Hike at a Glance
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Hike overview
Starting on Hawke Head Drive this walk explores the southernmost ridge in Bouddi NP. The walk provides excellent views over Woy Woy Broken Bay Hawkesbury River and the Tasman Sea. It takes in spectacular views over Lion Island and Pearl Beach from the many rocky outcrops along the Box Head ridge.
Amble along the park's most southern ridge, taking in breathtaking water views over the Tasman Sea and Hawkesbury River as you go. Beginning at the end of Hawke Head Drive, Box Head track alternates between rugged bushland and open windswept heath.
Keep your eye out for hidden treasures as you walk - an assortment of birdlife flits amongst the red gums and the rocky outcrops host a variety of moss and dwarfed trees.
You'll find clifftop patches offering panoramas, particularly at the end of the track from Box Head lookout, where you'll enjoy fantastic views over Tallow Beach, Little Tallow Beach, Broken Bay, Lion Island and Sydney's northern beaches. The track is joined by Flannel Flower walking track and Tallow Beach trail, which descends to Tallow Beach campground.
Take a virtual tour of Box Head track captured with Google Street View Trekker.
Download maps and tracknotes for Box Head Track hiking track from wildwalks.com.
Gallery
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Content use
Please don’t copy GPX files or content from this site to AllTrails or other platforms. Each trail has been personally mapped, documented, and refined to support Australia’s bushwalking and hiking community. While some details come from land managers, every listing reflects significant personal effort. This is a free, community-driven initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.
Walk map and GPX file
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Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Bouddi National Park.
To Tallow Beach carpark. Box Head track begins at the locked gate at the end of Hawke Head Drive in the Tallow Beach precinct of Bouddi National Park. To get there:From Gosford, follow Central Coast Highway towards ErinaTurn right onto Avoca Drive and continue through KincumberTurn right at Empire Bay DriveTurn left onto Wards Hill RoadTurn right onto The Scenic RoadTurn left onto Nukara Avenue, then take the second left to Hawke Head Drive. Park entry points Tallow Beach carpark See on map Parking Parking is available on Hawke Head Drive.
Closest towns to this walk: Copacabana, East Gosford, Ettalong Beach, Gosford, Hardys Bay, Killcare, North Avoca, Patonga, Pearl Beach, Pretty Beach, Umina Beach, Wagstaffe, Woy Woy
About the region
Bouddi National Park is located near Gosford on the New South Wales Central Coast. You'll find several great walks, as well as opportunities for camping, swimming and fishing. Bouddi National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Bouddi National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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.
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.
Let someone know
Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure
Suggest an edit
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
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.