Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore the picturesque Bombala walking track in New South Wales' Glenrock State Conservation Area, just a short trip from Dudley. This moderate, 1km return hike offers captivating Pacific Ocean views, open coastal forests, and a chance to spot migrating whales or dolphins. Featuring a secluded beach perfect for a refreshing swim, a fossilised forest at low tide, and an exciting hang-gliding pad, it's a unique nature getaway near Newcastle.

Length:

1km

Duration:

45 mins

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 0m

Min elevation: 0m

Total Ascent: 0m

Start: Bombala St Track

End: Bombala St Track

Glenrock State Conservation Area

New South Wales

Nearby town: Dudley

From state capital: 146km

Latitude: -32.98561067

Longitude: 151.7257432

Overview

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Hike overview

Winding through Bombala walking track in Glenrock State Conservation Area, you can catch scenic Pacific Ocean views. Descending from the ridge you'll pass open coastal forest. Near Newcastle, it's a great nature getaway with a refreshing swim at a secluded beach as the reward.
Whales migrate through these waters in winter and spring so you can catch the coastal breezes and look for dolphins from the viewing platform along the way. There's also a hang-gliding pad off a section of the track, where you can see thrill-seekers launching themselves over the ocean.
Dudley Beach is a great spot for swimming, fishing or surfing. At the southern end of the beach, you can find a fossilised forest in the rock platform at low tide. You can finish your walk here, or continue along the coastline towards Merewether.
Take a virtual tour of Bombala walking track captured with Google Street View Trekker.

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
Bombala Walking Track (1km)

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Gallery

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Glenrock State Conservation Area.

To Bombala Street access. Bombala walking track is at the southern end of Glenrock State Conservation Area. To get there from Newcastle:Head south along City Road/Pacific Highway to CharlestownTurn right onto Dudley RoadFollow Dudley Road (eventually becomes Ocean Road).Turn left onto Bombala Road and follow it to its end Park entry points Bombala Street access See on map Parking Parking is available at the beginning of Bombala walking track. It can be a busy place on the weekend, so parking might be limited then.

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.

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

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

Glenrock State Conservation Area is a protected conservation area located eight kilometres south of the central business district of Newcastle in the state of New South Wales, on the east coast of Australia.

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: Adamstown, Beresfield, Carrington, Charlestown, Kotara, Merewether, Newcastle

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 Glenrock State Conservation Area? 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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Bombala Walking Track (1km)

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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

Track grade

Walk map and GPX file
Bombala Walking Track (1km)