Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Sydney
Discover Sydney's natural beauty with stunning coastal hikes, ancient Aboriginal sites, and serene beaches in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Sydney
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Sydney's natural beauty with stunning coastal hikes, ancient Aboriginal sites, and serene beaches in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.
"A slice of secluded paradise with breathtaking views and rich history."
Download Offline Maps
Essential for navigating trails. AllTrails app is highly recommended. :iphone:
Ferry to The Basin
Catch a ferry from Palm Beach for a scenic and easy access to The Basin. :ferry:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
America Bay Track
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park
An easy trail through lush bushland leading to ancient Aboriginal rock engravings. A true hidden gem.
West Head Lookout
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park
Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and Pittwater. Perfect for sunset.
The Basin
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park
A beautiful, secluded campground and beach accessible by ferry or hike. Ideal for a peaceful escape.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Plan Your Trails
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Download Offline Maps
Essential for navigating trails. AllTrails app is highly recommended. :iphone:
Ferry to The Basin
Catch a ferry from Palm Beach for a scenic and easy access to The Basin. :ferry:
Pack for Adventure
Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring plenty of water for your hikes. :athletic_shoe:
Respect Aboriginal Heritage
Be mindful of the park's significant Aboriginal sites.
Tips
from all over the internet
Download Offline Maps
Essential for navigating trails. AllTrails app is highly recommended. :iphone:
Ferry to The Basin
Catch a ferry from Palm Beach for a scenic and easy access to The Basin. :ferry:
Pack for Adventure
Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring plenty of water for your hikes. :athletic_shoe:
Respect Aboriginal Heritage
Be mindful of the park's significant Aboriginal sites.
Cycle West Head Road
Smooth roads with minimal traffic, perfect for a road bike ride. :bike:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning coastal scenery and diverse hiking trails in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. The park's rich Aboriginal heritage and opportunities for peaceful escapes, like The Basin, are frequently highlighted. However, some find the park can get very crowded on weekends and during holidays, impacting the sense of tranquility.
"There are endless activities to enjoy in the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Swim, hike, ride, drive, learn and immerse yourself in a beautifully preserved slice of the bush. Easily accessed and all the rangers are very kind. It’s important to treat the park with respect and always take all rubbish out with you."
Hugh Roberts
"It is a huge park.
We drive about 1h around here.
So beautiful. .peaceful.
But you guys should not stay too late. Bcz feel easy get lost.
Recommend place."
Nguyen Phuong
"With a $12 per car entry fee, per day, giving you parking at all spots, this should be on your list for spots to see in Sydney. The lookout at the end is well set up for a slow wander and lots of pictures. It has lots of options for hiking at different skill levels. One picnic stop has lots of options for tables and gas BBQs available. The picnic stop also has reasonable toilet facilities, including a working soap dispenser. Lots of brush turkeys and even a Goana. Just remember to keep your distance as their claws will make mince meat of you if you get too close."
Erin Mikan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive to Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park from Sydney via the M1 motorway. Public transport options include taking a train to Mount Kuring-gai or Cowan stations, followed by a walk or bus.
Yes, parts of the park are accessible by public transport. Trains run to Mount Kuring-gai and Cowan stations, and some bus routes service the park's edges.
Exploring by car offers the most flexibility to reach various lookouts and trailheads. However, for a more immersive experience, consider hiking or cycling, and utilizing ferries for specific destinations.
While many areas of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park are free to enter, some specific facilities or parking areas may have fees. It's always best to check the official NSW National Parks website for the latest information.
Yes, cycling is permitted on designated roads within the park. West Head Road is particularly popular for road cycling due to its smooth surface and low traffic volume.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is generally open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, specific facilities like campgrounds or visitor centers may have set operating hours. Always check the NSW National Parks website for details.
For general entry, advance booking is usually not required. However, if you plan to camp at The Basin, booking is essential as the campground has a limited capacity and can book out, especially during peak seasons.
Entry to most areas of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is free. However, some parking areas, particularly those with amenities or at popular trailheads, may incur a fee.
The Basin campground has a strict capacity limit of 350 people to preserve its natural environment. It's highly recommended to book your campsite well in advance, especially for weekends and holidays.
For most recreational activities like hiking and picnicking, no special permits are required. However, if you plan on commercial activities, events, or specific recreational pursuits, you may need to apply for a permit. Check the NSW National Parks website.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Popular walks include the America Bay Track for Aboriginal engravings, The park offers a variety of bushwalks for all fitness levels.
Yes, the America Bay Track is an easy and rewarding walk. The Jerusalem Bay Walk from Cowan station is also suitable for families with children aged 6 and above.
The park is home to diverse wildlife, including various bird species, wallabies, and lizards. Keep an eye out during your walks, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
Yes, you can swim at designated beaches like West Head Beach and The Basin. These offer beautiful, often secluded spots for a refreshing dip.
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park has numerous picnic areas with tables and barbecue facilities, often located near scenic lookouts or water access points. Bobbin Head is a popular spot.
📸 📸 Photography
West Head Lookout offers stunning panoramic coastal views, especially at sunset. The America Bay Track provides opportunities to photograph ancient Aboriginal rock engravings.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunset at West Head Lookout is particularly spectacular.
Drone usage in national parks is subject to strict regulations. It's essential to check the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service website for current rules and any required permits before flying a drone.
Landscape photography is very popular, capturing the rugged coastline, Pittwater views, and bushland scenery. Wildlife photography and capturing the ancient Aboriginal art are also common interests.
Yes, you can photograph the Aboriginal rock engravings found along tracks like the America Bay Track. Please be respectful and do not touch or disturb these significant cultural sites.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots, like Bobbin Head. If you're planning a longer visit or an overnight stay, The Basin campground offers a unique experience, though booking well in advance is crucial due to its popularity and capacity limits.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
or discover ancient Aboriginal art on the America Bay Track. The park's extensive network of bushwalks means you can find routes of varying lengths and difficulties, from short loops to full-day treks. Don't forget to download offline maps or use an app like AllTrails, as mobile service can be unreliable.
🚴 Cyclists
While West Head Road is the standout for road cycling, other management roads and fire trails might be suitable for mountain biking. Always check park regulations regarding cycling on different track types. Ensure your bike is well-maintained and carry a repair kit for any unexpected issues.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Aboriginal Heritage
It's crucial to approach these sites with respect, refraining from touching or disturbing them, and staying on marked paths to help preserve this invaluable cultural heritage for future generations. Many of these sites are located along walking tracks, making it possible to combine a beautiful bushwalk with a journey through time. The park's website and interpretive signage often provide context and information about the significance of these engravings and the people who created them. Engaging with this heritage offers a deeper understanding of the land and its long history.
Hiking and Walking Trails
to more challenging multi-hour hikes, there's an option for everyone. The Resolute Track leads to the picturesque West Head Beach, offering stunning coastal scenery. For those seeking a longer adventure, the walk from Berowra to Mount Kuring-gai is accessible by public transport. Many trails offer spectacular views of the Hawkesbury River, Pittwater, and the Pacific Ocean. Popular choices include the Jerusalem Bay Walk from Cowan train station, which is suitable for families,
Cycling Adventures
While West Head Road is the prime spot for road cycling, other fire trails and management roads within the park may be suitable for mountain biking. However, it's essential to be aware of park regulations regarding cycling on different types of tracks. Always prioritize safety, be mindful of other park users, and ensure your bike is in good working condition before embarking on your ride.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit