Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore the captivating beauty of New South Wales on the Forest Walking Track in Crowdy Bay National Park. This 1.5km moderate-grade trail, starting and ending at Indian Head Rd, offers a delightful walk through lush rainforest, native woods, and rare kangaroo grass, home to the green catbird and the bower bird. Located near Diamond Head, the track is perfect for a quick 45-minute bushwalk, revealing stunning wildflowers, Christmas bells, and three types of banksias during summer. Regardless of age, this trail guarantees a unique and enjoyable experience for all bushwalkers.

Length:

1.5km

Duration:

45 mins

Grade:

Style:

One Way

Max elevation: 0m

Min elevation: 0m

Total Ascent: 0m

Start: Indian Head Rd

End: Indian Head Rd

Crowdy Bay National Park

New South Wales

Nearby town: Diamond Head

From state capital: 348km

Latitude: -31.7246448

Longitude: 152.7949256

Overview

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Hike overview

Forest walking track explores the lush rainforest, woods and native grasses of Crowdy Bay National Park. This short track, on the western side of Indian Head, will delight all ages and shows why this coastal park is so special.
You'll pass through lush rainforest with glossy ferns. Listen for the distinct call of the green catbird and you might glimpse a bower bird among the foliage. Towering turpentines give way to she-oaks and three different types of banksias.
Winding down towards the creek, the path opens up to grasslands, including delicate ground orchids and rare kangaroo grass. In summer, gorgeous Christmas bells and wildflowers pop up through the dunes.
Begin this walk from either Indian Head or Diamond Head campgrounds. Retrace your steps or join Diamond Head loop and take in the sweeping ocean views.
Take a virtual tour of Forest walking track captured with Google Street View Trekker.

Tips

It's a good idea to put sunscreen on before you set out and remember to take a hat and take plenty of water
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to birdwatch
Toilets and picnic facilities are located at both Indian Head and Diamond Head campgrounds

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
Forest Walking Track (1.5km)

Do you have a GPX file for this hike? Feel free to email it to me so I can add it to this hikes info.

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Gallery

Got any photos from this hike? Your photos can help others plan. Share shots from along the trail so fellow hikers know what to expect.

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Crowdy Bay National Park.

Indian Head campground is in the northern section of Crowdy Bay National Park. Access is via Diamond Head Road. Parking Parking is available at Indian Head or Diamond Head campgrounds.

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

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

Crowdy Bay National Park in the North Coast region
Crowdy Bay National Park is always open 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: Bonny Hills, Camden Head, Coopernook, Crescent Head, Dunbogan, Harrington, Kendall, Kew, Kundle Kundle, Lake Cathie, Laurieton, Moorland, North Haven, Taree

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 Crowdy Bay National Park? 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.

Reviews
Forest Walking Track (1.5km)

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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
Forest Walking Track (1.5km)