Take a step back in history as well as a walk through nature. At the beginning of the Scotts Point to Riverside Park trail, you'll find a visitor information shelter that shows some reproductions of 1860s botanical drawings by the Scott sisters, the daughters of one of the island's first European settlers.
The trail follows the north arm of the Hunter River. It's an easy walk or you can jump on a bike. There are two rest spots with picnic tables - one at Scotts Point and the other at your final destination, Riverside Park.
Once you're there, you might want to get out your fishing line. There's a jetty here - the only deepwater one between Newcastle and Raymond Terrace - that's popular for recreational fishing.
If you're an early riser, dawn around here is spectacular. The water is so still, it's like a mirror, and the birds are actively fishing and foraging on the river foreshore.
Take a virtual tour of Scotts Point Way to Riverside Park trail captured with Google Street View Trekker.
Grade 2 (Easy) -Â
A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the
AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.
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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: Hunter Wetlands National Park.
To Scotts Point Way. Scotts Point to Riverside Park trail is in the Ash Island precinct of Hunter Wetlands National Park. To get there from Newcastle:From the Pacific Highway, turn onto the Ash Island Bridge.On the other side of the bridge, turn left and drive along Scotts Point Way.Park at the end of Scotts Point Way near the information sign Park entry points Scotts Point Way See on map Parking Parking is available on Scotts Point Way.
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.
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: Beresfield, Fletcher, Hexham, Kooragang, Lambton, Maryland, Mayfield, Newcastle, Sandgate, Shortland, Waratah
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.
Gallery
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Looking for more walks in or near Hunter Wetlands National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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