The iconic and much-loved Great North walk is a 250km track that runs between Sydney and Newcastle in NSW. In Palm Grove Nature Reserve, visitors can enjoy a picturesque sample of this walk, making it either a great self-contained bushwalk or part of a bigger walking adventure. The trail's scenic views begin at the end of Kilkenny Road on the Somersby Plateau and finish on Ourimbah Creek Road, Palm Grove.
Meander through open forests dominated by majestic Sydney blue gums, Sydney peppermint, blackbutt, ironbark and turpentine before descending into the cool moist rainforest over a pristine creek, where cabbage tree palms, corkwood, sassafras and giant strangler figs flourish over a carpet of green ferns, vines, shrubs and orchids.
The track is undulating with some small, steep sections and a creek crossing. It's a short, accessible walk that brings you to a beautiful forested area, where you can enjoy birdwatching and wildlife photography. The calls of the frogs that call the area home can be heard throughout the reserve, particularly after heavy rain.
Interpretative signs located along the track provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the plants and animals found along the way and encourage you to explore the environment through your sense of smell, hearing and touch. For a longer section of the walk be sure to try Great North walk - Brisbane Water National Park.
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to go birdwatching.
Check the weather before you set out as a creek crossing on Kilkenny Road is required to get to Palm Grove Nature Reserve.
There is limited/no mobile reception in this park.
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.
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.
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Getting to the trailhead: Palm Grove Nature Reserve.
To Kilkenny Road. Great North walk – Palm Grove Nature Reserve is in Palm Grove Nature Reserve. To get there:From the F3 Freeway, take the Peats Ridge Road exit.Take the first right into Wisemans Ferry RoadTurn right onto Dog Trap Road and then turn left onto Kilkenny RoadFollow to the entrance of Palm Grove Nature ReserveAlternatively, if beginning from Ourimbah Creek Road:From the F3 Freeway, take the Pacific Highway exit for Ourimbah.Head south along Pacific HighwayTake the first right into Ourimbah Creek Road and continue for approximately 9.5km Park entry points Kilkenny Road See on map Ourimbah Creek Road See on map Parking Parking is available at end of Kilkenny Road and Ourimbah Creek Road.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Palm Grove Nature Reserve, near Gosford on the NSW Central Coast, is a great place for frog enthusiasts, birdwatching, photography, picnicking and bushwalking.
Moss-covered boulders, dramatic rainforest ferns and wild bird and frog calls all combine to make Palm Grove Nature Reserve €“ all 240ha of it €“ a magical place for a wilderness escape. It's also an easily accessible getaway, being in the Ourimbah Creek valley, just a few kilometres northwest of Gosford.
This is also a special place for observing unusual and threatened species. In particular, a number of interesting and unusual frogs call the reserve home, including the red-eyed green tree frog and stuttering frog.
One of the highlights of Palm Grove Nature Reserve is the chance to experience a part of the iconic Great North walk, which runs all the way from Sydney to Newcastle. This scenic walking track, with its varied terrain and abundance of wildlife, is a great favourite with those interested in birdwatching, bushwalking and photography.
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: Glenmore Park, Mulgoa, Orchard Hills, Penrith, Warragamba
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.
Looking for more walks in or near Palm Grove Nature Reserve? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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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.
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.
