Thornleigh to Hornsby

Download & Print Map and Notes

4 hrs

10.2 km One way

525 m

Hard track

Starting at Thornleigh station you walk through suburban streets for a short while before diving into the bush at the southern end of Berowra Valley Regional Park. Soon after visiting the site of the historic Zig Zag railway you start wandering through the Berowra Creek valley, passing a few cascading creeks. The track undulates along the side of the valley visiting a range of environments from moist fern forest to the drier grass tree and eucalypt forests of the ridge. There is a short side trip to visit the Westleigh engravings and a chance to pop down to fishponds, before climbing up the depression era stone steps to Hornsby station.

An old sleeper and rail clamp maybe part of the original Zig-Zag railway

Walking alongside the creek behind Morgan Street

Great North Walk sign near Zig Zag Creek

Rock formation near The Jungo beside Zig Zag Creek

The Great North Walk beside Zig Zag Creek

Crossing Berowra Creek just near the Jungo

Crossing Berowra Creek north downstream of Zig Zag Creeek

Grass Tree on the Great North Walk beside Berowa Creek

Small Flat timber Bridge north of the Jungo

Climbing up the side of the Berowra Creek Valley

Walking through the open Casuarina forest

Int of the Great North Walk and the Quarter Sessions Road track

Int of the Great North Walk and the Blue Gum Walk (SW)

Steps on the track on the Quarter Sessions Road ridge

Couch in overhang on the western side of the Spa

Blue Gum walk just south of Fishponds Lookout

Steps on the Blue Gum walk south of Fishponds

Intersectinon of the Great North Walk and Manor Rd Bushtrack

Great North Walk track head sign at Hornsby Station

(0km) Thornleigh Train Station → Morgan Rd

990 m

18 mins

-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).

(1km) Morgan Rd → Zig Zag Creek Bridge int.

360 m

6 mins

-13m 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].
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

(1km) 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.

(3km) Jungo campsite → Elouera Lookout

1.1 km

29 mins

82m

-58m 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]).
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.

(4km) 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).

(6km) Int of GNW and the Quarter Sessions Rd track → Blackfellow Head Engravings

370 m

10 mins

29m

-26m Moderate track

Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Quarter Sessions Rd' sign[68] directly uphill along the faint track, up over the rocky outcrop, with the occasional rock step[69]. After about 50m, this track leads to a T-intersection with a wide management trail.
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the management trail uphill[70]. The trail soon bends right and after about 90m (ignoring side tracks), the walk heads around a locked gate[71]. Here the walk follows the grassy (and rocky) trail between two houses[72] to an intersection with Quarter Sessions Rd[73] (between 394 & 396).
Turn left : From the intersection, this walk follows Quarter Sessions Road uphill. The road passes over the rise and, after 130m, comes to a point where the road bends right[74], just beside a 'Berowra Valley Regional Park' sign[75] (on your left).
Turn left: From beside 280 Quarter Sessions Road (Westleigh)[76], this walk heads towards the 'Berowra Valley Regional Park' sign[77], over the grass towards the timber platform[78]. The walk steps onto the timber platform (with a handrail[79]) to find a filtered valley view[80] (to your right) and the engravings[81] in the sandstone (to your left). At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Turn right.

Blackfellow Head Engravings

On the far north west corner of Quarter Sessions Road (beside no.280), there is a lookout and some Aboriginal engravings. The signposted site has a timber platform providing some filtered views across the valley[82]. On the left side of the platform is a sandstone block with the engraved images of two wallabies[83]. There are reports of other engravings in the area, but like many similar sites, their exact locations are not published to protect them. Please keep off the engravings area, to reduce wear.

(6km) 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[84], where the track soon heads quite steeply uphill along the eroded track[85] 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[86] for about 300m, then crosses a small, rocky gully[87], just below some houses[88]. The track then continues gently uphill for about 100m to an intersection with the unsignposted Blackfellows Head track[89] (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[90] points back along the track.

(7km) 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[91] past the 'Berowra Valley Regional Park' sign[92], gently uphill along the narrow ridge[93]. The track is mostly flat for about 200m before it starts to head fairly steeply down over some rocks[94] and down a set of rock steps[95]. 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[96] 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[97]. Near the bottom of this descent, this walk passes a couple of arrow posts[98], where the track bends right to pass below a large rock overhang[99]. Just beyond this overhang, the track bends left and leads across Waitara Creek at the interesting holes in the rock know as 'the spa'[100]. 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[101]. After stopping to enjoy cool spot, this walk continues left along the unfenced rock platform[102] (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[103]). This walk heads over another rock platform[104], then along a notably flat section of track[105] (now with Berowra Creek on your left), passing beside some cascades[106] for about 100m before climbing up and over some rocks and under a sandstone overhang[107]. 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[108]. The walk then climbs up some timber steps[109] to a fenced lookout[110] over Fishponds, at a well-signposted intersection[111]. A sign points back along the track to 'Thornleigh Station'[112].

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.

(8km) Fishponds Lookout → Fishponds Bridge

350 m

8 mins

16m

-14m Moderate track

Continue straight: From the lookout[113], this walk follows the 'Galston Gorge' sign[114] along the fenced rock shelf (keeping the fence to your left). The track leads down the rocky steps to the edge of Berowra Creek[115]. The walk crosses the creek using the stepping stones, and comes to a small cave[116] on the other side. This creek may be impassable after rain[117].
Veer right: From the cave, this walk follows the 'Galston Gorge' sign[118] up the track and timbers steps. Soon the track turns left and follows a Great North Walk arrow up the hill[119], at the red and white 'Danger' sign[120](ignoring the other track). The track climbs up the carved steps[121] onto the rock platform and continues up the rocky track until just after passing through a narrow gap between two rocks[122], where this walk comes to the un-signposted (and faint) intersection with the Pogson's Trig track (on the left).
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads down along the side of the hill[123], whilst keeping the main valley to your right. The track leads down some rocky steps, passing just above a rock platform (a short distance down on your right, with a plaque dedicated to 'Cora'[124]). The track then leads down along the base of a cliff, passing under a rock overhang[125]. The track continues along the base of the cliff for another 50m then starts to wind downhill (with some handrails[126]) to come to a rock platform beside the creek[127]. This walk then crosses Berowra Creek on the flat timber bridge[128]. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Turn left.

Fishponds

Fishponds is a long waterhole[129] on Berowra Creek in Berowra Valley Regional Park. The waterhole is lined with tall cliffs[130] and a few sandstone caves. At the southern end, there are stepping stones to help cross the creek[131], and a small timber bridge[132] at the northern end. This is a beautiful spot and a worthy place to rest and enjoy the water passing by[133]. 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.

(8km) Fishponds Lookout → Int of Blue Gum Walk and Joes Mountain Service Trail

300 m

7 mins

39m

0m Moderate track

Turn right: From the lookout, this walk follows the 'Rosemead Rd Trackhead' sign[135] directly away from the view over Berowra Creek. After about 70m, the track leads over a timber footbridge[136], then leads up the side of the valley for about 100m to climb up the steep carved rock steps (with a hand rail)[137]. 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[138] points back along the track.
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the 'Hornsby Station' sign up[139] along the track a short distance to come to an intersection with a wide management trail[140].

(8km) Int of Blue Gum Walk and Joes Mountain Service Trail → Berowra Valley Bushland Park

890 m

20 mins

39m

-45m Moderate track

Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the Great North Walk arrow south along the wide management trail, keeping the gully to your left[141]. The walk climbs up the gentle hill for just over 300m, passing through the turpentine forest[142] to a saddle and small clearing. Here the walk continues along the trail as it bends right[143] (ignoring the track to the left) to leads downhill through the blue gum and bracken fern forest[144]. The trail continues moderately steeply down until it bends left to cross Old Mans Creek at the concrete stepping stones[145]. The trail leads left and gently up the hill, passing some houses (on your right) and soon comes to an intersection with a narrower track (on your left) after about 150m.
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the Great North Walk arrow[146] along the narrower track[147] for a short distance, to Berowra Valley Bushland Park[148] at the end of Rosemead Road[149].

Berowra Valley Bushland Park

'Berowra Valley Bushland Park'[150] is also known as Rosemead Rd Park and is found at the bottom end of Rosemead Rd[151], Hornsby. This is an open area park surrounded by shady eucalyptus trees[152], making a pleasant spot to rest on a walk. It has a picnic table with bench seats[153], and a sheltered free electric BBQ[154]. There is a water tap[155] in the park, near the road. There is also a 'Welcome to Old Mans Valley' information sign with information about the traditional country of the Darug and Guringai peoples[156].

(9km) Berowra Valley Bushland Park → Int of Quarry Road and Great North Walk

540 m

14 mins

89m

-12m Hard track

Veer left: From the lower side of 'Berowra Valley Bushland Park'[157], this walk follows the 'Hornsby Station' sign[158] across the park, then follows the GNW arrow[159] up the stone steps, keeping the houses to your right. The walk winds steeply up the steps[160], leaving the view of the house and finding a welcome flat section of track[161] midway up. The steps then lead more steeply up[162] the side of the valley, along the sheer rock walls for about 100m, and come to an intersection with the Quarry Road management trail, where a 'Great North Walk' sign[163] points back down the the hill.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post up a couple of timber steps[164] and then follows the track as it winds up over the gentle rise. Once over the rise, the track then leads down to the intersection with Quarry Rd, where a 'Great North Walk' sign[165] points back up the track.

(9km) Int of Quarry Road and Great North Walk → Hornsby Train Station

720 m

14 mins

34m

-8m Easy track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows Quarry Road gently uphill away from the face of the 'Great North Walk' sign[166] until just past a couple of house, this walk comes to an intersection with the gated 'Old Mans Valley' management trail[167] (on your left).
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows Quarry Rd up the gentle hill[168] for about 180m, then follows the GNW arrow[169] left onto Dural St[170]. The footpath leads past the unit block, then past a few shops to come to an intersection with the Pacific Hwy. Following the GNW arrow, this walk turns right across 'Dural St'[171], passes a few more shops, then crosses 'Dural Lane'[172] before turning left across the Pacific Hwy at the traffic lights[173]. Here the walk continues straight across the 'Station St' pedestrian crossing[174], past the large 'Great North Walk' sign[175] and across the bus lane to the western entrance of Hornsby Station[176].

Maps for the Thornleigh to Hornsby 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
Sydney	1:100 000 Map Series	9130 SYDNEY	9130

Cross sectional view of the Thornleigh to Hornsby bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Thornleigh to Hornsby

Altitude analysis for Thornleigh to Hornsby

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	10.2 km
		Time	4 hrs
		.
Grade 4/6 Hard track	AS 2156.1	Gradient	Very steep (4/6)
		Quality of track	Formed track, with some branches and other obstacles (3/6)
		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

6km of this walk has short steep hills and another 1.3km is very steep. Whilst another 1.2km has gentle hills with occasional steps and the remaining 1.2km is flat with no steps.

Quality of track

6km of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles and another 4.2km follows a clear and well formed track or trail. The remaining (410m) follows a smooth and hardened path.

Signs

Around 8km of this walk has directional signs at most intersection, whilst the remaining 2.5km is clearly signposted.

Experience Required

4.8km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience and another 4.4km requires some bushwalking experience. The remaining (990m) 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 990m is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety.

Infrastructure

Around 7km of this walk has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced), whilst the remaining 3km is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats).

Similar walks

A list of walks that share part of the track with the Thornleigh to Hornsby walk.

Bellamy St to De Saxe Cl dog walking trail

529 m One way, 15 mins

This short walk follows a concrete management trail between Bellamy St and De Saxe Close. This is one of a few dog friendly bushwalks in the Berowra Valley Regional Park. You walk through some beautiful bush with a good array of grass and eucalyptus trees. At the bottom of the valley a bridge spa

Total climbing: 36m

Moderate track

Bellamy fire trail

619 m One way, 30 mins

This walk follows a wide concrete trail through Berowra Valley Regional Park, through lovely bushland and the site of the historic Zig Zag railway. The railway is long gone, but the quarry site is interesting to explore and crossing Zig Zag Creek on the bridge gives a lovely view down on the fern tr

Total climbing: 34m

Moderate track

Blue Gum Walk (Joe's Mountain Circuit)

4.2 km Circuit, 2 hrs

This is an enjoyable circuit walk that allows you to explore this rare pocket of Sydney Blue Gum forest. You will follow a signposted track across a few creeks and alongside Waitara Creek, with a few cascades. There are many small sandstone caves and a great diversity in plant life along the way. S

Total climbing: 231m

Hard track

Stringybark Ridge loop via Bellamy St

4.2 km Circuit, 1 hr 45 mins

A really nice loop walk in a corner of Berowra Valley Regional Park. The walk starts and finishes at the end of Schofield Pde, Pennant Hills. The scenery includes nice forest while going down Stringybark ridge and beautiful scenes along Zig Zag creek, as well as an optional side trip to see the remn

Total climbing: 123m

Hard track

Cherrybrook to Thornleigh

4.4 km One way, 1 hr 45 mins

This walk is mostly within the Berowra Valley Regional Park. It has some beautiful sections with great scenery, including sandstone rock features, lots of ferns and great scenery along Zig Zag creek. There is an optional side trip to visit the remnants of the historic Thornleigh Quarry and Zig Zag r

Total climbing: 128m

Moderate track

Callicoma Loop

5.1 km Circuit, 2 hrs

This great circuit walk passes through some really nice forest around the fringe of Cherrybrook. Highlights of the walk include some beautiful rock overhangs at the 'Callicoma Caves', and the atmospheric 'Coachwood Grotto'. The walk starts and finishes at the pleasant Lakes of Cherrybrook park.

Total climbing: 153m

Hard track

Hornsby to Fishponds

5.6 km Return, 2 hrs 30 mins

A short walk from Hornsby to reach a great spot for admiring Berowra Creek. This walk explores several different environments in the Regional Park along the way. Allow some time to sit and enjoy the view at Fishponds. Expect to see other people along the track as this is one of the most popular walk

Total climbing: 296m

Hard track

Stringybark Ridge and Zig Zag Creek loop from Thornleigh Station

6.6 km Circuit, 2 hrs 30 mins

A really nice loop walk in a corner of Berowra Valley Regional Park with good access by public transport. The walk starts and finishes at Thornleigh train station. The scenery includes beautiful scenes along Zig Zag creek and nice forest while going up Stringybark ridge, plus as an optional side tri

Total climbing: 187m

Hard track

Hornsby Blue Gum Walk

6.7 km Circuit, 3 hrs

This delightful loop is one of the prettiest and most popular walks in the Hornsby area. Going from an environment of ferns and clear bushland to dry sandstone bush near Berowra Creek, this walk has a good complement of environments. The side trip out to Joe's Mountain doesn't have the most fantasti

Total climbing: 374m

Hard track

Wareemba Ave to Thornleigh Station

8.6 km One way, 3 hrs 45 mins

This pleasant half day walk starts from Wareemba Avenue in Thornleigh and winds down into the valley along service trails and bush tracks. The walk then follows a section of the Blue Gum Walk to the Great North Walk. From here the walk follows the Great North Walk to Thornleigh train station. Along

Total climbing: 472m

Hard track

Cherrybrook to Hornsby via Fishponds

9 km One way, 3 hrs 45 mins

A beautiful walk through the Berowra Valley Regional Park. The walk mostly follows the Great North Walk, between Cherrybrook and Hornsby. There are some fantastic lookouts along the way and some excellent scenery along Berowra creek, including the 'Fishponds'. The start and end of the walk are close

Total climbing: 536m

Hard track

Hornsby to Galston Gorge

9.7 km One way, 4 hrs

Starting at Hornsby station, you soon head into the bush and down the steep depression era stone steps through the volcanic Old Mans Valley, to a picnic area at the end of Rosemead Rd. Here you follow the Blue Gum walk through one of Sydney’s rare Blue Gum Forest stands to then cross Berowra Creek a

Total climbing: 473m

Hard track

Thornleigh to Galston Gorge

15.5 km One way, 6 hrs

This walk follows the Great North Walk above Berowra Creek from Thornleigh to Galston Gorge, on bush tracks and service trails. The Steele Bridge is quite an interesting landmark of the area. Fishponds is a wonderful highlight, it is a lovely water hole surrounded by tall sandstone cliffs. The walk

Total climbing: 768m

Hard track

Hornsby station to Crosslands

16.1 km One way, 6 hrs 45 mins

This section of the Great North Walk starts from Hornsby train station and winds down along the Blue Gum Walk into Fishponds. Enjoy the wonderful water hole at fishponds before continuing along Berowra Creek, passing through the Tunks Ridge Reserve and into Galston Gorge. From the Gorge the track

Total climbing: 938m

Hard track

Epping to Hornsby Station

17.5 km One way, 6 hrs 45 mins

This long day walk follows the Lane Cove River and Berowra Creek. The walk mostly follows the iconic Great North Walk, keeping mostly to bushland. With a train station at each end and a chance to fill the tummy at Thornleigh, this is an enjoyable day out.

Total climbing: 705m

Hard track

Eastwood to Hornsby

20.6 km One way, 8 hrs

Initially following Terry's Creek, and then the Lane Cove River, this walk goes through some of the prettier sections of the Lane Cove National Park before climbing up to Thornleigh and continuing into the Berowra Valley Regional Park. Following Berowra Creek and the side of the valley, the surround

Total climbing: 810m

Hard track

Hornsby to Mt Kuring-gai

22.3 km One way, 9 hrs

This section of the Great North Walk starts from Hornsby train station and winds down along the Blue Gum Walk into Fishponds and along Berowra Creek. The walk passes through the Tunks Ridge Reserve and then into Galston Gorge. From here the walk keeps following the Berowra Creek through the Crossl

Total climbing: 1319m

Hard track

Berowra to Hornsby

22.6 km One way, 9 hrs 18 mins

One of the longer day walks in Berowra Valley National Park, this walk mostly follows Berowra Creek along the Great North Walk. Excellent views of the creek can be expected, especially at places like Crosslands and Fishponds. Be sure to pace yourself and take regular breaks. Crosslands and Tunks Rid

Total climbing: 1423m

Hard track

Gordon to Hornsby (overnight at Scout camp)

25.8 km One way, 2 Days

This overnight walk starts from Gordon train station and winds through bush filled valleys to Hornsby station. From Gordon station, the walk winds down past the Gordon golf course to the Great North Walk, then continues north through the Lane Cove Valley before staying overnight at the Baden Powell

Total climbing: 1024m

Hard track

Thornleigh to Mt Kuring-Gai

28.1 km One way, 2 Days

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

Total climbing: 1614m

Hard track

Thornleigh to Cowan

35.9 km One way, 2 Days

Following the Great North Walk and Berowra Creek through Berowra Valley Regional Park, this walk cuts straight through the length of the Park. The views are good, providing a broad idea of what this park has to offer. Conserve your energy for the section between Berowra Waters and Cowan as there are

Total climbing: 2336m

Hard track

Hornsby to Brooklyn three day walk

43.1 km One way, 3 Days

This three day walk follows the Great North Walk from Hornsby Station to Brooklyn, staying overnight at the Crosslands Reserve and the Great North Walk ridge top campsite. Some of the highlights along this walk are the sandstone cliffs at Fishponds, the great restaurants at Berowra Waters, and the b

Total climbing: 2695m

Hard track

Circular Quay to Hornsby

44.4 km One way, 3 Days

This fun walk covers a large section of the Great North Walk, starting from the official start in Circular Quay. After a short ferry trip the walk follows the Lane Cove River through the Lane Cove National Park, to Thornleigh. Here, the walk enters Berowra Valley National Park, continuing along the

Total climbing: 1690m

Hard track

Other Nearby walks

A list of walks that start near the Thornleigh to Hornsby walk.

Thornleigh to Marsfield

6.1 km One way, 2 hrs 30 mins

Following the Great North Walk, and the upper reaches of the Lane Cove River South, this walk explores dense bushland surrounding the river. You will experience a variety of trails along this walk, from steep bush tracks to wide biketrails. The common feature, however, is how well managed these trai

Total climbing: 106m

Hard track

Pennant Hills Park loop (via Lane Cove River)

8.2 km Circuit, 3 hrs

Setting out from Pennant Hills train station, this walk loops around Pennant Hills Park, exploring the surrounding bush and visiting Whale rock on the way. The walk turns back towards the park after passing the Lane Cove River. The walk mostly follows management trails.

Total climbing: 233m

Hard track

Mambara Track

717 m Circuit, 20 mins

The Mambara Track is a short walk, accessible to everyone, and a great walk for gaining some knowledge about the local bush. The walk follows a concrete footpath and has many signs with information about the surrounding bush. A great loop walk for the whole family and great introduction to the walki

Total climbing: 23m

Very easy

Callicoma caves

2.5 km Return, 1 hr 30 mins

This walk provides a beautiful mixture of scenery, including rainforest-like sections along the creek, as well as drier forest with grass trees and beautiful sandstone overhangs. The walk starts on Francis Greenway Dr and follows part of the Callicoma Walk. There are two main points of interest on t

Total climbing: 86m

Hard track

Elouera Lookout

828 m Return, 30 mins

A short walk to a beautiful lookout with views over the Berowra Creek valley, near Westleigh. This is a short and interesting walk to one on those really beautiful pockets of bush in the middle of the suburbs. The lookout is in the Berowra Valley Regional Park and also on the Great North Walk.

Total climbing: 44m

Moderate track

Blackwattle Close loop

613 m Circuit, 30 mins

This is a pleasant loop walk, close to Cherrybrook. The walk crosses Disturbed Creek (not officially named) a couple of times and includes some nice scenery along the creek with ferns, grasstrees and eucalypt forest.

Total climbing: 23m

Moderate track

Cherrybrook to Refuge Rock

4.1 km One way, 1 hr 45 mins

A nice walk around the fringes of Cherrybrook plus the interesting and atmospheric Refuge Rock. The optional sidetrip to the natural rock arch adds some beautiful scenery to the walk. The walk passes through an interesting mixture of moist creek side scenery and drier forest before reaching Refuge R

Total climbing: 147m

Moderate track

The Lakes of Cherrybrook loop

439 m Circuit, 15 mins

This short, pleasant loop walk is a nice one to do if you are having a picnic in the Lakes of Cherrybrook park, enjoying the atmosphere, free electric BBQs and playground. There is a good viewing platform extending onto the lake and there are usually ducks to be seen. The nearby shopping centre has

Total climbing: 10m

Moderate track

Blackwattle Trail

2.2 km One way, 1 Hr

This walk follows the Blackwattle Trail around the fringe of Cherrybrook, starting at the Cherrybrook Rural Fire Brigade building, in Shepherds Drive, and finishing in Patricia Place. It is a nice walk and follows a management trail for its whole length. The walk passes through a mix of dry eucalypt

Total climbing: 98m

Moderate track

Whale Rock

516 m Return, 15 mins

This rock formation really does look like a Whale. The walk down from Boundary Rd is the shortest and easiest way to see Whale Rock. The walk follows a management trail the short distance to an intersection where you will find Whale Rock. This walk starts at the end of Boundary Rd in North Epping.

Total climbing: 26m

Moderate track

Belinda Cres to Whale Rock

2.8 km Return, 1 Hr

This walk starts from Belinda Cres and provides a lovely walk to Whale Rock. The walk first passes some exotic plants and then into more native bushland with some interesting canopies and dense growth. Whale Rock, one of the features of this walk, is quite a sight and is well worth exploring. It is

Total climbing: 41m

Moderate track

Canoon Rd to Whale Rock

3.2 km Return, 1 hr 30 mins

This walk goes to Whale Rock, from the sporting complex at the end of Canoon Rd, Turramurra. The walk follows Devlin's Creek for the most part, winding through the valley. A great way to see the Lane Cove Valley, and explore the sandstone and fern filled scenery.

Total climbing: 121m

Moderate track

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Thornleigh to Hornsby walk starts at the Thornleigh Train Station (gps: -33.731949, 151.07815)

Train. (get details)

Bus. (get details)

Car. There is free parking available.<br /> (get details)

The Thornleigh to Hornsby ends at the Hornsby Train Station (gps: -33.703509, 151.09801)

Train. (get details)

Bus. (get details)

Car. There is free parking available.<br /> (get details)

Weather Forecast

This walk starts in the Metropolitan weather district.

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Park Information

Berowra Valley National Park

Following the Berowra Creek the Berowra Valley National Park is located on the Hornsby Plateau and is made up of typical Hawkesbury Sandstone. The great North walk, Benowie walking track, and many other great walks stretch spann this park. The area has varied vegetation including many different sorts of Eucalyptus and plenty of native animals, includingl swamp wallibies, water dragons, bandicoots, Lyre Birds, and bush turkeys. There are several campsites within the Park, and Crosslands Reserve is also a popular spot near the middle of the park.

Manor Road Bushland

Manor Road Bushland is a small parcel of natural bushland between Manor road and the Hornsby quarry. The blue Gum walk and the Great North walk Hornsby track head pass through the section of land where there are some wonderful tall Blue gums and Black Buts. There is also a lovely array of ferns and Turpentine trees.

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