The sound of crunching twigs or gravel underfoot, the smell of damp moss or salty sea air, and the sight of untouched nature all around you – a walk in the great outdoors is a stimulation of the senses and a chance to ground yourself in the present. And, fortunately for NSW residents and those visiting the state, we’ve got plenty to choose from.
From a hike with a vista that’ll have you convinced you’re in Thailand, to a coastal trek in a national park that’ll have you non-stop snapping, here we’ve rounded up ten of the most stunning NSW hikes and walks you can do in just a day. Slather on the SPF, fill up your water bottle, and let’s hit the track.
Bouddi Coastal Walk
Keen on a fantastic coastal stroll with no one else around? Head to Bouddi Coastal Walk. Located on the Central Coast, the 8km-long relatively flat track carves its way through dense rainforest and along rocky headland and empty beaches, running from Putty Beach to MacMasters Beach.
Cape Byron Walking Track
It should be mandatory for first-time visitors to Byron to do the Cape Byron Walking Track. Its 3.7km loop winds past nearly every single one of the town’s hotspots, including The Pass, Wategos Beach, and Cape Byron Lighthouse. In fact, the only landmark it’s missing is the residence of the unofficial town mayor, Chris Hemsworth.
Wentworth Pass
If a walk to you means breaking out in a serious sweat, consider Wentworth Pass. One of the most challenging walks in the Blue Mountains, its 5km loop passes thundering Wentworth Falls and a viewpoint of breathtaking Jamison Valley before joining the iconic National Pass and the Valley of Waters Track.
Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk
A round-up of NSW walks wouldn’t be complete without a mention of the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk. A roughly 3km oceanfront track, it’s easily one of the most known walks in the country – and for good reason. Not only does it take in some of the area’s most stunning beaches and rockpools, but it also passes the impressive Waverley Cemetery.
Palm Jungle Loop Track
While the entire Coast Track in Royal National Park runs for 26km, Palm Jungle Loop Track starts at the halfway point and is only a 10km circuit. After taking in jaw-dropping views of Burning Palms Beach, you’ll trek through a jungle filled with Cabbage palms and hanging vines before emerging at Werrong Lookout.
Lake Parramatta Circuit Track
Lake Parramatta Reserve in Sydney’s second CBD is home to three bush tracks, but the 4.2km Lake Circuit is its longest and offers the best views of the man-made reservoir. In summer, bring your cozies to swim in the lake or take advantage of the barbecue facilities with a picnic.
Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk
Standing at the top of Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk, with rainforest in the middle and beaches on either side, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’re on an island in Thailand and not in fact in Palm Beach, just an hour’s drive from Sydney. The walk is just 3km return, but make an afternoon of it with lunch at The Boathouse.
Glebe Foreshore Walk
Starting at Bicentennial Park and ending at the Sydney Fish Markets, Glebe Foreshore Walk wanders through 27 hectares of parkland and reserves. Admire vista of Rozelle Bay and Blackwater Bay, plus enjoy the Sydney Harbour, the CBD, and Anzac Bridge. Bring your pooch: Sections of the walk and its parks allow off-leash puppas, so you can let them roam wild and free.
Botany Bay Coastal Walk
This Southeast Sydney walk features clifftops, rock formations, and ocean views. It starts at the end of Polo Street in Krunell and finishes at Cronulla train station, passing Boat Harbour Aquatic Reserve and Cape Baily Lighthouse along the way. If you have time to spare, cool off in Cronulla’s man-made ocean pools or beaches.
Bradleys Head to Chowder Bay
This 4km walk in North Shore takes about 2-2.5 hours to complete. Start at Taronga Zoo Wharf and make your way around the coast to Chowder Bay, with views of the Sydney Opera House. After walking through an old anaphora forest filled with wildlife and ancient trees, you’ll find yourself on a track that opens up to the Clifton Gardens Reserve and Chowder Bay.
Related: 10 of the Most Surreal Walks in Australia, Handpicked by a Longtime Trekker
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