Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Take on the challenge of the iconic Great North Walk, a 38km, Grade 5 bushwalking track linking Sydney CBD to Newcastle via the Hunter Valley. Crafted in 1988 for Australia's bicentennial year and meandering through the stunning Brisbane Water National Park, this trail offers breathtaking views, diverse landscapes, and rich wildlife. This rewarding trail is perfect for experienced hikers seeking an overnight adventure. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the spectacular Australian bushland scenery.

Length:

38km

Duration:

2-3 days

Grade:

Style:

One Way

Max elevation: 0m

Min elevation: 0m

Total Ascent: 0m

Start: Hawkesbury Track

End: Hawkesbury Track

Brisbane Water National Park

New South Wales

Nearby town: Patonga

From state capital: 93.8km

Latitude: -33.55135667

Longitude: 151.2791233

Overview

Map

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Hike overview

Built in 1988 to celebrate Australia's bicentennial year, Great North walk is a 250km bushwalking track linking the Sydney CBD with the Hunter Valley and Newcastle. The track passes through a number of national parks, including Brisbane Water National Park (for 34km), and is undoubtedly one of the best walks in NSW.
The walk offers something for everyone. If you're walking with children you can choose an easy section of the track, and if you're feeling energetic you can choose an overnight walk, or a more challenging section to hike. Whichever way you choose to walk this iconic track, you will definitely enjoy spectacular views, a scenic landscape and the sounds of native birds and wildlife.
The sections of Great North walk that are in the park include:
If you can, it's worth taking a couple of days to hike this section to really enjoy the bushland environment and local scenery. Continue your Great North walk exploration by linking with Great North walk - Berowra Valley National Park towards Sydney or continue north along Great North walk - Palm Grove Nature Reserve.

Tips

The Brisbane Water National Park section of the walk ranges from 4.2km up to 34km one way
Great North walk is 250km in total, so plan carefully if you want to walk the entire track

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.

Gallery

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Walk map and GPX file
Great North Walk: Brisbane WaterHike (38km)

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Brisbane Water National Park.

To Patonga. Great North walk – Brisbane Water National Park is in Brisbane Water National Park. To get there:From Umina Beach:Take Patonga Drive towards PatongaAs you enter Patonga, take a left towards the boat ramp or continue on to the wharf.Great North walk starts a short walk from Patonga boat rampAlternatively, if beginning from Wondabyne:Take the train on the Newcastle and Central Coast Line to Wondabyne Train StationCheck out the Transport Info website for more information.Alternatively, if beginning from the north:Exit the F3 at the Central Coast HighwayTurn onto Wisemans Ferry RoadTurn left into Grants RoadTurn right into Reservoir Road and continue for approximately 1kmThe walk starts behind the reservoirs Park entry points Patonga See on map Reservoir Road, Somersby See on map Parking Parking is available in Patonga, either at the wharf in the centre of town or at the boat ramp a short walk away. Parking is also available on Reservoir Road, Somersby.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: East Gosford, Ettalong Beach, Gosford, Holgate, Horsfield Bay, Kariong, Koolewong, North Gosford, Pearl Beach, Saratoga, Umina Beach, Woy Woy, Wyoming

About the region

The Brisbane Water National Park is a protected national park that is in the Central Coast region of New South Wales, in eastern Australia. The 11,506-hectare national park is situated 47 kilometres north of Sydney, 10 kilometres west of Woy Woy, and 12 kilometres southwest of Gosford. The Brisbane Water National Park has two picnic areas within the park close of an evening: Girrakool picnic area is open 9am to 5pm every day Somersby Falls picnic area is open 8am to 8pm during daylight savings and is open 8am to 5pm at other times Other areas of Brisbane Water National Park will be open at all times, however may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Brisbane Water National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Track grade

Grade 5 (Difficult) - Walks for the Most Experienced: Grade 5 represents the most challenging walking tracks on the AWTGS. These are only recommended for very experienced and fit walkers with specialised skills, including navigation and emergency first aid. Tracks are likely to be very rough, very steep, and unmarked. Walks may be more than 20 kilometers. These challenging walks demand a high level of fitness and experience to navigate difficult terrain, significant elevation changes, and potentially unformed paths.

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

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Great North Walk: Brisbane WaterHike (38km)

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Acknowledgement of Country

Great north walk: brisbane waterhike (38km)

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

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Great North Walk: Brisbane WaterHike (38km)