This section of the Great North Walk starts from Heaton Gap near the Watagan Forest Motel, and winds east, towards Newcastle. The walk passes through the Awaba State Forest and past the Sugarloaf range, down into Wakefield and on to Teralba, a pleasant town on the edge of Lake Macquarie. From Teralba this walk winds down and around the edge of Lake Macquarie. The walk passes through the Cockle reserve, and continues to Warners Bay and up along the roads, before cutting through the bush to Charlestown, where it winds around the golf course to Charlestown Park track head. From here you will follow the Great North Walk through a few reserves and along a Burwood Beach, past the heads to Merewether Beach. Exploring bush around Glenrock lagoon on the Yuelarbah Track, including the Leichhardt’s Lookout are highlights. From this lookout the track leads down past the edge of the lagoon then along the sandy beach, past Merewether ocean pools. From Merewether, you will mostly follow the coast line to Queens Wharf. After exploring some of Newcastle’s (and arguably Australia’s) best beaches, the grand views from Strzelecki Lookout, you then wander through King Edward Park where you can take the optional side trip to the intriguing Bogey Hole. The walk then takes you up to more panoramic views from the The Obelisk, before you stroll through Newcastle CBD and mall to Queens Wharf. There are a few long hills, just take you time and enjoy the salt air. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.
Before you start any bushwalk ensure you;
• Tell someone you trust where you are going and what to do if you are overdue
• Have adequate equipment, supplies, skills & knowledge for the whole journey
• Consider the impact of weather forecasts, park/track closures & fire dangers
• Can respond to emergencies & call for help at any point
• Are healthy and fit enough for this journey
If not, change plans and stay safe. It is okay to delay and ask people for help.
After another 30 m head down the wooden steps (about 5 m long)
Then find the "Watagan Forest Motel" (about 15 m ahead).
Watagan Forest Motel is located on Branxton-Toronto Road. This retro-style motel is located right on the Great North Walk. The motel offers six rooms for around $99 per night - each with a double bed (four rooms also have twin singles), a television, bathroom with shower, air conditioning, and breakfast included. Room service is available. Adjoining the motel is a service station, which also offers dining room meals as well as a small grocery selection (bread, milk, bottled water, rice, pasta, etc), open until 8:30pm daily. A rest area is situated next to the motel, with covered picnic tables and garbage bins. For further information, phone (02)4938 0149.
Then pass the picnic table (about 25 m ahead).
Turn right, to head along Leggetts Drive.
After another 330 m (at the intersection of Gap Road & Leggetts Drive) veer left, to head along Gap Road (a vehicle track).
After another 790 m turn left.
After another 2 km continue straight, to head along Brunkerville Trail.
After another 1.2 km (at the intersection of Sugarloaf Range Road & Brunkerville Trail) continue straight, to head along Sugarloaf Range Road.
After another 350 m (at the intersection of Wakefield Forest Road & Sugarloaf Range Road) continue straight, to head along Wakefield Forest Road.
After another 620 m continue straight, to head along Wakefield Forest Road.
After another 480 m (at the intersection of Wakefield Forest Road & Aubs Ridge Road) continue straight, to head along Wakefield Forest Road.
After another 530 m continue straight, to head along Wakefield Forest Road.
After another 620 m continue straight, to head along Wakefield Forest Road.
After another 235 m continue straight, to head along Archery Road.
After another 90 m continue straight, to head along Archery Road.
After another 6 m (at the intersection of Archery Road & Aubs Pipeline Trail) continue straight, to head along Archery Road.
After another 40 m head through the tunnel (about 90 m long)
After another 20 m (at the intersection of Archery Road & Archery Road East) continue straight, to head along Archery Road.
After another 285 m continue straight, to head along Archery Road.
After another 9 m (at the intersection of Watagan Track & Archery Road) turn left, to head along Watagan Track (a vehicle track).
After another 950 m continue straight, to head along Watagan Track.
After another 145 m continue straight, to head along The Great North Walk.
After another 165 m (at the intersection of Wakefield Road & The Great North Walk) turn left, to head along Wakefield Road (a road).
After another 115 m continue straight, to head along Wakefield Road.
After another 175 m pass the "Eddie Peterson Memorial Park" (6 m on your left).
After another 75 m find the "Eddie Peterson Memorial Park" (15 m on your left).
The Eddie Peterson Memorial Park on Wakefield Road is a fabulous place for a rest and a snack. There is a grassy area, toilet, water and shelter, all next to a community tennis court. Eddie Patterson Memorial Park is managed by the Lake Macquarie City Council as a public reserve. Near the memorial park there is a fire station and a school.
Continue straight, to head along Wakefield Road.
After another 150 m (at the intersection of Wakefield Road & Miller Road) continue straight, to head along Wakefield Road.
After another 880 m (at the intersection of Wakefield Road & School Road) continue straight, to head along Wakefield Road.
After another 1 km (at the intersection of Rhondda Road & Wakefield Road) turn right, to head along Rhondda Road (a highway|tertiary).
After another 340 m continue straight, to head along Rhondda Road.
After another 260 m continue straight, to head along Rhondda Road.
After another 205 m continue straight, to head along Rhondda Road.
After another 105 m continue straight, to head along Rhondda Road.
After another 790 m continue straight, to head along Rhondda Road.
After another 130 m continue straight, to head along Rhondda Road.
After another 185 m continue straight, to head along Rhondda Road.
After another 1.2 km (at the intersection of Railway Street & Rhondda Road) turn left, to head along Railway Street.
After another 250 m turn sharp right.
After another 9 m continue straight.
After another 25 m head up the steps (about 15 m long)
Then cross the bridge (about 30 m long)
Then head down the steps (about 15 m long)
After another 10 m find the "Teralba Station Carpark" (25 m on your right).
This carpark provides ample parking for those leaving their car at the train station
Continue straight.
After another 30 m pass the car park (10 m on your right).
After another 3 m (at the intersection of Anzac Parade & William Street) continue straight, to head along Anzac Parade (a highway|tertiary).
After another 7 m continue straight, to head along Anzac Parade.
After another 50 m continue straight, to head along Anzac Parade.
After another 110 m pass the toilet (20 m on your right).
After another 6 m pass the "Anzac Park" (9 m on your right).
Then pass the "Maddz on York" (65 m on your right).
At the intersection of Anzac Parade & York Street continue straight, to head along Anzac Parade.
Then pass the pay phone (65 m on your right).
After another 120 m (at the intersection of Anzac Parade & Margaret Street) continue straight, to head along Anzac Parade.
After another 40 m continue straight, to head along Anzac Parade.
After another 30 m continue straight, to head along Anzac Parade.
After another 110 m (at the intersection of Anzac Parade & Cumberland Street) continue straight, to head along Anzac Parade.
After another 25 m continue straight, to head along Anzac Parade.
After another 30 m (at the intersection of Lake Crescent & Anzac Parade) continue straight.
After another 25 m continue straight, to head along Five Islands Road.
After another 370 m cross the bridge (about 175 m long)
After another 380 m cross the bridge (about 155 m long)
At the intersection of Creek Reserve Road Shared Path & Five Islands Road turn right, to head along Creek Reserve Road Shared Path (a highway|cycleway).
Then head through the tunnel (about 10 m long)
At the intersection of Five Islands Road & Creek Reserve Road Shared Path turn left, to head along Five Islands Road (a highway|primary).
Then cross the bridge (about 15 m long)
After another 255 m pass the "Walter's Park" (45 m on your left).
Continue straight.
After another 6 m continue straight, to head along The Esplanade.
After another 90 m continue straight, to head along The Esplanade.
After another 70 m continue straight, to head along The Esplanade.
After another 115 m pass the car park (30 m on your right).
After another 35 m pass the "Treddinick Oval" (4 m on your left).
After another 90 m pass the car park (30 m on your right).
After another 340 m pass the pay phone (10 m on your left).
At the intersection of The Esplanade & Park Road continue straight, to head along The Esplanade.
After another 275 m pass the water tap (25 m on your right). This water tap is wheelchair accessible.
After another 35 m pass the car park (20 m on your right).
After another 70 m continue straight, to head along The Esplanade.
After another 65 m continue straight, to head along The Esplanade.
After another 50 m pass the water tap (15 m on your right). This water tap is wheelchair accessible.
After another 15 m pass the "Pippis at the Point" (20 m on your left). This restaurant is wheelchair accessible.
At the intersection of The Esplanade & Main Road continue straight, to head along The Esplanade.
After another 30 m pass the "Custom Espresso" (15 m on your left).
After another 60 m turn right.
After another 6 m turn left.
After another 500 m continue straight.
After another 400 m continue straight.
After another 255 m pass a seat (on your right).
After another 90 m continue straight.
After another 20 m pass a seat (on your right).
After another 20 m pass the car park (on your left).
After another 770 m continue straight.
After another 7 m turn left.
After another 15 m pass a seat (15 m on your right).
Then pass the picnic table (30 m on your right).
After another 5 m continue straight.
After another 10 m continue straight.
After another 10 m turn sharp right.
After another 165 m pass the water tap (40 m on your right).
After another 6 m pass the picnic table (40 m on your right).
After another 9 m pass the car park (25 m on your right).
Continue straight.
After another 90 m pass the picnic table (40 m on your right).
After another 30 m pass the car park (15 m on your right). This car park is wheelchair accessible.
After another 95 m continue straight.
After another 8 m cross the bridge (about 20 m long)
After another 20 m pass the "Warner's Bay Foreshore" (10 m on your right).
After another 135 m continue straight.
After another 25 m pass the playground (30 m on your left).
Then pass a seat (35 m on your left).
After another 9 m pass the water tap (30 m on your right).
Then pass the shelter (15 m on your left).
Continue straight.
After another 9 m pass a seat (35 m on your left).
After another 15 m pass the playground (25 m on your left).
Then pass the shelter (60 m on your left).
Then pass the toilet (80 m on your left).
Veer right.
After another 6 m continue straight.
After another 6 m continue straight.
After another 10 m pass the "Warners Bay Takeaway" (about 5 m ahead).
Turn right.
After another 8 m continue straight.
After another 40 m pass the shelter (55 m on your right).
Continue straight.
After another 7 m pass the shelter (50 m on your right).
After another 115 m find the "Warners Bay" (35 m on your right).
Warners Bay is a large, open bay on Lake Macquarie, with a public park and small shopping centre nearby. There are cafes and restaurants with alfresco dining, the 'Centro' shopping centre, specialty shops, boutiques and a post office. The public park on the lakeshore has a shared bike/walking path, picnic tables, barbeques, toilets and water. A-must-stop ice cream shop on the Esplanade is Dippin Dots, they have a unique ice cream that has been made using super-cold freezing methods to make little beads of ice cream.
Continue straight.
After another 35 m pass the car park (80 m on your left). This car park is wheelchair accessible.
Then pass the water tap (40 m on your right). This water tap is wheelchair accessible.
After another 6 m pass the toilet (30 m on your right). This toilet is wheelchair accessible.
After another 95 m turn left, to head along King Street.
After another 50 m continue straight, to head along King Street.
After another 60 m turn left.
After another 10 m continue straight.
After another 9 m continue straight.
After another 9 m pass the car park (65 m on your left). This car park is wheelchair accessible.
Continue straight.
After another 4 m continue straight.
After another 60 m turn right.
Continue straight.
After another 60 m pass the "Underground Parking" (70 m on your left). This car park is wheelchair accessible.
After another 10 m continue straight.
After another 4 m continue straight.
After another 25 m turn right.
After another 9 m continue straight.
After another 9 m continue straight.
After another 6 m turn left.
After another 25 m veer right.
After another 10 m turn right.
After another 15 m turn left, to head along Queen Street.
After another 325 m continue straight, to head along Queen Street.
After another 9 m (at the intersection of Queen Street & Pring Street) continue straight, to head along Queen Street.
After another 380 m turn right.
After another 85 m turn right, to head along Myles Avenue.
After another 35 m (at the intersection of Myles Avenue & Yorston Street) continue straight, to head along Myles Avenue.
After another 20 m continue straight, to head along Myles Avenue.
After another 110 m continue straight, to head along Myles Avenue.
After another 5 m (at the intersection of Myles Avenue & Bonarius Street) continue straight, to head along Myles Avenue.
After another 80 m (at the intersection of Myles Avenue & Biddabah Avenue) continue straight, to head along Myles Avenue.
After another 40 m (at the intersection of Myles Avenue & Wellings Street) continue straight, to head along Myles Avenue.
After another 70 m (at the intersection of Myles Avenue & Aurora Court) continue straight, to head along Myles Avenue.
After another 50 m (at the intersection of Myles Avenue & Coane Street) continue straight, to head along Myles Avenue.
After another 120 m (at the intersection of Myles Avenue & Vennard Street) continue straight, to head along Myles Avenue (a residential road).
After another 40 m (at the intersection of Myles Avenue & Indiana Close) continue straight, to head along Myles Avenue.
After another 70 m (at the intersection of Myles Avenue & Harrison Street) continue straight, to head along Myles Avenue.
After another 55 m (at the intersection of Vermont Place & Myles Avenue) turn right, to head along Vermont Place.
After another 135 m find the "Vermont Place Park" (on your right).
Vermont Place Park, at the end of Vermont Place in Warners Bay, is an open grassed park surrounded by native forest. The park has a children's playground, picnic table, a shelter and water fountain (water may not be available).
After another 60 m pass the playground (on your right).
After another 20 m continue straight, to head along The Great North Walk.
After another 70 m continue straight, to head along The Great North Walk.
After another 120 m continue straight, to head along The Great North Walk.
After another 210 m continue straight, to head along The Great North Walk.
After another 70 m continue straight, to head along The Great North Walk.
After another 125 m continue straight, to head along The Great North Walk.
After another 30 m continue straight, to head along The Great North Walk.
After another 35 m (at the intersection of The Great North Walk & Hillsborough Firetrail) continue straight, to head along The Great North Walk.
After another 90 m continue straight, to head along The Great North Walk.
After another 350 m continue straight, to head along The Great North Walk.
After another 85 m continue straight, to head along The Great North Walk.
After another 60 m continue straight, to head along The Great North Walk.
After another 170 m continue straight, to head along The Great North Walk.
After another 60 m cross the ford.
Veer right, to head along The Great North Walk.
After another 190 m (at the intersection of The Great North Walk & SImon and Dom Trail) veer left, to head along The Great North Walk.
After another 1.1 km head down the earthen steps (about 10 m long)
After another 85 m head down the earthen steps (about 8 m long)
After another 15 m turn left.
After another 185 m continue straight.
After another 45 m cross the ford.
Continue straight.
After another 110 m continue straight.
After another 15 m continue straight.
After another 25 m continue straight.
After another 20 m veer right.
After another 260 m head down the steps (about 35 m long)
After another 125 m turn right.
After another 800 m turn right, to head along Anjon Street.
After another 75 m (at the intersection of Patricia Avenue & Anjon Street) turn left, to head along Patricia Avenue (a highway|tertiary).
After another 210 m continue straight, to head along Patricia Avenue.
After another 30 m veer right.
After another 3 m continue straight, to head along Lincoln Street.
After another 30 m continue straight, to head along Lincoln Street.
After another 55 m continue straight, to head along Lincoln Street.
After another 35 m (at the intersection of Lincoln Street & Carl Close) continue straight, to head along Lincoln Street.
After another 20 m (at the intersection of Ferris Street & Lincoln Street) veer right, to head along Ferris Street.
After another 20 m pass the picnic table (35 m on your right).
After another 10 m pass the "Anniversary Grove" (4 m on your right).
Then find the "Charlestown Park" (30 m on your right).
'Charlestown Park', by the Pacific Highway in Charlestown, offers a picnic table, shelter, barbeque and war memorial. Charlestown Park is also known and signposted as 'Anniversary Grove'.
After another 15 m pass the "Charlestown Oval" (15 m on your left).
After another 15 m continue straight, to head along Ferris Street.
After another 15 m continue straight, to head along Ferris Street.
After another 15 m (at the intersection of Ferris Street & Pacific Highway) continue straight, to head along Ferris Street.
After another 15 m (at the intersection of Dudley Road & Pacific Highway) continue straight, to head along Dudley Road (a road).
After another 10 m continue straight, to head along Dudley Road.
After another 20 m continue straight, to head along Dudley Road.
After another 25 m continue straight, to head along Dudley Road.
After another 110 m pass the car park (about 70 m ahead).
At the intersection of James Street & Dudley Road turn left, to head along James Street (a highway|tertiary).
After another 9 m continue straight, to head along James Street.
After another 90 m (at the intersection of James Street & Smith Street) continue straight, to head along James Street.
After another 140 m (at the intersection of James Street & Dickinson Street) continue straight, to head along James Street.
After another 40 m continue straight, to head along James Street.
After another 180 m (at the intersection of Moto Street & James Street) turn left, to head along Moto Street.
After another 25 m continue straight, to head along Moto Street.
After another 15 m (at the intersection of Kaleen Street & Moto Street) turn right, to head along Kaleen Street (a residential road).
After another 230 m (at the intersection of Kaleen Street & Wakal Street) continue straight, to head along Kaleen Street.
After another 170 m (at the intersection of Kaleen Street & Biraban Street) continue straight, to head along Kaleen Street.
After another 180 m (at the intersection of Kaleen Street & Bula Street) continue straight, to head along Kaleen Street.
After another 240 m (at the intersection of Guna Street & Kaleen Street) turn right, to head along Guna Street (a road).
After another 30 m (at the intersection of Kaleen Street & Guna Street) turn left, to head along Kaleen Street.
After another 95 m (at the intersection of Kaleen Street & Chester Close) continue straight, to head along Kaleen Street.
After another 65 m turn left.
After another 8 m continue straight.
After another 65 m continue straight.
After another 130 m veer right.
After another 55 m cross the ford.
Continue straight.
After another 95 m continue straight.
After another 45 m cross the ford.
Continue straight.
After another 45 m continue straight.
After another 420 m continue straight.
After another 60 m continue straight.
After another 20 m cross the bridge (about 6 m long)
After another 6 m continue straight.
After another 155 m cross the ford.
Continue straight.
After another 35 m continue straight.
After another 130 m continue straight.
After another 45 m veer left, to head along Fernleigh Track.
After another 85 m head through the bicycle barrier.
After another 10 m veer right, to head along Fernleigh Track.
After another 10 m (at the intersection of Burwood Road & Fernleigh Track) turn right, to head along Burwood Road (a road).
After another 15 m pass a seat (9 m on your right).
After another 120 m pass the waterfall (20 m on your left).
Turn left.
After another 85 m find the "Yuelarbah car park" (on your right).
Yuelarbah car park on Burwood Rd, Kahibah is the starting point to a number of walking and MTB tracks within the Glenrock State Conservation Area. There is a sheltered information sign with historical and natural heritage information. There are about 25 parking bays, and a mobility parking bay.
After another 20 m head through/around the gate.
Then pass the "NPWS Cycling Noticeboard" (4 m on your right).
After another 4 m (at the intersection of Yuelarbah Walking Track & De Luge) turn left, to head along Yuelarbah Walking Track (a walking track).
After another 20 m cross the bridge (about 35 m long)
After another 55 m find the "Trip Hazard" (5 m on your right).
Between the gravel path and timber boardwalk is a 5cm step, 1.5m wide.
After another 120 m find the "Picnic Table" (5 m on your left).
A timber slat picnic table and bench seat. The table is 85cm high, 75cm deep and 2.1m wide. The seats are 54cm high, 29cm deep and 2.1m wide (no backrest). The seat is found about 10m down a rough track (with 13cm step), from the main path.
After another 315 m veer left, to head along Yuelarbah Walking Track.
Then cross the bridge (about 35 m long)
After another 10 m find the "Flaggy Creek picnic area" (40 m on your left).
The Flaggy Creek picnic area, is an unsignposted picnic area on the northern side of Flaggy Creek, near the suspension bridge. There are two picnic tables on a large concrete slab. There is a rough track that leads down to the cascades on the creek. There is also a warning sign saying that the creek water may be contaminated from sewerage overflow and swimming is not advised.. It is, however, a very pleasant spot to enjoy the quiet and peacefull valley.
After another 10 m find the "Picnic Table" (30 m on your left).
Two timber slat picnic tables with bench seats. The tables are 79cm high, 93cm deep and 2.1m wide. The seats are 44cm high, 30cm deep and 2.1m wide (no backrest). The tables are on a large paved flat area.
Veer right, to head along Yuelarbah Walking Track.
After another 155 m (at the intersection of Yuelarbah Walking Track & Yuelarbah Trail) continue straight, to head along Yuelarbah Walking Track.
After another 85 m pass the waterfall (15 m on your right).
After another 100 m cross the bridge (about 10 m long)
After another 6 m pass the waterfall (9 m on your right).
After another 65 m continue straight, to head along Yuelarbah Walking Track.
After another 20 m find the "Leichhardts Lookout" (5 m on your right).
Leichhardts Lookout is within the Glenrock State Conservation Area. This lookout is a timber platform, looking east across Glenrock Lagoon and out to the ocean. Leichhardts Lookout is named after Ludwig Leichhardt a Prussian naturalist and explorer who, in 1842, described the view down into Glenrock Lagoon as well as other important geological sightings in the area.
After another 1.2 km continue straight.
After another 30 m continue straight.
After another 9 m find the "Glenrock Lagoon & Reserve" (6 m on your right).
The Glenrock Lagoon is within the Glenrock State Conservation Area and has a rich history. It was named for 'Glen' meaning narrow valley and 'rock' because of the rocky nature of the valley. The site was first occupied by the local aboriginals of the Awabakal Tribe, who were known to roam and hunt in the Glenrock Lagoon, with evidence near the mouth of the lagoon. The Awabakal Tribe had a large sacred cave, which was filled with paintings, however, these paintings are now gone. Glenrock was the site of the first coal deposits found in Australia. Deep in the valley, there are remnants of the early Colliery. Coal was mined at Glenrock for over 100 years - a good example of this is Smelters Beach, just north of the lagoon exit, which contains historic rail tracks in the cliff side. The Scout camp was established here in 1932, with a 99 year lease and continues today.
After another 360 m come to the viewpoint (80 m on your left).
After another 700 m pass the sign (60 m on your left).
Continue straight.
After another 1.2 km pass the car park (40 m on your left).
Continue straight, to head along Great North Walk Bathers Way.
After another 20 m pass the picnic table (8 m on your left).
After another 5 m pass a seat (30 m on your right).
After another 20 m continue straight, to head along Great North Walk Bathers Way.
After another 15 m pass a seat (35 m on your right).
After another 45 m pass the toilet (15 m on your left).
After another 10 m find the "Merewether Baths" (on your right).
Merewether Baths, located off Henderson Parade in Merewether, have a long history of swimming for the people of Newcastle. The baths are open to the ocean and therefore conditions will be variable. There are toilets, some shelter and seats available here. The baths are open year round (subject to maintenance and cleaning) and are patrolled from 9am to 5pm from 25 September 2010 to 25 April 2011. The current baths were opened in 1935 , to replace the original baths just to the north. Both the original and newer baths are used year round.
At the intersection of Bathers Way & Great North Walk Bathers Way continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 10 m pass the shelter (5 m on your left).
After another 8 m pass a seat (35 m on your right).
After another 15 m pass the picnic table (20 m on your left).
Continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 10 m veer left, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 25 m pass the picnic table (15 m on your left).
After another 30 m continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 85 m pass the picnic table (20 m on your left).
Continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 4 m continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 3 m continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 15 m pass the toilet (10 m on your left).
After another 20 m pass the "Merewether Surf House" (7 m on your left). This restaurant is wheelchair accessible.
Swell cafe is located right on the beach (with the Merewether Surf Lifesaving Club above it) and just off John Parade in Merewether. Swell cafe offers fresh juices, cafe food, a toilet and water.
After another 10 m pass the toilet (6 m on your left).
Continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 2 m continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 15 m pass the water tap (10 m on your left).
After another 7 m continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 40 m continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 160 m continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 10 m continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 70 m continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 20 m continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 20 m pass the picnic table (on your left).
After another 35 m continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 2 m continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 25 m pass the shelter (60 m on your left).
After another 30 m pass the BBQ (55 m on your left).
Continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
Then pass the shelter (45 m on your left).
After another 30 m continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 25 m pass the "Dixon Park Beach" (on your left).
After another 15 m continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 9 m pass the shelter (45 m on your left).
After another 9 m continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 20 m find the "Dixon Park and Dixon Park SLSC" (6 m on your right).
Dixon Park and the Dixon Park SLSC are located in the middle of Bar beach in Merewether. Dixon Park has a large open grassed area, sheltered picnic tables, barbeques, a children's playground, toilets and tap water. The open space of Dixon Park is often used for hangliding or kite flying.
Continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 20 m pass the picnic table (on your right).
After another 20 m pass the toilet (20 m on your left).
Then pass the car park (35 m on your left).
After another 5 m continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 15 m pass a seat (5 m on your right).
After another 15 m turn right, to head along Bathers Way.
Then pass a seat (9 m on your left).
After another 45 m pass the car park (30 m on your left).
After another 35 m pass the picnic table (20 m on your left).
Continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 220 m turn right, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 9 m continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 80 m pass the water tap (4 m on your right).
Continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 35 m pass the picnic table (5 m on your right).
After another 55 m pass the shelter (4 m on your right).
After another 25 m pass the car park (20 m on your left).
Continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 15 m pass the picnic table (5 m on your right).
After another 60 m pass the shelter (5 m on your right).
After another 10 m continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 25 m pass the shelter (5 m on your right).
After another 20 m pass the "Empire Park" (20 m on your left).
Continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 115 m pass the picnic table (15 m on your right).
Continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 35 m pass the picnic table (15 m on your right).
Continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 40 m pass a seat (on your right).
After another 35 m pass the shelter (20 m on your right).
After another 5 m pass the picnic table (25 m on your right).
After another 35 m pass the car park (on your left).
Continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 15 m pass the car park (60 m on your left).
Continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 25 m pass the shelter (25 m on your right).
Then pass a seat (20 m on your left).
After another 7 m continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 20 m pass a seat (35 m on your left).
After another 20 m continue straight.
After another 30 m come to the viewpoint (20 m on your right).
After another 15 m continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 25 m pass the "Bar Beach Car Park" (on your left).
After another 150 m continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 200 m turn right.
Then head down the steps (about 8 m long)
After another 40 m head down the metal steps (about 9 m long)
After another 50 m head down the metal steps (about 70 m long)
After another 25 m pass the water tap (on your left).
Then cross the bridge (about 320 m long)
Then pass the "Shepherds Hill" (15 m on your left).
After another 10 m come to the viewpoint (on your right).
After another 305 m continue straight.
After another 9 m continue straight.
After another 15 m pass a seat (on your right)., has no backrest.
Then find the "Strzelecki Lookout" (7 m on your right).
Strzelecki Lookout, atop the hill, is named in honor of the Polish geologist and explorer whose chemical analyses and research into coal deposits from 1839-45 influenced the development of the region. Wonderful views of the coastline south are available here and if you are lucky, you will see a hanglider taking off.
Then head through the bollard.
After another 15 m turn right.
After another 20 m pass the park.
Turn right.
After another 50 m (at the intersection of High Street & Bathers Way) veer left, to head along High Street.
After another 10 m (at the intersection of Memorial Drive & High Street) turn right, to head along Memorial Drive (a road).
After another 6 m (at the intersection of Cliff Street & High Street) turn right, to head along Cliff Street (a residential road).
After another 9 m turn right.
After another 10 m turn left, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 110 m continue straight, to head along Bathers Way.
After another 15 m continue straight.
After another 10 m continue straight.
After another 25 m find the "Shepherds Hill" (55 m on your right).
Shepherds Hill is located just south of King Edward Park (off The Terrace in Newcastle). Shepherds Hill is an exposed headland with wonderful views along the coastline. During World War Two, Shepherds Hill was home to gun emplacements, pits, a 100 metre-long tunnel and observation posts. The gun was designed to be a discrete, hard-to-spot weapon which would contract downwards, below its parapet to be reloaded. Shepherds Hill also housed a World War Two radar station. Shepherds Hill is named after a survey report that called it ‘Sheep Pasture Hill’ after its resemblance to English countryside. Hang-gliding is also very common from the hilltop.
After another 6 m pass the car park (on your left).
After another 10 m continue straight.
After another 15 m continue straight.
After another 55 m continue straight.
After another 120 m continue straight.
After another 25 m pass the playground (15 m on your right).
Then pass the toilet (20 m on your right).
Then pass the shelter (25 m on your right).
Turn left.
After another 20 m pass the BBQ (on your right).
After another 20 m pass the "King Edward Park Fountain" (about 15 m ahead).
Then find the "King Edward Park" (30 m on your right).
King Edward Park is a large hilly park with established trees, abutting the ocean just 500m from the centre of Newcastle. King Edward Park has toilets, barbeques, a children’s playground, an historic water fountain and flower gardens. King Edward Park was once referred to as the ‘lungs of Newcastle’ as it supplied a natural parkland in contrast to the increasing urbanization of the nineteenth century.
Turn left.
After another 80 m turn right.
After another 15 m turn left.
After another 10 m turn right, to head along Reserve Road.
After another 45 m (at the intersection of Wolfe Street & Reserve Road) turn left, to head along Wolfe Street (a residential road).
After another 9 m turn right.
After another 8 m veer right.
After another 70 m pass the picnic table (80 m on your left).
After another 8 m find the "The Obelisk" (75 m on your left).
This white stone monument sits above the city of Newcastle, on a green grassy knoll. The Obelisk Park is popular and gives views across the Lower Hunter Plains. The Obelisk was first erected in 1850, to replace the windmill that had stood there before it. The Obelisk was erected to act as a navigational aid for ships. On the grassy knoll is a water fountain and a large sundial.
After another 90 m continue straight.
After another 30 m continue straight.
After another 20 m turn right.
After another 25 m pass the car park (15 m on your right).
At the intersection of Newcomen Street & Ordnance Street veer left, to head along Newcomen Street (a residential road).
After another 240 m pass the car park (60 m on your right).
At the intersection of Newcomen Street & Tyrrell Street continue straight, to head along Newcomen Street.
After another 225 m pass the "Cathedral grounds" (60 m on your left).
Then pass the car park (about 80 m ahead).
Turn right.
After another 9 m continue straight.
After another 2 m continue straight.
After another 165 m pass the car park (70 m on your right).
Turn left.
After another 9 m continue straight.
After another 9 m continue straight.
After another 1 m continue straight.
After another 120 m pass the "Bolton Street Car Parking Station" (20 m on your left). This car park is wheelchair accessible.
After another 25 m pass the "Bolton Street Pantry" (6 m on your right).
Turn right.
Then pass the "Kitami King Street" (about 55 m ahead).
Then pass the car park (about 75 m ahead).
Then pass the "The HUMBLE" (about 75 m ahead).
Turn left.
After another 9 m continue straight.
After another 10 m pass the "Good Brother" (25 m on your right).
Turn left.
After another 7 m pass the "Xtraction Espresso" (20 m on your left).
After another 115 m pass the car park (35 m on your right).
After another 65 m pass the "The Residency" (6 m on your right).
Then pass the "G&G Gelato" (15 m on your right).
Continue straight.
After another 1 m continue straight.
After another 7 m turn left, to head along Hunter Street.
After another 9 m (at the intersection of Bolton Street & Hunter Street) turn right, to head along Bolton Street.
After another 10 m pass the pay phone (about 15 m ahead).
Turn left.
After another 9 m pass the "Cirque" (40 m on your right).
Continue straight.
After another 50 m pass the "Porky’s Nest" (5 m on your right).
After another 30 m pass the "Fruit A Peel" (5 m on your right).
After another 25 m pass the "Valerie’s Pizza" (20 m on your left).
Continue straight.
After another 10 m continue straight.
After another 7 m turn left.
Then pass the pay phone (on your right).
After another 10 m pass the "Ground Floor" (15 m on your left).
After another 15 m pass the "Subway" (15 m on your left).
After another 20 m pass the "Basement on Market Street" (20 m on your left).
After another 35 m pass the "Neighbours" (15 m on your left).
Continue straight.
After another 5 m turn left, to head along Scott Street.
After another 3 m turn right.
After another 4 m continue straight.
After another 7 m continue straight.
After another 7 m pass the picnic table (25 m on your left).
Veer right.
After another 8 m pass the shelter (about 25 m ahead).
Turn left.
After another 9 m continue straight.
After another 25 m pass the "Signal Box" (15 m on your right).
Continue straight.
After another 9 m continue straight.
After another 8 m continue straight.
After another 3 m continue straight.
After another 25 m find the "Queens Wharf" (5 m on your left).
Queens Wharf is on the Newcastle harbour, just minutes from the centre of Newcastle. The Queens Wharf Tower is over 40m in height and open to the public. From the top of the tower, you are able to see up to 20km in all directions, particularly up and down the coastline (Note that the tower is closed in bad weather). Queens Wharf Tower, was built in 1988 and opened by Queen Elizabeth II to mark the Australian Bicentenary. The Tower was built to mark the spot where the city meets the park and the sea. Queens Wharf is home to a number of restaurants and a bar, and there is a raised pedestrian footbridge from the tower into Hunter Street Mall shops. There is a ferry service across the harbour to Stockton, which gives good views back to across the water to Newcastle City. For more information contact the Newcastle Visitor Information Centre on 02 4974 2999.
Then pass the "Great North Walk".
Then pass a seat (about 6 m ahead).
Then pass the water tap (20 m on your right). This water tap is wheelchair accessible.
Then pass a seat (about 35 m ahead).
Then pass the toilet (45 m on your right).
Then pass the car park (50 m on your right). This car park is wheelchair accessible.
Turn sharp left.
Then pass a seat (7 m on your right).
After another 20 m continue straight.
After another 20 m pass a seat (30 m on your right).
Continue straight.
Then pass the "Six Degrees Bar & Restaurant" (9 m on your left).
After another 40 m pass the "Cielo Italiano" (10 m on your left).
Then pass the car park (about 25 m ahead). This car park is wheelchair accessible.
Turn right.
After another 55 m pass the shelter (on your right).
Then pass the picnic table (8 m on your right).
Then pass a seat (20 m on your right).
Turn left.
After another 45 m come to a seat.
About 45 m past the end is a park.
About 75 m past the end is "Scratchley's Restaurant". This restaurant is wheelchair accessible.
The end.
Heaton Gap to Newcastle
Grading
Class 3/6
Moderate track
Length
40.3 km
Time
11 h to 2 days
Quality of track
Formed track, with some branches and other obstacles (3/6)
Gradient
Short steep hills (3/6)
Signage
Directional signs along the way (3/6)
Infrastructure
Limited facilities, not all cliffs are fenced (3/6)
Experience Required
Some bushwalking experience recommended (3/6)
Weather
Storms may impact on navigation and safety (3/6)
Some facilities on route
Entity|rest area: There is one 9.3 km from the start.
Shelter: There are 17 on route, on average they are 2.2 km apart with the largest gap of 20.5 km.
Toilet: There are 9 on route, on average they are 4 km apart with the largest gap of 15 km.
Seat: There are 22 on route, on average they are 1.8 km apart with the largest gap of 19 km.
Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers about the Upper Hunter, slight chance elsewhere. The chance of a thunderstorm in the morning and afternoon. Light winds becoming east to southeasterly 15 to 20 km/h in the early afternoon then becoming light in the evening. Daytime maximum temperatures 27 to 33.
UV Alert: Sun protection 8:40am to 5:00pm, UV Index predicted to reach 11 [Extreme]
Wednesday 1 January
17°C → 32°C
Mostly sunny. 20% chance of rain
Partly cloudy. Slight chance of a shower, most likely in the afternoon and early evening. The chance of a thunderstorm. Light winds becoming northwest to northeasterly 15 to 20 km/h in the late afternoon then becoming light in the evening. Overnight temperatures falling to between 15 and 18 with daytime temperatures reaching 29 to 35.
Thursday 2 January
18°C → 24°C
Shower or two. 50% chance of rain 0 → 3mm
Cloudy. Medium chance of showers, most likely in the morning and afternoon. The chance of a thunderstorm. Winds south to southeasterly 20 to 30 km/h. Overnight temperatures falling to between 16 and 19 with daytime temperatures reaching the low to mid 20s.
Friday 3 January
17°C → 25°C
Cloudy. 30% chance of rain 0 → 1mm
Cloudy. Slight chance of a shower in the morning and afternoon. Winds south to southeasterly 15 to 20 km/h tending east to southeasterly during the morning then becoming light during the evening. Overnight temperatures falling to between 13 and 17 with daytime temperatures reaching 24 to 29.
Saturday 4 January
16°C → 30°C
Sunny. 10% chance of rain
Sunny.
Sunday 5 January
18°C → 35°C
Mostly sunny. 20% chance of rain
Mostly sunny.
Monday 6 January
19°C → 37°C
Possible shower. 40% chance of rain 0 → 1mm
Closed areas: Kenny's Trail Glenrock SCA Closed Area: Kenny's Trail, Glenrock State Conservation Area.
Kenny's Trail will be closed from Gun Club Road down to the Easement Trail while improvements and maintenance works are being carry out.
Kenny's Trail will be closed from 16th December 2024 up to the end of February 2025, dependent on weather
For the safety of contractors please follow and respect any signage and safety measures in place.
Using the track during works will cause damage and delay the reopening of the track. Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, contact the local NPWS office 02 4946 4100
Closed areas: Sugarloaf SCA Some parts of Sugarloaf State Conservation Area will be closed from Wednesday 23 October to Saturday 14 December 2024 while Road Maintenance is occurring. The closed areas are:
Closed areas: Parts of Sugarloaf State Conservation Area closed Parts of Sugarloaf State Conservation Area are closed for approved underground mining operations. The affected areas (see map) have been closed to protect visitor safety, because they're subject to subsidence and remediation activities from the mining operations.
Great North walk remains open. An update will be provided should this situation change.
If you're visiting the park, please be aware of subsidence and pollution incidents that took place in 2013, which were greater than what was expected from normal mining operations. These included a cliff fall in the north, and a subsidence and grout leak incident in the central part of Sugarloaf State Conservation Area.
If you're planning to visit the park during this time, please stay on formed tracks and trails and observe all barriers, warning signs and safety messages. Areas subject to possible cliff fall or subsidence in both areas of the park are clearly marked.
For more information, call the NPWS Lower Hunter area office on 02 4946 4100. NSW National Parks safety page.
Bushwalk
11 h to 2 days
Entity|rest area: There is one 9.3 km from the start.
Shelter: There are 17 on route, on average they are 2.2 km apart with the largest gap of 20.5 km.
Toilet: There are 9 on route, on average they are 4 km apart with the largest gap of 15 km.
Seat: There are 22 on route, on average they are 1.8 km apart with the largest gap of 19 km.
Glenrock State Conservation Area alerts
Map
Notes
Terrain
Reviews
Conditions
More
After another 30 m head down the wooden steps (about 5 m long)
Then find the "Watagan Forest Motel" (about 15 m ahead).
Then pass the picnic table (about 25 m ahead).
After another 2 km continue straight, to head along Brunkerville Trail.
After another 40 m head through the tunnel (about 90 m long)
After another 175 m pass the "Eddie Peterson Memorial Park" (6 m on your left).
After another 25 m head up the steps (about 15 m long)
Then cross the bridge (about 30 m long)
After another 10 m find the "Teralba Station Carpark" (25 m on your right).
After another 275 m pass the water tap (25 m on your right).
After another 25 m pass the playground (30 m on your left).
After another 60 m cross the ford.
After another 85 m head through the bicycle barrier.
After another 120 m pass the waterfall (20 m on your left).
After another 20 m head through/around the gate.
Then pass the "NPWS Cycling Noticeboard" (4 m on your right).
After another 55 m find the "Trip Hazard" (5 m on your right).
After another 20 m find the "Leichhardts Lookout" (5 m on your right).
After another 30 m pass the BBQ (55 m on your left).
Then pass the "Shepherds Hill" (15 m on your left).
