Hiking adventures in the Hawkesbury. From the beginner to the seasoned hiker, there is something for everyone.
The Hawkesbury region is a paradise for nature lovers and bush-walking enthusiasts alike. With its vast array of bush-walking trails, our stunning region boasts something for everyone. From easy, riverside strolls to challenging mountain climbs, the Hawkesbury region caters to walkers of all skill levels and interests.
The region’s diverse terrain is a big part of its appeal. Walkers can enjoy breathtaking views of the Blue Mountains or explore serene riverside walks with the peaceful sound of flowing water in the background. Along the way, hikers are treated to stunning scenery, with towering cliffs, lush forests, and open grasslands providing a constantly changing backdrop.
One of the most impressive aspects of the Hawkesbury region is its abundance of wildlife. From colourful birds to shy wallabies, walkers are sure to encounter a variety of fascinating creatures along the way. For those interested in bird watching, our region is home to a wide variety of species, including the yellow-tailed black cockatoo and the majestic wedge tailed eagle and the vibrant rainbow lorikeet.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, the Hawkesbury region has something to offer. With its stunning scenery, diverse terrain, and abundance of wildlife, this beautiful part of The Hawkesbury and is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the outdoors.
The Picturesque Grose Valley Walking Trails
The Grose Valley Trail is a picturesque and relatively easy walking track This 2.5km trail takes walkers through the lush Grose Valley, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the Grose River below.
The trail is a well-marked and maintained path suitable for walkers of all skill levels, including families with children. The trailhead is located at the end of Grose Road, which is accessible by car. The start of the track is marked by a sign and a map, allowing hikers to plan their route and stay on track.
As walkers set out on the trail, they are immediately immersed in the lush vegetation and wildlife of the Grose Valley. The track winds through tall trees, providing welcome shade on hot summer days. Along the way, walkers will encounter a range of flora and fauna, including a variety of bird species and wallabies.
The highlight of the Grose Valley Trail is undoubtedly the stunning views it offers of the valley and river below. The trail follows the edge of the valley, providing sweeping views of the Grose River and the surrounding cliffs. Hikers can stop at several lookout points along the way to take in the scenery and snap some photos.
Despite being an easy walk, the Grose Valley Trail does have a few steep sections, and walkers should wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water. However, the trail is generally well-maintained and easy to follow, making it an ideal choice for families and less experienced hikers.
Overall, the Grose Valley Trail is a beautiful and accessible walking track that showcases the natural beauty of the Hawkesbury region. With its stunning views, lush vegetation, and abundant wildlife, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the great outdoors.
Mount Tomah Botanic Garden to Bilpin Hiking Trail
Mount Tomah to Bilpin Walk is a stunning 15km trail that takes hikers through the beautiful Blue Mountains National Park. This moderate-rated track offers hikers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, as well as a diverse range of natural features, including eucalyptus forests, open grasslands, and rocky outcroppings.
The trail begins at the Mount Tomah Botanic Garden, which is accessible by car or public transport. The gardens themselves are a popular tourist attraction, featuring a wide variety of native and exotic plant species. From the gardens, the trail winds through a forest of tall eucalyptus trees, providing a welcome respite from the sun on hot days.
Along the way, hikers will enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including the majestic Grose Valley and the Hawkesbury River. There are several lookout points along the trail, offering the perfect spot to take a break, enjoy the scenery, and snap some photos.
One of the highlights of the Mount Tomah to Bilpin Walk is the opportunity to see a range of native wildlife. Along the way, hikers will encounter an array of native wildlife, including colourful birds, wallabies, and even the occasional kangaroo.
While the trail is rated as moderate, hikers should be prepared for some steep ascents and descents. The trail is well-marked and maintained, but proper hiking shoes and plenty of water are recommended.
As the trail winds down towards Bilpin, hikers are treated to stunning views of the area’s orchards and farmland. Bilpin is famous for its apple orchards, and hikers can sample some of the local produce at one of the town’s many cafes and farm stands.
The Mount Tomah to Bilpin Walk is an excellent choice for hikers looking for a challenging yet rewarding trail. With its diverse range of natural features and stunning views.
The Lady Fairfax Walking Trail
The Lady Nancy Fairfax Walking Trail is a beautiful walking trail located in the Mount Tomah Botanic Garden. This scenic walking trail is named after Lady Nancy Fairfax, the wife of Sir Warwick Fairfax, who was a renowned philanthropist and supporter of cultural and environmental causes.
The walking trail is approximately 1.8 kilometers in length and takes visitors through a picturesque forest of Wollemi pines and other native plants. The trail is well-maintained and relatively easy to navigate, making it a perfect choice for visitors of all ages and fitness levels.
Along the way, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, as well as the opportunity to see a wide variety of native Australian wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, and colourful bird species.
The Lady Nancy Fairfax Walking Trail is one of the most popular walking trails in the Mount Tomah Botanic Garden and is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area. The trail provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy a peaceful walk through the forest, take in the stunning scenery, and learn more about the plants and wildlife of the Blue Mountains region.
Discover the Colo River Valley Hiking Trails
The Colo River Walk is a beautiful hiking trail located in the Colo River Valley. This trail offers a unique opportunity for hikers to experience the natural beauty of the Australian wilderness, with stunning views of the river, mountains, and forests.
The trail head for the Colo River Walk is located near Lower Portland. The trail itself is about 8 kilometres long and takes approximately 3-4 hours to complete, depending on your pace. The trail is well-marked, and hikers can expect to encounter a variety of terrains, including flat sections, steep inclines, and river crossings.
The trail follows the Colo River, which is known for its clear, turquoise waters and rugged sandstone cliffs. Hikers will have the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, and a variety of bird species. The trail also passes through several different types of forest, including eucalyptus, casuarina, and rainforest.
One of the highlights of the Colo River Walk is the suspension bridge that spans the river near the midpoint of the trail. This bridge provides stunning views of the river and surrounding mountains and is a popular spot for hikers to take photos and enjoy the scenery.
Another highlight of the trail is the Colo River Gorge, which is a deep, narrow canyon that the river flows through. Hikers will need to navigate their way down a steep incline to get to the bottom of the gorge, but the effort is well worth it for the breathtaking views.
It is important to note that the Colo River Walk is a moderately difficult trail and requires a reasonable level of fitness and hiking experience. Hikers should bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen, as well as appropriate clothing and footwear. It is also recommended that hikers check the weather forecast before embarking on the trail, as heavy rains can make the trail more challenging and dangerous.
Burralow Creek Hiking Trails
Burralow Creek is a beautiful area located in Bilpin, which is popular with hikers and nature lovers due to its picturesque scenery, lush vegetation, and tranquil creek. There are several walking trails in the area, each offering a unique perspective on the natural beauty of the region.
One of the most popular trails in the area is the Burralow Creek Trail. This trail runs alongside the creek for approximately 6.5 kilometres, taking hikers through a variety of terrain, including rocky gorges, dense forests, and open grasslands. Along the way, hikers can stop to take in the stunning views and rest at designated picnic areas and lookout points.
For those looking for a shorter walk, the Blue Gum Swamp Trail is a great option. This 4-kilometre loop takes hikers through a beautiful swamp area filled with blue gums and other native trees. This trail is relatively flat and easy, making it ideal for families with young children or those looking for a leisurely walk.
The Great North Walk is another popular trail that passes through the Burralow Creek area. This long-distance hiking trail spans approximately 250 kilometres from Sydney to Newcastle. In the Burralow Creek area, hikers can follow the trail for several kilometres before it continues on through the Wollemi National Park.
For a more challenging hike, the Kurrajong Heights to Bilpin Walk is a 13-kilometre trail that takes hikers through a variety of terrain, including bushland, farmland, and orchards. This trail offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is a great way to experience the rural beauty of the region.
All of these walking trails offer hikers the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Burralow Creek and its surrounding areas up close, with plenty of opportunities to see local flora and fauna, including kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, and a variety of bird species. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, the Burralow Creek walking trails offer a unique and unforgettable experience of the Australian bushland.
The Blue Gum Swamp Hiking Trail
The Blue Gum Swamp Trail is a popular hiking trail located in the Burralow Creek area of Bilpin. This 4-kilometre loop trail is known for its picturesque scenery, lush vegetation, and beautiful blue gums that tower over the swamp area.
The trail is relatively easy and suitable for hikers of all levels, making it a popular choice for families with young children or those looking for a leisurely walk. The loop trail starts at the Blue Gum Swamp car park and winds through the forested area before arriving at the swamp. The trail is well-marked and maintained, with wooden boardwalks and bridges over the swampy areas.
As hikers make their way through the trail, they will be immersed in the unique beauty of the Australian bushland. The trail takes hikers through dense eucalyptus forests, across open fields, and over the swamp areas. The blue gums that are scattered throughout the trail provide ample shade and create a stunning backdrop for photos.
The highlight of the trail is undoubtedly the Blue Gum Swamp itself. The swamp is home to a diverse array of plant and animal life, including the striking blue gums for which the trail is named. Hikers will be able to spot a variety of bird species, including the superb lyrebird, which is known for its distinctive calls and impressive mimicry skills.
The trail also offers several lookout points where hikers can take in the stunning views of the surrounding bushland. These lookout points provide a peaceful respite and an opportunity to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
The trail is easy and accessible yet offers a unique and unforgettable experience of the Australian bushland. With its stunning scenery, diverse plant and animal life, and ample opportunities for rest and relaxation, the Blue Gum Swamp Trail is an excellent choice for hikers of all levels.
Relax and Unwind After a Long Day of Hiking at Chalet de Tranquilité
As you make your way back to Chalet de Tranquillite after a long day out hiking, you can feel your muscles slowly relaxing as you take in the fresh mountain air. The sun is beginning to set, casting a warm golden glow over the surrounding peaks, and you feel a sense of peace and contentment settle over you.
You kick off your hiking boots and feel the soft, comfortable lounge beckoning you, and you sink down into its welcoming embrace, feeling the weight of the day’s adventures begin to lift off your shoulders.
As you sit there, sipping on a cold beverage or two and watching the city light glisten in the distance, you can’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such incredible natural beauty. The mountains loom outside the windows, silent sentinels watching over the valley below, and you feel a sense of awe and reverence wash over you.
As the evening wears on, you enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal, savoring the flavours and textures of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. You chat with your companions, reliving the highlights of the day and making plans for tomorrow’s adventures.
As you retire to your cosy bedroom, you feel the gentle sway of the chalet rocking you to sleep, lulled by the peaceful sounds of the mountains outside. You fall asleep with a smile on your face, looking forward to another day of hiking, exploration, and relaxation in this mountain paradise.
