Western Escarpment walking track winds through an island of unspoiled bushland in Sydney's eastern suburbs. Purpose-built by Randwick City Council and NSW National Parks, the track connects South Maroubra Beach with Malabar and is a vital new link in the iconic Eastern Beaches coastal walkway.
Starting from Arthur Byrne Reserve or Pioneers Park you'll climb the exposed sandstone escarpment. There are seats along the way to stop and soak in the natural beauty. At its highest point, the walk treats you to 3600 views over Malabar Headland, Maroubra Beach, and Botany Bay from a natural sandstone platform.
This protected area teems with bird and animal life. Keep an eye out for red wattlebirds, new holland honeyeaters and blue fairy wrens in the heath. You might spot kestrels and sea eagles searching for prey above, as you walk through the endangered eastern suburbs banksia scrub.
Why not combine your nature walk with a day at Maroubra or Malabar Beach, or picnic at the nearby public parks? For a longer walk, connect with Boora Point walking track in the eastern section of the park (when it's open) for a 5km loop, or continue along the Eastern Beaches coastal walkway.
Please stay on the marked track to protect the sensitive vegetation and avoid hazards.
Bring your binoculars during June and July to spot migrating humpback whales or frolicking seals off the coast.
This walk offers a year-round alternative to Boora Point walking track, which closes when the ANZAC Rifle Range is in use.
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.
Looks like I don’t have a GPX file for this trail yet. If you have one you’d be willing to share, please email it to me so we can help other hikers have a safer, easier time out there. I’ll double-check each file to make sure it aligns with official tracks and topo maps before adding it to this hike. Thanks so much for helping build an even better hiking resource.
Western Escarpment walking track is in the western section of Malabar Headland National Park. To get to Arthur Byrne Reserve carpark from Sydney city:Drive south along Anzac ParadeTurn left onto Fitzgerald Avenue towards Maroubra BeachAt the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto Bernie Kelly DriveThe carpark is at the end of Bernie Kelly DriveTo get to Pioneers Park carpark from Sydney city:Drive south along Anzac Parade, passing through MaroubraPioneers Park is on your left, before you reach MalabarFollow the Pioneers walking track around 350m to the north of the carpark to reach the national park and track head Parking Free parking is available at the south end of Maroubra Beach at Arthur Byrne Reserve carpark. The track head is 50m from the carpark. You can also park at Pioneers Park in Malabar. The track head is 350m from the carpark.
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
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.
Malabar Headland National Park in the Sydney and surrounds region
Eastern section: Often closed because of the ANZAC rifle range operation. Closed every Saturday and every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month. Check local alerts and safety messages before visiting. Western section: Open all year but may close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.
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.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? 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
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.
