Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience the unique hanging swamps and wet heathlands of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park on the Salvation Loop Trail, just a stone's throw from the nearest town, Ku-Ring-Gai Chase, in New South Wales. This 4km circuit, graded as moderate, offers bushwalkers a glimpse into the thriving ecosystem of plants like sphagnum moss, sword grass and swamp banksia. Ideal for nature enthusiasts or a family outing, the trail starts and ends at the same point, with the option to extend your adventure via the Wallaroo walking track. Don't forget to pack a picnic to enjoy at the Salvation Creek picnic area.

Length:

4km

Duration:

1.5 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 0m

Min elevation: 0m

Total Ascent: 0m

Start: Salvation Loop Trail

End: Salvation Loop Trail

Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

New South Wales

Nearby town: Ku-Ring-Gai Chase

From state capital: 41.7km

Latitude: -33.62564278

Longitude: 151.2608551

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Hike overview

A delightful, easy walking track through unique hanging swamps off West Head Road in the middle of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, Salvation loop trail offers a perfect outing for the family and a brilliant walk for nature enthusiasts who want to experience the wet heathlands of the park.
Skirting the edge of the hanging swamp and wet heathland, notice how the vegetation changes. Only plants that don't mind getting their feet wet can thrive here. You'll see sphagnum moss, sword grass and the green-flowering swamp banksia. Coral and pink swamp heath are dotted through the heathland.
On close inspection, you might discover the insect-eating sundew plant, which catches small insects with its velcro-like mitts. If you want a longer walk, take the turn off to Wallaroo walking track, or simply continue on the loop and walk back along the road. Lay out a picnic lunch on the tables at Salvation Creek picnic area.
Take a virtual tour of Salvation loop trail captured with Google Street View Trekker.

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Walk map and GPX file
Salvation Loop Trail Walk (4km)

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.

To Salvation loop trailhead. Salvation loop trail is in the West Head precinct of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.To get there:Follow West Head Road for 3.5kmThe walk begins on the left just past Salvation Creek picnic area Park entry points Salvation loop trailhead See on map Parking Parking is available near the start of Salvation loop trail on West Head Road, or at nearby Salvation Creek picnic area.

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.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Akuna Bay, Bayview, Berowra, Berowra Heights, Bobbin Head, Church Point, Davidson, Elanora Heights, Frenchs Forest, Gordon, Hornsby, Ingleside, Manly, Mona Vale, Mosman, Mount Colah, Newport, North Narrabeen, North Sydney, North Turramurra, Pittwater, Pymble, St Ives, Terrey Hills, Wahroonga, Warrimoo, Warringah

About the region

Located in Sydney's north, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park combines important history with scenic beauty, making it perfect for school excursions. Bobbin Head is a great place for a family picnic, and parts of the park are ideal for cycling, fishing and bushwalking.

Australia's second-oldest national park, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is a recreational favourite for locals and visitors alike. This large park, in Sydney's north, lets you feel at one with nature without leaving the Sydney metropolitan area. A heritage-listed park, it combines important history with scenic beauty.

Winding creeks and stretches of ocean meet rainforest and eucalypts, rocky cliffs and mangroves. Camp at The Basin or spend your time exploring walking tracks, mountain biking trails, breathtaking lookouts and significant Aboriginal sites. You'll still have plenty of time to discover its marinas, cafes, kiosks and well-equipped picnic areas."

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Track grade

Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.

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

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Salvation Loop Trail Walk (4km)

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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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Salvation Loop Trail Walk (4km)