This walk explores a great section of Sydney Harbour. The walk starts at the Taronga Zoo ferry wharf with views of the Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The spectacular views continue as you explore bushland and the bays along the way. The walk also explores a historic section of the harbour including the fortifications at Bradley's Head and Chowder Bay. Some sections of this walk are closed at night. There are a few places to get food along the way and many great places to eat your own packed lunch.
Download maps and tracknotes for Taronga Zoo to Balmoral Beach hiking track from wildwalks.com.
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Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Sydney Harbour National Park.
Closest towns to this walk: Balmain, Balmoral, Chatswood, Cremorne, Darling Harbour, Darling Point, Darlinghurst, Dee Why, Frenchs Forest, Glebe, Kirribilli, Manly, Mosman, Neutral Bay, North Sydney, Pyrmont, Rose Bay, Rozelle, Sydney, Terrey Hills, Vaucluse, Watsons Bay, Woolloomooloo
Find a place to stay
Wondering where to stay near this hike? Find accommodation close to the trailhead — hotels, cabins and campgrounds nearby. Click the button to view the interactive map.
About the region
Sydney Harbour National Park protects islands and foreshore around Sydney Harbour. Explore Sydney's history on a school excursion or guided tour to enjoy coastal walks, picnics and swimming. Sydney Harbour National Park protects a number of islands and foreshore areas around one of the world's most famous harbours. The park is home to superb swimming spots, bushwalking tracks and picnic areas, which offer a huge range of activities that will have you coming back again and again.
See native wildlife living in rare pockets of bushland once common around Sydney, or take a fascinating walk to explore the park's cultural history. You'll see everything from convict-built buildings and military fortifications to Aboriginal sites and a heritage lighthouse. And with the harbour's staggering coastline creating an endless natural lookout, the park's jaw-dropping views simply have to be seen to be believed. If you're at one of the park's lookouts during winter, be sure to keep a lookout for whales on their annual migration north.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Sydney Harbour National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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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
Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.
Suggest an edit
Notice something different about this trail? Whether it’s a new feature, a route change, or a closure, share your update so we can keep our info accurate and helpful for fellow hikers.