Gibberagong Track
Darug Country

2 h 15 min to 2 h 30 min

6.4 km
oneway

↑ 106 m
↓ -265 m

Hard track
Starting in suburban Wahroonga, this well-maintained track follows Cockle Creek down to Bobbin Head in the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. There are a number of great waterviews, and two short side trips to add to this venture. The lower section the walk follows a boardwalk, getting up close to the mangrove wildlife. The walk ends at the popular Bobbin Head picnic area and kiosk, giving you the chance to relax and reflect on the journey. Let us begin by acknowledging the Darug people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present. 
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End of Grosvenor St. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Top of Gibbergong track. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Near the top of the Gibberagong Track. | Photo by admin, 2009.
The top part of the Gibbergong track is mostly service trail. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Enjoying the dry forest on the Gibbergong track. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Gibbergong track South of Lovers Jump creek. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Signpost to Bobbin head on Gibbergong track. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Gibbergong track near Lovers Jump creek crossing. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Lovers Jump Creek crossing on Gibbergong track. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Gibbergong track along side the upper Cockle Creek. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Shady forest on the Gibbergong track. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Gibbergong water hole. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Gibbergong water hole. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Sandstone overhang on Gibbergong track. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Track beside cliff. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Gibbergong following Cockle Creek. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Cockle Creek on Gibbergong track. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Gibbergong track south of the Rainforest track. | Photo by admin, 2009.
The Gibbergong track on the flats near Bobbin Head. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Intersection of Gibbergong and Rainforest track. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Rainforest Track. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Bobbin Head Rainforest. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Axe groves site. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Axe Groves. | Photo by admin, 2007.
Track passing through cleft in rock. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Gibbergong track using stone stairs near the end of the boardwalk. | Photo by admin, 2009.
End of the Gibbergong boardwalk. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Up close to the Crabs and Magroves. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Lookout on the boardwalk. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Bridge over Cockle Creek in at Bobbin Head. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Foot bridge at Bobbin Head. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Footpath along Cockle Creek Bobbin Head. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Southern section of Bobbin Head playground and pine trees. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Kiosk at Bobbin Head. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Picnic shelter at Bobbin head. | Photo by admin, 2009.
Downloads GPX PDF

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Safer Bushwalks
Tips on staying safe on track
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.
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Getting There
Transport options and directions
Start At the intersection of Gibberagong Track & Grosvenor Street (-33.6960922,151.126699)
Mode Bus Car (There is free parking available.)
DirectionsFrom Junction Road, Wahroonga.
  • Turn on to Grosvenor Street then drive for 1.6 km
Finish From the Ku-Ring-Gai Chase Road (-33.6596461,151.1591056)
Mode (end) Car Shuttle   Car   (A park entry fee is required for driving into the park.)
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Track Notes
Turn by turn instructions & maps
Getting started
From the very end of Grosvenor Rd (Wahroonga), this walk follows the management trail gently downhill around the locked green metal gate and past the 'No through road' sign. The trail leads through a dip among a scribly gum forest for just over 100m to an intersection with a track (on your left)marked with a 'Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park - Gibberagon Trail sign.....
Turn map Directions & comments
At the intersection of Gibberagong Track & Grosvenor Street Start heading along Gibberagong Track (a vehicle track).
After 50 m head through/around the gate.
After another 75 m (from the Gibberagong Track) veer right, to head along Gibberagong Track.
After another 225 m (from the Gibberagong Track) continue straight, to head along Gibberagong Track.
After another 270 m (at the intersection of Gibberagong Track & Cliff Connection) continue straight, to head along Gibberagong Track.
After another 850 m head down the earthen steps (about 245 m long)
After another 210 m (at the intersection of Gibberagong Track & Lover's Jump Creek) continue straight, to head along Gibberagong Track.
After another 195 m (from the Gibberagong Track) turn left, to head along Gibberagong Track.
After another 65 m cross the ford.
From the Gibberagong Track continue straight, to head along Gibberagong Track.
After another 30 m come to the viewpoint (on your left).
After another 8 m find the "Gibberagong waterhole" (on your left).
Gibberagong waterhole
Gibberagong waterhole

Gibberagong waterhole is an informal name for a wide section of Cockle Creek that run for over 150m north of the confluence with Lovers Jump creek. This secluded and shady spot is a great place to sit and enjoy the waterholes, cascading water and the view to the sandy banks on the other side. If you sit quietly enough you may see lyrebirds scratching through the bush by the creek.
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Gibberagong waterhole is an informal name for a wide section of Cockle Creek that run for over 150m north of the confluence with Lovers Jump creek. This secluded and shady spot is a great place to sit and enjoy the waterholes, cascading water and the view to the sandy banks on the other side. If you sit quietly enough you may see lyrebirds scratching through the bush by the creek.

After another 1.3 km cross the ford.
From the Gibberagong Track continue straight, to head along Gibberagong Track.
After another 670 m cross the ford.
From the Gibberagong Track veer left, to head along Gibberagong Track.
After another 170 m head down the 9 earthen steps (about 10 m long)
The starting point of an optional sidetrip. An optional side trip to Bobbin Head Rainforest. To start this optional side trip turn right here. On returning from this side trip turn right when you get back to this intersection. Details below.
After another 1.1 km (at the intersection of Gibberagong Track & Rainforest Track) continue straight, to head along Gibberagong Track.
After another 25 m find the "Aboriginal Axe Grindings" (6 m on your right).
Aboriginal Axe Grindings
Aboriginal Axe Grindings

This protected site clearly shows 23 oval-shaped grooves that were worn by Indigenous Australian people, making axe heads from hard rock. Using a blank axe head, the Aboriginal people would use this rock platform, with water from the nearby creek, to sharpen the stone into a useful tool. The rubbing ground the axe head to a sharp edge and left behind these tell-tale signs.
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This protected site clearly shows 23 oval-shaped grooves that were worn by Indigenous Australian people, making axe heads from hard rock. Using a blank axe head, the Aboriginal people would use this rock platform, with water from the nearby creek, to sharpen the stone into a useful tool. The rubbing ground the axe head to a sharp edge and left behind these tell-tale signs.

From the Gibberagong Track continue straight, to head along Gibberagong Track.
After another 25 m head up the 6 earthen steps (about 5 m long)
After another 70 m head up the 24 earthen steps (about 25 m long)
After another 150 m head down the stone steps (about 45 m long)
After another 120 m (from the Gibberagong Track) continue straight, to head along Gibberagong Track.
Then find the "Cockle Creek viewing platform" (on your right).
Cockle Creek viewing platform
Cockle Creek viewing platform

Part way along the timber Bobbin Head boardwalk is a partially fenced timber viewing platform. There is a beautiful view over Cockle Creek and a 'Teeming with life' information sign to enjoy. The platform area is 7.3m deep and 3.9m wide.
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Part way along the timber Bobbin Head boardwalk is a partially fenced timber viewing platform. There is a beautiful view over Cockle Creek and a 'Teeming with life' information sign to enjoy. The platform area is 7.3m deep and 3.9m wide.

After another 25 m cross the bridge (about 50 m long)
After another 30 m pass a seat (on your left)., has a backrest.
After another 10 m find the "Seat" (on your right).
Seat
Seat

A timber slat bench seat, 43cm high, 30cm deep and 1.6m wide with a 41cm high backrest. The seat is on concrete beside the track.
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A timber slat bench seat, 43cm high, 30cm deep and 1.6m wide with a 41cm high backrest. The seat is on concrete beside the track.

After another 25 m pass the sign (on your left).
After another 45 m find the "Picnic Table" (8 m on your left).
Picnic Table
Picnic Table

A timber slat picnic table and bench seat. The table is 74cm high, 74cm deep and 2.9m wide. The seats are 40cm high, 23cm deep and 1.8m wide (no backrest). The table is centered on a 3.5x4.5m concrete slab.
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A timber slat picnic table and bench seat. The table is 74cm high, 74cm deep and 2.9m wide. The seats are 40cm high, 23cm deep and 1.8m wide (no backrest). The table is centered on a 3.5x4.5m concrete slab.

Then find the "Picnic Table" (8 m on your left).
Picnic Table
Picnic Table

A series of 3 timber slat picnic tables and bench seats. The tables are 74cm high, 74cm deep and 2.9m wide. The seats are 40cm high, 23cm deep and 1.8m wide (no backrest). The tables are centred on 3.5x4.5m concrete slabs. Access over grass.
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A series of 3 timber slat picnic tables and bench seats. The tables are 74cm high, 74cm deep and 2.9m wide. The seats are 40cm high, 23cm deep and 1.8m wide (no backrest). The tables are centred on 3.5x4.5m concrete slabs. Access over grass.

Turn left.
After another 7 m turn right.
After another 60 m pass the BBQ (20 m on your left).
After another 15 m pass the park (on your left).
After another 15 m continue straight.
After another 50 m veer left.
After another 35 m pass the toilet (30 m on your left).
Then pass a seat (50 m on your right).
After another 10 m continue straight.
After another 40 m pass the playground (10 m on your right).
After another 30 m pass the BBQ (9 m on your left).
After another 65 m pass the shelter (9 m on your left).
Then pass the BBQ (10 m on your left).
After another 25 m pass the toilet (15 m on your left).
Continue straight.
After another 10 m pass the picnic table (15 m on your left).
After another 90 m (from the Ku-Ring-Gai Chase Road) turn left, to head along Ku-Ring-Gai Chase Road (a road).
After another 30 m pass the picnic table (15 m on your right).
After another 10 m find the "Bobbin Head" (20 m on your left).
Bobbin Head
Bobbin Head

Bobbin Head is a historic recreation area which is still popular today, suiting the needs of many people. At the center of the Bobbin Head area is the old 'Bobbin Inn', built in the 1930s - it is now the park information center and cafe. The area is popular with picnickers, boaters, walkers, canoeists, family groups and people who like to fish. Bobbin Head is roughly divided into three sections (north, south and east). Southern Bobbin Head is a popular picnic area for families and large groups. The area is surrounded by a car park and dotted with picnic tables, electric BBQs, shelters and a large playground. There are toilets nearby, and 'The Station' is a sheltered accessible area with BBQ and tables that can be booked NPWS. The northern Bobbin Head (Orchard Park) area is a more formal picnic area. There is a large picnic shelter, surrounded by 14 smaller octagonal shelters, each of these divided into 4 walled-off compartments, ideal for small groups. The eastern side of Bobbin Head is dominated by the Empire Marina and a public wharf. The marina is home to a nice restaurant and public toilets.
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Bobbin Head is a historic recreation area which is still popular today, suiting the needs of many people. At the center of the Bobbin Head area is the old 'Bobbin Inn', built in the 1930s - it is now the park information center and cafe. The area is popular with picnickers, boaters, walkers, canoeists, family groups and people who like to fish. Bobbin Head is roughly divided into three sections (north, south and east). Southern Bobbin Head is a popular picnic area for families and large groups. The area is surrounded by a car park and dotted with picnic tables, electric BBQs, shelters and a large playground. There are toilets nearby, and 'The Station' is a sheltered accessible area with BBQ and tables that can be booked NPWS. The northern Bobbin Head (Orchard Park) area is a more formal picnic area. There is a large picnic shelter, surrounded by 14 smaller octagonal shelters, each of these divided into 4 walled-off compartments, ideal for small groups. The eastern side of Bobbin Head is dominated by the Empire Marina and a public wharf. The marina is home to a nice restaurant and public toilets.

About 20 m past the end is a picnic table.
About 25 m past the end is "National Parks Information Centre".

Mo-Su 10:00-16:00
About 30 m past the end is "Bobbin Inn Cafe".
Bobbin Inn Cafe
Bobbin Inn Cafe

At the centre of Bobbin Head picnic area, in the old 'Bobbin Inn' building, is a cafe offering inside and outdoor dining, and a range of foods and drinks. Food includes fish and chips, wraps, focaccia, sandwiches and snack foods. Tea, coffee and cold drinks are also on offer. Opening hours are 9 - 4pm Mon to Fri (closed Tuesdays) & 9 - 5pm weekends. For more information, phone the cafe on 9457 7170. The NPWS Bobbin Head Information Centre is open 7 days a week (closed Christmas Day) 10 - 4pm (closed 12 - 12:30pm lunch). Ramp access available on the southwestern corner of the building. Ramp access to the information centre through the cafe.
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At the centre of Bobbin Head picnic area, in the old 'Bobbin Inn' building, is a cafe offering inside and outdoor dining, and a range of foods and drinks. Food includes fish and chips, wraps, focaccia, sandwiches and snack foods. Tea, coffee and cold drinks are also on offer. Opening hours are 9 - 4pm Mon to Fri (closed Tuesdays) & 9 - 5pm weekends. For more information, phone the cafe on 9457 7170. The NPWS Bobbin Head Information Centre is open 7 days a week (closed Christmas Day) 10 - 4pm (closed 12 - 12:30pm lunch). Ramp access available on the southwestern corner of the building. Ramp access to the information centre through the cafe.

About 30 m past the end is a car park.
Continue another 0 m to find from the Ku-Ring-Gai Chase Road at the end.

An optional side trip to Bobbin Head Rainforest.
Turn map Directions & comments
At the intersection of Rainforest Track & Gibberagong Track Start heading along Rainforest Track (a walking track).
After another 205 m come to "Bobbin Head Rainforest".
Bobbin Head Rainforest
Bobbin Head Rainforest

A well-protected piece of rainforest is found just a short walk from the popular Bobbin Head picnic area in Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park. The rainforest is distinct when compared to much of the dry eucalypt forests that dominate the area. The rainforest is beside a small creek, just below Bobbin Head Road, and is a safe haven for many birds that frequent the area.
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A well-protected piece of rainforest is found just a short walk from the popular Bobbin Head picnic area in Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park. The rainforest is distinct when compared to much of the dry eucalypt forests that dominate the area. The rainforest is beside a small creek, just below Bobbin Head Road, and is a safe haven for many birds that frequent the area.

Turn around and retrace your steps back the 205 m to the main route.
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Terrain
Know the Hills, grading & facilities

Gibberagong Track


Grading
Class 4/6
Hard track
Length 6.4 km
Time 2 h 15 min to 2 h 30 min
Quality of track Formed track, with some branches and other obstacles (3/6)
Gradient Very steep (4/6)
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
Shelter: There is one 6.2 km from the start.

Toilet: There are 2 on route, on average they are 2.1 km apart with the largest gap of 6.1 km.

Seat: There are 3 on route, on average they are 1.6 km apart with the largest gap of 5.8 km.


Order of key facilities on route
ItemFrom StartName & link to notes
Seat
5.8 km[seat]
Seat
5.9 kmSeat
Seat
6.1 km[seat]
Toilet
6.1 km[toilet]
Shelter
6.2 km[shelter]
Toilet
6.3 km[toilet]
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