Trail summary
Hike overview
This pleasant walk explores the rural valleys and a beautiful section of Jilliby State Conservation Area. Starting at Ourimbah Valley Trackhead you walk into Hidden valley along the dirt road to then follow a trail beside Ourimbah Creek to Stringy Bark Point. This is a pleasant mossy area with many ferns and near a wide sandy section of Ourimbah Creek. A bit further on you cross Ourimbah Creek then walk up the ridge to the dirt Tooheys Road. After turning off the old Tooheys Rd the Great North Walk leads along a narrow track and across the mossy and delightful Dead Horse Creek. The track then meanders through a heath and scribbly gum forest to Cherry Lane. After about a 1.5km road slog this walk leads you to a GNW trackhead on Great Rd.
Download maps and tracknotes for Ourimbah Valley Trackhead to Greta Road hiking track from wildwalks.com.
Map and 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.
Photo gallery
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 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.
About the region
Located near Central Coast, Jilliby State Conservation Area is a popular place for 4WD touring, mountain biking, horse riding and long bush walks through the forest. Explore many of the trails throughout the landscape and when you feel like a rest, set up a picnic at any of the two picturesque picnic areas located at Muirs lookout or Stoney Ridge. From Muirs lookout, scenic views stretch out to Lake Macquarie and Lake Munmorah, with a glimpse of the coastline and Bird Island in the far distance.
Suggest an edit
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 Jilliby State Conservation Area or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
Let someone know
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.
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
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.