The Blue Gum Track offers up stunning forest scenery, a waterhole, and picnic spot, all tucked away within the northern suburbs of Sydney.

 

We acknowledge that this adventure is located on Kuring-gai Nation, the traditional land of the Darramuragal people who have occupied and cared for this land for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them as the Traditional Custodians and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

Highlights

  • Hundreds of old blue gum trees
  • A gorgeous blue waterhole
  • A short and easy walk

Blue Gum Track And Beyond

In a part of Sydney where lots of bush walks comprise narrow trails through dense, shoulder-high scrub, the Blue Gum Track stands out as an easy and navigable route.

Deep in the Berowra Valley, it’s a short walk along a broad management trail, lined on both sides by scores of native hardwood trunks that reach upwards of 40 metres high.

 

 

Whether you take the train to Hornsby station or park the car on Rosemead Rd and begin in the park at the end of the street, the track is easy to find using the large signs pointing to Fishponds. From the Rosemead Rd Park, follow the winding, sandy track to a junction at the crest of the hill.  

Now enjoy the magical atmosphere of a shady stroll for the next 600 metres under a soaring canopy. The ground is covered with emerald bracken ferns that lend the spot rainforest charm.

At another signposted junction, follow the track for half a kilometre to Fishponds. A large rock with a fenced lookout gives a limited view of the water, so follow the narrow trail to the right of the fence down to the stepping stones. 

Here you can explore all around the ponds, including a large pool that receives plenty of sun just beyond the flowing part of the waterhole.

Unfortunately, unsanitary stormwater runoff and several tragic accidents have meant that swimming here is now banned. But there’s nothing stopping you from enjoying the view from the water’s edge.

As with so many walks in this region, the Blue Gum Track and Fishponds are connected to a network of other trails. Signs for the Great North Walk to Galston Gorge or a steep ascent to Quarry Rd in Dural offer opportunities to extend the walk if you choose. 

You can also continue to follow the Blue Gum Track around the 4km loop which lands you at Ginger Meggs Park before a short walk back up the road to Rosemead Rd Park. 

Otherwise, if you’re short on time simply enjoy this easy and peaceful hike on its own.

Read more: Remember to leave no trace!

Essential Gear

  • Hiking shoes
  • Water
  • Camera
  • Opal card if catching the train
  • A picnic to enjoy by the Fishponds waterhole

How To Get There

From the western side of Hornsby Station, follow the signs to the Great North Walk along Dural St and Quarry Rd before descending several flights of steep sandstone steps that end in the reserve at the end of Rosemead Rd. The trailhead is around a 25 minute walk from Hornsby station.

If you’re travelling by car, park at the end of Rosemead Rd, a cul-de-sac leading into the reserve where you’ll find signposts to the track.

Skill Level

Beginner

Distance Covered / Duration

Fishponds: 2.4km return / 1-1.5 hour

Whole Blue Gum Track loop: 4km / 2.5 hours