Hornsby & Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park

Water activities & picnic spots

Heritage-listed Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is the second oldest national park in Australia. Explore the rainforests and mangroves sitting by stretches of ocean, and discover significant Aboriginal sites. Make the most of scenic waterside picnic spots such as Apple Tree and Bobbin Head. 

Those who like water sports such as kayaking, boating and fishing will love spending the day at Berowra Valley National Park's Berowra Creek and there are free barbecue facilities, including picnic tables at nearby Crosslands Reserve.

Bobbin Head, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

Hiking & mountain biking

Both national parks contain sections of the Great North Walk, a 250km trail from Sydney to Newcastle created to mark Australia's bicentenary of the First Fleet arrival. Berowra track follows the creek and Ku-ring-gai track begins at Cowan station, two stops northeast of Hornsby station. Another popular option is the America Bay Walking Track, a 1.8km stroll that takes in Aboriginal engravings, a waterfall and ends with a stunning vista of Cowan Water. 

America Bay Walking Track, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

If you'd rather tackle less challenging trails, try the Place of Winds Interpretative Trail, which starts and ends at Crosslands Reserve, or the Aboriginal Heritage Walk, which starts at the stunning West Head Lookout and leads to the tucked-away Resolute Beach. Before setting out on any kind of bushwalking trail, it‘s important to read these bushwalking safety tips.

Resolute Beach, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

For those who prefer two wheels to two legs, take the exhilarating cycling route through Ku-ring-gai Chase which begins at Mount Colah station, just five minutes by train from Hornsby. The Hornsby Mountain Bike Trail is also near the station and is made up of 6km of track through picturesque bushland for beginners and more advanced riders.

Hornsby Mountain Bike Trail, Hornsby

Eat & drink

You’re spoilt for choice with cafes, restaurants, and shops near Hornsby station, so you can BYO lunch. If you’re heading up on a Thursday, stop by the Hornsby Organic Markets to pick up some fresh produce and cater your own picnic in the national park.

If you’re looking for something a little more luxe, you can’t go past Berowra Waters Inn or Cottage Point Inn. Both restaurants serve award-winning cuisine, but to make it memorable leave the car at home and take a seaplane from Rose Bay to either restaurant for a waterside dining experience like no other.

Berowra Waters Inn, Berowra waters

Getting there

It’s easy to reach Hornsby via public transport, trains regularly depart from the city centre or Strathfield . If you prefer to drive, take the M1 or M2 motorway from the city centre, it should take you just under an hour.