If you are looking for a day of bushwalking close to Sydney, the Mooray walking track in Heathcote National Park is a rewarding choice. Just a short stroll from Waterfall train station, this 5 kilometre grade 4 hike offers a mix of rugged terrain and moments of quiet beauty. Allow around three hours to complete the walk at a steady pace, giving yourself time to enjoy the surroundings rather than rush through.
The track leads you through the varied landscapes of south-west Sydney, with open heathland stretching across the national park. It is a trail that suits walkers who already have some bushwalking experience, as the terrain can be challenging in parts, but the effort is well worth it. Along the way you may catch sight of kingfishers darting across the creek line or honeyeaters calling from the trees, making it a popular spot for birdwatchers.
If you can plan your walk in spring, you will be treated to the spectacle of native wildflowers. Banksias, grevilleas and hakeas transform the bush with splashes of colour and a fragrance that fills the air, creating a vivid backdrop to your walk. The track is well signposted, starting from Warrabin Street trail, and guides you deeper into the park before reaching Heathcote Creek.
Once at the creek, you can retrace your steps or extend the outing by joining the Bullawarring walking track, which leads you towards Kingfisher Pool picnic area. A swim here is a welcome way to cool off after a few hours on the trail. For those who prefer to linger a little longer, the Kingfisher Pool campground provides a peaceful spot to pitch a tent and enjoy a weekend immersed in the bush.
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Grade 4 (Hard) -
Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the
AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
Total distance: 5478 m
Max elevation: 234 m
Min elevation: 125 m
Total climbing: 238 m
Total descent: -238 m
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Getting to the trailhead: Heathcote National Park.
To reach the Mooray walking track, start from Waterfall and turn right onto Kooraban Street. After the ramp, take another right onto Warabin Street and continue to the end, where you’ll find parking along the northern section of the street. From there, walk in along the Warabin Street trail for about 700 metres until you reach the signposted Bullawarring walking track. Follow this for roughly 2.5 kilometres before turning right onto Mooray walking track, which completes the loop back towards Waterfall.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Heathcote National Park, tucked beside Waterfall in southern Sydney, is a place that rewards those looking for a more self-sufficient bushwalking or camping experience. Unlike some of the larger and busier reserves, Heathcote feels quieter and more rugged, with a character shaped by sandstone ridges, thick bushland, and the clear waters of Heathcote Creek. The park is easy to reach by train or car, yet once you are on the trail the city feels distant, replaced by the sounds of birdlife and the crunch of leaves underfoot. It is a favourite spot for hiking, mountain biking, and swimming in freshwater pools, making it a natural choice for a daytrip or an overnight walk.
The walking tracks here take you deep into the Australian bush, with paths that lead past rocky outcrops, shaded gullies, and hidden pools that invite a refreshing dip. For those keen to extend their time in the park, bush camping at Kingfisher Pool offers a chance to spend the night surrounded by the quiet of the creek and the bush. At the northern end of the park, the track to Mirang Pool provides a shorter option that is equally rewarding, with its tranquil picnic area set right by the water. Facilities throughout the park are limited, which adds to its appeal for walkers who prefer the simplicity and independence of carrying what they need and finding solitude along the way.
Heathcote’s landscapes change subtly with the seasons, and there is something to notice at any time of year. In spring, the gullies light up with the striking red blooms of Gymea lilies, their tall stalks standing out against the sandstone slopes. Summer days bring opportunities to swim in the deeper pools along Heathcote Creek, while the cooler months are perfect for longer walks, when the crisp air carries the scent of eucalyptus and the trails are at their most inviting. This is a park that offers more than just a walk in the bush; it provides a genuine sense of being away from it all, while still being surprisingly close to Sydney.
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: Barden Ridge, Como, Engadine, Heathcote, Loftus, Lucas Heights, Menai, Miranda, Sutherland, Waterfall
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.
Looking for more walks in or near Heathcote National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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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.
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.
