Browns Forest loop trail is a 1.3km, grade 3 circuit hike, located in the Dalrymple-Hay Nature Reserve, New South Wales. The hike should take approximately 45mins to complete.

Hike Summary

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.

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.

Getting there

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.

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.