Trail summary

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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 3 (Moderate)

Style: One Way

Start: Indian Head Rd

End: Indian Head Rd

Location: Crowdy Bay National Park

State: New South Wales

Nearby town: Diamond Head

From state capital: 348km

Latitude: -31.7246448

Longitude: 152.7949256

Hike Overview

Map and GPX file

Directions

Photos

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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.

Map and GPX file

Forest Walking Track (1.5km)

Share your GPX file

Looks like I don’t have a GPX file for this trail yet. If you have one you’d be willing to share, please email it to me so we can help other hikers have a safer, easier time out there. I’ll double-check each file to make sure it aligns with official tracks and topo maps before adding it to this hike. Thanks so much for helping build an even better hiking resource.

Getting there

Forest Walking Track (1.5km)

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.

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If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.

A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.

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.

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.

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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.

Similar trails nearby

Looking for things to do in Crowdy Bay National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.

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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans

Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.

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Forest Walking Track (1.5km)

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Gear to consider

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe

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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.

Trail summary

Hike overview

Tips

Map and GPX file

Forest Walking Track (1.5km)