Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: The Browns Forest loop trail in the Dalrymple-Hay Nature Reserve of St Ives, New South Wales, is a charming 1.3km circuit walk, rated Grade 3 for moderate difficulty. Only a short 22.1km trip from Sydney CBD, this trail takes you through a stunning forest of blue gums and blackbutts, rich with birdlife and blooming with native flowers in spring. Starting and ending at 115 Rosedale Rd, this 45-minute walk is perfect for families, birdwatchers, and nature-lovers alike.

Length:

1.3km

Duration:

45 mins

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 0m

Min elevation: 0m

Total Ascent: 0m

Start: 115 Rosedale Rd

End: 115 Rosedale Rd

Dalrymple-Hay Nature Reserve

New South Wales

Nearby town: St Ives

From state capital: 22.1km

Latitude: -33.73658167

Longitude: 151.159215

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Hike overview

If you've ever wondered what Sydney looked like before the city took over, then head to Browns Forest loop trail, in the North Sydney suburb of St Ives. Immerse yourself in unspoilt bushland within Dalrymple-Hay Nature Reserve by taking advantage of its short and easy walking track. Just 30 minutes north of the CBD, it's ideal for birdwatching enthusiasts, nature-lovers and botanists, and is a great walk for kids.
You'll enter a forest of majestic blue gums and magnificent blackbutts that hark back to pre-colonial times with a lush understorey of ferns. Following the clearly signposted path, the kids will enjoy the self-guided series of interpretation signs.
In the spring, the ground cover of native flowers, such as the blue flax lily and pastel flower, burst into a colourful display. Any time of year, you'll hear the chatter of birds such as rainbow lorikeets, crimson rosellas and king parrots echoing through the bush.

Tips

Remember to take your binoculars if you want to go birdwatching
It's a good idea to wear insect repellent and long-sleeved clothing, as ticks are known to be present in the area.

Visit NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for more information on this trail.

The longitude and latitude of the start and end points are approximately only and should not be used for navigation purposes. Please contact me if you know the correct coordinates.

Track grade

Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.

Walk map and GPX file
Browns Forest Loop Trail Walk (1.3km)

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Gallery

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Dalrymple-Hay Nature Reserve.

To Rosedale Road. Browns Forest loop trail is in Dalrymple-Hay Nature Reserve. To get there from Sydney:Drive north from the CBD along Pacific Highway, turn right onto Mona Vale Road, just past Gordon, and continue for 2km.Turn right onto Rosedale Road, just north of St Ives shopping centre, and drive for 1km.Look for the sign to the reserve, park at the southern end and walk in. Park entry points Rosedale Road See on map Parking Parking is available along Rosedale Road, and at a small carpark off Mona Vale Road.

Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

Dalrymple-Hay Nature Reserve in the Sydney and surrounds region
Dalrymple-Hay Nature Reserve is open sunrise to sunset but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

Find a place to stay

Find Accommodation

Wondering where to stay near this hike? Find accommodation close to the trailhead — hotels, cabins and campgrounds nearby. Click the button to view the interactive map.

Closest towns to this walk: Griffith, Hanwood, Lake Wyangan, Tharbogang, Yenda

Let someone know

Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Dalrymple-Hay Nature Reserve? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.

Packing checklists

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.

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Browns Forest Loop Trail Walk (1.3km)

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Acknowledgement of Country

Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Tips

Track grade

Walk map and GPX file
Browns Forest Loop Trail Walk (1.3km)