Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Discover the picturesque Mooney Mooney nature walk in the heart of Brisbane Water National Park, NSW. This challenging 4.2km, grade 4 hike winds through a diverse landscape of rainforest, grassy woodlands, and rocky overhangs, with rewarding views from the Piles Creek suspension bridge. Perfect for birdwatchers and wildflower enthusiasts, this trail offers potential sightings of lyrebirds, kookaburras, koalas and a colourful array of springtime blooms.

Length:

4.2km

Duration:

1.5 hrs

Grade:

Style:

One Way

Max elevation: 0m

Min elevation: 0m

Total Ascent: 0m

Start: 453 Old Pacific Hwy

End: 453 Old Pacific Hwy

Brisbane Water National Park

New South Wales

Nearby town: Mooney Mooney Creek

From state capital: 67.9km

Latitude: -33.44196833

Longitude: 151.2551517

Overview

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Hike overview

Mooney Mooney nature walk links Mooney Mooney and Girrakool, leading through some of the most picturesque parts of Brisbane Water National Park. This challenging walk passes through diverse landscapes, including rainforest, grassy woodlands, waterfalls, casuarina forest and cave-like rocky overhangs. Climbing steeply, perfectly positioned lookouts offer the chance to rest and take in the exquisite NSW Central Coast views. Crossing the scenic Piles Creek suspension bridge, pause to soak up serene views in all directions. In spring, you'll see carpets of colourful wildflowers, including red darwinias, yellow acacias and orange banksias. If you're keen on birdwatching, you'll love having the opportunity to see lyrebirds and kookaburras. Observant walkers may even spot a koala or two, along with native orchids clinging to moss-covered boulders.
You can also start this walk from the Girrakool end of the track.

Tips

This walk involves creek crossings, and passes over and under rock platforms which can be slippery. Please take care and supervise children at all times.
The weather in this area can be extreme and unpredictable, so please ensure you're well-prepared for your visit.

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.

Gallery

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Walk map and GPX file
Mooney Mooney Nature Walk (4.2km)

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Brisbane Water National Park.

Begin your walk at the Mooney Mooney end of the track. To get there from Gosford:Travel to Somersby and follow Old Pacific Highway south towards SydneyTravel over the F3 and follow Old Pacific Highway downhill for about 2kmAfter the sharp corner, turn left into the small, unsealed informal parking area – it’s near the Brisbane Water National Park sign, about 400m before Mooney Mooney Creek.The track begins from Old Pacific Highway at the gate to Mooney trail Parking Parking is available at Girrakool picnic area, including designated disabled parking. Informal parking is also available at the intersection of Old Pacific Highway and Mooney trail. It can be a busy place on the weekend, so parking might be limited.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: East Gosford, Ettalong Beach, Gosford, Holgate, Horsfield Bay, Kariong, Koolewong, North Gosford, Pearl Beach, Saratoga, Umina Beach, Woy Woy, Wyoming

About the region

Brisbane Water National Park in the Sydney and surrounds region
Two picnic areas within the park close of an evening: Girrakool picnic area is open 9am to 5pm every day Somersby Falls picnic area is open 8am to 8pm during daylight savings and is open 8am to 5pm at other times Other areas of Brisbane Water National Park will be open at all times, however may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Brisbane Water National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Track grade

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.

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

Reviews
Mooney Mooney Nature Walk (4.2km)

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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.

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

Tips

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Mooney Mooney Nature Walk (4.2km)