail, heading away from Simon Place past the ‘Berowra Valley Regional Park’, ‘Dogs Prohibited’ sign[113]. The walk gently meanders along the trail, enjoying the ferns and sandstone rocks for a while until coming to a ‘Great North Walk’ sign[114] highlighting the intersection with small track on the left.

(10.99km) Int of Clarinda St and waterfall track → Int of Stewart Ave service trail and waterfall track

470 m
13 mins
9m
-98m

Moderate track

Turn left : From the intersection, this walk heads down the hill along the narrow track, following the ‘Great North Walk’ sign[115]. The track is rocky and steep in a few places. Take care as the track turns at the top of some smaller cliffs while winding down the hill. Steps have been made from rocks and logs, making this track a bit more gentle, and there are some carved steps in the steeper sections. At the bottom of a small flight stone stairs, the walk crosses the creek on the rocks just in front of the waterfall.
Veer right: From the waterfall, this walk climbs the stone stairs (keeping the waterfall initially on the left) and then turns right, heading up out of the gully. Once at the top of the stairs, the walk heads through the bush until soon coming to a ‘T’ intersection with the Stewart St management trail, signposted with a large ‘Great North Walk’ sign[116].

(11.46km) Int of Stewart Ave service trail and waterfall track → Steele Bridge

400 m
8 mins
5m
-29m

Easy track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Galston Gorge 4km’ arrow[117] down the hill along the wide management trail. For the most part, the trail gently heads downhill then bends around to the left, leading to an intersection just before Steele Bridge.

Historic Military ‘Steele’ Bridge

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

(11.86km) Steele Bridge → Tunks Ridge Rest Area

1.8 km
44 mins
160m
-33m

Hard track

Veer right: From the intersection, this walk crosses the ‘Historic Military Steele Bridge’[118] and turns right to follow the ‘Crosslands’ sign [119] uphill along the wide management trail. After about 200m, the trail becomes steeper (and is concreted) for around 150m, then flattens out just before the left bend. The trail continues to climb (enjoying the valley views to the right) for another 400m, after which the trail becomes quite steep again for for about 600m (here the trail is sealed[120] then concreted[121] in two sections). From the top of the second concreted section, the trail leads gently uphill for just shy of 300m to the well-signposted ‘Tunks Ridge Rest Area’, where a sign points back down the trail to ‘Stewart St Hornsby Trackhead’[122].

Tunks Ridge Rest Area

Tunks Ridge Rest Area is a large, shady and gently sloping campsite[123] at the junction of three management trails. There is no water or other facilities (you will need to carry your own in). A sign at the top of the campsite reminds campers that there is a one night limit and that it is a fuel stove only area (no campfires)[124]. Please note that the composting toilet[125] has been removed and no longer available.

End of day 1

This is the planned overnight stay for the end of day 1, happy camping.

(13.63km) Tunks Ridge Rest Area → Int of Great North Walk and Galston Gorge track

1.4 km
28 mins
38m
-68m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the top of the rest area, this walk follows the ‘Galston Gorge’ AND ‘Crosslands Reserve’ signs[126] along the wide management trail, keeping the valley to your right. The trail winds along the side of the ridge[127] (passing along the base of a long rock wall[128], up to your left) for about 700m, until the trail comes to the top of the ridge. From here, the trail leads for another 500m, down across a saddle[129] then up to a clear Y-intersection[130]. The walk takes the left branch and passes a few ‘Regeneration Area’ signs[131][132] over about 250m, coming to a well-signposted[133] intersection with narrower track (on your left), partway around the right-hand bend.

Top of Galston Gorge Campsite

This campsite can be found on the Great North Walk, off the service trail just before it descends into Galston Gorge (when coming from the south). There is plenty of room for a group of tents, however there is no available water or facilities. Although this is an official campsite for the Great North Walk, there are some threatened species in the area, therefore Tunks Ridge Reserve (1.4km South) would make a better alternative, with better facilities.

(14.99km) Int of Great North Walk and Galston Gorge track → Galston Gorge track head

550 m
16 mins
14m
-119m

Hard track

Turn left: From the intersection, the walk follows the ‘Galston Gorge’ sign[134] down the steep rocky track[135] as it zigzags down towards the valley. About 40m down the hill, the track comes to a ‘Great North Walk – Walkers Registration’ box[136]. After leaving your comments, this walk continues downhill, passing through a crack in the rock[137] where the walk bends right and follows along the particularly rocky section for about 150m and comes to a fence[138]. The fence guides down a steep section, passing a cave[139], and comes to the top of a metal peg ladder[140]. This walk climbs down the ladder, then follows the rock wall (keeping the road to your left), heading down through a crack[141] and along another fence, then coming to a flat area beside the road[142]. Here the walk follows the GNW arrow[143] to the right and down under the bridge[144]. The walk crosses the creek, usually a bit more than ankle deep[145]. This creek maybe impassable after rain – the road bridge above offers an alternate way across[146], but watch and listen for traffic. On the other bank, the walk turns left to follow the track uphill[147]. The track well-formed track climbs to the well-signposted and paved Galston Gorge trackhead[148], where a ‘Fishponds’ sign[149] points back down the track.

Galston Gorge track head

Galston Gorge track head is located at a small car park[150] on the eastern side of Berowra Creek, near the bottom of the gorge on Galston Road. This track head is a good access point for those wanting to do sections of the Great North Walk and is well signposted[151]. Keep an eye open for the local chickens[152].

(15.54km) Galston Gorge track head → Unnamed Falls

1.3 km
41 mins
161m
-109m

Moderate track

Turn left: From the Galston Gorge trackhead, this walk follows the ‘Crosslands’ sign[153] up the timber steps, away from the road[154]. The track soon bends left then mostly flattens out as it winds along the side of the valley for almost 200m, where it passes above an old rusted car[155] (some distance down the hill, to your left). Here the narrowing, rocky track winds down through a lovely grass tree[156] and boulder[157] forest for about 600m, coming to a small flat rock platform[158]. The walk then bends right (ignoring the steep track down to the left). The track then leads among more grass trees for another 100m and crosses a mossy and rocky gully[159]. Once across this gully, the track begins to climb steeply[160], then up a steep set of steps (through a crack in the rock)[161]. At the top of the steps, the track continues to climb for another 70m before mostly flattening out[162]. Soon the track starts to wind downhill, crossing a wider mossy gully[163] with larger boulders[164] and a small waterfall[165]. The gully is marked with a few GNW markers[166].

Gulley Creek Falls

This is a nice little creek crossing[167] on the Great North Walk in Galston Gorge. The small falls[168][169] flow just upstream of the track, even after a small amount of rain. Enjoy the cool shade of the trees at the creek crossing from the track.

(16.8km) Unnamed Falls → Berowra Creek campsite track

3.4 km
1 hr 28 mins
217m
-297m

Hard track

Continue straight: From the waterfall, this walk follows the GNW markers[170] out of the gully, initially keeping the waterfall[171] up to your right. The rocky track leads up the side of the hill[172], moderately steeply at times, for about 600m and then passes along the base of a long rock wall[173] (on your right). At the end of this wall, the walk climbs the carved steps[174]. The walk continues along the track for about 600m, walking along the series of unfenced rock platforms[175] (passing under the high-tension power-lines[176]) to then head down to a section of fenced track. There are some good valley views from this lookout[177]. From the end of the fence, the track soon starts to lead further downhill for about 150m, coming to a clearing on a flat rock platform[178]which is marked with a GNW arrow post[179]. Here, the walk turns left and winds quite steeply[180] downhill for about 120m, to then follow a flatter section of track with plenty of grass trees[181]. After about 300m (passing close to the creek a couple of times[182]), the walk crosses a rocky gully[183] (where you can see the creek again on your left). Continuing along the side of the valley for about 250m, the track then leads across another rocky gully[184] and finds another nice spot beside Berowra Creek just beyond[185]. The track continues near the creek (passing under the power lines) for another 300m and climbs down a rock with a couple of metal pegs[186]. Over the next 600m, the track crosses a couple of small, flat timber bridges[187][188] and passes alongside the lovely creek[189] to then climb up through a crack in a rock, where there is a handrail in place[190]. On the other side of this little climb, the track passes under a small overhang[191] and continues alongside the creek for another 300m, where it comes to an intersection[192] with a track on your right (which leads to a clearing[193] and campsite[194]).

Berowra Creek campsite

This shady campsite is located on the Benowie Track a short distance back from Berowra Creek, south of the Crosslands Reserve. Providing plenty of tree cover[195], flat ground[196] and an established fire scar[197], this campsite is a great spot for those walkers who want a quiet night’s sleep away from the more popular Crosslands Reserve. The creek water is brackish at this point, so it is not drinkable (except after heavy rain and lower tide, but then the water is more polluted) – best to bring your own water.

(20.23km) Berowra Creek campsite track → Crosslands southern toilet block

1.4 km
33 mins
85m
-84m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the intersection near the campsite, this walk follows the clear track alongside Berowra Creek, whilst keeping the creek to your left. After about 30m, the track crosses a small, flat, timber bridge[198], then continues to wind along near the creek[199] for about 300m before crossing a rocky gully[200], with a small creek[201]. After another 250m of walking through the the fern and turpentine forest, the track leads to an overgrown but signposted campsite[202] (on your left). The track then crosses a small creek using a timber bridge with a handrail[203] then almost 200m later, the track passes a more open area that has been used as a campsite[204]. The track continues mostly flat for another 100m, coming to a view across the creek (to the grassy area of Crosslands Youth and Convention Centre[206]). Here the walk climbs the stone steps[207], to pass another (unfenced) view across the creek[208]. The track continues to wind downhill[209] for another 250m, then heads along the flat[210], past the ‘Crosslands Reserve’ sign[211], to come to the large corrugated iron toilet block[212].

Crosslands Campsite

On the far southern end of Crosslands Reserve is a toilet block and campsite. The campsite is well set up and managed by Hornsby Council. There are picnic tables[213], electric barbecues[214], toilets[215], a children’s playground[216], garbage bins[217] and town water[218]. There is a large flat grassy areas to camp and a single authorised fire pit[219]. The campsite must be booked and fees apply – $9 per night for adults and $6 for children (infants under 4 are free). The gate at the top of the hill is locked at 5.30pm EST and 7.30pm (daylight savings time). A pleasant and well established campsite beside the river[221]. More info.

(21.59km) Crosslands southern toilet block → Crosslands Carpark

340 m
5 mins
2m
-5m

Very easy

Veer left: From the toilet block, this walk follows the dirt footpath[222] nearest the creek, towards the main area of Crosslands reserve, whilst keeping the creek to your left. The track soon leads past a ‘Boats destroyed’ information sign[223], then past the only ‘Authorised fire pit’[224][225] and main camping area. This walk then continues along the path, passing the ‘Climate change and the river’ information sign[226] and timber viewing platform[227][228]. Here the path leads past the picnic shelters[229] and BBQ’s[230] to then continue along the concrete footpath[231]. The path leads past another viewing platform[232] (and information sign), then past the children’s play equipment [233] and comes to the end of the path where there is a car park[234](on your right) and sign pointing to ‘Crosslands Conventions Centre AND Field Study’ across the creek (on your left)[235]

Crosslands

Crosslands Reserve is lovely and long mixed use picnic area, spanning along the edge of Berowra Creek. There are picnic tables[236], electric barbecues[237], toilets[238], car parking[239], a children’s playground[240], garbage bins[241], camping area, toilets

[Toilet Accessible]

and town water[242]. The southern part of Crosslands is managed by Hornsby Council and the northern half by the NPWS within the Berowra Valley National Park. The first inhabitants of this area were a subgroup of the Dharug people who enjoyed the sandstone caves, fish and abundant plant life in the area. It is now managed by Hornsby Shire Council, but in 1856 Matthew Charlton asked Burton Crossland to be caretaker on this area. Burton built a house and made a living by harvesting timber, growing fruit, fishing and boat-building.

(21.93km) Crosslands Carpark → Northern end of Crosslands carpark

250 m
4 mins
1m
0m

Very easy

Continue straight: From the car park, this walk follows the flat dirt path[246] between the road (on the right) and creek (on the left). The path leads through the casuarina trees for about 120m to pass the boat ramp[247]. After another 120m this walk comes to a locked gate[248] at the northern end of the car park[249]. There is also a wetland through the trees to the right worth noticing.

(22.18km) Northern end of Crosslands Carpark → Crosslands North

260 m
4 mins
1m
-2m

Very easy

Continue straight: From the northern end of Crosslands car park[250] (at the far northern end of Somerville Rd, Hornsby Heights), this walk follows the ‘Newcastle’ arrow[251] on the large ‘Great North Walk’ sign around the locked gate

[Wheelchair Rough]

and along the sealed old road[252]. The walk continues along the old road for just over 150m passing 4 picnic tables

[Picnic Table]

to come to a y-intersection[253]. At the intersection this walk veers right, past the ‘Place of Winds’ sign[254] and wetland[255] (on your right). This walk continues along this old road for a little longer, coming to an intersection marked with a large ‘Crosslands’ information board[256] and ‘Great North walk’ sign[257]. This is just on the edge of the northern picnic area[258], not far from the toilet block[259]

[Toilet]

Crosslands North Picnic area

The northern section of Crosslands is in Berowra Valley NP and is a less formal picnic area compared with the southern area. There is a toilet block

[Toilet]

[260][261] and a few sandy beaches with direct access to the water[262]. Here you will find a few picnic tables

[Picnic Table]

and shelters

[Picnic Shelter]

[263], as well as garbage bins[264]. The eastern side is home to a boardwalk exploring the estuarine wetland[265]. A pleasant area to rest and enjoy the water. Fires are only permitted in formally established fire places[266] .

(22.44km) Crosslands North → Estuaries viewing platform int.

220 m
4 mins
7m
-5m

Very easy

Turn right: From the intersection at the northern picnic area[267], this walk follows the ‘Great North Walk’ sign[268] along the timber boardwalk[269]

[Trip Hazard]

. The timber boardwalks winds through the mangroves for about 60m, coming to a firm dirt track[270] which leads for another 70m to a second timber boardwalk[271]. The second boardwalk leads for another 70m, past ‘Mangrove Food Cycle’ information signs[272] to come to an 3-way intersection[273] in the boardwalk with the estuaries viewing platform boardwalk[274] (on your left).

Berowra Creek (Estuarie) Lookout

The Estuarie lookout over Berowara Creek is found at the end of the wheelchair-accessible walk in Crosslands area. The timber lookout platform provides great views over Berowra Creek[275], the timber fence is 95cm high[276]. There are also information signs about the local flora and fauna[277] and the ‘Original Inhabitants’[278]. There are two timber bench seats

[Seat]

[279] encouraging you to take some time to soak up this view.

(22.65km) Estuaries viewing platform → Somerville Ridge

670 m
18 mins
54m
-40m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the intersection at the estuaries viewing platform, this walk follows the timber ramp down to the dirt track[280] and heads past the ‘..unsuitable for wheelchair access’ sign[281]. The track leads alongside the wide creek for about 200m to the ‘All creatures great and small’ information sign[282], then down a little way further to head along a short section of timber boardwalk[283]. About 100m further along the rocky track, this walk comes to a lookout and a ‘Catch the Threats’ information sign[284], where the track continues past the bench seat[285] and alongside the creek to the ‘The Rock Club’ information sign[286]. The track then leads among some grass tress[287] for just over 100m to the ‘Bush Supermarket’ information sign[288]. Just past this sign, the track begins to climb fairly steeply up the stone[289] and timber steps[290] to the ridge line, marked with a GNW arrow and a ‘Stop! Look! Listen! and Smell!’ information sign[291].

(23.33km) Somerville Ridge → Calna Creek Bridge intersection

110 m
2 mins
0m
-17m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the ridge line, this walk follows the GNW arrow east downhill, initially keeping the ‘Stop! Look! Listen! and Smell!’ information sign[292] on your right. The track bends left and follows the timber steps[293] as the track winds steeply down the side of the hill. Near the bottom of the hill, the track passes a ‘Rock n Roll’ information sign[294] then comes to a long, metal footbridge[295]. The walk crosses the bridge over Calna Creek and comes to a signposted intersection, with a ‘Fragile Marsh’ information sign[296]

(23.44km) Int of GNW and Lyrebird Gully tracks → Calna Creek campsite (north)

110 m
2 mins
3m
0m

Easy track

Turn right: From the intersection beside the Calna Creek bridge[297], this walk follows the ‘Mt Kuring-Gai’ sign[298] along the clear track[299], keeping Calna Creek (through the trees) to your right. After about 100m, the track passes the southern tip of the saltmarsh[300] (on your left) and comes to a large clearing[301] and campsite[302] (also on your left), surrounded by casuarina trees.

Calna Creek Campsite (north)

This is a quaint little campsite, located on the Mt Kuring-gai access track to the Great North Walk, on the banks of Calna Creek. This campsite provides plenty of room for a few tents[303], and also a fire scar with logs for seating[304]. Carry in your own water as the salty creek water is not suitable for drinking.

(23.55km) Calna Creek campsite (north) → Calna Creek campsite (south)

400 m
9 mins
23m
-23m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the campsite, this walk follows the track south along the clear track, keeping Calna Creek to your right[305]. The track leads along the flat for about 100m to the climb over a rocky rise[306] then down a short timber staircase[307]. The rocky track continues for another 180m, stepping over a fallen tree[308], to then cross a timber bridge[309] (with handrails) over a small tidal creek[310]. Here the track leads through flat grassy area and casuarina forest[311] for about 100m to come to a signposted[312] camping area[313].

Calna Creek Campsite (south)

This small signposted[314] campsite sits on a flat grassy clearing in a small casuarina forest which provides plenty of shade. There is a small fireplace set up. This creek-side campsite is a good spot for those wanting to get the most out of a relaxing, overnight camp, just a short stroll to Berowra Creek and the main spine of the Great North Walk. Bring your own water, as the creek water is not suitable for drinking.

(23.95km) Calna Creek Campsite (south) → Lyrebird Caves

1.6 km
33 mins
106m
-39m

Hard track

Continue straight: From the signposted[315] campsite[316], this walk follows the clear flat track upstream, keeping the wide Calna Creek to your right. After just 25m, the track leads over flat timber bridge[317] then continues along the mostly flat track for another 400m, passing a few sandy beaches[318] to come to the point where the track leads up away from open valley views[319] and into the denser forest[320]. Here the walk leads up the rocky track[321] among the ferns and mossy boulders for 400m to follow a GNW arrow post[322] across Calna Creek using boulders with carved steps[323]. This creek crossing and other crossing further up the valley can become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain. Here the track continues upstream (with the creek on your left) among more ferns[324], for almost 300m to follow another GNW arrow post across creek, again using boulders with carved steps[325]. Back on the other side, this walk heads along the side of the creek (on your right) through the shaded forest[326] and past some large boulders for about 70m, where the track then bends left to follow some stone steps[327] steeply as they zigzag[328] up the hill a fairly short distance. The track then mostly flattens out and leads along the side of the hill for about 200m, to then head up another shorter but steep hill[329]. About 40m past the top of this climb (just past a small overhang), this walk leads under a large sandstone overhang[330], the larger of a few Lyrebird gully caves in the area.

Lyrebird Caves

The Lyrebird caves are a series of notable sandstone overhangs on the eastern side of Lyrebird Gully. There are 3 main overhangs[331][332][333], with the larger (more northern) one providing significant shelter[334]. The larger cave has a fairly flat base[335] in the centre and provides a pleasant place to rest on a hot or rainy day.

(25.56km) Lyrebird Caves → Lyrebird Waterfall

140 m
4 mins
1m
-14m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the cave, this walk follows the track out of the cave to head along the side of the hill, keeping the valley to your right. After about 70m, the track leads through a smaller cave[336], then just a few metres later through another (bit larger) sandstone overhang[337]. The track then continues along the side of the hill for another 50m before bending right and leading down the timber steps[338] to find a ‘The Great North Walk’ sign[339] on the handrail. This is at the top of Lyrebird Gully waterfall[340].

Lyrebird waterfall

This informally named waterfall is found on Lyrebird Gully creek about 300m upstream of its confluence with Calna Creek. The top of the fall is partially fenced with a timber handrail[341] where the water flows over the solid rock platform, with naturally carved holes[342], to fall about 8m to the shallow pool[343] and boulders below. The track passes the top of the fall and does not provide a good view of the face of the fall, but it is still a very pleasant spot.

(25.7km) Lyrebird Waterfall → Lyrebird Clearing

1.4 km
27 mins
92m
-21m

Hard track

Continue straight: From the top of the Lyrebird Gully falls[344], this walk follows the ‘The Great North walk’ sign[345] and the handrail across the creek using the flat timber bridge[346] (note: this boardwalk/bridge was washed away during a flood in 2012, the hand rail is still in place). Once on the other side of the creek, this walk bends left and almost immediately crosses the creek again using boulders with carved steps[347]. Once back on the other side, this walk follows the edge of creek upstream (keeping the creek to your right) [348] for just shy of 100m, where the rocky track then bends left and leads up the hill then up a rock (with metal peg)[349]. The walk then leads along the side of the hill and soon passes beside a rock wall[350] (on your left) and a section of handrail[351] and steep valley (on your right). Here the rocky track continues along side of hill[352] for about 250m before bending right and leading down to and across a short section of green timber boardwalk[353], then follows the GNW arrow post[354] across Lyrebird Gully creek[355] on the sandstone platform. Here the track leads up the other side of the gully, up a series of rock[356] and timber[357] steps for about 300m to pass a short section of handrail[358]. Just past this handrail, the track leads along a rock wall[359] to find a ‘Great North Walk register’ box on a pole[360][361]. After filling in your intentions (and reading others entries), this walk continues up the stone steps with a handrail[362], where the track bends left and along the side of the hill[363] for about 150m to cross a short flat timber bridge[364] over a concrete channel[365]. Here the track leads up the short hill, bends left and soon comes to a clearing to turn right at the ‘The Great North Walk’ sign[366]. Here the track continues for another 120m through the larger clearing to come to the the start of a sealed management trail[367], beside the tall green sewage vent[368].

(27.08km) Lyrebird Clearing → Int of Glenview Rd and the Pacific Hwy

530 m
12 mins
84m
-2m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the clearing, this walk follows GNW arrow post[369] uphill along the sealed management trail, from beside the tall green sewage vent[370]. The trail winds steeply uphill[371] for about 500m, then behind the houses it bends right[372], mostly flattening out at the large ‘To the Great North Walk’ sign[373]. Here the walk continues a short distance further to head around the locked ‘Lyrebird Gully Track’ gate[374] coming to Glenview Rd[375] (just beside the intersection with the Pacific Hwy).

(27.61km) Int of Glenview Rd and the Pacific Hwy → Mt Kuring-gai Railway Station

520 m
9 mins
9m
-8m

Very easy

Continue straight: From the locked gate (near the intersection of ‘Glenview Rd’ and the Pacific Hwy), this walk crosses ‘Glenview Rd’[376] and follows the footpath beside the Pacific Hwy[377] to come to the base of the pedestrian bridge[378] (just before the Aldi shopping complex). From the bottom of the footbridge near the Aldi shopping complex, this walk follows the ramp[379] as it zigzags up to the bridge[380] that then leads over the Pacfic Hwy[381]. On the other side of the bridge, this walk turns left then crosses the road[382], following the footpath down beside the road[383]. The walk soon crosses Glenview Rd at the traffic lights[384] (intersection with the Pacific Hwy). Here the walk continues along the footpath between the Pacific Hwy and the railway line for about 200m to come to the entrance of ‘Mt Kuring-gai Station’[385]. Here the walk heads down through the tunnel[386] to come to a signposted intersection[387], midway through the tunnel, at the base of the steps (that lead up to the train station).

Maps for the Thornleigh to Mt Kuring-Gai walk

You can download the PDF for this walk to print a map.
These maps below cover the walk and the wider area around the walk, they are worth carrying for safety reasons.

Hornsby	1:25 000 Map Series	91304S HORNSBY	NSW-91304S
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Tourist Map	1:40 000 Map Series	CMA Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Tourist Map	CMA Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Tourist Map
Sydney	1:100 000 Map Series	9130 SYDNEY	9130

Cross sectional view of the Thornleigh to Mt Kuring-Gai bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Thornleigh to Mt Kuring-Gai

Daily actual walking time estimates

Day	Walking Time	Length
1	5 hrs 12 mins	13.7 km
2	5 hrs 39 mins	14.5 km

Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001

Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.

		Length	28.1 km
		Time	2 Days
		.
Grade 4/6 Hard track	AS 2156.1	Gradient	Very steep (4/6)
		Quality of track	Rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely (4/6)
		Signs	Directional signs along the way (3/6)
		Experience Required	Moderate level of bushwalking experience recommended (4/6)
		Weather	Storms may impact on navigation and safety (3/6)
		Infrastructure	Limited facilities, not all cliffs are fenced (3/6)

Some more details of this walks Grading

Here is a bit more details explaining grading looking at sections of the walk

Gradient

15km of this walk has short steep hills and another 6km has gentle hills with occasional steps. Whilst another 3.8km is flat with no steps and the remaining 3.3km is very steep.

Quality of track

10km of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles and another 7km follows a clear and well formed track or trail. Whilst another 6km follows a rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely and the remaining 4km follows a smooth and hardened path.

Signs

Around 19km of this walk has directional signs at most intersection, whilst the remaining 9km is clearly signposted.

Experience Required

16km of this walk requires some bushwalking experience and another 11km requires no previous bushwalking experience. The remaining (990m) requires a leader a with moderate level of bushwalking experience.

weather

Around 24km of this walk is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation), whilst the remaining 4km is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety.

Infrastructure

Around 17km of this walk has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced), whilst the remaining 11km is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats).

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Thornleigh to Mt Kuring-Gai walk starts at the Thornleigh Train Station (gps: -33.731949, 151.07815)
Your transport options to Thornleigh Train Station are by;

Train. (get details)

Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)

The Thornleigh to Mt Kuring-Gai ends at the Mt Kuring-gai Railway Station (gps: -33.653812, 151.13673)
Your transport options to Mt Kuring-gai Railway Station are by;

Train. (get details)

Bus. (get details)

Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)

Fire Danger

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 Forest

This walk starts in the Metropolitan weather district always check the formal BOM forecast or pdf before starting your walk.

Forecast snapshot

Park Information & Alerts

Download Pdf

Open iPhone app

Short URL = http://wild.tl/ttmk

Gallery images
There are other downloads I am still working on.
You will probably need to login to access these — still all free.
* KML (google earth file)
* GPX (GPS file)

Special Maps/ brochures
* A3 topo maps
* PDF with Lands Topo map base
* PDF with arial image (and map overlay)
I wanted to get the main site live first, this extra stuff will come in time.
Happy walking
Matt 🙂