Macquarie Park to Thornleigh

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4 hrs 30 mins

11.6 km One way

413 m

Hard track

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. The track soon leads you down into the ferny and moist valley beside Lane Cove River. Near the top of the valley, you walk up some stone steps built during the depression to find some rock engravings with 1930's style political satire, Conscript Pass. The side trip provides access to the scout campsite, where the main walk continues leads up through the streets to find Thornleigh train station.

Lane Cove River and Blue Pool from De Burghs Bridge

Track near north eastern corner for De Burghs Bridge

Looking down the to the Great North Walk

Fenced section of track near De Burghs Bridge

Pine leaf Geebung (Persoonia pinafolia)In bloom

Dry forests on ridge in the Lane Cove Valley

A weedy section of track west of Lane Cove Road

Walking through the dense forest in the Lane Cove Valley

Sandy beach on Lane Cove River near Avondale Creek

Walking down to Lane Cove River near Avondale Creek

Walking along the wide trails near Koombalah Ave

A few high tension power line towers near the trail

The tall wooded forest near the STEP track

Intersection at the bottom of the Canoon Road trail

Intersection of of the GNW and Whale Rock trail

Fern trees and moist forest in the upper Lane Cove Valley

The rocky trail beside the upper Lane Cove River

Stepping stones over the upper Lane Cove River

Well signposted track near Conscript Pass

Thornleigh trackhead sign on west side of train station

(0km) Macquarie Park Station → Eden Gardens

860 m

15 mins

-13m Easy track

From Macquarie Park train station, this walk crosses 'Waterloo Road' to find the Shell service station, Coles Express[1] on the otherside. Here th walk follows the footpath downhill, keeping Lane Cove Road immediately to your left for about 250m, to a shopping complex with a 'McDonalds'[2], 'KFC'[3], some other restaurants and sandwich shops[4]. After a further 130m alongside the main road, this walk comes to 'Talavera Rd'[5]. This walk turns left here to cross 'Lane Cove Road' then turns right to cross 'Talavera Rd' on the otherside of the intersection. Here the walk follows the footpath beside Lane Cove Road for 110m to then cross the freeway on-ramp using the pedestrian crossing. The walk then continues along the footpath on the road bridge that leads over the freeway then crosses the freeway-off ramp at two sets of traffic lights. The walk then continues along the footpath (beside Lane Cove Road) for 130m to the lights at 'Fontenoy Road'. Here the walk turns right to cross 'Lane Cove Road' at the lights and come to the front of Eden Gardens[6][7][8].

Eden Gardens

Eden Gardens is a popular plant nursery at the intersection of Fontenoy and Ryde Roads. It is a pleasant place to explore and is also home to 'Dragonfly Cafe'. The cafe is open 7 days, 8:30am to 4pm (5pm on weekends) and serves a variety of hot and cold meals. PH: 9491 9900. The centre is closed over Christmas and on News Year Day More info.

(1km) Eden Gardens → Int. Great North Walk and Ryde Rd Access Trk NE

850 m

21 mins

25m

-67m Easy track

Turn left: From in front of 'Eden Gardens' nursery, this walk crosses the nursery driveway (at the traffic lights), keeping 'Lane Cove Rd' immediately to your left. This walk then follows the footpath beside the road for about 130m, past a bus stop[10] to cross Riverside Drive[11] (a signposted entrance to 'Lane Cove National Park'[12][13]). Here the walk follows the grassy verge down alongside the main road for 250m to come to an intersection marked with an NPWS arrow marker[14][15], immediately before DeBurghs Bridge.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this follows the NPWS arrow marker[16] along the footpath[17] across 'De Burghs Bridge'[18][19], keeping the traffic to your left. On the other side of the bridge, this walk continues along the concrete footpath for 70m (passing under the 'Lane Cove National Park' sign[20]) to come to an intersection beside a locked gate[21] (on your right).
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk heads directly away from the road and around the locked gate. The walk turns right and follows the track past the 'Lane Cove National Park' sign[22] and around the scrubby clearing for about 130m. Here, the track leads down some timber steps and comes to a clear three-way intersection, where a 'Lane Cove River Weir via Riverside walk' sign[23] points back up the steps.

(2km) Int GNW and Ryde Rd Access Trk NE → Int of GNW and Ryde Road trail (west)

540 m

11 mins

19m

-15m Moderate track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Thornleigh via Great North Walk' sign[24] down a couple of steps[25] and along the track towards Deburghs Bridge, keeping the valley to your left. After about 50m, the track leads under the large concrete Deburghs Bridge[26], with some graffiti[27]. On the other side of the bridge, the track bends right to head up over some rocks, following two sections of hand railing[28][29]. From the end of these handrails, the track leads gently up among the grass trees[30] for about 400m (and a weedy section of track) to come to a clear T-intersection[31] with a management trail, where a 'Great North Walk' sign[32] points back down the track.

(2km) Int of GNW and Ryde Road trail (west) → Int of GNW and Gloucester Ave fire trail

870 m

18 mins

35m

-29m Moderate track

Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'The Great North Walk' sign[33] north, gently downhill along the management trail. After about 80m, this trail crosses a concrete bridge[34] over Rudder Creek (beside a concrete sewerage pipe[35]). From here, the trail leads uphill for just shy of 200m to come to an intersection with the GNW track (on your left), where a 'Lane Cove Weir' sign[36] points back down along the trail.
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Thornleigh Oval' sign[37] west, gently down the track, away from the management trail. The track almost immediately passes the large metal pipe (crossing the Lane Cove River[38]) then winds down the rocky track[39] for about 200m, through open eucalypt forest[40] with some limited views left over the valley, to come to a weedy section of track marked with a concrete sewerage access point[41]. Here the track mostly flattens out and leads along the side of the hill for about 400m to head down a few steps and cross Quarry Creek[42]. The walk then heads up some steps and follows the track for another 30m to come to a T-intersection[43] with the Gloucester Ave fire trail, marked with a GNW and NPWS arrow post[44].

(3km) Int of GNW and Gloucester Ave fire trail (east) → Int of GNW and Christie Park track

580 m

12 mins

-12m Moderate track

Turn left: From the intersection, the walk follows the GNW arrow post[45] gently uphill along the management trail, away from the gate whilst keeping the power line poles on your left. After about 30m (just past the second power pole), this trail leads to an intersection with a track (on the left), marked with another set of NPWS & GNW arrow posts[46] (just under the high tension power lines[47]).
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[48] south, downhill along the track and under the high tension power lines[49]. The track winds gently downhill for almost 150m until, just after passing close to the the high tension power line tower[50], this walk comes to a locked green shed[51] opposite a fenced-off pipe bridge[52] (down in the valley to your left).
Continue straight: From the green shed, this walk follows the track[53] along the side of the hill, keeping the valley to your left (running parallel with the high tension power lines, up to your right). After about 150m, this walk comes to an intersection with a faint track on your right (that leads a short distance to a management trail), marked with a GNW arrow post[54].
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post along the mostly flat track, through the dense forest, and almost immediately passes a concrete sewerage access point[55]. After about 70m, this walk heads down a few timbers steps to cross a small gully[56], where the track continues for another 100m (passing close to a few houses[57]), then crosses two flat timber bridges[58] over Congham Creek. Here the walk veers left up onto the rock platform[59] and follows the track gently uphill for another 80m to come to a three-way intersection, marked with a GNW arrow post[60] (and a sign pointing left to 'Marsfield'[61]).

(4km) Int of GNW and Christie Park track → Int of the GNW and mid Gloucester Ave fire trail access track

150 m

4 mins

13m

0m Moderate track

Veer right: From the intersection, the walk follows the GNW arrow post[62] north, uphill for about 30m to come to a faint intersection with a track (on your right) marked with a GNW arrow post[63].
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[64] gently uphill along the side of the hill (keeping the valley to your left) for about 100m to come to a small clearing and three way intersection, marked with yet another GNW arrow post[65] and a pile of rocks[66] (on your left).

(4km) Int of the GNW and mid Gloucester Ave fire trail access track → Int of the GNW and the Avondale creek service trail

820 m

18 mins

34m

-43m Hard track

Turn left : From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[67] up the short rocky hill[68] and away from the high tension power lines[69]. The track (rocky early on[70]) leads along the side of the hill among some grass trees[71] for about 300m before passing under the power lines again. Here the track continues for another 300m along the side of the valley to come to a clear intersection with intersection with a wide management trail[72].
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[73] downhill along the management trail. The trail leads down for about 70m to cross a small gully[74] then runs closely beside the Lane Cove River[75] (on your left) for another 120m to come to an intersection marked with a GNW arrow post and a 'Lane Cove Valley' aluminum sign and map[76].

(5km) Int of the GNW and the Avondale creek service trail → Int of the GNW and the South Turramurra High School trail

490 m

13 mins

46m

-12m Moderate track

Turn left : From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post, directly away from the face of the 'Lane Cove Valley' aluminum sign and map[77], down the track and timber steps[78] to a sandy beach on the Lane Cove River[79]. Here the walk turns right to cross the weir and bridge[80] over Avondale Creek, (this may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain) then climb gently uphill for about 120m to come to a faint intersection with a faint track (on your left - this faint track leads down to another old weir).
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads gently uphill following the main track, whilst keeping the valley to your left for about 30m to come to a clear Y-intersection marked with a GNW arrow post[81].
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[82] along the track, keeping the Lane Cove River a short distance to your left[83]. After about 80m, the track steps up to and crosses a short section to timber boardwalk/bridge[84]. Here the walk climbs up the rocky hill following a series of concrete access points[85] and timber steps[86] for about 230m to come to a T-intersection with a management trail, marked with a GNW arrow post[87].

(5km) Int of the GNW and the Turramurra High School service trail → Int of GNW and Kissing Point Road path

870 m

18 mins

24m

-35m Moderate track

Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[88] gently downhill along the management trail for about 40m to come to an intersection with a short trail (on the right, which leads to the gate[89] at the end of Koombalah Ave).
Continue straight: From the intersection just below the Koombalah Ave gate, this walk follows the management trail gently downhill, whilst keeping the valley to your left. The trail initially leads over a rock platform, then about 50m later, leads down a steep hill[90]. The trail then heads gently down for about 400m before a short steep hill[91] leads down to a metal high tension power line tower[92]. Here the trail bends right and leads down and along the side of the hill for another 200m to pass another high tension power line tower[93] and head behind a few houses. Just behind the second house, this walk comes to ephemeral creek on a rock platform[94].
Continue straight: From here, this walk crosses the ephemeral creek[95] (keeping the houses up to your right) and continues along the trail for about 30m to come to a T-intersection with a wide, shared, concrete path, marked with several signposts[96].

(6km) Int of GNW and Kissing Point Road trail → Browns Waterhole int

260 m

5 mins

-17m Easy track

Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post downhill[97] along the wide, shared, concrete path. After about 50m, this path leads under some high tension power lines[98] then bends right[99]. About 50m after passing under the power lines, this path leads to an intersection with a track[100] (on your left, that leads to an informal unfenced lookout), just before a GNW arrow post[101].
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk heads fairly steeply downhill along the concrete path. The path passes a few signs[102] over about 100m, then comes to an intersection with a track (on your left), marked with a timber barricade and a GNW arrow post[103].
Veer right: From the intersection, this follows the concrete path downhill for just shy of 50m to come to a intersection with a dirt management trail[104]. This intersection is beside the Lane Cove River crossing[105] (on your left) and is marked with a 'The Great North Walk' sign here[106].

Browns Waterhole

Browns Waterhole is a wide, shallow section of the Lane Cove River, downstream of a concrete weir[107]. There is a concrete shared cycle/footpath crossing over the top of the weir, linking Kissing Point Road, South Turramurra to Vimiera Rd, Macquarie Park. On the western side of the waterhole, there is a picnic table[108] and small clearing with a view over this section of the river.

(6km) Browns Waterhole int → Int of GNW and Cove St trail

520 m

11 mins

24m

-9m Easy track

Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'The Great North Walk' sign[109] along the dirt management trail, keeping the Lane Cove River to your left. After about 80m, the trail leads under some high tension power lines[110], where there is a mostly clear view over the river[111] (to your left). The trail then gently leads down through the valley[112] for about 400m to come to an intersection with Cove St trail, marked with a GNW arrow post[113].

(7km) Int of GNW and Cove St trail → Int of GNW and Whale Rock trail

710 m

12 mins

-14m Easy track

Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[114] downhill along the management trail for about 30m to cross a small culverted creek[115]. The walk then follows the trail up the short hill to come to an intersection with the signposted 'STEP track'[116][117] (on your right).
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[118] and STEP Track markers[119] along the management trail, whilst keeping the river to your left. The trail undulates through the valley (weedy in places[120]) and tall forest[121] for just shy of 600m, to come to a clear intersection at the bottom of a sealed management trail[122] (on your right). This intersection is marked with another 'STEP Track' map/sign[123] and a 'The Great North Walk' sign[124].
Veer left: From the intersection, the walk follows the 'The Great North Walk' sign gently downhill along the management trail, directly away from the face of the 'STEP Track' map/sign[125]. Keeping the river to your left, the trail leads downhill for about 80m to come to a Y-intersection[126], where there is a 'Lane Cove Valley' map/sign[127] and a 'Lane Cove River Park' sign[128] pointing back along the trail.

(8km) Int of GNW and Whale Rock trail → Int of the GNW and the Morona Ave trail

2.1 km

38 mins

54m

-23m Moderate track

Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Thornleigh Station' sign[129] 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[130]. This crossing may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain. On the other side of the river, this walk continues along the trail[131] for about 400m (with the river now close by on your right) to come to an intersection with a faint track[132] (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[133], then continues along the valley floor among the fern trees (and concrete pipe access points[134]) for about 900m to cross the Lane Cove River again at another rocky ford[135]. (These crossings may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain). The trail then continues along the valley floor[136] (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[137] (on your right), marked with a 'Lane Cove Valley' map/sign[138] and a GNW arrow post[139].

(10km) Int of the GNW and the Morona Ave trail → Conscript Pass

330 m

8 mins

24m

-8m Moderate track

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[140], and becomes rocky for about 150m before coming to a faint intersection, where GNW arrow post points left[141]. Here, the walk turns left and crosses the Lane Cove River using the concrete stepping stones[142] (this crossing may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain) to follow the 'Thornleigh Station' sign[143] up the timber steps for about 40m and find a GNW registration box[144] (damaged at time of writing). The track bends sharply right[145] and zigzags up the rocky hill for another 30m, before bending sharply left to find the 'Conscript Pass' and 'B Stevens'[146][147] 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[148] 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[149] 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[150][151] 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).

(10km) Conscript Pass → Int of GNW and BP scout camp tracks

330 m

10 mins

53m

0m Hard track

Continue straight: From 'Conscript Pass', this walk heads up the stone steps through the cleft in the rock[154] 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[155].
Veer left: From the intersection, the walk follows the 'Thornleigh' sign[156] uphill along the rocky track, keeping the valley to your left. The track leads up a series of timber steps[157] for about 230m, becoming steeper as they go[158], to come to a clear T-intersection signposted with a large 'The Great North Walk' sign[159], and a stone 'Lorna Pass' arrow[160] pointing back down the track.

(10km) Int of GNW and BP camp track → BP camping area

620 m

13 mins

21m

-34m Hard track

Turn left : From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Baden Powell Scout Centre' sign[161] gently down along the side of the hill for just shy of 40m to come to a four-way intersection, where a 'Thornleigh Oval' sign[162] points back along the track.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Baden-Powell Scout Centre' sign[163] and the GNW arrow post[164] west along the narrow track. The track leads through the dense heath[165] for about 120m to come to an intersection and clearing at a rocky outcrop[166], marked with a GNW arrow post[167].
Turn right: From the clearing, this walk follows the GNW arrow post north, downhill along the narrow track. After about 120m the rocky track leads to a small flat clearing[168] where this walk turn left (following the GNW arrow post) passing through about 20m of heath to come to another clearing (with a campfire scar[169]). Following the GNW arrow post, this walk soon bends right to step down to the edge of a creek[170]. Here the walk turns left and follows the creek downstream for about 20m to then bend right and cross Scout Creek[171]. The walk then heads uphill along the widening track for about 130m (passing a few scout constructions[172], and a track on the left[173]) then walks up under the high ropes course[174]. About 20m after the ropes course, this walk comes to an intersection with a dirt driveway[175], beside the green Pioneer Hut[176] (shed on the left). There is also a tap and drinking fountain here[177].
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the gravel driveway[178] east, away from the Pioneer Hut[179] and towards the picnic shelters. After about 30m (just after the left bend), this walk comes to some of these picnic shelters[180] and several tiered platforms (on your right) - this is the camping area (there is a stone building up to your right). At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Continue straight.

Baden Powell Scout Centre

The Baden Powell Scout Centre is a large camping and training area on the edge of Pennant Hills and Thornleigh[181] (at the end of Pomona St). There are several large buildings including dining and training halls[182]. For walkers, there is dorm/hostel style accommodation and several bush camping areas[183]. Bush camping - is found near the lower (south-eastern) end of the grounds for $9 per person per night. Facilities include tap water[184], picnic shelters[185], toilets[186] and even a shower block[187]. They also provide an indoor area in case the weather turns during the night and you need to retreat. There are kitchen facilities available for an extra $5. Dorm-style accommodation - at $29 per person per night, you can share a room with other campers in a bunk room, you will need to bring a sleeping bag and towel. Hostel-style accommodation - at $35 per person per night, you will be provided a smaller room (still shared) with bedding (sheets and blankets) as well as access to a kitchen. The friendly staff here are also happy to put together a food hamper for your meals, or organise a delivery meal, just chat with them when booking. Pre-booking is essential, phone Michael New (02) 9484 2278 (weekdays).

(10km) Int of GNW and BP scout camp tracks → Int of Handley and Ferguson Avenues

350 m

7 mins

16m

0m Moderate track

Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post and 'Thornleigh Station' sign[188] uphill along the wide rocky track[189]. After just over 150m, the track bends left (ignoring a faint track on your right[190]) and heads uphill for another 40m to come to the back (south-east corner) of Thornleigh Oval[191], marked with a 'Lane Cove National Park' signpost[192].
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[193] (there are toilets[194] and a water tap[195] on your right) to pass a 'Great North Walk' sign[196] and come to the corner of 'Handley' and 'Ferguson' Avenues[197] in front of the 'Thornleigh Oval' sign[198].

Thornleigh Oval

Thornleigh Oval is found at the intersection of Handley and Ferguson Avenues, Thornleigh. There is a large playing field[199], tap water[200], public toilets[201][202] and some shelter in the awning of the club house[203]. The oval has a car park, and a number io signs for the Great North walk[204] and other local tracks[205].

(11km) Int of Handley and Ferguson Avenues → Thornleigh Train Station

920 m

16 mins

19m

-5m Easy track

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[206] then after about 250m, crosses 'Orchard St' to follow 'Station St' almost directly ahead[207]. About 190m along 'Station St', this walk continues straight across 'Wood St'[208] (you can get to Parkway Plaza if you turn right here) and continues for just over 200m to find a footbridge[209] beside Pennant Hills Rd. Here the walk heads up the ramp and crosses over the busy road[210] then down the ramp (or steps) to find the intersection with Railway Parade[211].
Veer left: From the base of the steps, this walk follows the GNW arrow across 'Railway Pde'[212], heading towards the train line. At the fence, this walk veers left and leads along the pedestrian alley[213] for about 60m before turning right and climbing up the railway bridge steps[214], coming to the 'Thornleigh' Train Station[215].

Maps for the Macquarie Park to Thornleigh 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 Macquarie Park to Thornleigh bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Macquarie Park to Thornleigh

Altitude analysis for Macquarie Park to Thornleigh

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	11.6 km
		Time	4 hrs 30 mins
		.
Grade 4/6 Hard track	AS 2156.1	Gradient	Very steep (4/6)
		Quality of track	Rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely (4/6)
		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

6km of this walk has gentle hills with occasional steps and another 3.5km has short steep hills. Whilst another 1.8km is flat with no steps and the remaining 230m is very steep.

Quality of track

6km of this walk follows a clear and well formed track or trail and another 3.2km follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles. Whilst another 1.5km follows a smooth and hardened path and the remaining 620m follows a rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely.

Signs

Around 7km of this walk is clearly signposted, whilst the remaining 4.2km has directional signs at most intersection.

Experience Required

Around 8km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 3.6km requires some bushwalking experience.

weather

Around 9km of this walk is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation), whilst the remaining 3.1km is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety.

Infrastructure

Around 6km of this walk is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats), whilst the remaining 6km has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced).

Similar walks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Roseville to Macquarie Park

8.9 km One way, 3 hrs 30 mins

This walk starts at Roseville station and explores the streets and alleyways of Roseville before joining the main spine of the Great North Walk at Fullers Bridge. Here you head deeper into the bush to explore the eastern bank on the Lane Cove River. There is a great diversity of mostly dry forest a

Total climbing: 290m

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

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

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

Lane Cove Tourist Park River Circuit

11.9 km Circuit, 5 hrs

This walk follows a large section of Lane Cove River. The walk follows the Riverside Walking track up the Lane Cove River to De Burghs Bridge. From the bridge the track winds back along the hillside on the other side of the river. The track then passes a few historic buildings, and the Visitor Centr

Total climbing: 381m

Hard track

Gordon to Roseville Station (Riverside Walk)

13.3 km One way, 4 hrs 30 mins

This walk goes from Gordon, to Roseville station, using the Riverside Walking Track. From DeBurghs Bridge, the walk follows the western bank of the Lane Cove River, passing many picnic areas and the Lane Cove River Boat Shed. The scenic walk along the Lane Cove River provides plenty of opportunities

Total climbing: 344m

Hard track

Chatswood to Epping Station

16.3 km One way, 6 hrs

This walk, from Chatswood to Epping, is a long but enjoyable walk along the Lane Cove valley. The walk mostly follows the Lane Cove River to Terry's Creek, then follows Terry's creek, under some major roads, to Epping. A great walk exploring bushland so close to the suburbs.

Total climbing: 533m

Hard track

Epping to Hornsby Station

17.5 km One way, 6 hrs 45 mins

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

Total climbing: 705m

Hard track

Chatswood Station to Eastwood Station

18.1 km One way, 6 hrs 45 mins

Following the Lane Cove River and Terry's Creek, this walk uses the valleys between the stations to explore some suburban bushland. From Chatswood Station, the walk soon leaves the suburban area and passes through the bush along the Lane Cove River. A great station-to-station walk with a few options

Total climbing: 554m

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

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

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

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 Macquarie Park to Thornleigh walk.

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

Lane Cove Tourist Park to Boat Shed

3.4 km Return, 1 hr 30 mins

This walk, from the Lane Cove Tourist Park to the Lane Cove River Boat Shed, meanders along the placid Lane Cove River, passing many picnic areas along the way. The Boat Shed itself is surrounded by a large picnic area with plenty of space for the kids to run around and play. You can even hire a bo

Total climbing: 98m

Moderate track

Lane Cove Tourist Park to Baker's Cottage

5.9 km Return, 2 hrs 30 mins

From the Tourist Park, this walk heads down to the other side of the Lane Cove River, to Baker's Cottage. The walk passes the Lane Cove River Boat Shed and a play ground for the kids with plenty of open areas to run and play. Baker's Cottage, perched up a slight hill, is worth the short distance wit

Total climbing: 159m

Moderate track

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

North Ryde Fairyland circuit

6.9 km Circuit, 2 hrs 30 mins

Starting at North Ryde train station this walk explores a stretch of the Lane Cove River, visiting the historic Fairlylands Pleasure Grounds along the way. The walk starts by wandering through the Riverside Corporate Park and soon comes alongside the Lane Cove River to join the Great North Walk. Her

Total climbing: 191m

Hard track

Lane Cove Weir to Boat Shed

1.3 km Return, 1 Hr

This is a great way to explore the picnic areas and banks of the Lane Cove River. There are picnic areas and plenty of seats to enjoy along the way. On the weekend you can hire a boat and go for a paddle before heading back to the start. You could spend a whole day enjoying the river, bus and parkla

Total climbing: 17m

Moderate track

Riverside Walk

5.3 km One way, 2 hrs

This walk is a lovely stroll along one side of the Lane Cove River. The walk passes through many picnic areas, providing plenty of options for rests and food breaks (some having BBQ's). This walk is also good for taking a Frisbee or a ball along for the kids.

Total climbing: 114m

Hard track

Fiddens Wharf walking track

4.3 km Circuit, 1 hr 27 mins

This walk explores some of the hills and river banks of the Lane Cove National Park. Leaving the weir precinct on Max Allen Drive, the walk follows the Great North Walk over the hill and down to Fiddens Wharf (just near the oval). The return journey, past Schwartz Homestead, provides a great chance

Total climbing: 159m

Moderate track

Baker's Cottage

1.5 km Return, 45 mins

The Baker's Cottage Heritage Track is a quick and interesting walk. The track itself is mainly drivable road, and turns to bush track before going up the hill to the cottage itself. At 140 years of age, Baker's Cottage is the oldest unmodified structure, still standing, in the Ku-ring-gai area. All

Total climbing: 56m

Moderate track

Fullers Bridge to Epping Rd

2.6 km One way, 1 Hr

For the most part, this walk follows a section of the Great North Walk through "Fairylands" and past a few waterfalls, then across Lane Cove River (via Epping rd) to Mowbray Park. Starting and ending on two busy roads, it is a pleasant surprise to visitors how nice the bushland can be. Allow some

Total climbing: 105m

Hard track

Fairylands Loop Track

5.3 km Circuit, 2 hrs 30 mins

This walk loops around a section of the Lane Cove River. Starting at Fullers Bridge, the walk follows the Great North walk through the historic site of Fairylands to Epping road before crossing the Lane Cove river and heading up the other bank of the river, passing through a variety of environments

Total climbing: 175m

Hard track

Garadi Track

1.5 km Circuit, 1 Hr

This walk, also know as the Black Cockatoo track, starts from Mowbray Park and explores the area where the Camaraigal Clan of the Guringai Tribe once lived. The walk leads across the top of a small escarpment and winds down and back along the Lane Cove river bank. The change in vegetation is quite

Total climbing: 66m

Moderate track

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Macquarie Park to Thornleigh walk starts at the Macquarie Park Station (gps: -33.785394, 151.12843)

Train. (get details)

Bus. (get details)

Car. Parking fees apply in the area.<br /> (get details)

Train. (get details)

The Macquarie Park to Thornleigh ends at the Thornleigh Train Station (gps: -33.731948, 151.07815)

Bus. (get details)

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

Weather Forecast

This walk starts in the Metropolitan weather district.

Current Alerts

Park Information

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.

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.

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