Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 0m
Min elevation: 0m
Total Ascent: 0m
Hike overview
Leave suburbia behind as you follow Pipeline and Bungaroo tracks to Stepping Stones Crossing. Starting in St Ives on Sydney's upper north shore, this short walk comprises two adjoining tracks leading to Middle Harbour Creek.
Following Pipeline trail for about 300m before turning left onto Bungaroo track. Immerse yourself in bush and valley views from the lookout before descending steeply between the rocky outcrops, passing banksias, grevilleas and wildflowers in the spring. You'll arrive at the large sandstone steps of Middle Harbour Creek's Stepping Stones where Governor Arthur Phillip camped on his historic first expedition in 1788.
If you feel like pressing on - and it's safe to do so - cross the stepping stones to join another great Sydney walk. From there you can turn right to take the Governor Phillip walk to Davidson Park, or left to join the Middle Harbour track to the Cascades.
Tips
Some tracks in Garigal National Park are used for large events. Check the website for any proposed events that may impact your enjoyment of this walking track.
It's a good idea to put on insect repellent before you set out
Check the weather before you set out as the access trails and the track can become slippery and boggy when it rains.
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to go bird watching
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
Got some great shots from this hike? Upload your photos here to inspire others and show off the beauty of the trail!
Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You can be credited for your contributions, and you can request removal at any time.
Content use
Please don’t copy GPX files or content from this site to AllTrails or other platforms. Each trail has been personally mapped, documented, and refined to support Australia’s bushwalking and hiking community. While some details come from land managers, every listing reflects significant personal effort. This is a free, community-driven initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.
Walk map and GPX file
It looks like I don’t have a GPX file for this trail yet. If you have one to share, please email it to me! I’ll verify it against official maps before adding it to help other hikers have a safer, easier experience. Thanks for contributing to a better hiking resource.
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Garigal National Park.
To Hunter Avenue, St Ives. Pipeline and Bungaroo tracks to Stepping Stones Crossing route is in the western part of Garigal National Park, to get there:From St Ives shopping village, head east on Mona Vale Road then turn right onto Link RoadAt the roundabout, take the second exit to Horace Street.Continue to the next roundabout, then take the first exit onto Hunter Avenue.You’ll find the Pipeline trackhead on the right hand side Park entry points Hunter Avenue, St Ives See on map Parking On-street parking is available nearby on Hunter Avenue, St Ives.
Closest towns to this walk: Allambie Heights, Belrose, Davidson, Forestville, Frenchs Forest, Lindfield, Manly, Manly Vale, Narraweena, North Manly, North Turramurra, Northbridge, Round Corner, St Ives, Terrey Hills, The Entrance, Wahroonga, West Pymble
About the region
The Garigal National Park is a protected national park that is located within the North Shore and Forest District regions of Sydney, New South Wales, in eastern Australia. The 2,202-hectare national park is situated approximately 20 kilometres north of the Sydney central business district.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Garigal National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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.
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
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.
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.