Somersby to the Basin Campsite

Download & Print Map and Notes

Tap again to allow map panning

Time 3 Days
One way 47.4 km One way
Climb 2032 m
Grade 4 Hard track
Bus Car
no_pets
This three day walk starts at the Somersby General Store and follows the Great North Walk, heading north, into the the Jilliby State Conservation Area where the first nights campsite is at Stringy Bark Point. The walk continues north, out of the Conservation Area, to Yarramalong for the second night, and further north into the Olney State Forest, finishing at the Basin Campsite.
Somersby Store Somersby Trackhead The Great North Walk Kilkenny road winding through the bush Ourimba Creek road Hidden Valley Following the Ourimbah creek road end of Tooheys road Stringy Bark Campsite Ourimba creek bridge Following teh Great North Walk arrows Great North Walk Archery warning sign track winding below powerlines Cherry lane Int fo Cherry lane and Greta road Great North Walk Bumble Hill Dray track Bumble Hill road Yarramalong General Store Yarramalong Manor Ravensdale road Intersection of Brush Creek Rd and Ravensdale Rd track head styles Cedar Brush track head track head styles Creek crossing in farm Tree stripped bare Kingtree Ridge road int of Walkers ridge forest road path down to Basin campsite track Wollombi creek Gully track Great North Walk to basin campsite path down to Basin campsite track if a tree falls in the woods and no one is there to hear it does it make a sound? int of rock lilly trail Basin campsite with open clearing and picnic tables Basin campsite table and shelter

Somersby Store

Somersby Store
Somersby Store offers a good place to have lunch or pick up the basic food supplies. The store serves hot food including burgers, chips, pies etc and cold drinks. Opening hours are 6am - 6pm Monday to Friday and 6.30am to 4pm on Saturdays (closed Sundays). There is a pay phone and a bus stop however services are limited to two buses a day. Contact details are (02)4372 1269, at 841 Wisemans Ferry Road Somersby, NSW 2250. The store owners are happy for you to phone ahead. If you are a large group you can order ahead to save the stress. I always encourage people to use local stores like this on track, but since it is a small store it is worth phoning ahead to see what they have what you want in stock.

(0km) Somersby Store → End of Kilkenny Road

distance 2.6 km time 48 mins climb 54m descent -69m Moderate track
From the Somersby Store[1], this walk heads north, gently downhill along the side of 'Wisemans Ferry Rd', past the public toilet[2]. After about 120m, this walk crosses an on-ramp[3] then heads over the bridge[4] crossing Peats Ridge Road, then past another on-ramp[5]. The walk continues along Wisemans Ferry Rd for about 700m to then turn sharp right at the three-way intersection[6], onto 'Dog Trap Rd'[7]. Just over 100m along Dog Trap Rd, this walk turns left into 'Kilkenny Rd'[8]. The walk follows Kilkenny Rd past the rural properties[9] for about 1.2km, where the walk continues along the now dirt road[10]. About 50m after becoming dirt, the road leads across a rock ford[11] that can be extremely slippery when wet. The walk continues up along the dirt road[12] for another 300m to come to the end of the road and a 'Great North Walk' sign[13], beside 'Illawong' (farm).

(3km) End of Kilkenny Road → creek crossing

distance 1.4 km time 32 mins climb 11m descent -207m Hard track
Continue straight: From the northern end of Kilkenny Road next to 'Illawong' (farm)[14], this walk follows the 'The Great North Walk' sign[15] along the management trail, between the two farms[16]. After about 300m, the trail leads to a clearing[17], where this walk turns right to follow the GNW arrow post along track beside the fence line[18] (keeping the paddock on your right) for about 70m. The walk then turns left and follows the 'The Great North Walk' sign[19] down the hill. The track leads steeply at first[20] and become progressively less steep as the walk heads down the ridge line, until almost flattening out[21] about 400m after leaving the farm. The track then bends left and winds steeply down the side of the ridge, down a series of rock steps[22] for about 600m, leading into a dense moist rain forest. The track passes some wonderful examples of bird's nest ferns (Asplenium australasicum)[23] before the last little walk down to the rocky intermittent creek[24]. This walk then crosses the creek in the mossy, cool and moist valley[25].

(4km) creek crossing → Palm Grove Campsite intersection

distance 1 km time 28 mins climb 114m descent -25m Hard track
Continue straight: From beside the creek[26], this walk follows the GNW arrow post[27] uphill, using the series of rock steps[28]. The track leads uphill, passing some notably large trees[29] over about 120m to then turn right onto a leafy trail[30]. Here the walk crosses an ephemeral creek[31] then continues along the leafy trail in the shaded rainforest[32]. After about 250m, the walk turns left, following the 'Great North Walk' sign[33] gently up along a narrow track for about 60m to pass a large strangler fig tree[34]. Just past the fig, this track begins to climb steeply up a series of rock steps[35] and switch-backs[36] for about 100m to pass along side a rock wall[37] (on your right). Just past the rock wall, this walk ducks under a fallen tree[38] then continues steeply (into the more open forest) up more rock steps[39] and switchback for another 250m, where the track flattens out and comes to the signposted 'Walker Register' tube[40]. After leaving your comments, and having a bit of a read of other people's adventures, this walk turns right and follows the GNW arrow post[41] along the top of the ridge, through a clearing[42]. Here the walk start to lead down along the top of the ridge[43] for about 150m to come to a three-way intersection[44], marked with a couple of GNW arrow posts (just before a campsite[45], ahead).

(5km) Palm Grove Campsite intersection → Ourimbah Valley Trackhead

distance 990 m time 24 mins climb 15m descent -143m Hard track
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post north-west, gently down off the side of the ridge[46] (initially keeping the campsite track down to your right). The track leads down along the side of the ridge[47] for about 150m before leading much more steeply down a series of rock steps[48] for about 200m. The track mostly flatten out just before passing a tall fig growing over a large boulder[49] (on your right). Here the track winds more gently downhill for about 150m to pass a couple cabbage palms (Livistona australis)[50], then continues to wind fairly steeply down for another 400m where the track mostly flattens out again[51]. Near the end of this 400m, the track leads through a short weedy section before heading down a short embankment[52] to a T-intersection with the dirt Ourimbah Creek Rd[53], marked with a large 'Ourimbah Valley Trackhead' sign[54].

(6km) Ourimbah Valley Trackhead → Int of Platypus Creek La and Ourimbah Creek Rd

distance 1.8 km time 32 mins climb 30m descent -25m Easy track
Turn sharp left: From the 'Ourimbah Valley Trackhead'[55] (on Ourimbah Creek Rd), this walk follows the 'Newcastle' sign downhill along the dirt road. The road soon leads down and across a flat timber vehicle bridge[56] then the road mostly flattens out, winding among the rural properties for almost 300m to pass a 'Palm Grove Nature Reserve' sign[57] and a few 'Hidden Valley' signs[58]. The walk continues along the road for about 700m then comes to the intersection in front of the Hidden Valley property (on your left, not far before another road bridge). This walk continues straight, gently downhill along the wide dirt road to almost immediately pass 'Wombats End' (private road)[59] then cross the flat timber road bridge[60]. After about 400m, the road leads under some high tension power lines[61] then after another 150m of winding past the rural properties[62], this walk passes a timber 'Hidden Valley' private property shelter[63] and water tank (on your right). A further 100m along the road past this shelter, the walk veers left (ignoring 'Platypus Creek La') to come to a locked gate with a 'Road Closed' sign[64].

(8km) Int of Platypus Creek La and Ourimbah Creek Rd → Forty Acres

distance 2 km time 36 mins climb 39m descent -43m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the gate (near the intersection of Ourimbah Creek Road and Platypus Creek La), this walk heads up around the locked gate and follows the Ourimbah Creek Rd trail along the side of the valley for about 800m, where it crosses a culverted creek[65]. From here, the walk continues along the clear trail as it gently undulates alongside Ourimbah Creek (which is down the steep bank on your right) for about 1.2km until coming to a three-way intersection, marked with a 'Great North Walk' sign[66], just before the gates of 'Forty Acres' property[67].

(10km) Forty Acres → Stringy Bark Point

distance 1.8 km time 33 mins climb 43m descent -33m Moderate track
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Great North Walk' sign[68] north-east along the clear trail. This trail gently undulates along the side of Ourimbah Creek[69] (which is down the steep bank on your right) for about 1.6km, then passes a campsite with a metal fireplace[70] (on your right). Here the walk continues along the trail for about 100m to head past a track[71] (on your right, that leads down to the sandy creek) and continues along the main trail for another 150m to come to large clearing and campsite, Stringy Bark Point[72] at the end of the trail (marked with a timber and metal footbridge[73] on the right).

Stringy Bark Point

Stringy Bark Point
This campsite is in a small clearing at Stringy Bark Point, just on the southern side of the bridge. This campsite provides room for a small campfire and a few tents. Water is usually available from the creek running by the campsite, please treat before drinking.

End of day 1

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

(12km) Stringy Bark Point → Int of Great North Walk and Tooheys Road south

distance 1.8 km time 53 mins climb 237m descent -42m Hard track
Veer right: From Stringy Bark Point campsite[74], this walk heads across the timber and metal footbridge[75] (with a small mossy canyon on your right[76]). Once on the other side of the bridge, the old trail gently undulates west through the bush[77] for about 300m where this walk turns right following a GNW arrow post down a few rock steps[78]. The distinct track leads fairly steeply down to find, then cross, the perennial Ourimbah Creek[79]. This creek may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain. On the other side, the track leads up the bank then gently up through the dense, leafy forest for about 50m, following a series of GNW arrow posts. The track then starts to lead steeply uphill for about 100m and leaves the dense forest, climbing up onto the more open ridge. Here the track mostly flattens out, leading over a rocky area[80] to then come to a large ant hill[81]. The track now leads uphill for about 250m to pass some cabbage palms (Livistona australis)[82]. The track starts to climb steeply again for about 150m, up some stone steps[83] (and past a rock with a view[84]) to where the track mostly flattens out again for about 60m, coming to a three-way intersection that is marked with a GNW arrow post[85]. Here the walk veers left and follows this old trail steeply uphill[86] for about 130m, before turning left at another GNW arrow post[87]. This track soon bends sharp right and leads up some stone steps[88] then comes to an intersection[89] (with the same old trail). Here the walk leads gently uphill for about 30m, over the a rise (ignoring the faint track on your right), after which the track leads gently down through the tall forest[90] for about 300m and comes to an T-intersection with the dirt Tooheys Rd[91], marked with a 'The Great North Walk' signpost[92].

(14km) Int of Great North Walk and Tooheys Road south → Int of Great North Walk and Tooheys Road north

distance 2.3 km time 52 mins climb 139m descent -67m Hard track
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Camping Area' sign[93] north, down along the wide dirt road. The road soon crosses a saddle and starts to lead uphill, then meanders (quite steeply in places) along the ridge and through a variety of forests for about 2.2km, before passing a 'Caution Archery In Progress At Any Time - Keep to the Main Track' sign[94]. Just over 100m past this sign, the road leads up to an intersection marked with a GNW arrow post[95], and the signposted GNW track (on your left)

(16km) Int of Old GNW track and Tooheys Rd → Archers Campsite

distance 160 m time 3 mins climb 1m descent -3m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[96] uphill along the wide dirt road. After about 30m, the road bends right[97] (ignoring the trail on the left) and leads gently up for about 150m to pass below the campsite, then come to the signposted intersection with the 'Camping Area'[98] (on your left) At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Veer right.

Archers Campsite

Archers Campsite
This informally named campsite is found in Jilliby State Conservation Area, and is used regularly by members of the Tuggerah Lake Field Archers club. This is a basic campsite with a water tank[99][100] and shed used for hanging shower water bags[101][102]. The large open camping area has a few existing fire scars[103] and a few flat grassy areas. (There are other facilities 150m further north along the dirt trail at the club house.)

(16km) Int of GNW and Tooheys Road north → Powerline tower west of Dead Horse Creek

distance 1.9 km time 48 mins climb 106m descent -174m Hard track
Turn sharp left: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Yarramalong' sign[104] along the narrow track (away from the dirt road) following a small ridge[105]. After about 50m this walk turns right, following a GNW arrow post[106] off the side of the ridge. The track now leads down along the side of the hill through the wooded forest[107] mostly fairly gently downhill for 500m to cross a small (usually dry) gully[108]. The track continues a little steeper down the hill among the gymea Lilie and eucalypt forest[109] for just over 150m to pass a notable termite mound[110]. About 150m past this mound the track starts to zig zag and head more steeply downhill for yet another 150m to come to the cool and mossy Dead Horse Creek[111]. Here the walk crosses Dead Horse Creek[112] (this creek may become impassable after prolonged or heavy rain), then follows the GNW arrow post [113] up the side of the hill. The track initially zig zags steeply then more gently up as it generally contours north along the side of the hill for about 250m to cross a small gully and often dry side creek[114]. The track continues along the side of the main valley through the cool and dense wooded forest for just over 250m (where there are a few sections of faint track). Here the track starts to veer left and climb the side, of the valley quiet steeply at times for around 400m, where the forest becomes dryer and more open until the track leads to the side of a large high tension power-line tower[115].

(18km) Powerline tower west of Dead Horse Creek → Int of GNW and Cherry Lane

distance 1.5 km time 30 mins climb 53m descent -26m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the high tension powerline tower[116], this walk heads uphill along the widening track[117], initially keeping the tower on your left. After 200m this walk turns left at an intersection[118] marked with a "private Property" sign[119], following a GNW arrow post[120]. This walk continues along the track through the scribbly gum forest[121] for about 70m to then continue straight ahead at four-way intersection[122] (with a wider trail)[123]. From here this walk continues through the wooded forest for another 400m to where the view open up as the track passes through a 150m section of heath[124] (ignoring a few fainter side tracks). Now the track leads back through a lightly wooded forest for another 250m to come to a clear intersection with a wider management trail, at the corner of a fence[125]. From here, this walk continue straight, following the track along the side of the fence (keeping the fence to your right[126]) for 400m where the track leads under a set of high tension power lines[127], beside some farm land[128]. Continuing along the fence line the track soon leads across a section of timber duckboard[129] then after another 100m crosses a small flat timber bridge (over a small sandy creek)[130]. Just another 80m later the track leads up to a locked gate[131] and to a T-intersection with Cherry Lane, marked with a few GNW arrows[132].

(19km) Int of Great North Walk and Cherry Lane → Int of Greta Road and Cherry Lane

distance 1.4 km time 27 mins climb 54m descent -15m Easy track
Turn right: From the intersection[133], this walk follows the GNW arrow post gently uphill[134] along Cherry Lane, a gravel road. After 800m this walk continues straight ahead passing an intersection at the top of the hill[135]. From here the road leads downhill for about 400m to pass a notable dam close to the road[136] (on your right). Now the walk leads gently up along the gravel road for another 250m to a T-intersection with the sealed 'Greta Rd'[137] marked with a 'The Great North Walk' signpost[138] (on your right).

(21km) Int of Greta Road and Cherry Lane → Int of Greta Road and power line service trail

distance 430 m time 9 mins climb 29m descent 0m Easy track
Turn right: From the intersection[139], this walk follows the 'The Great North Walk' sign[140] gently uphill along the grassy verge (under the power lines) keeping Greta Road just to your left[141]. After 120m this walk crosses a driveway[142] and continues along side the road for almost 250m to near the top of the hill, just before the high tension power lines. Here the walk turns left to cross the road to find a 'Great North Walk' signposted[143] intersection beside a locked gate and style[144].

(21km) Int of Greta Road and power line service trail → Bumble Hill Dray track

distance 670 m time 15 mins climb 6m descent -89m Hard track
Turn left : From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Great North Walk' sign[145] over the fence using the stile[146]. Here the walk follows a wide trail around the large tower[147], then follows the narrower track straight down the hill[148]. The track crosses a small gully then leads up to follow a trail[149] around the next tall tower. Here a GNW arrow post[150] leads left, away from the trail and steeply downhill[151] across another valley. The track then leads up to, and follows, another trail up to the other side of a third tower, to find an intersection marked with another GNW track[152] on the other side of the tower.

(22km) Bumble Hill Dray track tower → Int of Great North Walk and Bumble Hill Road

distance 4.6 km time 2 hrs climb 270m descent -463m Moderate track
Veer right: From the intersection at the base of the tower[153], this walk follows the GNW arrow post[154] steeply downhill for a short distance, then turns right and follow another GNW arrow post[155] into the bush. About 50m after leaving the clearing, this walk crosses a small timber bridge[156] and continues generally downhill for about 200m before the track bends right (away from the view of the power lines[157]). About 300m further down this track, this walk crosses a small intermittent creek[158]. Then over the next 500m, the track descends into the moist forest[159] to the base of a large cliff face[160] (up to your right), then crosses a section of timber boardwalk[161]. Over the next 100m, the track crosses another handful of sections of boardwalk[162] before the track leads along the side of the hill for a further 500m, out of the moist forest[163], passing some large boulders[164] and leading down to an intersection with a wider trail[165]. Here the walk veers right, following the GNW arrow post along the trail[166] and through the casuarina forest[167] for about 500m, then crosses a gully with a small intermittent creek[168]. The old trail leads generally down through the tall forest for another 1.3km then passes under a set of power lines[169]. Here the walk continues along the side of the valley, following an old trail through the tall eucalypt forest[170] for about 500m to pass through a usually closed gate[171] (staying left at the Y-intersection, just before the gate[172]). The trail now narrows to a track[173] that leads along side the road (which is up to your right[174]), following a fence for about 180m before turning right and heading steeply up[175] to the safety barrier beside the road. Turning left, this walk now steps over a small stile[176] and follows behind the barrier (with the road on your right) for a short distance before veering left and down the steep rocky track[177] towards the house. The track follows the fence (near the house)[178] below the embankment for about 180m before leading back up to the road[179]. Here the walk follows the road a short distance to come to the end of the safety barrier[180], beside Bumble Hill Road.

(26km) Int of Great North Walk and Bumble Hill Road → Yarramalong Track Head

distance 310 m time 6 mins climb 1m descent -30m Easy track
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows GNW arrow post[181] gently downhill along the sealed Bumble Hill Rd. The road soon leads past the '60' speed limit sign[182], then the road bends left and leads down for another 120m to a T-intersection[183] with Yarramalong Rd, marked with a large 'Yarramalong Trackhead' sign[184] (with Yarramalong Store just to your right).

Yarramalong Store

Yarramalong Store
Yarramalong Store is good place to have lunch or pick up the basic food supplies. The store serves hot food including burgers, chips, pies etc as well as cold drinks. The store is open 7am to 7pm, 7 days a week. There is a pay phone outside and a tap to refill water, and the store has its own fuel pump. Phone on (02)4356 1222. The address is 1625 Yarramalong Rd, Yarramalong NSW 2259. I always encourage people to use local stores like this on track, but since it is a small store it is worth phoning ahead to see what they have what you want in stock. It is a small store so choice is limited.

Yarramalong Manor

Yarramalong Manor
Yarramalong Manor offers accommodation and a restaurant in the picturesque Yarramalong Valley. The restaurant is open to the public for breakfast & lunch (10am weekdays and 9am weekends) daily, and dinner Friday and Saturday. Yarramalong Manor has 6 guest rooms, each with ensuite, TV, fridge and tea & coffee making facilities. Tariffs for bed and breakfast start at $95 - single, $75/person - twin share. ph:(02) 4356 1066. More info.

End of day 2

This is the planned overnight stay for the end of day 2, happy camping.

(27km) Yarramalong Track Head → Cedar Brush Track Head

distance 11 km time 3 hrs 18 mins climb 241m descent -198m Easy track
Turn left: From the 'Yarramalong Trackhead' (at the intersection of Yarramalong and Bumble Hill Roads)[185][186], this walk follows the 'Cedar Brush Creek' sign along Yarramalong Road[187], away from Yarramalong Store. This walk continues through Yarramalong for about 400m, to cross a bridge[188] over the Wyong River[189]. Then this walk continues straight ahead past farm properties[190][191], undulating gently, for just shy of 3km, until coming to a three-way intersection[192][193], with 'Brush Creek Road' and a GNW 'Cedar Brush' sign on the left.
Veer left: From the intersection[194][195], this walk follows the GNW arrow marker and Brush Creek Road gently downhill, while keeping Ravensdale Road on your right. This walk continues gently uphill, passing numerous farm properties[196] for about 300m, then crossing a timber bridge[197]. Then this walk continues on gravel road (with occasional sealed sections) amongst more farm properties[198][199] for about 6.7km, crossing over a timber bridge[200] to find a four-way intersection[201] with 'Kingtree Ln' and 'Misty Valley Ln'. This walk continues straight ahead for another 600m, until coming to an intersection[202] with the 'Cedar Brush Trackhead' sign[203] and track on the right.

(38km) Cedar Brush Track Head → Int of GNW track & Kingtree Ridge Fire Road

distance 2 km time 58 mins climb 266m descent -38m Hard track
Turn right: From the signposted 'Cedar Brush Creek Trackhead'[204][205] (on Brush Creek Road[206]), this walk crosses the stile[207] and follows the track gently downhill[208], while following the 'Newcastle' sign[209]. The walk continues for about 220m then crosses a timber and metal bridge[210]. On the other side of the bridge, the walk heads gently uphill[211], past the 'Please keep on track' sign[212], then about 100m later this walk comes to 'The Great North Walk Walkers Register' book on a post[213] - a good place to note your intentions. Now in a denser forest, the track begins to wind moderately steeply uphill[214] (crossing over two moist gullies[215][216]) for about 1.5km until coming to a three-way intersection[217][218] with Kingtree Ridge Road.

(40km) Int of GNW track & Kingtree Ridge Fire Road → GNW rest area

distance 120 m time 3 mins climb 8m descent 0m Moderate track
Turn right: From the intersection[219][220], this walk follows the GNW arrow post gently uphill along the dirt Kingtree Ridge Road [221]. The walk heads north along the dirt road for about 130m, coming to a flat GNW rest area with a couple of simple bench seats[222][223] (on your left).

Walkers Rest Area

Walkers Rest Area
This GNW walkers rest area (signposted) is located beside King Ridge Road, and consists of two benches[224], a campfire and enough room for four or five tents on a grassy level surface[225]. There is no water is available.

(40km) GNW rest area → Int of Kingtree Ridge & Walkers Ridge Roads

distance 3.4 km time 1 hr 4 mins climb 115m descent -44m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the GNW rest area[226][227], this walk follows the dirt Kingtree Ridge Road gently uphill[228], whilst initially keeping the rest area on your left. The walk follows the series of GNW arrow markers, ignoring a few side roads[229] for about 3.4km, until coming to a T-intersection[230][231][232] with the dirt Walkers Ridge Road, marked with a 'Walkers Rest Area 3.4 km' sign[233] pointing back along the road.

(43km) Int of Kingtree Ridge and Walkers Ridge Roads → Int of Great North Walk and Walkers Ridge Road

distance 370 m time 8 mins climb 11m descent -20m Moderate track
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk heads along Walkers Ridge Road, following the Great North Walk arrow west over the hill, past Bobs Point Rd (on the left) and coming down the other side to the signposted intersection on the Great North Walk.

(44km) Int of GNW & Walkers Ridge Road → Int of GNW & an unsealed road

distance 370 m time 7 mins climb 12m descent -5m Moderate track
Veer right: From the intersection[234][235], this walk follows 'The Great North Walk' sign[236] and GNW arrow marker north east along the dirt road. The walk continues through forest (ignoring side roads[237]) as it leads over a gentle rise for about 400m, then comes to a three-way intersection[238][239] with a trail (on the left) marked with 'The Great North Walk' sign[240].

(44km) Int of GNW AND an unsealed road → Int of GNW track AND a rocky trail

distance 380 m time 9 mins climb 1m descent -63m Moderate track
Turn left : From the intersection[241][242], this walk follows the 'The Great North Walk' sign[243] south-west, gently downhill[244] along the fairly wide trail. The walk continues down for about 400m, becoming moderately steep partway [245], to come to an intersection marked with a GNW arrow marker[246] (pointing right)[247][248].

(44km) Int of GNW track AND a rocky trail → Int of GNW AND Lyrebird trail

distance 910 m time 25 mins climb 48m descent -137m Hard track
Turn right: From the intersection[249][250], this walk follows the GNW arrow post east along the narrow track, which soon bends left and crosses the trail (just below the last intersection). Here, this walk follows the GNW arrow post moderately steeply downhill[251] along the track, and down some stone steps for about 50m. The walk continues for about 700m along the side of the hill. Here the track leads steeply downhill, down a series of timber[252] and rock steps[253] for another 150m, to find a T-intersection[254][255] with the 'Lyrebird Trail', also marked with a 'Basin camping area' sign[256].

(45km) Int of GNW tracks AND Lyrebird Trail → Int of Rock Lilly AND Lyrebird trails

distance 1.9 km time 47 mins climb 125m descent -139m Moderate track
Turn sharp left: From the intersection[257], this walk follows the 'Basin Camping Area' sign[258] along the track, while keeping Wollombi Brook on your right. The walk continues through dense vine and mossy forest as the track gently undulates along the side of the gully. Over the first 700m, the track leads past a few sandstone caves[259][260] and crosses over several small creeks. The walk then continues for another 1.2km, where the track enters a more open forest on a saddle[261][262]. At the edge of this saddle is an intersection with the Rock Lilly trail (signposted 'The Basin Camping Area' sign[263] on the right) and a GNW arrow marker[264] pointing directly ahead (also leading to the Basin campsite).

(47km) Int of Rock Lilly and Lyrebird trails → Basin Campsite

distance 340 m time 7 mins climb 4m descent -41m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the intersection on the saddle[265][266], this walk follows the GNW arrow marker gently downhill[267] heading west[268] (directly away from 'The Basin Camping Area' sign[269]). The walk continues through tall open forest[270][271] for about 300m, until coming to the large open clearing and Basin campsite[272][273].

Basin Campsite

Basin Campsite
This large campsite sits by Wollombi Brook on the Great North Walk[274] and is accessible by car. The campsite provides a range of facilities such as a pit toilet[275], picnic tables and chairs[276], wood BBQs[277] and fireplaces[278]. Water is usually available from the water tank[279] or the nearby creek[280] - treat before use.

Maps for the Somersby to the Basin Campsite 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.

Kulnura1:25 000 Map Series91314S KULNURANSW-91314S
Murrays Run1:25 000 Map Series91314N MURRAYS RUNNSW-91314N
Mangrove1:25 000 Map Series91313N MANGROVENSW-91313N
Wyong1:25 000 Map Series91312N WYONGNSW-91312N
Dooralong1:25 000 Map Series91311S DOORALONGNSW-91311S
Morisset1:25 000 Map Series91311N MORISSETNSW-91311N
Gosford1:100 000 Map Series9131 GOSFORD9131

Cross sectional view of the Somersby to the Basin Campsite bushwalking track

Terrain profile for Somersby to the Basin Campsite

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Somersby to the Basin Campsite

Altitude analysis for Somersby to the Basin Campsite

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.

Length47.4 km
Time3 Days
.




Grade 4/6



Hard track		AS 2156.1GradientVery steep (4/6)
Quality of trackRough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely (4/6)
SignsMinimal directional signs (4/6)
Experience RequiredModerate level of bushwalking experience recommended (4/6)
WeatherForecast, unforecast storms and severe weather may impact on navigation and safety (4/6)
InfrastructureLimited facilities (such as cliffs not fenced, significant creeks not bridged) (4/6)

Some more details of this walks Grading

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

Gradient

25km of this walk has gentle hills with occasional steps and another 13km is very steep. The remaining (9km) has short steep hills.

Quality of track

15km of this walk follows a clear and well formed track or trail and another 15km follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles. Whilst another 12km follows a smooth and hardened path and the remaining 4.3km follows a rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely.

Signs

25km of this walk has directional signs at most intersection and another 18km is clearly signposted. The remaining (4.3km) has minimal directional signs.

Experience Required

27km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience and another 16km requires some bushwalking experience. The remaining (4.8km) requires a leader a with moderate level of bushwalking experience.

weather

38km of this walk is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation) and another 7km is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety. The remaining (1.9km) is affected by forecast, unforecast storms and severe weather events that may impact on navigation and safety.

Infrastructure

24km of this walk is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats) and another 19km has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced). The remaining (4.2km) has limited facilities (such as cliffs not fenced, significant creeks not bridged).

Similar walks

A list of walks that share part of the track with the Somersby to the Basin Campsite walk.

Bumble Hill Dray track (Greta Rd to Forest Road to Yarramalong)

5.6 km One way, 2 hrs 45 mins

Bumble Hill Dray track (Greta Rd to Forest Road to Yarramalong)

This section of the Great North Walk explores a section of the historic Bumble Hill Dray track. You will walk along the edge of ridge mostly through an open dry eucalypt forests and occasionally through moist ferny gullies as well as alongside the base of a tall rock wall. Bumble Hill Dray track was

Total climbing: 277m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus

Hard track

Somersby Store to Ourimbah Valley Trackhead

6 km One way, 2 hrs 30 mins

Somersby Store to Ourimbah Valley Trackhead

Starting with a walk through the streets of urban Somerbsy, you soon leave the farms and head into Palm Grove Nature Reserve. First you will follow the signposted track down the open dry ridge to the dense rainforest. In this valley you can explores the moist rainforest with towering Eucalypts, Str

Total climbing: 194m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus

Hard track

Forest Road to Yarramalong

8.1 km One way, 3 hrs 30 mins

Forest Road to Yarramalong

This section of the Great North Walk explores the rural area of Kulnura as you walk along the roads before heading along the historic Bumble Hill Dray track. This track leads you along the edge of ridge mostly through an open dry eucalypt forests and occasionally through moist ferny gullies as well

Total climbing: 336m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus

Hard track

Cedar Brush to Basin Campsite

9.7 km One way, 4 hrs 30 mins

Cedar Brush to Basin Campsite

This section of the Great North Walk makes a good walk to a comfortable campsite, with the section along the Lyrebird Trail by the Wollombi Brook being particularly recommended. From the Cedar Brush track head, the walk winds up into the Olney State Forest through bushland (crossing over two moist

Total climbing: 590m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Cedar Brush track head to the Basin Campsite

9.7 km One way, 4 hrs

Cedar Brush track head to the Basin Campsite

This section of the Great North Walk starts from the Cedar Brush track head and winds up into the Olney State Forest, following bushtracks and service trails down into the Wollombi Brook gully. From here, the walk heads south along the Lyre Bird trail to the Basin Campsite. The Basin Campsite provi

Total climbing: 590m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Yarramalong to Cedar Brush

11 km One way, 3 hrs 30 mins

Yarramalong to Cedar Brush

Starting at the quaint Yarramalong township, this walk follows a couple of rural roads to the Cedar Brush Trackhead. This is the longest road stretch on the Great North Walk. Some people see this is a road slog and either grab a lift or power walk it, others see it as an opportunity to stroll throu

Total climbing: 241m

Grade 2
  • Car
  • Bus

Easy track

Ourimbah Valley Trackhead to Forest Road

11.2 km One way, 4 hrs 30 mins

Ourimbah Valley Trackhead to Forest Road

This pleasant walk explores the rural valleys and a beautiful section of Jilliby State Conservation Area. Starting at Ourimbah Valley Trackhead you walk into Hidden valley along the dirt road, to then follow a trail beside Ourimbah Creek to Stringy Bark Point. This is a pleasant mossy area with many

Total climbing: 528m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Basin Campsite to Watagan Creek Road

13 km One way, 6 hrs

Basin Campsite to Watagan Creek Road

This section of the Great North Walk starts from the Basin campsite in the Olney State Forest and winds north into the Watagans, via the Warrawolong Flora Reserve. This walk also offers a side trip from Turners Road up to the top of Mt Warrawolong, which is the highest point along the Great North Wa

Total climbing: 784m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Basin campsite to Watagan Valley

13 km One way, 6 hrs

Basin campsite to Watagan Valley

This varied walk travels north through the Watagans. Leaving the Basin campsite behind, the walk traverses the Wollombi Brook via the Lyrebird trail. The Wollombi Brook Pool is a great spot to stop (and take a swim) on a hot day. From the pool, the walk climbs into the Warrawolong Flora Reserve us

Total climbing: 784m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Ourimbah Valley Trackhead to Greta Road

15 km One way, 5 hrs 30 mins

Ourimbah Valley Trackhead to Greta Road

This pleasant walk explores the rural valleys and a beautiful section of Jilliby State Conservation Area. Starting at Ourimbah Valley Trackhead you walk into Hidden valley along the dirt road, to then follow a trail beside Ourimbah Creek to Stringy Bark Point. This is a pleasant mossy area with many

Total climbing: 730m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Greta road to Cedar Brush track head

17 km One way, 6 hrs 30 mins

Greta road to Cedar Brush track head

This walk follows the Great North Walk from Greta road to the Cedar Brush track head, via the Bumble Hill Dray track and the Yarramalong General Store. While most of this walk is on the road, it does provide a good, mostly level bushwalk and a great stroll along a quiet country road, through a pleas

Total climbing: 547m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Somersby Store to Greta Road

21.1 km One way, 8 hrs

Somersby Store to Greta Road

This section of the Great North Walk starts from the Somersby General Store and winds north, through the Jilliby State Conservation Area, and finishes at the corner of Greta Road and Cherry Lane. At just under 20km, this full day walk explores the Palm Grove, Hidden Valley and Ourimba Creek tracks,

Total climbing: 924m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus

Hard track

Somersby to Yarramalong via Stringy Bark Point

26.7 km One way, 2 Days

Somersby to Yarramalong via Stringy Bark Point

This section of the Great North Walk starts form the Somersby General Store and follows the Great North Walk north into the Jilliby State Conservation Area to Stringy Bark Point campsite. On day two, the walk continues north through the forest and around the back of some farmland to Cherry Lane, and

Total climbing: 1201m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus

Hard track

Yarramalong to Watagan Creek via Basin Campsite

33.7 km One way, 2 Days

Yarramalong to Watagan Creek via Basin Campsite

This section of the Great North Walk starts from the Yarramalong general store and follows the roads to the Cedar Brush track head. From here the walk heads north through the Olney State Forest to the Basin Campsite. On day two, the walk continues north, through the State Forest, to Mt Warrawolong,

Total climbing: 1615m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus

Hard track

The Basin Campsite to Heaton Gap

60.5 km One way, 4 Days

The Basin Campsite to Heaton Gap

This four day walk starts at the Basin Campsite, in the Olney State Forest, and follows the Great North Walk, heading north. The walk passes through to the Watagan State Forest and into the Congewai Valley, continuing east into the Watagan National Park and all the way through to Heaton Gap. The thr

Total climbing: 3206m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Other Nearby walks

A list of walks that start near the Somersby to the Basin Campsite walk.

Strickland Falls

1.7 km Return, 45 mins

Strickland Falls

This walk from the Banksia picnic area, to the Strickland Falls, includes a fantastic variety of forest scenery. The falls themselves are often just a trickle, although the scenery in the area makes the walk well worthwhile. The cliff lines and boulders around the falls are interesting and there are

Total climbing: 87m

Grade 3
  • Car

Moderate track

Strickland Falls and Cabbage Tree loop

3 km Circuit, 1 hr 30 mins

Strickland Falls and Cabbage Tree loop

This excellent loop walk combines the Strickland Falls and Cabbage Tree loop walks. The walk starts in the dry eucalypt forest around the Banksia Picnic Area and soon descends into lush green rainforest remnants, filled with ferns and cabbage tree palms. The walk includes some great scenery along th

Total climbing: 221m

Grade 3
  • Car

Moderate track

Cabbage Tree Trail

1.7 km Circuit, 1 Hr

Cabbage Tree Trail

A beautiful walk from the Banksia picnic area. This walk starts in the dry eucalypt forest, typical of the hilltops in the area, and descends to areas of lush forest, filled with cabbage tree palms and ferns. Some interesting boulder outcrops and the great variety of vegetation just add to the scene

Total climbing: 115m

Grade 3
  • Car

Moderate track

Stoney Creek Trail

2.2 km One way, 1 Hr

Stoney Creek Trail

An excellent walk, spending much of its time in the shaded, rainforest-filled valleys of the Strickland State Forest. From the dry eucalypt forest around the Banksia picnic area, the walk soon descends into moist forest, filled with ferns and cabbage tree palms. You could make this a return walk by

Total climbing: 58m

Grade 3
  • Car

Moderate track

Strickland Falls Loop Trail

1.8 km Circuit, 1 Hr

Strickland Falls Loop Trail

A loop walk with plenty of excellent scenery. The walk starts in the dry eucalypt forest around the Banksia Picnic Area and soon descends into lush green rainforest remnants, filled with ferns and cabbage tree palms. The walk includes some great scenery along the base of the cliff line and around th

Total climbing: 133m

Grade 3
  • Car

Moderate track

Strickland Tour

8.1 km Circuit, 3 hrs 30 mins

Strickland Tour

A grand tour of the Strickland State Forest. This great walk covers most of the established walking tracks in Strickland and enjoys much of the excellent scenery available in the area. Plenty of time is spent in the lush green, rainforest-filled valleys, and there is some really nice boulder and cli

Total climbing: 402m

Grade 3
  • Car

Moderate track

Arboretum Loop Trail

2.3 km Circuit, 1 Hr

Arboretum Loop Trail

A very nice walk through a mixture of native (regrowth) forest and one of Australia's oldest arboretums. The arboretum has both native and exotic trees, with the plantings dating from 1887-1924. This walk takes you along some of the rainforest-clad creeks of Strickland State Forest, before crossing

Total climbing: 45m

Grade 3
  • Car

Moderate track

Bellbird Trail

3.3 km Circuit, 1 hr 15 mins

Bellbird Trail

A great walk, passing through plenty of the Strickland rainforest, and among the tall tress of the arboretum. You are likely to have the sound of Bellbirds adding to the atmosphere along parts of this walk. There are a number of picturesque creek crossings along the way, one with a small suspension

Total climbing: 89m

Grade 3
  • Car

Moderate track

Somersby Falls

426 m Return, 20 mins

Somersby Falls

This short walk starts from the Somersby Falls picnic area and follows the series of waterfalls along Floods Creek. The picnic area provides barbeques, picnic tables, toilets and ample parking. This walk could make part of a great family day out in the area. The main falls drop onto a large rock pl

Total climbing: 39m

Grade 3
  • Car

Moderate track

248 Track

8.3 km Return, 3 hrs 15 mins

248 Track

A nice walk through Popran National Park with good views along the way. The optional side trip to Mt Olive adds some great views and scenery. If you have a car with good ground clearance, you could drive to Ironbark picnic area and start the walk from there.

Total climbing: 255m

Grade 3
  • Car

Moderate track

Emerald Pool circuit from Ironbark Rd

10.8 km Circuit, 4 hrs 15 mins

Emerald Pool circuit from Ironbark Rd

A great circuit walk in Popran National Park, to the beautiful Emerald Pool. This walk passes through a variety of vegetation and offers some great views along the way. Emerald Pool is a really beautiful spot and it is well worth spending some time exploring around the creek. The optional side trips

Total climbing: 344m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Ironbark Rd to Glenworth Valley

10.1 km Return, 4 hrs 15 mins

Ironbark Rd to Glenworth Valley

This walk, mostly in Popran National Park, passes through a great variety of scenery and beautiful views. The early part of the walk, along a ridgetop, is through relatively dry forest with some great views, while the steep but beautiful descent to Glenworth Valley is through moist, fern filled fore

Total climbing: 492m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Weather Forecast

This walk starts in the Hunter weather district.

Current Alerts

Park Information

Jilliby State Conservation Area

Olney State Forest

Only State Forest is a section of mostly native bushland just South of Watagan State forest and National parks

Ourimbah State Forest

Ourimbah State Forest is a small parcel of land west of Wyong on the NSW central Coast. The forest in on the southern boarder of Jilliby State forest and is home to a small section of the Great North Walk

Comments