The Ku-Ring-Gai National Park and surrounds is unique in that in brings together the best of many worlds, scenic hikes, secluded beaches, secret waterholes, good food and spectacular viewpoints. While most Sydney siders have been to the national park on day trips, finding the good spots is another story. This guide combines the highlights of the national park into the perfect day trip, ideal for families, groups of friends, or solo adventurers. It is important to note that unfortunately, the Kuring-Gai National Park is largely inaccessible without a car or a bike.
Directions
Getting into the Kuring-Gai National Park is very simple for most, heading north along Mona Vale Road, turn off down McCarrs Creek Road at Terry Hills and then down West Head Road. Reception is fine throughout so Google maps work throughout the places this guide visits.
For those coming down from the Northern Beaches, come up Mona Vale Road the opposite direction and take the same turn off, or come through McCarrs Creek Road the Opposite Direction via Church Point.
Cool Down
Start the day off in the late morning. Head down along McCarrs Creek Road to the Upper Gledhill Falls, just before the end of the Duckholes Trail. This waterfall has a large pool to swim in and is really accessible in that it is just 50 metres off the main road, albeit a bit of a rock scramble. There is ample space to set up for the day however parking is limited. There are 2 car park spots on the shoulder of the road however more parking can be found just down the road at the Duckholes Picnic Area
Eat
After an hour or two head for lunch. There are a few options here. Head down to one of the three restaurants along the waterfront at Church Point: Pasadena, the Waterfront Café or the Marina Café. Or head into the middle of the national park at Akuna Bay and eat at the Shed. For those with a bit more time head down further to Bayview and Newport for a wider variety of options. The House Made Tagliatelle with prawns and blue swimmer crab at the Marina Café was absolutely delicious.
Lookout
After lunch head back into the national park, to the West Head Lookout, at the end of the West Head Road. From here you can see a perfect view of the entrance to the Hawkesbury River and Pittwater Bay, from Barrenjoey Lighthouse down to the Boxhead Lookout.
Relax at the Beach
A short hike down from the lookout brings you to three secluded beaches that overlooks Pittwater, West Head, Resolute and Great Mackerel Beaches. This are often quite secluded and scenic and set for a nice end to the day. The hike is narrow at times but very easy and no more than 1.5km making it suitable for families.
The Extras
With more time or energy to burn, head to explore a bit more. If you time your day well, head to the Great Mackerel Beach and catch a ferry across the bay to Palm Beach and back. Be prudent in checking the ferry times though as it doesn’t come often. The timetable can be found on the Palm beach Ferries website here. Alternatively, take an alternate loop back to the carpark from Resolute Beach by heading along the Aboriginal Heritage Walk to see some engravings at the Red Hands Cave.
The Ku-Ring-Gai National Park is expansive and this guide just gets you started into the sights and sites to be seen. For future trips venture further afield to the town of Brooklyn, see the beautiful Jerusalem bay or rent kayaks and explore the national park by water from Cottage Point.