Old Great North Road - World Heritage walk features a historic convict-built, some in chains, road overlooking the Hawkesbury River, in Dharug National Park. Returning via Finchs Line, this moderately steep track is popular with families and history buffs with some bushwalking experience.
Starting on Devines Hill loop, you'll pass the quarry, with historic graffiti carved in the rocks by convicts long gone. You can almost hear the sound of picks striking the blocks and the clinking of leg irons. Marvel at the craftsmanship of the beautifully preserved stonework that includes towering stone buttresses, culverts and even a curved wall. Unpack a picnic along the way and soak up the tranquil bush setting with scenic river views. Round off your day with a night under the stars at Mill Creek campground, only a short drive away.
Download the Convict Road app to learn about the hardships of the convicts who constructed the road. The app features two walks, short films about the convict experience, and expert commentary. Learn more about the World Heritage listing of Old Great North Road.
Take a virtual tour of Old Great North Road - World Heritage walk captured with Google Street View Trekker.
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.
The weather in this area can be extreme and unpredictable, so please ensure you're well-prepared for your visit.
Bikes need to be walked down Devines Hill and the walking track section of Finchs Line.
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.
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Leave a trip plan
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.
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Dharug National Park.
To Devines Hill loop trackhead. Old Great North Road – World Heritage walk starts at Devines Hill, 500m west of Wisemans Ferry, in Dharug National Park. To get there:From GosfordFollow the signs to Wisemans FerryDrive along Wisemans Ferry RoadPass the ferry crossing and drive approximately 500m to the bottom of Devines HillFrom SydneyFollow the signs to Wisemans FerryDriving along Old Northern RoadDrive through the town of Wisemans Ferry and cross the Hawkesbury River on the Wisemans FerryTurn left and drive approximately 500m to the bottom of Devines Hill or alternatively, park on the southern side and take the ferry over on foot. Park entry points Devines Hill loop trackhead See on map Parking Parking is limited near Devines Hill and Finchs Line, especially on weekends. It’s recommended to park at Wisemans Ferry and travel across the ferry as a pedestrian.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Accommodation nearby
Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: Berowra, Berowra Heights, Bilpin, Cattai, Galston, Glenorie, Grose Vale, Hawkesbury Heights, Hornsby, Kurrajong, Little Hartley, Lower Portland, Maroota, Mount Irvine, Mount Kuring-gai, North Richmond, Richmond, St Albans, Windsor, Wisemans Ferry
About the region
The Dharug National Park is a protected national park that is in the Central Coast region of New South Wales, in eastern Australia. The 14,850-hectare national park is situated approximately 58 kilometres north of the Sydney central business district and 25 kilometres west of Gosford.
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