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The Best Hikes In & Around Sydney to Tackle this Spring
Put on your walking shoes, Sydneysiders! These are the best day in Sydney you need to road test yourself.
If you’re looking for something to do this weekend that will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to tackle a new week, a good old hike it is! Sydney is blessed with year-round mild weather and incredible natural environments, so you really have no excuses.
Most of these trails will blow you away with their beauty and have you back home in a few hours. So, pack some snacks (or one of Sydney’s best sandwiches) and water, and decide whether you want to hug the coast or head inland. These are some of the best hikes in and around Sydney.
In This Guide:
The Best Hikes In & Around Sydney: Northern Sydney
Taronga Zoo to Balmoral Beach
Work your way through Sydney’s most iconic sights! This walk shows off the city and is a solid workout. It starts at the Taronga Zoo ferry wharf, which has views stretching across the Harbour Bridge and Opera House, and winds its way through Chowder Bay, Georges Heights Lookout, and Middle Head. It’s quite steep in some parts, so take your time. The beginning of the walk features a stretch of some of Syndey’s most beautiful, winding angophora trees. Keep your eye out for plenty of Sydney Eastern Water Dragons sunning themselves along the path. Wanting to soak up more of this beautiful part of Sydney? Keep going to Spit Bridge for the most scenic walk to Manly.
Sitchu Tip: Once you reach Balmoral Beach, treat yourself to some takeaway and a house made lemonade by the beach from The Boat House.
Length: 6.8km
Time: 2.5-3.5 hours
Manly to Spit Bridge
To soak up the scenery north side of the Bridge, set off on this 10km walk. It follows the coastline of Middle Harbour and North Harbour, and takes in the tranquil waters of Clontarf Reserve and Reef Bay before cutting into the rugged bushland of Sydney National Park. When you reach Spit Bridge, hop on the ferry back to Manly. Extend the walk by continuing towards Balmoral or Taronga Zoo via Chinamans Beach.
Length: 10km
Time: 3-4 hours
Narrabeen Lagoon Trail
Ideal for all fitness levels, this loop is as scenic as it gets, passing wildlife, cascading waterfalls, and bushland. There are a few starting points to choose from, but we like Jamieson Park and Berry Reserve for one reason: the ample parking! If you’re not planning to power walk, grab a coffee at one of the three cafes dotted around the lake, and sip as you stroll.
Length: 8.6km
Time: 2-3 hours
Sitchu Tip: Keen for a lengthier hike in the Northern Beaches? Tackle part of the epic, 25-km Bicentennial Coastal Walk. The Narrabeen Lakes to Manly Lagoon portion is our pick. The 10km trail works its way through Collaroy, Long Reef, Dee Why, Curl Curl, Freshwater, Queenscliff and Manly.
North Head Sanctuary Loop
This loop hints at Aboriginal and Australian history, and is beautiful to boot. Starting at North Head Sanctuary, it passes the former North Head Army Barracks and makes its way into bushland, where you’ll spot native plants aplenty, as well as birds and echidnas. For the best photo opp, stop when you get to Fairfax Walk, and then finish with a dip at Manly Beach. Want to really make a day of it, combine the Manly to Spit Bridge walk with this loop.
Length: 9.5km
Time: 2-3 hours
Queenscliff to Shelly Beach
Considered one of the best walks in the Northern Beaches thanks to its beautiful beach views and gentle terrain, the Queenscliff to Shelly Beach walk may be a short relaxing stroll, but the views are spectacular, and the Eco-Sculpture Walk is a nod to the Cabbage Tree Bay’s unique marine life.
Starting at Queenscliff Beach, make your way along the beachside promenade past Manly Beach and Manly Surf Club and onto Shelly Beach at Cabbage Tree Bay. There are plenty of places to take a dip along the way, but we strongly recommend enjoying a post-stroll brekky and coffee at Boathouse Shelly Beach.
Distance: 3kms
Time: 30 minutes
Bradley’s Head to Balmoral Walk
For a bushwalking experience that’s close to the city and easy to access using public transport, head off on the Bradley’s Head to Chowder Bay Walk. The track begins at the Taronga Zoo ferry wharf and extends to the bay, taking in picturesque views of the Harbour Bridge, Opera House and skyline along the way. The leafy trail also covers a bunch of heritage-listed and historic buildings, such as Athol Hall. It’s relatively flat, making it the perfect Sunday afternoon stroll.
Distance: 6.8km one-way
Time: 3 hours
Harold Reid Reserve
This loop track begins and ends from Sugarloaf Crescent, taking you on an anti-clockwise circuit around the reserve. Along the way, there are many different spots to take in the beautiful views of Middle Harbour, looking out to Seaforth across the water. You get a little bit of everything here, with bush, mangroves, water and plenty of nature (think birds singing from the trees). It’s family and dog friendly, offering a peaceful hiking experience without having to leave the suburbs.
Distance: 3.5km one-way
Time: 1-1.5 hours
The Best Hikes In & Around Sydney: Sydney South
Cape Bailey
Whatever the time of year, this track is an absolute delight. Start at Cape Solander lookout where you’ll find parking and viewing platforms. The Cape Bailey Track hugs the coast dipping in and out with the curves of the sandstone cliffs. You can expect wildflowers in spring and some of the best whale-watching ops in Sydney come winter. Be sure to pack a picnic to enjoy at any one of the plentiful scenic stops along the way.
Length: 7.4km return
Time: 2-3 hours
Forest Path
If you’re keen to keep out of the sun come summer, this rainforest walk is a top pick. Kick off your walk at the stone gates which you’ll find along Sir Bertram Stevens Drive. Take a leisurely stroll through cabbage tree palms and Gymea lilies whilst trailing the serene Bola Creek. You’ll meander through a range of native plant species with some strong Jurassic Park vibes present throughout. It’s a fairly cruisey walk so be sure to take your time and soak up your lush surrounds.
Length: 4.4km
Time: 1 – 1.5 hours
Wedding Cake Rock Walk
Forming part of The Coast Track, many opt to just walk the section from Bundeena to the iconic Wedding Cake Rock – a pure white rock formation that stands out against the coastal cliffs’ sandstone. What gives it its name is the sharp edges and deep cracks, perched high above the ocean. It’s a perfect vantage point for whale watching, and the views up and down the coastline are spectacular. Feeling energetic? Head a little further south to Marley Beach.
Distance: 6km return
Time: 2 hours
Karloo Track to Karloo Pool
Take a day trip to Sydney’s south for one of the most popular Royal National Park walks the Karloo Track. This track starts next to Heathcote Train Station and leads down to the Karloo Pools – a natural swimming hole ranked as one of Sydney’s finest. The walk has a steep rocky descent, so at times it is a little hard going, but it’s well worth the effort when you dive into the swimming hole – just save enough energy for the trek back up.
Distance: 5 km return
Time: 1.5 hours
Glebe Foreshore
There’s no need to leave the city for top-notch views! The Glebe Foreshore walk is a fantastic option if you’re looking for something dog-friendly. You’ll start at Bicentennial Park, taking in water views and green spaces before eventually arriving at the Sydney Fish Markets (hopefully just in time for lunch!).
Distance: 4km return
Time: 2 hours
Malabar Headland Walk
This relatively easy circuit walk will deliver some of the best coastal views in Sydney, with rugged native bushland and dramatic sandstone cliffs aplenty. There are ample spots to stop for a picnic with a view, as well as whale-watching opportunities during winter. Begin the trail at the car park located behind Maroubra Beach before heading to Malabar Beach, Boora Point, and back to Maroubra.
Distance: 6km circuit
Time: 2 hours
Cape Banks from La Perouse
Embark on a family-friendly hike along the picturesque Cape Banks Walking Track in Botany Bay National Park. This scenic coastal walk is perfect for all ages, with an easy-to-follow trail that is mostly flat, ideal for leisurely exploration. Take a refreshing dip at Congwong Beach and keep an eye out for Yellow-Tailed Black Cockatoos, a common sight along the route. Discover World War II bunkers and enjoy stunning cliff views as you immerse yourself in nature and history on this captivating journey.
Distance: 7.6km
Time: 2 hours
The Best Hikes In & Around Sydney: Blue Mountains
Grand Canyon Track
This trail is challenging and spectacularly beautiful. Starting from Evans Lookout (near Blackheath), the track is lined with lush greenery, flowing waterfalls, creeks and sandstone cliffs. As you descend down to the canyon floor, you’ll see native ferns, wattle, and even a sandy beach. The trail is pretty wet, so you’ll want to wear proper hiking boots!
Length: 6.3km
Time: 3-4 hours
Ruined Castle Walking Track
Bushwalkers, you’ll love this five-hour trek in Katoomba. It begins at the Golden Stairway, and goes deep down into the Jamison Valley until it reaches the rainforest. There, you’ll spot wildlife and old miners cottages. Then, you can climb the Ruined Castle – a rock formation – and be treated to stunning views stretching as far as Wentworth Falls.
Length: 6.6km
Time: 4-5 hours
The Best Hikes In & Around Sydney: Central Coast
Berowra to Cowan
Another part of the Great North Walk, this trail explores the ridges and valleys around Berowra Waters. There are a few steep climbs along the way, but the views are stunning – be sure to stop at the Naa Badu Lookout. When you reach the halfway point (Berowra Waters), you can keep going or detour by taking a ferry across the river for lunch or ice-cream.
Length: 12.9km
Time: 6 hours
Bouddi National Park Coastal Walk
Road trip! Hop in the car and drive to Bouddi National Park in the Central Coast. Running from Putty Beach to Macmasters Beach, this rugged, eight-kilometre trail is known for its beaches, boardwalks and birdlife. Pack a picnic lunch, and enjoy it at Maitland Bay or Gerrin Point Lookout, where you might be joined by migrating whales.
Length: 8.5km
Time: 3.5-4.5 hours
The Best Hikes In & Around Sydney: Eastern Suburbs
Rose Bay to Watsons Bay
This picturesque track begins at the Rose Bay Ferry Wharf, and follows the foreshore, taking in Sydney sights such as Strickland House, Nielsen Park, and Hornby Lighthouse. As you approach Watsons Bay, you can divert to the bush (you’ll be rewarded with a waterfall), or continue walking to Gap Park. Feeling energetic? Keep going till Camp Cove, where Governor Phillip first landed in 1788.
Length: 8km
Time: 4 hours
Watson’s Bay to Hornby Lighthouse Walk
Hornby Lighthouse is an iconic Sydney walk well worth the jaunt which ticks all the boxes when it comes to scenic coastal views and a little slice of Sydney’s maritime history. The lighthouse was built in 1858 following the wrecking of the Dunbar at the foot of South Head and is still operating 24/7 guiding seafarers safely into Sydney Harbour. The 1km loop trail starts from Camp Cove at Watsons Bay. An easy bushwalk with stunning views of Sydney’s coastline, including sweeping harbour vistas, sandy beaches, and historic gun emplacements.
Distance: 3km
Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Bondi to Coogee Walk
It doesn’t matter how many times you’ve done it, the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk never gets old. The path passes Bondi Icebergs and a bunch of beaches, lookouts, rockpools and parks before finishing up at Coogee Beach. The views are spectacular, and while the path is mostly paved, there are a few sets of stairs, so expect to get a little sweaty. While the full Bondi to Coogee track is 6km, the shorter version covering Bondi to Bronte (2.5km) is just as good.
Distance: 6km one-way
Time: 2-3 hours
Rose Bay to Watsons Bay
Beginning at Rose Bay ferry wharf and traversing the Hermitage Foreshore Track, this eight-kilometre trail offers spectacular harbour views and several pitstops at memorable Sydney icons, including Strickland House, Nielsen Park and Hornby Lighthouse. The walk takes about four hours, but if you’ve got extra time, stop off at one of the several hidden beaches along the way for a dip.
Distance: 8km
Time: 3-4 hours
The Federation Cliff Walk
In the eastern suburbs, the Federation Cliff Walk is another scenic option. Stretching from Watsons Bay to Dover Heights, the 5km coastal track features ocean views and dramatic sandstone cliffs. It also takes walkers through parklands and past the Macquarie Lighthouse before ending at Robertson Park.
Distance: 5km
Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Loved checking out the best hikes around Sydney? There are plenty more walking trails around NSW you need to explore, fromovernight hikesand Central Coast trails, to scenic Sydney paths and Blue Mountains walks.
