Spit to Lindfield

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Time 9 hrs 45 mins
One way 22.6 km One way
Climb 1181 m
Grade 4 Hard track
Train Bus Car
no_pets
This full day walk starts at the southern end of the Spit Bridge and explores a lot of Garigal National Park and Middle Harbour Creek. The walk follows the 'Harbour to Hawkesbury' track into Garigal National Park, skirting around Bantry Bay and along Middle Harbour Creek before crossing Roseville Bridge. The walk continues to explore the other side of Garigal, before leaving the National Park and arriving at Lindfield train station.
Spit Bridge footpath Sangrado Street Passing the Seaforth Scouthall Powder Hulk Bay path Seaforth Oval Top of the Timber Getters Track The Timbergetters Track Bantry Bay picnic area View of the magazine buildings The Bay Track View from the Bluff Lookout Following the rocky track Crossing the Natural Bridge Natural Bridge Track steps Continuing through the bush Following the bushtrack Crossing a small creek The Magazine Track Looking down at the Magazine Buildings Following the waters edge Flat Rock beach Climbing up the hill from the Bantry bay Heading through the ferns The surrounding bushland south of Davidson Reserve Looking down on Middle Harbour Creek Following the Flat Rock Track The Flat Rock Trackhead Davidson Park Roseville Bridge Two Creeks track near Ormonde Road track Two Creeks Track Crossing a short bridge Cave on Two Creeks Track Little Diggers park Two creeks track next to middle harbour near Wellington Road Two Creeks track Through the trees Gordon Creek Pipeline The Two Creeks Track Tunnel under Eastern Arterial Road Following the bushtrack Bridge over Gordon Creek Seven Little Australians Park Picnic area Historic steps on Two Creeks Track Rock overhang Two Creeks Trackhead

Sydney Harbour Kayaks

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

(0km) Spit Bridge South → Int. Spit Rd and Ellery's Punt Reserve Road

distance 350 m time 6 mins climb 11m descent -2m Easy track
From the intersection, this walk heads over the Spit Bridge, with the road to the left of the footpath. The walk crosses the bridge to where it meets the road down to Ellery's Punt Reserve, first on the right.

(0km) Int. Spit Rd and Ellery's Punt Reserve Road → Int. Ellery's Punt Rd and Avona Cres Trk

distance 40 m time 1 mins climb 2m descent 0m Easy track
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk heads downhill away from the main road for approximately 20m to the intersection below the bridge, on the left.

(0km) Int. Ellery's Punt Rd and Avona Cres Trk → Int. Ellery's Punt Reserve Rd and Manly Scenic Walkway

distance 60 m time 1 mins climb 0m descent -7m Easy track
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk heads down the hill towards the water. The walk soon comes to Ellery's Punt Reserve car park on the right. This walk continues past this, down the footpath to the signposted intersection.

Ellery's Punt Reserve

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

(0km) Int. Ellery's Punt Reserve Rd and Manly Scenic Walkway → End of Battle Boulevard

distance 90 m time 2 mins climb 3m descent 0m Moderate track
Turn right: From the 'Manly Scenic Walkway' map and info sign, this walk heads across the grass following the coast line, keeping the water to the left and heading towards the "Ellery's Punt Reserve" sign. From the sign, the walk passes under the Spit Bridge and then up the flight of stairs that come to the end of Battle Boulevard.

(1km) End of Battle Boulevard → Int. Battle Boulevard and Manly Rd

distance 140 m time 3 mins climb 8m descent 0m Easy track
Continue straight: From the end of the cul-de-sac, this walk follows Battle Bvd up the road to the car park just near the intersection with Manly Road.

(1km) Int. Battle Boulevard and Manly Rd → Top of the Gallipoli Steps

distance 160 m time 4 mins climb 40m descent 0m Moderate track
Turn left: From the car park, the walk crosses to the other side of Battle Boulevard and follows the footpath up the hill for a short distance, to the signposted Gallipoli Steps. From here, the walk heads up the Gallipoli Steps to the top of the hill, where it flattens out and follows the short path to the intersection with Edgecliff Esplanade.

(1km) Top of the Gallipoli Steps → Int of Sangrado Street and Seaforth Crescent

distance 2 km time 44 mins climb 82m descent -99m Easy track
Turn sharp left: From the intersection, the walk follows the track marker along the Edgecliff Esplanade, keeping Middle harbour down to the left. At the intersection with Palmerston Place, the walk turns left and heads down the short hill before turning right onto Seaforth Crescent. From here the walk follows Seaforth Crescent all the way around the top of the headland, providing frequent views of middle harbor over and inbetween the houses, until it reaches the 'T' intersection with Princes Promenade. At the intersection, the walk turns left onto Seaforth Crescent, heading down the gentle hill, and almost immediately bending to the right. The walk continues along the road for a little while longer until it comes to the intersection with the narrow road, heading down the hill to the left, just before the Seaforth Scout Hall.

(3km) Int of Sangrado Street and Seaforth Crescent → Int of Sangrado Street and the Powder Hulk Bay footpath

distance 80 m time 2 mins climb 0m descent -4m Easy track
Turn left: From the intersection, the walk follows the track marker along the narrow road, heading down the hill with the Seaforth Scout Hall on the right. The walk continues down to the intersection at the top of the concrete steps (heading down the hill to the right).

(3km) Int of Sangrado Street and the Powder Hulk Bay footpath → Top of the Jenner Street Steps

distance 260 m time 9 mins climb 35m descent -31m Moderate track
Turn right: From the intersection, the walk follows the track marker down the concrete steps and along the footpath. The footpath winds down the hill, crossing two small footbridges and comes to the waters edge, where it passes the North Ridge Sailing Club, then continues along for a little while to the intersection at the bottom of a long set of concrete steps.
Turn right: From the intersection, the walk follows the track marker up the concrete steps. The walk follows the steps all the way up the hill to a driveway, which it crosses and continues up the steps on the other side, climbing up to the top of the hill at the intersection with Jenner Street.

(3km) Top of the Jenner Street Steps → Wakehurst Pkwy Bus stop

distance 1.6 km time 30 mins climb 78m descent -25m Moderate track
Turn left: From the intersection, the walk follows Jenner Street up the hill. The walk turns left into Abernethy Street and continues to the end of the road. From here the walk climbs up a concrete staircase to the end of Harvey Street, which it follows. The walk then turns left into Dalwood Avenue and continues to the end of the road where it comes to the intersection of Clontarf Street. From here, the walk continues straight onto Clontarf Street, and soon turns left onto Callicoma Road, then turns right onto Acacia Road (which becomes Castle Circuit) and continues all the way along to the end of the footpath, where it comes to a small reserve on the right. From here, the walk follows the track marker through the reserve for a little distance to the Wakehust Parkway, where it turns left and follows the side of the road to a bus stop almost directly opposite the intersection with Armstrong Street.

(5km) Wakehurst Pkwy Bus stop → Seaforth Oval

distance 530 m time 9 mins climb 23m descent -4m Moderate track
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the track behind the bus stop, heading away from the road and down through the bush. The walk steps over a few fallen trees and passes small rock outcrops, continuing along until passing a track marker and heading up to the end of a long grassy clearing, from which the playground at Seaforth Oval is clearly visible.
Veer left: From the intersection, the walk heads across the long grassy clearing towards the play equipment. Upon reaching the play equipment, the walk then follows the asphalt path, heading up on the right-hand side of the club house to the car park. Here, it turns left, passing the club house and coming to the information signs on the other side of the car park.

Seaforth Oval

Seaforth Oval
Seaforth Oval is a large playing oval on the Wakehurst Parkway in North Balgowlah. It is managed by Manly Council, who have also recently been upgrading the Timber Getters Track in association with NPWS. There is a distant view of Chatswood from the oval. There are toilets, but they are usually locked. There is a large car park, shelter and sign with information about the Harbour to Hawkesbury walk. More info.

(5km) Seaforth Oval → Int of the Timbergetters and Engraving Tracks

distance 50 m time 1 mins climb 0m descent -2m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the corner of the car park with the information signs, the walk heads into the bush and down the wooden steps to the bottom, where it flattens out at the signposted intersection with the Engraving Track[1].

(5km) Int of the Timber Getters and Engraving Tracks → Bantry Bay Picnic Area

distance 840 m time 24 mins climb 9m descent -109m Hard track
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Timbergetters Track' sign[2] down the wooden steps and through the bush, winding steadily down a long hill as it drops down several more sets of steps, following the bush track to the signposted intersection with the Old Bullock Track[3] (closed for maintenance at time of writing).
Continue straight: From the intersection (with the signposted 'Old Bullock Track'[4] on the right), this walk heads west down the three wooden steps and along the track, winding through the dense scrub for a while. The walk crosses a small creek at some stepping stones and passes an old telegraph pole with no power lines attached. The track continues in this manner for a little while longer before it comes to the top of a short set of rock steps, where it starts to wind down into the valley using several scattered sets of wooden steps and one long set of rock steps, until coming down to the large picnic area at the bottom.

Bantry Bay Picnic Area

Bantry Bay Picnic Area
The area of Bantry Bay has been popular with day visitors since the late 1800s. In the early 1900s, the picnic area was also home to a dance hall (foundations still visible), dining room, picnic ground and overnight accommodation. Today, the picnic area has a picnic table and a number of fireplaces. There is also a public wharf, toilets, open grassy area, shade from trees and a great view across the water. There are no garbage facilities. The picnic area is at the bottom of the Timber Getters Track, below Seaforth Oval, on the eastern shore of Bantry Bay. More info.

(6km) Bantry Bay Picnic Area → The Bluff Lookout

distance 1.8 km time 48 mins climb 166m descent -77m Hard track
Turn right: From the picnic area (keeping the water on the left), this walk follows the "Bantry Bay Track" sign along the rocky bush track which undulates along the side of the hill, winding through the bush for a little while. The walk passes by the base of some cliffs and starts to climb up the hill at a rocky outcrop, continuing to wind up the long rocky hill as the track climbs to the top of the valley, eventually winding up some rock steps to a large rock platform, Here, the walk passes some track markers pointing back down the valley to a short bush track, leading to the signposted intersection of the Bluff Track at the lookout.

Bluff Lookout

Bluff Lookout
The Bluff is a large, unfenced rocky hilltop, in Garigal National Park, that provides great views up Middle Harbour. The views extend across the bushland of the National Park, along Bantry Bay, to the city of Sydney (You can even see Centrepoint Tower). Apart from the distant views, the bluff is also an interesting rock feature, with a number of caves containing honeycomb rock formations.

(8km) The Bluff Lookout → Int of Bluff and Natural Bridge Tracks

distance 210 m time 4 mins climb 11m descent 0m Moderate track
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Bluff Track' sign along the rocky service trail, heading away from the lookout and through the bush for a little while before coming to the intersection with a defined bush track on the right.
Continue straight: From the intersection, the track follows the service trail (with the bush track on the right), heading north-west through the bush for a little while before coming to the signposted intersection with the Natural Bridge Track.

(8km) Int of Bluff and Natural Bridge Tracks → Natural Bridge

distance 500 m time 15 mins climb 1m descent -71m Hard track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the Natural Bridge Track along the bush track, heading away from the service trails for a short distance before coming to the intersection of the Currie Road Oval bush track at the track marker.
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the track marker along the bush track, heading west through the bush for a short distance to a large rock outcrop. From here, the walk continues along the defined bush track, winding down the long and sometimes steep rocky hill, into the valley. The vegetation gradually gets thicker, until this walk comes down to a wide rock arch crossing a creek - the Natural Bridge.

Natural Bridge

Natural Bridge
The Natural Bridge is a sandstone arch in Garigal National Park. The arch spans an unnamed creek feeding into Bantry Bay. The Natural Bridge track uses this arch to cross the creek, and is not always noticed by walkers as the surrounding vegetation hides the full view of the feature from the track. The arch has formed the eroding forces of water flowing down the creek. The arch provides an interesting natural feature to explore and enjoy.

(9km) Natural Bridge → Int of Natural Bridge and Currie Road Tracks

distance 250 m time 6 mins climb 39m descent 0m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the bridge, the walk follows the bush track heading west (with downstream to the left) up the hill and away from the creek, steadily winding up a gentle hill. This steepens as the walk climbs up a few sets of wooden steps, continuing up the rock hill to the top, where it comes to the signposted intersection of the Currie Road Track.

(9km) Int of Natural Bridge and Currie Road Tracks → Int of Bates Creek and Currie Rd tracks

distance 180 m time 3 mins climb 5m descent -1m Easy track
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the H/H walker on the 'Currie Road Track' sign south, along the service trail. The track soon comes to a four-way intersection with a large gum tree in the centre.

(9km) Int of Bates Creek and Currie Rd tracks → Int of Magazine Track and Tipperary Road service trail

distance 730 m time 13 mins climb 5m descent -35m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the bush track, heading through the dense vegetation. After a little while, the track starts to zigzag down the rocky hill and through the bush until it flattens out and crosses Bates Creek. The walk then turns left and continues through the bush, meandering along the flat bush track until coming to the signposted intersection with the Magazine Track.

(10km) Int of Magazine Track and Tipperary Road service trail → Back of Magazine Buildings

distance 1.1 km time 27 mins climb 45m descent -79m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Magazine Track' sign along the wide, flat trail which winds around behind some houses (on the right). The track continues along a narrower, rocky bush track which steadily winds down a long hill to the bottom of the valley, where it flattens out just above the water. From here, the walk continues along the bush track, winding up and down along the side of the hill until it follows a track marker up to the magazine buildings' fence line. The track runs parallel to this fence as it heads along to an open, square concrete tank just off to the left of the track, from which the roofs of the magazine buildings and Middle Harbour Creek are both visible.

Bantry Bay Explosives Magazine complex

Bantry Bay Explosives Magazine complex
The Magazine Buildings were the premier storage facility for merchants' explosives between 1915 and 1974. During this time, the carefully constructed building where crucial for the safe storage of explosives used for building public works such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and additionally used by the Australian Navy during World War II. There is currently no public access to the site, and the buildings are best viewed from across the water at Bantry Bay Picnic Area, or anywhere on the other side of Bantry Bay. More info.

(11km) Back of Magazine Buildings → Int of Magazine and Flat Rock Beach Tracks

distance 1.1 km time 23 mins climb 44m descent -53m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the open concrete tank, this walk follows the bush track, with the ground sloping up to the right, as it heads down a short rocky hill. The track flattens out and follows the fence line to the end, where it turns left and continues down the rocky hill, along the bush track running parallel to a shorter fence. Soon, the track turns right and leaves the fence line. The walk follows the bush track heading away from the buildings and down the rocky hill, to the waters edge where it continues along the side of the hill, following Middle Harbour Creek for a long while. In time, the track winds around behind a small beach to the intersection of a narrow bush track heading down a short hill on the left.

(12km) Int of Magazine and Flat Rock Beach Tracks → Flat Rock Beach

distance 30 m time 1 mins climb 0m descent -6m Moderate track
Turn sharp left: From the intersection, this walk follows the narrow bush track heading down the hill to the small beach at the bottom. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Veer left.

Flat Rock Beach

Flat Rock Beach
Flat Rock Beach is a small, south-facing beach on Middle Harbour, in Garigal National Park. The sand is deposited on a rock shelf that pokes through in places, forming interesting sculptures. The beach is frequented by walkers and boaters enjoying their day by the water. The beach can be accessed by a bush track from the end of Killarney Drive, Killarney Heights. Historically, the beach was a popular picnic area and serviced by a ferry in the early 1900's. Today, there are no facilities, but some shade is provided by the trees at the back of the beach.

(12km) Int of Magazine and Flat Rock Beach Tracks → Int of Flat Rock and Magazine Tracks

distance 190 m time 5 mins climb 36m descent 0m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the bush track with the ground sloping up to the right, heading up the wooden steps. The track flattens out and turns right, following the track marker through the bush and up the rocky hill, using the spread-out sets of wooden steps. The walk comes to an intersection and a signpost for the 'Magazine Track'[5].

(12km) Int of Flat Rock and Magazine Tracks → Int of Downpatrick Road Servicetrail and Flat Rock Track

distance 1.5 km time 39 mins climb 86m descent -116m Moderate track
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Flat Rock Track' sign along the bush track heading down the side of the hill, with the ground sloping up to the right. The walk winds down the rocky track for a little while, before flattening out as it passes by a small pipeline and then continues along the side of the hill. The track meanders through the bush for a while before coming to the four-way intersection with a bush track (which heads up the rocky hill to the right, and down to a private property at the bottom of the hill on the left).
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the bush track along the side of the hill, with the ground sloping up to the right. The track meanders through the dense bushland, occasionally catching a nice view over Middle Harbour Creek down to the left, and continues to the intersection of a rough service trail on the right, which heads uphill.

(14km) Int of Downpatrick Road Servicetrail and Flat Rock Track → Int of Davidson Park driveway and Flat Rock Track

distance 690 m time 16 mins climb 32m descent -41m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the bush track along the side of the hill, with the ground sloping up to the right as it heads through the bush. The walk stays above Middle Harbour Creek for a while before it drops down a steep set of wooden steps to the intersection with the Davidson Park driveway, at a wooden picnic seat.

(14km) Int of Davidson Park driveway and Flat Rock Track → Int of Davidson Park driveway and Warringah Road on-ramp

distance 70 m time 1 mins climb 1m descent -2m Very easy
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the flat driveway towards the Roseville Bridge, heading under a pipe bridge and coming to the intersection with the driveway to Davidson Park.

(15km) Int of Davidson Park driveway and Warringah Road on-ramp → End of Ormonde Road Track

distance 1.8 km time 39 mins climb 107m descent -69m Moderate track
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the road, heading up the hill and crossing under the Roseville Bridge. The road continues up the hill to reach Warringah Road, where the walk turns sharply to the right and continues along the footpath on the right-hand side of Warringah Road. The walk crosses Roseville Bridge and continues for a few meters to find an intersection with a concrete footpath (which goes down the hill to the right, closed at the time of writing).
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows very narrow verge on the side of Warringah Rd up the hill away from Roseville Bridge. After about 270m the walk passes under a road bridge the turns right to follow the on-ramp up the hill to Ormonde Rd. The on-ramp loops around to an intersection with Ormonde Rd, where the walk turns left, following Ormonde Rd away from Warringah Rd. The walk passes The Kingsway, Cardigan Road and Chase Avenue before reaching the end of Ormonde Rd.

(16km) End of Ormonde Road Track → Int of Two Creeks and Ormonde Road tracks

distance 150 m time 6 mins climb 1m descent -34m Moderate track
Veer right: From the end of Ormonde Rd, the walk follows the bush track down the gentle hill. The walk becomes quite steep before reaching the intersection with the Two Creeks Track at the bottom of the hill.

(16km) Int of Two Creeks and Ormonde Road tracks → Int of Two Creeks and Carlyle Road tracks

distance 880 m time 20 mins climb 46m descent -46m Moderate track
Turn sharp left: From the intersection, this walk follows the bush track with Middle Harbour Creek down on the right, as the track follows the side of the hill through the bush. After some time, the track leaves the creek as it bends to the left and continues along for a while before crossing a wooden bridge to the signposted intersection of the 'Carlyle Road' track.

(17km) Int of Two Creeks and Carlyle Road tracks → Eastern end of Two Creeks detour

distance 2 km time 43 mins climb 106m descent -72m Moderate track
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the wide bush track opposite the signposted 'Carlyle Road' track, past the stone chair on the left. The walk follows along the wide bush track for a little while before crossing a short wooden bridge. Further along the bush track, this walk passes another stone chair and heads under a shallow rock overhang, following the side of the hill above Moores Creek for a while until coming down to the water level as the creek meets Middle Harbour Creek. From here, the track bends around to the left and follows Middle Harbour Creek through the bush and along the side of the hill to the signposted intersection of the 'to Wellington Road' track.
Continue straight: From the intersection (at the 'to Wellington Road' sign), this walk follows the Two Creeks bush track (keeping the Middle Harbour Creek down the hill on the right) as it heads though the bush for a while. The track passes a 'Garigal National Park' sign while bending into the Gordon Creek valley, and continues through the trees, keeping the valley down to the right as it heads along to the intersection with the defined bush track on the left.

(19km) Eastern end of Two Creeks detour → Western end of Two Creeks detour

distance 220 m time 6 mins climb 11m descent -20m Moderate track
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the bush track heading uphill, steadily climbing up the long gentle hill and up some rock steps. The track then flattens out and continues through the trees for a short distance before turning downhill and winding down the steep rock steps, coming to the intersection with the Two Creeks Track.

(20km) Western end of Two Creeks detour → End of Gordon Creek service trail

distance 100 m time 2 mins climb 0m descent -10m Moderate track
Turn sharp left: From the intersection, this walk follows the bush track, keeping the valley down to the right, as the track continues along the side of the hill for a short while before winding down a steep set of rock steps, coming to the end of a service trail at the bottom.

(20km) End of Gordon Creek service trail → Int of Gordon Creek Crossing track and servicetrail

distance 280 m time 7 mins climb 14m descent -18m Moderate track
Veer right: From the bottom of the steps, this walk follows the service trail (with the ground sloping up to the left) as it continues through the bush for a short while, before coming to a pipe bridge, which extends across the valley on the right.
Continue straight: From the pipeline, this walk follows the service trail, with the pipeline on the right and the ground sloping up to the left. The trail heads through the bush and along the side of the hill to the signposted intersection with wooden steps on the right.

(20km) Int of Gordon Creek Crossing track and servicetrail → Int of tunnel track and Gordon Creek servicetrail

distance 1.2 km time 25 mins climb 68m descent -36m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the Two Creeks Track, with the ground sloping up to the left as it heads through the bush. The walk crosses a short wooden bridge after a little while and continues along the side of the hill until coming to an intersection with some rock steps (down to a bush track) on the right.

(21km) Int of tunnel track and Gordon Creek servicetrail → Gordon Creek waterfall

distance 50 m time 2 mins climb 0m descent -8m Moderate track
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk winds down the bush track and steps through the dense bush. Soon, the track opens up to a large rock platform, next to the tunnel under Eastern Arterial Road.

Gordon Creek waterfall

Gordon Creek waterfall
This waterfall (not officially named) cascades off the top of a rock platform, soon after passing under Eastern Arterial Rd. It is difficult to view the full waterfall, but it still can be a great sight, watching the water on its journey over the rock platform and cascading off the edge.

(21km) Gordon Creek waterfall → Foot Bridge Intersection

distance 170 m time 3 mins climb 2m descent -5m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the rock platform, this walk passes under Eastern Arterial Rd using the foot path on the left of the tunnel (track not safe to use if covered with water). The first half of the tunnel has sandstone walls. Past the tunnel, the walk turns left then follows the defined bush track, keeping the creek to the right. Soon, this track come to an intersection just before a foot bridge.

(21km) Foot Bridge Intersection → Picnic area intersection

distance 40 m time 1 mins climb 2m descent -1m Easy track
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk crosses the foot bridge, veering right and heading up the stone steps. The track then veers to the left, passing a small picnic area, then comes to a well-signposted intersection, with 'Slade Ave carpark' track on the right.

Seven Little Australians Picnic Area

Seven Little Australians Picnic Area
This small picnic area is in the middle of the Seven Little Australian Park reserve, at the intersection of Two Creeks Track and Slade Ave track. The picnic area has three picnic tables and some shade, provided by the surrounding trees. The picnic area is bordered with sandstone blocks, dating from prior to WW1.

(21km) Picnic area intersection → Sandstone Pillar overhang

distance 220 m time 5 mins climb 17m descent 0m Easy track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Tryon Road' sign. The track passes though a coachwood forest, with some tall pine trees scattered throughout. The track keeps the wide valley on the left and soon climbs up to a large sandstone overhang, supported by stone pillars.

Sandstone Pillar overhang

Sandstone Pillar overhang
This sandstone overhang is of particular note, due to the stone pillar supports that appear to be reinforcing it. Prior to WW1, members of the army built these pillars and surrounding tracks as part of their training. It appears that this was added to during the depression, with further sandstone masonry work. Their efforts have resulted in a Lara Croft reminiscent ruin - OK, maybe a bit of an exaggeration, but the cave is a highlight of the tracks in the area.

(22km) Sandstone Pillar overhang → Slade Ave (Just north of Tryon Rd)

distance 210 m time 4 mins climb 10m descent -3m Easy track
Continue straight: From the sandstone overhang, this walk heads up the stairs, keeping the wide valley to the left. The bush soon thins out as the track approaches some houses and a brick wall at the end of laneway. The track the follows the laneway to Slade Ave, just north of Tryon Rd.

(22km) Slade Ave (Just north of Tryon Rd) → Lindfield Station

distance 790 m time 14 mins climb 35m descent -2m Very easy
Turn left: From the intersection, the walk follows Slade Ave to the nearby 'T' intersection with Tryon Road. The walk turns right and follows Tryon Rd. At the 'T' intersection with Nelson Road, the walk turns left and immediately right, continuing along Tryon Road, crossing Lindfield Ave and arriving at Lindfield Station.

Maps for the Spit to Lindfield 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.

Parramatta River1:25 000 Map Series91303N PARRAMATTA RIVERNSW-91303N
Sydney1:100 000 Map Series9130 SYDNEY9130

Cross sectional view of the Spit to Lindfield bushwalking track

Terrain profile for Spit to Lindfield

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Spit to Lindfield

Altitude analysis for Spit to Lindfield

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.

Length22.6 km
Time9 hrs 45 mins
.




Grade 4/6



Hard track		AS 2156.1GradientVery steep (4/6)
Quality of trackFormed track, with some branches and other obstacles (3/6)
SignsDirectional signs along the way (3/6)
Experience RequiredSome bushwalking experience recommended (3/6)
WeatherStorms may impact on navigation and safety (3/6)
InfrastructureLimited 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

8km of this walk has gentle hills with occasional steps and another 8km has short steep hills. Whilst another 4km is flat with no steps and the remaining 2.8km is very steep.

Quality of track

13km of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles and another 4.8km follows a clear and well formed track or trail. The remaining (4.6km) follows a smooth and hardened path.

Signs

Around 13km of this walk is clearly signposted, whilst the remaining 9km has directional signs at most intersection.

Experience Required

Around 15km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 8km requires some bushwalking experience.

weather

Around 22km of this walk is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation), whilst the remaining 220m is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety.

Infrastructure

Around 14km of this walk is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats), whilst the remaining 9km has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced).

Similar walks

A list of walks that share part of the track with the Spit to Lindfield walk.

Flat Rock Beach track

516 m Return, 20 mins

Flat Rock Beach track

This short walk starts from the end of Killarney Drive, in Killarney Heights and heads down the hill to Flat Rock Beach. The beach is a secluded sandy area on the shores of Middle Harbour. A nice spot for swimming, relaxing and enjoying the boats as they pass by.

Total climbing: 50m

Grade 3
  • Car
  • Bus

Moderate track

The Bluff Track

986 m Return, 30 mins

The Bluff Track

This short return walk starts from the end of Grattan Crescent, Frenchs Forest and follows the service trails along the Bluff Track to the spectacular lookout perched above Bantry Bay. There is an optional side trip down the into the valley to the Natural Bridge, which is a interesting natural rock

Total climbing: 23m

Grade 3
  • Car
  • Bus

Moderate track

Natural Bridge Walk

1.4 km Return, 45 mins

Natural Bridge Walk

Starting at Cook Street in Forestville, this walk follows service trails and bush tracks through Garigal National Park, to the Natural Bridge. The walk uses the arch as a natural bridge to cross the creek. The rock formation is the main highlight of this walk, though the wild flower displays in the

Total climbing: 71m

Grade 3
  • Car
  • Bus

Moderate track

Timber Getters Track

1.8 km Return, 1 Hr

Timber Getters Track

Starting at Seaforth Oval, this walk explores the historic logging track that heads down to the picnic area on the eastern shore of Banty Bay. The picnic area is a great spot to relax and enjoy the water, and bush views, before heading back up to Seaforth oval. This is just one section of the great

Total climbing: 120m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus

Hard track

Engravings Track

2.2 km One way, 45 mins

Engravings Track

Starting at Seaforth Oval, this walk follows the Engravings track parallel to the Wakehurst Parkway to the end of Bantry Bay Road, Forestville. The first half of the walk is along bush track and the second half follows a service trail. The engravings, after which this track is named, are fenced of

Total climbing: 39m

Grade 3
  • Car
  • Bus

Moderate track

Magazine Track

3.4 km One way, 1 hr 30 mins

Magazine Track

This walk is named after the heritage magazine buildings at about the halfway point. There is not a great view of the buildings but the walk provides great views of Bantry bay, and visits the secluded flat rock beach. Most of the walk is on bush track and there are plenty of rocky points along the

Total climbing: 139m

Grade 3
  • Car
  • Bus

Moderate track

Spit Bridge to Fisher Bay

3.6 km Circuit, 1 hr 30 mins

Spit Bridge to Fisher Bay

This track from the Spit Bridge to Fisher Bay is a great little loop which also visits Sandy Bay. The track is well maintained, allowing you to fully enjoy the harbour views. Allow some extra time, as you may need to wait for the regular opening of the Spit Bridge.

Total climbing: 146m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Curry Rd to The Bluff (via the Natural Bridge)

3.7 km Return, 1 hr 30 mins

Curry Rd to The Bluff (via the Natural Bridge)

From Currie Rd in Forestville, this walk visits the sandstone archway known as the Natural Bridge before climbing the hill and continuing to the Bluff. The Bluff is a large rocky point, with its own interesting shapes and a fantastic view down Middle Harbour and across to the city.

Total climbing: 165m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus

Hard track

Balmoral Beach to The Spit

4.3 km One way, 2 hrs 30 mins

Balmoral Beach to The Spit

This walks follows the coast from Balmoral to the Spit and across Spit Bridge. There are some alternate tracks to consider at high-tides, which take the streets over the headlands. Balmoral and Chinamans Beaches are very nice places for lunch and a swim. Allows time to wander and explore. There ar

Total climbing: 85m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus

Hard track

Currie Rd Track

4.5 km Return, 1 hr 30 mins

Currie Rd Track

This nice walk explores some of the service trails at the northern end of Bantry Bay, in Garigal National Park. This walk is a great way to see many wildflowers, and some wildlife, of the area. The side trip to the Natural Bridge is worth the effort to see this interesting rock formation. Most of

Total climbing: 145m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus

Hard track

East Bantry Bay

4.6 km One way, 2 hrs

East Bantry Bay

Starting at Currie Road in Forestville, this walk follows the edge of Bantry Bay to Seaforth Oval. The main highlights of the walk include the Natural Bridge, the views from the Bluff Lookout and Bantry Bay Picnic Area. There are plenty of places to sit and enjoy the views and wildlife along the w

Total climbing: 274m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus

Hard track

Seaforth Oval to the Bluff Lookout

5.4 km Return, 3 hrs

Seaforth Oval to the Bluff Lookout

This great return walk starts from Seaforth oval and follows the Timbergetters Track down to Bantry Bay, and the pleasant waterfront picnic area. The walk then climbs steadily, out of the valley, to the Bluff Lookout. From this lookout you can see all the way across Middle Harbour.

Total climbing: 363m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus

Hard track

East Killara Track

6 km One way, 2 hrs 45 mins

East Killara Track

This walk starts and finishes at different points on Eastern Arterial Road. The walk follows a mixture of service trails and bush tracks through Garigal National Park, along Middle Harbour Creek, then heads back out to Eastern Arterial Road, on the other side of Killara.

Total climbing: 296m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus

Hard track

Two Creeks Track

6.1 km One way, 2 hrs 30 mins

Two Creeks Track

A popular walk that explores Gordon, Middle Harbour and Moores Creeks. This walk crosses a section of Garigal National park and a few reserves managed by Ku-ring-gai Council, you will see some great water views, sandstone caves and heritage sandstone works. The track is well signposted. The optiona

Total climbing: 237m

Grade 3
  • Car
  • Bus
  • Train

Moderate track

Lindfield Park and Little Digger Track Loop

6.7 km Circuit, 2 hrs 45 mins

Lindfield Park and Little Digger Track Loop

This pleasant walk starts from Lindfield Park and heads through the bushland to the Two Creeks Track, which it follows through the National Park to, and along, Middle Harbour Creek. The walk returns to Lindfield Park via the picturesque Little Digger Track, and through a few shortcut alley ways in E

Total climbing: 287m

Grade 3
  • Car
  • Bus

Moderate track

Currie Rd to Davidson Park

7.2 km One way, 3 hrs

Currie Rd to Davidson Park

Starting at Currie Rd in Forestville, this walk follows Middle Harbour to Davidson Park, under Roseville Bridge. There are two optional side trips, one to Natural Bridge and the other short one to Flat rock beach. The walk starts on a service trail, but mostly follows bush tracks, providing great

Total climbing: 280m

Grade 3
  • Car
  • Bus

Moderate track

Spit Bridge to North Harbour Reserve

8.7 km Circuit, 4 hrs

Spit Bridge to North Harbour Reserve

This loop walk from the Spit Bridge is an interesting walk with many different things to see and do along the way. The walk passes Ellery's Punt Reserve, Sandy Bay and goes along the shoreline to Castle Rock Beach. The walk crosses Dobroyd Head and comes around to Reef Beach, which is a great place

Total climbing: 381m

Grade 3
  • Car
  • Bus

Moderate track

Spit Bridge to Manly (Manly Scenic Walkway)

9.1 km One way, 3 hrs 45 mins

Spit Bridge to Manly (Manly Scenic Walkway)

The Spit to Manly walk is a classic bushwalk on Sydney's Northern Beaches. The walk follows a well-maintained track and provides beautiful views over Middle Harbour. This walk is great for those looking for exercise or just a stroll along the shoreline of Sydney Harbour. If you have time, the sidet

Total climbing: 349m

Grade 3
  • Car
  • Bus
  • Ferry

Moderate track

Seaforth Oval to Davidson Park

10 km One way, 4 hrs 30 mins

Seaforth Oval to Davidson Park

The Seaforth to Davidson Park walk is a wonderful and historic loop around Bantry Bay. The walk continues from Bantry Bay, along Middle Harbour's treelined foreshore, to Davidson Park. This walk explores some wonderful bush and water views tucked into the valleys of Sydney.

Total climbing: 491m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus

Hard track

Seaforth Oval to Roseville Bridge via Bantry Bay

10 km One way, 4 hrs

Seaforth Oval to Roseville Bridge via Bantry Bay

Starting at Seaforth Oval, this walk follows a section of the 'Harbour to Hawkesbury' track along Middle Harbour Creek. The walk has many highlights, including great views of Bantry Bay, the Historic Magazine Buildings and the Natural Bridge. This walk is blessed with great bushland and views of M

Total climbing: 491m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus

Hard track

Taronga Zoo to Spit Bridge

10.4 km One way, 5 hrs

Taronga Zoo to Spit Bridge

This is a scenic and culturally rich walk with views over Sydney Harbour and many interesting heritage buildings along the way. The start at the zoo allows for a possible visit. The walk then passes the Bacino Bar on the way through the military heritage buildings. This is an excellent walk to do on

Total climbing: 410m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus
  • Ferry

Hard track

Currie Rd Track to Ferguson St via Magazine Buildings and Davidson Park

11.2 km One way, 4 hrs 30 mins

Currie Rd Track to Ferguson St via Magazine Buildings and Davidson Park

Starting at Currie Road in Forestville, this walk explores much of the northern shore of Middle Harbour Creek. There are some great side trips, in-particular to Natural Bridge and to Flat Rock Beach. Davidson Picnic area has great facilities if you are looking for a BBQ picnic lunch, otherwise the

Total climbing: 575m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus

Hard track

Little Digger Track to Davidson Reserve and Lyrebird Circuit

11.5 km One way, 4 hrs 30 mins

Little Digger Track to Davidson Reserve and Lyrebird Circuit

Exploring both the eastern and western sides of Middle Harbour Creek, this walk follows the Little Digger and Two Creeks Tracks down to the Roseville Bridge, and into Davidson Reserve. This is a fantastic spot to take a break before following the waterline along the Lyrebird Track for a while and lo

Total climbing: 470m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus

Hard track

Manly to Seaforth Oval

13.7 km One way, 5 hrs 45 mins

Manly to Seaforth Oval

This walk follows the Manly to Spit Scenic Walkway, then continues past The Spit Bridge to Seaforth Oval. The walk provides magnificent bushland and Harbour scenes with many small beaches, reserves and coves to stop at. A very scenic and fun walk along the Harbour. Stop for a coffee or ice-cream at

Total climbing: 624m

Grade 3
  • Car
  • Bus
  • Ferry

Moderate track

Middle Harbour Creek Loop

15.1 km Circuit, 5 hrs 45 mins

Middle Harbour Creek Loop

This walk explores the upper reaches of Middle Harbour Creek, starting and ending at the great parklands at Davidson Park, in Garigal National Park. There are plenty of nice spots along the way to rest and enjoy the views. There are several sandstone overhangs, plenty of water views and most of the

Total climbing: 570m

Grade 5
  • Car
  • Bus

Experienced only

Taronga Zoo to Manly

18.9 km One way, 8 hrs

Taronga Zoo to Manly

This very long day walk has some stunning views, excellent heritage sites, a Zoo and beautiful beaches. What more could you ask for? The many sidetrips and places to stop and enjoy the views, having a coffee at the Bacino Bar or fish and chips on Balmoral Beach, will all make this walk an excellent

Total climbing: 746m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus
  • Ferry

Hard track

Other Nearby walks

A list of walks that start near the Spit to Lindfield walk.

Spit Bridge to Middle Head Forts

6.1 km One way, 2 hrs 30 mins

Spit Bridge to Middle Head Forts

This scenic walk takes you from the Spit Bridge, along the coast to explore the Middle Head Forts. There are a few alternate routes for use at high tide or high seas. Balmoral Beach offers a few spots for a coffee or fish and chips along the way. Middle Head offers plenty of options for exploring th

Total climbing: 172m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus

Hard track

Castle Rock Beach

200 m Return, 30 mins

Castle Rock Beach

This is a short walk down to Castle Rock Beach, tucked into the rocky shores of Middle Harbour. The walk is mostly along boardwalk or footpath through rainforest vegetation. The foliage surrounding the track is topped by a closed canopy which provides shade, before opening out onto the sunny beach.

Total climbing: 20m

Grade 3
  • Car
  • Bus

Moderate track

Castle Rock to Grotto Point Lighthouse

2 km Return, 1 Hr

Castle Rock to Grotto Point Lighthouse

The Castle Rock to Grotto Point walk is a great way to see the Grotto Point Lighthouse. The start at Ogilvy Rd passes Castle Rock Beach, which is a nice spot to view the harbour, before continuing to the excellent view from Grotto Point Lighthouse.

Total climbing: 127m

Grade 3
  • Car
  • Bus

Moderate track

Dobroyd Head Walk

2.5 km Circuit, 1 Hr

Dobroyd Head Walk

Walking around Dobroyd Head is a fantastic experience. The heath vegetation high up on the walk provides many opportunities to view flowers and insects close up, whilst still enjoying plenty of views out to the sea. Reef Beach is a great place to stop for a snack or lunch and to get the feet wet bef

Total climbing: 109m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus

Hard track

Grotto Point Walk

3.6 km Return, 2 hrs

Grotto Point Walk

This return walk out to Grotto Point is in a magnificent area above the entrance to Middle Harbour. The walk provides plenty of views of Middle Head and over Sydney Harbour to the CBD. Many scenic views and some spectacular bushland, so close to the city, makes this walk a gem.

Total climbing: 153m

Grade 3
  • Car
  • Bus

Moderate track

Arabanoo Lookout

142 m Return, 15 mins

Arabanoo Lookout

This short and easy walk leads from Tania Park to wonderful views of Arabanoo Lookout. The views over North Head and the water are wonderful. There is a concrete path leading the whole way and two seats at the top waiting for you to soak up the views. Tania Park can get busy on weekends with sport a

Total climbing: 5m

Grade 1 Wheelchair accessible
  • Car

Very easy

Crater Cove Lookout

60 m Return, 3 mins

Crater Cove Lookout

This is a great, short walk to a lookout with a fantastic views. The lookout has great views out through the heads, and also much of the upper reaches of Sydney Harbour. From the lookout, you can even see down into Crater Cove, to the old houses built during the great depression. The walk is very

Total climbing: 9m

Grade 3
  • Car
  • Bus

Moderate track

Grotto Point Lighthouse Walk

1.7 km Return, 1 Hr

Grotto Point Lighthouse Walk

This is an excellent walk with some very scenic views. The walk travels along a well used track through the thick coastal bush. The views are capped off by the vista over Sydney Harbour from the Grotto Point Lighthouse. Easy parking, a few good side trips, and in particular, the Aboriginal Engravin

Total climbing: 83m

Grade 3
  • Car
  • Bus

Moderate track

North Arm Walking Track

3.1 km One way, 2 hrs

North Arm Walking Track

Following the edge of Middle Harbour, this walk has excellent views and Special spots, including the views from the end of North Arm Rd and the trail near the Mannerim Rd Turnoff. The change in the track from bush track to mangroves and mudflats south of the Pump Station gives a good feel of the d

Total climbing: 145m

Grade 3
  • Car
  • Bus

Moderate track

Manly Dam Circuit Walk

7.3 km Circuit, 3 hrs

Manly Dam Circuit Walk

This is the main walk around Manly Dam, and is popular for both walkers and bike riders. Prepare for spectacular views from both sides of the dam, along well managed trails. Good spots to break include the picnic areas on King St. Features of this walk include walking the bridge across the top of th

Total climbing: 251m

Grade 3
  • Car
  • Bus

Moderate track

Manly Dam Nature Trail

3.2 km Return, 1 hr 30 mins

Manly Dam Nature Trail

A short walk along the southern hill above Manly Dam, with great views and fantastic scenery. One of the few tracks in the Manly Dam area where you won't get run over by bike riders, this is a great walk for those looking for something short and peaceful. Look out for black snakes and goannas along

Total climbing: 150m

Grade 3
  • Car
  • Bus

Moderate track

Balmoral to Middle Head Forts

3.9 km Circuit, 2 hrs

Balmoral to Middle Head Forts

This walk to the Middle Head fortifications is a great way to break up your day at the beach. There are plenty of places to explore, and the forts are quite interesting and historically significant. The track is well marked and has some information signs. The views of Sydney Harbour are great and it

Total climbing: 187m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus

Hard track

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Spit to Lindfield walk starts at the Spit Bridge South (gps: -33.804355, 151.24615)

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

The Spit to Lindfield ends at the Lindfield Station (gps: -33.775095, 151.16906)

train Train. (get details) bus Bus. (get details) car 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

Garigal National Park

Largely following Middle Harbour Creek and stretching from Seaforth in the south to St Ives in the north Garigal National Park is hidden through Sydney's Northern suburbs. Despite how close it is to large urban centres Garigal is quite beautiful with lots of different walking and cycling tracks. For those just wishing to picnic Davidson Reserve is a great spot just next to Middle Harbour Creek, under the Roseville Bridge.

Moores Creek Reserve

Moores Creek Reserve is a large bushland reserve owned and managed by Ku-ring-gai council. The reserve is bound by Middle Harbour, Garigal National Park, Moore Creek, Chase Ave and Carlye Rd. The area has a number of well managed walking tracks. The reserve is home to several small but nice water falls and several sandstone caves.

Hermits Retreat

Hermits Retreat is a large natural bushland reserve bound by Eastern Arterial Rd, Lindfield Oval, Garigal National Park, and Monash Ave. The reserve is home on Lindfield Rocks a popular rock climbing area. There are several walking tracks and service trails through this park that is owned and managed by Ku-ring-gai council.

Seven Little Australians

Seven Little Australians Park is a reserve of bushland with some clearings that extends north of Tryon Rd and west of Eastern Arterial Rd, Lindfield. The reserve is named in honour of Ethel Turner's classic novel "Seven Little Australians". The reserve has preserved bushland, sandstone pillars, steps, seats and other features that date back to engineers training before WW1. Other work was done during the great Depression, and today the area is managed by Ku-ring-gai Council. The main entrance to the park is at the cross-streets of Northcote Rd and Slade Ave Linfield. At this entrance there is a great set of sandstone pillars, a clearing, signposts and a tap with town water.

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