Epping to Hornsby Station

Download & Print Map and Notes

6 hrs 45 mins

17.5 km One way

705 m

Hard track

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

Track through some nice bushland towards Pennant Hills

Great north walk in Northern end of Lane Cove Valley

On the Great North walk Near Baden Powell Scout camp

small bridged tributaries are all over the valley

Servicetrail next to Ginger Meggs Park on Valley Rd

Blue Gum Walk Dedication plaque next to Great North Walk sign

stone steps leading up out of Berowra Valley

(0km) Epping Station → Int of Derby street service trail

940 m

18 mins

-33m Very easy

The walk exits Epping Station on the Oxford St side. The walk then crosses Cambridge St and continues down Oxford St. The walk follows the footpath past the shops down Oxford St passing Chester St, Surrey St. Just after Surry St the walk turns left onto Derby St to the end. Nearing the end of Derby St the walk tends left around the yellow gate and onto the concrete driveway which veers left off the road. The walk continues towards the tunnel to come to an intersection just before the tunnel entrance.

(1km) Int of Derby street service trail → Int of Epping Trk and Malton Rd Trail

1.5 km

25 mins

-21m Moderate track

Veer right: From the intersection this walk follows the Great North Walk arrow up the couple of steps then down along the footpath through the tunnel under the M2 (keeping the creek and wider management trail to your left). Out of the tunnel this walk follows the track as it winds up and around the fenced sewage vent and then continues through the dense bushland in the gully passing a sign marking the entrance to Lane Cove National Park. A little while later the track leads to a signposted intersection with the 'Belinda Crs' management trail.
Turn left: From the intersection the track follows the Whale Rock sign down the service trail which narrows into a bushtrack and follows Devlin creek through the gully all the way along until it widens out into a rocky service trail again and comes to the intersection of the Cheltenham service trail.

(2km) Int of Epping Trk and Malton Rd Trail → Big Ducky Waterhole

190 m

3 mins

-1m Easy track

Continue straight: From the intersection the track follows the Lane Cove River arrow along the servicetrail for a while before it loops around the top of Big Ducky Waterhole.

Big Ducky Waterhole

The servicetrail loops around the top of the Big Ducky waterhole and there is a nice rock overhang in which to break. Is also a popular bird watching area. Unfortunately, recently there has been large quantities of rubbish in the area. (If going down to the waterhole please consider carrying out some of the rubbish if every walker carrys out a bit it will make a difference)

(3km) Big Ducky Waterhole → Whale Rock

480 m

8 mins

-9m Easy track

Continue straight: From the top of Big Ducky Waterhole the continues through the valley keeping Devlins Creek below on the left of the track all the way to Whale Rock.

Whale Rock

This is a large boulder that looks eerily like a whale, complete with eye socket. It is a good place to break and climb around the Rock.

(3km) Whale Rock → Conscript Pass

3.3 km

1 hr 3 mins climb

102m

-65m Moderate track

Continue straight: From Whale Rock the track follows the Penant Hills Park arrow along the service trail as it winds through the valley, crossing several small concrete creek crossings until it comes to the signposted intersection of the Pennant Hills ovals service trail.
Continue straight: From the intersection the track follows the Thornleigh via Great North Walk arrow down the short but steep hill and across the river at the causeway. On the other side of the river the track comes up to the intersection of the Great North Walk service trail.
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Thornleigh Station' sign[1] past the 'Lane Cove Valley' map, initially keeping the other trail and river to your left. The trail follows the valley floor, keeping the river just to your left, for a bit over 500m, to then cross the Lane Cove River at a rocky ford[2]. This crossing may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain. On the other side of the river, this walk continues along the trail[3] for about 400m (with the river now close by on your right) to come to an intersection with a faint track[4] (on your left, that leads up towards Pennant Hills Park).
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the management trail, keeping the river just to your right. After about 60m, the trail bends right and crosses the Lane Cove River at a rocky ford[5], then continues along the valley floor among the fern trees (and concrete pipe access points[6]) for about 900m to cross the Lane Cove River again at another rocky ford[7]. (These crossings may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain). The trail then continues along the valley floor[8] (with the river now on your left) for just over 150m to come to an intersection at the bottom of the sealed Morona Ave trail[9] (on your right), marked with a 'Lane Cove Valley' map/sign[10] and a GNW arrow post[11].
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post along the valley floor, away from the two trails, keeping the river just to your left. The track soon narrows, leading past a water depth indicator[12], and becomes rocky for about 150m before coming to a faint intersection, where GNW arrow post points left[13]. Here, the walk turns left and crosses the Lane Cove River using the concrete stepping stones[14] (this crossing may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain) to follow the 'Thornleigh Station' sign[15] up the timber steps for about 40m and find a GNW registration box[16] (damaged at time of writing). The track bends sharply right[17] and zigzags up the rocky hill for another 30m, before bending sharply left to find the 'Conscript Pass' and 'B Stevens'[18][19] engravings (at the third metal hand rail).

Conscript Pass

Conscript Pass is a small sandstone pass between the Lane Cove River and Thornleigh, on the Great North Walk. During the 1930s, some stone steps were built through a cleft in the rock[20] as part of a public works program, in response to the depression. The pass has two main engravings. Firstly 'Conscript Pass' is followed with a downwards pointing arrow[21] and a series of initials and numbers. On another wall (that you face when walking up) is engraved 'B Stevens' followed a surprisingly good caricature[22][23] of the then Premier of NSW, Bertram Stevens. Stevens (later knighted) replaced Jack Lang in 1932 as Premier of NSW, when Lang was dismissed by the Governor (just two months Lang after opening the Sydney Harbour Bridge).

(6km) Conscript Pass → Int of the GNW and Lorna Pass tracks

100 m

3 mins

19m

0m Moderate track

Continue straight: From 'Conscript Pass', this walk heads up the stone steps through the cleft in the rock[26] to follow the track and more stone steps uphill for about 100m, coming to a T-intersection with Lorna Pass track, marked with a GNW arrow post[27].

(6km) Int of the GNW and Lorna Pass tracks → Int of Handley and Ferguson Avenues

580 m

14 mins

50m

0m Hard track

Veer left: From the intersection, the walk follows the 'Thornleigh' sign[28] uphill along the rocky track, keeping the valley to your left. The track leads up a series of timber steps[29] for about 230m, becoming steeper as they go[30], to come to a clear T-intersection signposted with a large 'The Great North Walk' sign[31], and a stone 'Lorna Pass' arrow[32] pointing back down the track.
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post and 'Thornleigh Station' sign[33] uphill along the wide rocky track[34]. After just over 150m, the track bends left (ignoring a faint track on your right[35]) and heads uphill for another 40m to come to the back (south-east corner) of Thornleigh Oval[36], marked with a 'Lane Cove National Park' signpost[37].
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post along the fence line around the oval, keeping the oval to your left. After about 100m, this walk passes in front of the clubhouse[38] (there are toilets[39] and a water tap[40] on your right) to pass a 'Great North Walk' sign[41] and come to the corner of 'Handley' and 'Ferguson' Avenues[42] in front of the 'Thornleigh Oval' sign[43].

Thornleigh Oval

Thornleigh Oval is found at the intersection of Handley and Ferguson Avenues, Thornleigh. There is a large playing field[44], tap water[45], public toilets[46][47] and some shelter in the awning of the club house[48]. The oval has a car park, and a number io signs for the Great North walk[49] and other local tracks[50].

(7km) Int of Handley and Ferguson Avenues → Int of Railway Parade and Pennant Hills Road overpass steps

810 m

14 mins

18m

-4m Very easy

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Thornleigh Station' sign across the road to follow the footpath beside 'Handley Ave'. After about 130m, the walk crosses Clifford Ave[51] then after about 250m, crosses 'Orchard St' to follow 'Station St' almost directly ahead[52]. About 190m along 'Station St', this walk continues straight across 'Wood St'[53] (you can get to Parkway Plaza if you turn right here) and continues for just over 200m to find a footbridge[54] beside Pennant Hills Rd. Here the walk heads up the ramp and crosses over the busy road[55] then down the ramp (or steps) to find the intersection with Railway Parade[56].

(8km) Int of Railway Parade and Pennant Hills Road overpass steps → Thornleigh Train Station

110 m

2 mins

-1m Easy track

Veer left: From the base of the steps, this walk follows the GNW arrow across 'Railway Pde'[57], heading towards the train line. At the fence, this walk veers left and leads along the pedestrian alley[58] for about 60m before turning right and climbing up the railway bridge steps[59], coming to the 'Thornleigh' Train Station[60].

(8km) Thornleigh Train Station → Morgan Rd

990 m

18 mins

-47m Easy track

Continue straight: From the western (north bound) side of Thornleigh Station[61], this walk follows the 'Jungo Rest Area' sign[62] along the footpath towards the car park and The Esplanade[63]. The walk then heads down a short distance further to turn left and cross 'The Esplanade' at the traffic lights[64], then continue straight along the footpath down along Eddy Rd[65]. Following a couple of GNW arrows[66] down Eddy Rd as it then bends left[67], turning into Tilock St, and shortly later this walk then turns right into Morgan St[68]. Continuing down till just before the end of this street[69][70], this walk comes to an intersection marked with a GNW arrow[71] and the 'Elouera Bushland Natural Park' sign[72] (on the right).

(9km) Morgan Rd → Int of Bike Trail and Morgan Rd tracks

230 m

4 mins

-7m Moderate track

Turn right: From the end of Morgan Street, the walk follows the GNW arrow[73] and the 'Elouera Bushland Natural Park' sign[74] between houses[75] no. 28 and 26. Once behind the houses at a small clearing[76], the track turns left and follows down the rocky side of Zig Zag Creek[77]. Soon after passing behind the third house, the track comes to an intersection with a wide concrete trail[78], where a sign points back along the track to 'Sydney Cove'[79].

(9km) Int of Bellamy trail and Morgan Rd tracks → Zig Zag Creek Bridge int.

130 m

2 mins

-6m Easy track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'The Jungo' arrow[80] downhill along the wide concrete trail for 25m to cross over the culverted creek[81] (with a green rail[82] on one side)

[Trip Hazard]

. The walk continues down into the valley[83] along the concrete trail for another 110m to come to a signposted intersection marked with a 'Great North Walk' sign[84][85] (on your left), just before 'Zig Zag Creek'[86] and the long bridge[87].

Thornleigh zigzag railway

The Thornleigh zigzag railway originally ran from the main rail line near Thornleigh to a historic quarry, near present day De Saxe Cl, Thornleigh. There are only minor fragments still visible today. The 'Heritage Trail' in Thornleigh has interpretive signs for the railway and the old Thornleigh Quarry. A book is available with some detail on railway and associated quarry: 'Sydney's Forgotten Quarry Railways' by John Oakes, ISBN 0 9757870 3 9

(9km) Zig Zag Creek Bridge intersection → The Jungo

1.4 km

25 mins

16m

-37m Moderate track

Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Great North Walk' sign[88] along the narrower track, keeping the gully to your right. The pleasant track leads into, then through, the ferny forest[89] with tall trees for about 700m, before crossing a side creek on a timber bridge[90]. The track then continues in a similar manner for another 700m, coming to a large clearing and campsite[91], The Jungo. On the far side of this clearing is a well-signposted intersection with a 'Bellamy Street' sign[92] pointing back through the campsite.

The Jungo

The Jungo is a relatively small clearing and campsite near the junction of Berowra and ZigZag Creeks at a well signposted intersection[93]. There is often water in the creeks (treat well before drinking) but there are no facilities[94]. Speculation on the source of the name 'Jungo' includes the Aussie tendency to abbreviate words ('Junction' gets corrupted to 'jung-o' etc) as well as a possible derivation from one of a few similar sounding aboriginal words.

(11km) Jungo campsite → Int of GNW and Stringybark Ridge trail

100 m

2 mins

0m Moderate track

Veer right: From the campsite, this walk follows the 'Fishponds' sign[95] down across the concrete ford, over the usually small creek[96]. Here, the concrete management trail[97] leads uphill, becoming dirt as it starts to flatten out[98]. This walk then comes to a signposted intersection[99] of the 'Great North Walk'[100] and the Stringybark Ridge management trail (signposted 'Cherrybrook Lakes' trail[101]).

(11km) Int of GNW and Stringybark Ridge trail → Elouera Lookout

1 km

27 mins

81m

-58m Moderate track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Great North Walk' sign[102] down the narrower track. The track leads downhill for about 70m, getting steeper[103] as it goes, and then crosses Berowra Creek[104] - this creek may become impassable after rain. On the other side, the walk comes to an intersection on a small sandy beach. Here, the walk turns left, following the GNW arrows downstream for about 250m among the grass trees and crossing a flat timber bridge[105]. The rocky track then continues for just shy of 250m and crosses a mossy gully on a large flat rock[106]. The track then continues, staying fairly flat[107] for another 170m before bending right and heading steeply uphill[108]. At the top of this climb, the track soon leads to a section of fenced cliff[109]. At the end of the fence, the walk passes through casuarina forest[110] for a short distance before passing alongside another (longer) fenced cliff and coming to the Elouera Lookout[111], where there is an intersection with the 'Westleigh' track[112] (on your right).

Elouera Lookout

This fenced lookout is on the Benowie Track close to Westleigh. There are uninterrupted views from the clifftop across the Berowra Creek valley, which is rare for the area[113]. As well as being on the Great North Walk, this lookout can be accessed by a short walk from Elouera Rd, Westleigh. This section of fenced rock platform is about 100m long[114], and there is some limited shade[115] from the casuarina near the lookout if you want to take a rest.

(12km) Elouera Lookout → Int of the Great North Walk and the Blue Gum Walk (SW)

2.8 km

1 hr 12 mins climb

195m

-203m Moderate track

Continue straight: From Elouera Lookout[116], this walk follows the 'Great North Walk' sign[117] along the track, keeping the fence and valley to your left[118]. At the end of the fence, the walk bends left following the rocky flat track for about 200m, where the track then becomes progressively steeper for about 250m, winding steeply down then across a flat timber bridge[119]. From here, the track leads beside Berowra Creek[120] for a short time before crossing another flat timber bridge[121]. The track then passes among the pleasant grass trees for about 200m (crossing a couple of small creeks with timber plank spans[122]) to then climb a few sets of timber steps and cross a small (often dry) creek[123]. From here, the track gently winds up along the side of the hill for about 800m, passing through a pleasant casuarina forest[124] then heading across a rocky creek on another small, flat, timber bridge[125]. Just over 100m later, the track crosses a smaller (often dry) creek[126] to then wind uphill for about 100m to a three-way intersection with the signposted 'Quarter Sessions Rd' track[127] (on your right).
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk heads north along the main rocky track, keeping the valley down to your left. The track leads along beside a rock wall (which is on your right) and through a rock outcrop[128], where the track soon heads quite steeply uphill along the eroded track[129] for a short time. At the top of this steep section, the rocky track continues to meander much more gently up along the side of the hill[130] for about 300m, then crosses a small, rocky gully[131], just below some houses[132]. The track then continues gently uphill for about 100m to an intersection with the unsignposted Blackfellows Head track[133] (on your right).
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads north along the clear track, keeping the valley down to your left for about 100m, where the walk comes to a three-way intersection and 'The Jungo' sign[134] points back along the track.

(15km) Int of the Great North Walk and the Blue Gum Walk (SW) → Clearing

710 m

17 mins

39m

-70m Hard track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the Blue Gum Walk marker along the bush track, leaving 'The Great North Walk' track behind. The track winds through the blue gum forest, keeping the valley down to the left and houses above on the right as it winds along the side of the hill. The walk comes to an intersection with a bush track, just below some overhead power lines.
Turn left : From the intersection the track winds down the steep bushtrack heading straight down the side of the ridge through thick bracken fern all the way down to the bottom of the valley where it flattens out and comes to some bike jumps. From here the track continues past the jumps to the intersection at the open clearing.

(15km) Clearing → Ginger Meggs Park

240 m

5 mins

-19m Moderate track

Turn left: From the middle of the clearing the service trail heads heads north east down the hill and past some out of place, oak trees. The track soon comes to an intersection with another service trail just above waitra creek, which is marked with a blue gum walk post.
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk heads north, down the hill with the creek on the right, to the intersection just before the causeway over Waitara Creek. There are usually ducks and brush turkeys in this area.
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the management trail across Waitara Creek and up the hill, passing around the gate before arriving on Valley Road, at the lower corner of Ginger Meggs Park.

(16km) Ginger Meggs Park → Berowra Valley Bushland Park

580 m

12 mins

26m

-15m Easy track

Veer left: From Ginger Meggs Park, this walk follows Valley Road (past Lochness Pl on the right), keeping the children's playground on the left. Note that water is available from the park. The walk passes 'West Hornsby STP' before coming up to the intersection with Rosemead Road and turning left. The walk follows Rosemead Rd down the hill to the end and heads into Berowra Valley Bushland Park.

Berowra Valley Bushland Park

'Berowra Valley Bushland Park'[135] is also known as Rosemead Rd Park and is found at the bottom end of Rosemead Rd[136], Hornsby. This is an open area park surrounded by shady eucalyptus trees[137], making a pleasant spot to rest on a walk. It has a picnic table with bench seats[138], and a sheltered free electric BBQ[139]. There is a water tap[140] in the park, near the road. There is also a 'Welcome to Old Mans Valley' information sign with information about the traditional country of the Darug and Guringai peoples[141].

(16km) Berowra Valley Bushland Park → Int of Quarry Road and Great North Walk

540 m

14 mins

89m

-12m Hard track

Veer right: From the lower side of 'Berowra Valley Bushland Park'[142], this walk follows the 'Hornsby Station' sign[143] across the park, then follows the GNW arrow[144] up the stone steps, keeping the houses to your right. The walk winds steeply up the steps[145], leaving the view of the house and finding a welcome flat section of track[146] midway up. The steps then lead more steeply up[147] the side of the valley, along the sheer rock walls for about 100m, and come to an intersection with the Quarry Road management trail, where a 'Great North Walk' sign[148] points back down the the hill.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post up a couple of timber steps[149] and then follows the track as it winds up over the gentle rise. Once over the rise, the track then leads down to the intersection with Quarry Rd, where a 'Great North Walk' sign[150] points back up the track.

(17km) Int of Quarry Road and Great North Walk → Hornsby Train Station

720 m

14 mins

34m

-8m Easy track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows Quarry Road gently uphill away from the face of the 'Great North Walk' sign[151] until just past a couple of house, this walk comes to an intersection with the gated 'Old Mans Valley' management trail[152] (on your left).
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows Quarry Rd up the gentle hill[153] for about 180m, then follows the GNW arrow[154] left onto Dural St[155]. The footpath leads past the unit block, then past a few shops to come to an intersection with the Pacific Hwy. Following the GNW arrow, this walk turns right across 'Dural St'[156], passes a few more shops, then crosses 'Dural Lane'[157] before turning left across the Pacific Hwy at the traffic lights[158]. Here the walk continues straight across the 'Station St' pedestrian crossing[159], past the large 'Great North Walk' sign[160] and across the bus lane to the western entrance of Hornsby Station[161].

Maps for the Epping to Hornsby Station walk

You can download the PDF for this walk to print a map.
These maps below cover the walk and the wider area around the walk, they are worth carrying for safety reasons.

Hornsby	1:25 000 Map Series	91304S HORNSBY	NSW-91304S
Parramatta River	1:25 000 Map Series	91303N PARRAMATTA RIVER	NSW-91303N
Sydney	1:100 000 Map Series	9130 SYDNEY	9130

Cross sectional view of the Epping to Hornsby Station bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Epping to Hornsby Station

Altitude analysis for Epping to Hornsby Station

Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001

Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.

		Length	17.5 km
		Time	6 hrs 45 mins
		.
Grade 4/6 Hard track	AS 2156.1	Gradient	Very steep (4/6)
		Quality of track	Formed track, with some branches and other obstacles (3/6)
		Signs	Directional signs along the way (3/6)
		Experience Required	Some bushwalking experience recommended (3/6)
		Weather	Storms may impact on navigation and safety (3/6)
		Infrastructure	Limited facilities, not all cliffs are fenced (3/6)

Some more details of this walks Grading

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

Gradient

8km of this walk has gentle hills with occasional steps and another 6km has short steep hills. Whilst another 3.1km is flat with no steps and the remaining 720m is very steep.

Quality of track

8km of this walk follows a clear and well formed track or trail and another 7km follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles. The remaining (3.1km) follows a smooth and hardened path.

Signs

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

Experience Required

Around 9km of this walk requires some bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 9km requires no previous bushwalking experience.

weather

Around 14km of this walk is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation), whilst the remaining 3.2km is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety.

Infrastructure

Around 11km of this walk has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced), whilst the remaining 7km is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats).

Similar walks

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

Bellamy St to De Saxe Cl dog walking trail

529 m One way, 15 mins

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

Total climbing: 36m

Moderate track

Bellamy fire trail

619 m One way, 30 mins

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

Total climbing: 34m

Moderate track

Belinda Cres to Whale Rock

2.8 km Return, 1 Hr

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

Total climbing: 41m

Moderate track

Canoon Rd to Whale Rock

3.2 km Return, 1 hr 30 mins

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

Total climbing: 121m

Moderate track

Blue Gum Walk (Joe's Mountain Circuit)

4.2 km Circuit, 2 hrs

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

Total climbing: 231m

Hard track

Stringybark Ridge loop via Bellamy St

4.2 km Circuit, 1 hr 45 mins

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

Total climbing: 123m

Hard track

Cherrybrook to Thornleigh

4.4 km One way, 1 hr 45 mins

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

Total climbing: 128m

Moderate track

Callicoma Loop

5.1 km Circuit, 2 hrs

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

Total climbing: 153m

Hard track

Epping to Pennant Hills Station

5.3 km One way, 2 hrs

This walk explores the bush between Epping and Pennant Hills stations. Sections of the walk pass through the Lane Cove National Park, although not down to the Lane Cove River. The walk explores a section of Devlins and Byles Creeks before passing near Pennant Hills park. The walk then takes the ro

Total climbing: 155m

Moderate track

Hornsby to Fishponds

5.6 km Return, 2 hrs 30 mins

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

Total climbing: 296m

Hard track

Thornleigh to Marsfield

6.1 km One way, 2 hrs 30 mins

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

Total climbing: 106m

Hard track

Stringybark Ridge and Zig Zag Creek loop from Thornleigh Station

6.6 km Circuit, 2 hrs 30 mins

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

Total climbing: 187m

Hard track

Hornsby Blue Gum Walk

6.7 km Circuit, 3 hrs

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

Total climbing: 374m

Hard track

Epping to Cheltenham Station via Whale Rock

6.8 km One way, 2 hrs 30 mins

This walk, to Cheltenham Station from Epping Station, visits Whale Rock and Lane Cove River. This is not the most direct route between the two stations, but it is a great way to explore Devlins Creek. With a train station at each end, this walk mostly follows well define management trails with a n

Total climbing: 184m

Hard track

Epping to Thornleigh Station

8 km One way, 3 hrs

This walk, between Epping and Thornleigh Stations, follows Devlins Creek then Lane Cove River as they wind through the valley. There are a number of interesting rock features to enjoy along the walk. The walk starts and ends near shops, so you can fill up with a coffee or a bite to eat at each end.

Total climbing: 209m

Hard track

Pennant Hills Park loop (via Lane Cove River)

8.2 km Circuit, 3 hrs

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

Total climbing: 233m

Hard track

Epping to Pennant Hills Station (via Lane Cove River)

8.4 km One way, 3 hrs 15 mins

This walk, from Epping to Pennant Hills Station, is a great way to see the upper Lane Cove River Valley. The walk does pass near major roads, but there are times along the track, near Browns Water Hole and along the Lane Cove River, where you forget how close you are to the city. Allow time to enjo

Total climbing: 249m

Hard track

Epping Station Lane Cove River Loop

8.4 km Circuit, 3 hrs

A great way to explore the Lane Cove Valley from Epping Station, this walk loops around North Epping, returning to the station. There are many sights to be seen along this walk, with Whale Rock and Brown's Waterhole being a couple of highlights. The walk explores Devlins Creek, upper Lane Cove River

Total climbing: 168m

Moderate track

Wareemba Ave to Thornleigh Station

8.6 km One way, 3 hrs 45 mins

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

Total climbing: 472m

Hard track

Cherrybrook to Hornsby via Fishponds

9 km One way, 3 hrs 45 mins

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

Total climbing: 536m

Hard track

De Burgs Bridge to Thornleigh station

9.7 km One way, 3 hrs 45 mins

This walk follows a section of the Great North Walk, starting from De Burghs bridge. The walk winds north west, through the Lane Cove Valley, passing through Browns Waterhole and continuing alongside Lane Cove river as it zigzags along the valley floor. The walk then climbs up to the Thornleigh play

Total climbing: 363m

Hard track

Hornsby to Galston Gorge

9.7 km One way, 4 hrs

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

Total climbing: 473m

Hard track

Thornleigh to Hornsby

10.2 km One way, 4 hrs

Starting at Thornleigh station you walk through suburban streets for a short while before diving into the bush at the southern end of Berowra Valley Regional Park. Soon after visiting the site of the historic Zig Zag railway you start wandering through the Berowra Creek valley, passing a few cascadi

Total climbing: 525m

Hard track

Epping to Eastwood Station (via Lane Cove River)

10.2 km One way, 3 hrs 45 mins

Epping to Eastwood, via Lane Cove River, is the longer route through the bush between the stations. This walk visits Big Ducky Waterhole, Whale Rock, Browns Waterhole and the Lane Cove River. The water is a great feature of this walk as you explore the valleys between Epping and Eastwood Stations.

Total climbing: 189m

Moderate track

Eastwood to Thornleigh

10.3 km One way, 3 hrs 45 mins

This walk explores Terrys Creek and the Lane Cove National Park. From Eastwood station the track follows Terrys creek past a small waterfall, under the M2, past Browns Water hole and along the Lane Cove river before climbing up to Thornleigh Oval and the train station. There are picnic tables at B

Total climbing: 285m

Hard track

Macquarie Park to Thornleigh

11.6 km One way, 4 hrs 30 mins

Starting from the Macquarie Park train station, you wander down Lane Cove Rd and over De Burghs Bridge to join the main spine of the Great North Walk in the Lane Cove Valley. Here the walk heads under De Burghs bridge then explores the dry grass tree and eucalypt forest along the side of the ridge.

Total climbing: 413m

Hard track

Thornleigh to Galston Gorge

15.5 km One way, 6 hrs

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

Total climbing: 768m

Hard track

Hornsby station to Crosslands

16.1 km One way, 6 hrs 45 mins

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

Total climbing: 938m

Hard track

Eastwood to Hornsby

20.6 km One way, 8 hrs

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

Total climbing: 810m

Hard track

Hornsby to Mt Kuring-gai

22.3 km One way, 9 hrs

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

Total climbing: 1319m

Hard track

Berowra to Hornsby

22.6 km One way, 9 hrs 18 mins

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

Total climbing: 1423m

Hard track

Gordon to Hornsby (overnight at Scout camp)

25.8 km One way, 2 Days

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

Total climbing: 1024m

Hard track

Thornleigh to Mt Kuring-Gai

28.1 km One way, 2 Days

This overnight walk starts from Thornleigh train station and follows the Great North Walk down through the Berowra Valley Regional Park and along Berowra creek. The walk passes through Fishponds and up to the top of Galston Gorge to the campsite. From there, the walk continues along the Great North

Total climbing: 1614m

Hard track

Sydney to Thornleigh via Lane Cove Tourist Park

33 km One way, 2 Days

This overnight walk starts from the Obelisk in Macquarie Park, Sydney, at the official start of the Great North Walk. The walk soon boards the ferry from Circular Quay to Woolwich, and follows the Great North Walk through the streets of Hunters Hill and into the Lane Cove National Park. After stayi

Total climbing: 1110m

Hard track

Thornleigh to Cowan

35.9 km One way, 2 Days

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

Total climbing: 2336m

Hard track

Hornsby to Brooklyn three day walk

43.1 km One way, 3 Days

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

Total climbing: 2695m

Hard track

Circular Quay to Hornsby

44.4 km One way, 3 Days

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

Total climbing: 1690m

Hard track

Other Nearby walks

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

Epping to Eastwood Station (via Terrys Creek)

4.1 km One way, 1 hr 30 mins

This walk, via Terry's Creek, is the most direct bush route between the two stations. Terry's Creek waterfall features as a wonderful spot to unwind and enjoy the bush. The walk up to Eastwood Station visits the open grassy Forrester Park, another nice place to take a break along this walk.

Total climbing: 71m

Moderate track

Epping to Gordon Station

11.7 km One way, 4 hrs 15 mins

This walk, from Epping Station to Gordon Station, passes below the homes which sit on the hills high above the Lane Cove River. The walk mostly follows management trails which weave above and across the rivers and creeks which fill the valley. The walk then leaves Lane Cove River National Park and e

Total climbing: 365m

Hard track

Vimeira Rd to De Burghs Bridge

5.1 km One way, 2 hrs

A well maintained and signposted track that follows the Lane Cove River, along a section of the Great North Walk. The section of bush track just west of De Burghs Bridge has great views of the river. Brown's Waterhole is a good spot to break, although early in the walk. Watch out for cyclists in th

Total climbing: 178m

Hard track

Whale Rock

516 m Return, 15 mins

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

Total climbing: 26m

Moderate track

De Burghs Bridge to Fullers Bridge

6 km One way, 2 hrs 30 mins

Following the Lane Cove River, this walk mostly follows a section of the Great North Walk and is well maintained and signposted. Things to lookout for include Fiddens Wharf which is a very pleasant spot to sit and watch the ducks. The walk passes by Lane Cove National Park Headquarters, so pop by an

Total climbing: 200m

Hard track

Browns Waterhole Track

1.3 km One way, 30 mins

This is a short walk down into the Lane Cove Valley, crossing the Lane Cove River, and out the other side. The entire track is concrete, making it a favourite trail for bike riders taking the short cut from Turramurra to Maquarie University. There are picnic tables at Browns Water Hole.

Total climbing: 49m

Moderate track

Kissing Pt Rd to De Burghs Bridge

4.4 km One way, 1 hr 45 mins

Following a section of the Great North Walk, this popular walk is well signposted and maintained. There are good views of the Lane Cove River as the track passes along the side of the ridge to the north. In several sections the track goes down to smaller creeks (some of which are polluted). Watch th

Total climbing: 155m

Hard track

Mambara Track

717 m Circuit, 20 mins

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

Total climbing: 23m

Very easy

Riverside Walking Track

5.5 km One way, 2 hrs

This is a scenic walk which takes in views of the Lane Cove River and some heritage buildings. Porters Creek bridge is a fantastic example of extravagant stone work, cut locally from the creek itself. The walk generally follows the Lane Cove River, passing many favourite sun baking spots for the loc

Total climbing: 85m

Hard track

STEP Track

2.7 km Circuit, 1 Hr

One of the most enjoyable walks in the Lane Cove valley, this relatively short trail ventures down into the valley and explores a variety of bushland. Spend a short while and go out to the scenic lookout and take your time around the waterfall. The track is pretty well signposted with a few inform

Total climbing: 95m

Moderate track

Lane Cove National Park Heritage Walk

2.6 km One way, 1 Hr

The Heritage Walk visits many of the historically significant buildings within the Lane Cove National Park. The walk follows the Lane Cove River from Fiddens Wharf and finishes at the Weir Precinct on Fullers Rd. The buildings are surprisingly intact, considering their age and history. A great walk

Total climbing: 89m

Moderate track

Two Creeks Track

6.1 km One way, 2 hrs 30 mins

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

Moderate track

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Epping to Hornsby Station walk starts at the Epping Station (gps: -33.772529, 151.08242)

Train. (get details)

Bus. (get details)

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

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

Train. (get details)

Bus. (get details)

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

Weather Forecast

This walk starts in the Metropolitan weather district.

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Park Information

Berowra Valley National Park

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

Lane Cove National Park

This small but picturesque city park is a haven of peaceful bushland along the winding Lane Cove River. Home to the Kukundi Wildlife Shelter and 27 km of the Great North Walk, you can also hire a boat, take a stroll or enjoy a picnic by the weir.

Bradley Reserve

Bradley Reserve is a large natural bushland area owned and managed by Ku-ring-gai council. The reserve extends from Lane Cove River to the end of Kissing Point Road north to George Christie playing fields. The reserve is home to the locally well know STEP track, and is cared for by the STEP inc, the "South Turramurra Environment Protection". The Great north walk also heads through this reserve, and is also home to Browns water hole.

Dog Pound Creek Reserve

Dog Pound Creek reserve is managed by Hornsby Council and is home to a spectatular native Blue Gum stand. The valley has a number of walks and creeks running through it and joins Westleigh, Thronleigh and Hornsby. The reserve is named after a creek that runs from the former dog pound that was on Warrigal Dr, Westleigh.

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