A brilliant walk when the weather warms up, Waratah walking track delights with heady scents and a colourful display that's sure to put a spring in your step. This track takes in the western area off West Head Road through heathland, with lovely water views over Yeomens Bay in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.
It's perfect for a day trip, so don't forget to pack a picnic lunch as the track leads through sandy heath dotted with boronia and waratahs. Stop and enjoy the scenic water views down to Akuna Bay and Yeomens Creek. Near the end of the walk, a large rock shelf brims with islands of wildflowers.
Unroll the picnic rug and enjoy a snack while soaking up the escarpment view overlooking Yeomens Bay and Coal and Candle Creek. When you've had your fill of scenery and wildflowers, retrace your steps.
Take a virtual tour of Waratah walking track captured with Google Street View Trekker.
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.
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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: Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.
Waratah walking track starts at number 2 post in the West Head precinct of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. To get there, follow West Head Road. Parking Parking is available near number 2 post on West Head Road.
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: 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."
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