Rainforest walk to Riverside Park is a 2km, grade 3 hike located in Hunter Wetlands National Park, New South Wales. The hike should take around 1.25 hours to complete.
Hike overview
Variety is the spice of this excellent walk from the western side of Ash Island, through its interior, finishing at the picnic area by the river. Stroll through wetlands and rainforest before arriving on the edges of Kooragang City Farm. Here, you'll see vegetable and bush food gardens, egrets and ibis feeding in the fields and historic silos that are part of the island's farming past. You'll also pass the ruins of Milham's Farmhouse, established here in the 1860s.
You'll soon arrive at Riverside Park, where you can go fishing off the jetty, look out over the mangroves and relax at the picnic area. The birdlife around the river is worth observing through a set of binoculars. Sea eagles soar overhead, pelicans float past, and cormorants can be seen hanging out their wings to dry.
Route and GPX file
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Tips
It's a good idea to put insect repellent on before you set out
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to birdwatch
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.
Trail location
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Getting there
To Scotts Point Way. Rainforest walk to Riverside Park is in the Ash Island precinct of Hunter Wetlands National Park. To get there from Newcastle:Head north along the Pacific Highway towards HexhamCross the Ash Island Bridge then turn left onto Scotts Point WayPark at the end of Scotts Point WayThe walk commences to the right Park entry points Scotts Point Way See on map Parking Parking is available on Scotts Point Way.
Gallery
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About the region
Just a short drive from Newcastle is Hunter Wetlands National Park, a wildlife sanctuary with family-friendly walking, cycling, fishing and birdwatching. It's hard to believe Hunter Wetlands National Park, a haven for nature-lovers, is so close to the city of Newcastle. Pop the kids and their bikes in the car and head to Ash Island, where Riverside Park is just the spot for a picnic and easy cycling €“ or walks if you prefer €“ through rainforests and mangroves. You can also meander to the old World War II radar station or explore the ruins of Milham's Farmhouse.
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Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Let someone know
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
Gear to consider
My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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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.