Grade 1

Matcham to Gosford Hike (8.5km)

Katandra Reserve

New South Wales

8.5km

4 hrs

Grade 4

One way

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Hike at a glance

Quick overview: Explore the breathtaking Katandra Reserve on the 8.5km Matcham to Gosford hiking trail. This Grade 4 trail promises an exhilarating challenge, abundant with diverse plant communities and stunning vistas over the surrounding towns and waters. Despite its proximity to local houses, the trail offers secluded sections, perfect for bushwalkers seeking tranquillity. Remember to pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the several lookouts along the way.

Hike length

Average duration

Trail Difficulty

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Technical details

Max elevation: 0m
Min elevation: 0m
Total Ascent: 0m

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Grade 4 (hard) badge

Steep, rough, and demanding
These are challenging walks suited to experienced hikers. Expect sustained climbs, rough and uneven terrain, and longer distances.

Tracks may be less defined, and signage can be limited, so navigation awareness is important. These walks require good fitness, confidence on difficult terrain, and the ability to manage fatigue over time.

Safety note: Fatigue, poor navigation, or a sudden weather change can turn a hard walk into a serious situation.

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Small oversights can compound quickly in Australian conditions. See how it happens in the Interactive Safety Scenarios. Then refer to the Hiking Safety Systems, planning calculators, and make sure a trusted contact has your trip plan before heading out.

Before you go, complete a trip intentions form and share it with a trusted contact. Agree on a Late-Back Time and ask them to call 000 (Police) if you have not checked in. A clear trip plan is one of the simplest and most effective safety steps you can take.

Register your plans here →

Download the hiking preparation and safety checklists before leaving home to help you think through your plans. They help ensure important considerations are not overlooked and support safer decision-making on the trail.

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

Get there with Google Maps

Find hotels, cabins, and campgrounds near the trailhead. Click the button below to open an interactive map automatically centred on this hike's location — no searching required.

Find Accommodation

Or browse accommodation in nearby towns: Bunyip, Cudgen, Kanyapella, Katandra, Katandra West, Kingscliff, Koonoomoo, Merrigum, Murwillumbah, Numurkah, Shepparton, Strathmerton, Tallygaroopna, Tatura, Tocumwal, Toolamba, Tungamah, Tuppal, Tweed Heads, Violet Town, Waaia, Wunghnu, Yalca, Yarrawonga, Yarroweyah

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Your photos can help others plan. Share shots from along the trail so fellow hikers know what to expect.

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The map below shows the rain forecast for the trail area. Tap the toggle in the top right corner to explore other layers including wind, temperature, UV index, thunderstorms, fire danger, and weather warnings — all useful for planning a safe hike.

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Matcham to gosford hike (8. 5km) trail hiking australia

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.

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