20 Best Hikes Near Sydney

Got some time and want to hit the trails near Sydney? We’ve got a list of the best 20 hikes within a few hours to help you out.

We Are Explorers acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the Countries on which these adventures take place who have occupied and cared for these lands, waters, and their inhabitants for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

Some of these hikes might not be the typical hiking tracks you’ve heard about. That’s probably a good thing, yeah? This list will help you find new spots with even more epic views that surround Sydney.

Some feel like they don’t stop going up until you’re in the clouds and others are family-friendly and accessible by public transport.

It’s time to lace up the boots!

Get the Guidebook: Sydney’s Best Bush, Park & City Walks (Enter code WAE15 at checkout for 15% off!)

1. Evans Lookout to Pulpit Rock Hike

Location: Blue Mountains National Park
Distance: 6.5km return
Duration: 1-2 hours
Time from Sydney: 1 hour 45 minutes
Level of difficulty: Moderate (Grade 4)

Experience the misty mountains of the Grose Valley from Pulpit Rock. Along the way discover the stunning Govetts Leap waterfall, – the Blue Mountain’s best. The Pulpit Rock walk is a must, hike along the cliffs with endless views to one side. Both are especially good at sunrise.

This hike is located on Traditional Country of the Gundungurra and Darug people.

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@lachyjf

2. Kiama Coastal Walking Track

Location: Illawarra Region
Distance: 20km one way
Duration: 6-8 hours
Time from Sydney: 1 hour 50 minutes
Level of difficulty: Moderate

Scramble over a massive coastal rock arch, watch out for whales migrating, and dip your feet in at secluded pebbly beaches. The rolling green hills will make you feel like you’re hours away from the city!

As far as hiking trails go, this one takes the cake for beautiful views, regular beaches, and the chance to spot humpback whales as you hike. The coastal trail can be divided up easily into shorter sections for comfortable day hikes, or tackled all at once.

Caught that coastline bug? Most Beautiful Coastal Walks Near Sydney.

This hike is located on Traditional Country of the Dharawal and Wodi Wodi people.

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@michaelharrisphotography

3. Garie Beach Coastal Cliffs to Semi-Detached Point Hike

Location: Royal National Park
Distance: 6km return
Duration: 2-3 hours
Time from Sydney: 1 hour 5 minutes
Level of difficulty: Moderate

Just south of Sydney you can scramble over boulders below 100m+ cliffs, or take in the view from above on the Coast Track. This smaller section of the Royal Coast Track between Garie Beach Coastal Cliffs and Semi-Detached Point gives you the best of New South Wales coastline.

Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife and enjoy the beautiful beaches along the route.

This hike is located on Traditional Country of the Dharawal people.

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@adrianmascenon

4. The Coast Track (AKA Sydneysider Pilgrimage)

Location: Royal National Park
Distance: 27.4km one-way
Duration: 2 days/overnight
Time from Sydney: 1 hour 20 minutes
Level of difficulty: Hard

The Coast Track is the quintessential Sydney hike. Traipsing along the cliffs of Royal National Park will make you feel lucky to live in Australia’s biggest city.

Not only can you reach the hike by public transport (and a private ferry), it’s also totally doable in a day trip from Sydney if you’re fit. Better start planning!

This hike is located on Traditional Country of the Dharawal people.

Note: Check national park updates before you go, sections of this track have been closed recently for various reasons.

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5. Forest Walk

Location: Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area
Distance: 14km
Duration: 4-5 hours
Time from Sydney: 1 hour 10 minutes
Level of difficulty: Moderate

Only an hour south of Sydney you can hike this epic track, stuffed with panoramic views of the ocean and clifftop lookouts. Navigation can be a bit tricky on this one so it’s better suited to experienced bushwalkers. Check out how the native flora changes as you trek along the Forest Walk.

This hike is located on Traditional Country of the Dharawal and Wodi Wodi people.

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@amy.eloise

6. Glenbrook to Springwood Hike

Location: Blue Mountains National Park
Distance: 20km one way
Duration: 6-7 hours
Time from Sydney: 1 hour
Level of difficulty: Moderate to hard

The 20km hike from Glenbrook to Springwood features stunning wild swimming opportunities and beautiful campsites, all in the foothills of the Blue Mountains National Park right next to Sydney.

Whether you choose an epic day hike or a leisurely overnighter through the bush, you can cut down on faff by catching the train to the start of this hike – no car needed!

This hike is located on Traditional Country of the Gundungurra and Darug people.

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@pearce_m

7. Grand Canyon Track Hike

Location: Blue Mountains National Park
Distance: 6.5km loop
Duration: 2-3 hours
Time from Sydney: 1 hour 50 minutes
Level of difficulty: Moderate to hard

The Grand Canyon track has been one of the best hiking day trips from Sydney for over a century, and it’s not hard to see why. The lush canyon is chock full of ferns that exist in the cool microclimate created by the shade of the canyon walls.

Experienced canyoners can abseil in and access the upper parts of the canyon but if you aren’t a rope expert you can still explore a little way up the Grand Canyon from the other end.

This hike is located on Traditional Country of the Gundungurra and Darug people.

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@wanderer_rachel

8. Wreck Beach Hike

Location: Tomaree National Park
Distance: 3.2km return
Duration: 1-2 hours
Time from Sydney: 2 hours 40 minutes
Level of difficulty: Moderate

Cruise up the Pacific Highway to the end of Port Stephens headland – until you arrive in Tomaree National Park, home to the tranquil and deserted Wreck Beach. Hike in with your picnic and spend the day alternating between sand and surf. Forget the crowds on Bondi Beach, this is one coastal gem where you can enjoy peace and quiet!

Hot tip: bring two towels so one’s always drying.

While you’re there, make sure you climb up Mt Tomaree for a stellar view of the coastline.

This hike is located on Traditional Country of the Worimi people.

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@henry_brydon

9. Donkey Mountain Hike

Location: Wolgan Valley
Distance: 10km (varies depending on route taken)
Duration: 8-10 hours (varies)
Time from Sydney: 2 hours 45 minutes
Level of difficulty: Hard

From the top of Donkey Mountain, you’ll see panoramic views of the unique rock formations that make up the Wolgan Valley. The walk up is a labyrinth of canyons and pagodas – make sure your navigation skills are up to the challenge!

This hike is located on Traditional Country of the Wiradjuri people.

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10. Drawing Room Rocks Hike

Location: Barren Grounds Nature Reserve
Distance: 4.5km return
Duration: 2-3 hours
Time from Sydney: 2 hours
Level of difficulty: Moderate

The Drawing Room Rocks hike is a fantastic day trip from Sydney and the perfect intro to the Shoalhaven. Starting in the lush rainforest, you’ll quickly ascend through drier scrub before reaching the rocky summit.

Intriguing rock formations are perfect for a picnic whilst you take in the view of Seven Mile Beach to the east, Kangaroo Valley to the west, and Jervis Bay to the south.

This hiking trail is located on Traditional Country of the Dharawal people.

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@jonharris_photography

11. Mt Dawson Hike

Location: Wolgan Valley
Distance: 20km return
Duration: 6-8 hours
Time from Sydney: 3 hours 15 minutes
Level of difficulty: Hard

Straddling the ridge atop Mt Dawson you’ll be floored by the sheer size of the Wolgan and Capertee Valleys. The Capertee Valley is a huge valley to the west; flat-topped rocky mountains poke out of the plains, while closer by, jagged cliffs and outcrops dwarf you. There’s even camping available in the Wolgan Valley if you’ve got the time!

Want more overnight hikes? Best Overnight Hikes Near Sydney.

This hike is located on Traditional Country of the Wiradjuri people.

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@rhys.tattersall

12. The Castle Hike

Location: Morton National Park
Distance: 11km return
Duration: 5-7 hours
Time from Sydney: 3 hours 40 minutes
Level of difficulty: Hard

The Castle is a massive rocky outcrop in the Budawangs, just under four hours south of Sydney. It’s a bit of a mission to get down and back in a day, with over 800m of elevation gain to the summit, but the views of Didthul (Pigeon House Mountain) and the surrounding coastline are more than worth it. Camp the night before if you can and consider checking out the Corang Arch while you’re in the national park. 

This hike is located on Traditional Country of the Yuin people.

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@jakeandersonphotography

13. Mount Solitary Hike

Location: Blue Mountains National Park
Distance: 12km return
Duration: 5-7 hours
Time from Sydney: 2 hours 15 minutes
Level of difficulty: Hard

The famous Mount Solitary in Katoomba is usually climbed as part of a multi-day hike, but trail runners and fit hikers often visit and go up and down the mountain in a day. Day-trippers with excellent fitness levels can drive to the trailhead and make it a 24km one-day mission.

This hike is located on Traditional Country of the Gundungurra and Darug people.

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@tim_ashelford

14. Mystery Mountain Summit Hike

Location: Wollemi National Park
Distance: 3-6km (varies depending on route taken)
Duration: 5-6 hours (varies)
Time from Sydney: 2 hours 45 minutes
Level of difficulty: Hard

The triangular mountaintop of Mystery Mountain beckons! Towering over Newnes Campground, this short and sharp scramble takes you 370m above the valley floor, giving you mega views down the valley and a bird’s eye perspective of your mates back at camp.

This hike is located on Traditional Country of the Wiradjuri people.

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@adrianmascenon

15. Jibbon Track Hike

Location: Royal National Park
Distance: 5km loop
Duration: 2-3 hours
Time from Sydney: 1 hour 25 minutes
Level of difficulty: Easy

The Jibbon Track is a short hike down to a peaceful part of the coast where you can swim, snorkel, and explore to your heart’s content. Aboriginal rock carvings and middens from traditional owners show that the area has been well known for thousands of years, yet it’s still quiet enough for people to get their kit off at a nudist beach to the north.

This hike is located on Traditional Country of the Dharawal people.

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@kinkou.creative

16. Bouddi Coastal Walk

Location: Bouddi National Park
Distance: 8km one way
Duration: 3-4 hours
Time from Sydney: 1 hour 30 minutes
Level of difficulty: Moderate

This achievable hiking trail in Bouddi National Park showcases the best of the great outdoors. Starting from Putty Beach, you’ll finish up at Macmasters Beach – the perfect spot to reward yourself with a refreshing swim.

This hike is located on Traditional Country of the Darkinjung people.

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@etchd

17. Barrenjoey Lighthouse Hike

Location: Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park
Distance: 3km return
Duration: 1-2 hours
Time from Sydney: 1 hour 15 minutes
Level of difficulty: Easy

The Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk is an easy hike up to the Barrenjoey Headland and it’s famous lighthouse in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. The track winds through coastal bushland, with breathtaking views of Pittwater, Palm Beach, and beyond. As you ascend, keep an eye out for native wildlife and seabirds. The views only get better at the lighthouse itself – well worth the climb!

This hike is located on Traditional Country of the Guringai people.

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@thetantrap

18. Split Bridge to Manly Hike

Location: Sydney Harbour National Park
Distance: 10km one way
Duration: 3-4 hours
Time from Sydney: 30 minutes
Level of difficulty: Moderate

The Split Bridge to Manly Hike is a scenic coastal walking trail that takes you from the Spit Bridge through Sydney Harbour National Park to busy Manly Beach. This scenic trail features stunning harbour views, secluded beaches, and lush bushland only a stone’s throw from the city.

Along the walking track, you’ll pass historic sites and Aboriginal rock engravings that highlight the rich cultural heritage of the area. The track ends at Manly, where you can fall asleep on the sand after a relaxing dip in the ocean.

This hike is located on Traditional Country of the Guringai people.

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@thetantrap

19. Bondi to Coogee Beach Hike

Location: Eastern suburbs of Sydney
Distance: 6km one way
Duration: 3-4 hours
Time from Sydney: 25 minutes
Level of difficulty: Easy – moderate

The most iconic Sydney coastal walk of them all, the Bondi to Coogee walk begins at the famous Bondi Beach and ends 6km later at the smaller, yet equally stunning Coogee Beach.

With breathtaking panoramic ocean views at every step, it’s easy to see why this is one of the most popular coastal walks in Sydney.

Want more hikes close to home? Best Walks in Sydney.

The trail isn’t flat, but it’s very well maintained, making it the perfect choice for anyone with a reasonable fitness level. Don’t expect to find secluded beaches on this one – it’s popular!

This hike is located on Traditional Country of the Gadigal people.

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Shot by Hamilton Lund, Destination NSW

20. Cronulla to Kurnell Coastal Hike

Location: Southern Sydney
Distance: 34km loop
Duration: 12+ hours
Time from Sydney: 45 minutes
Level of difficulty: Moderate

The Cronulla to Kurnell Coastal Hike offers a scenic journey along the southern shores of Sydney. It showcases stunning views of Botany Bay, rugged cliffs, and sandy beaches. Along the way, visit historical sites such as Captain Cook’s landing place at Kurnell, have a dip, and if you’re lucky, spot a whale!

This can be enjoyed as a challenging loop or an out-and-back.

This hike is located on Traditional Country of the Gweagal and Dharawal people.

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@travelmademedoit_

FAQs Best Hikes Near Sydney

What’s the best month for whale watching off the coast of NSW?

Between May and November is the best time to catch a glimpse of whales on their annual migration. Check out our article about the best whale watching spots near Sydney.

Are there many hikes in Royal National Park?

There are plenty of walking trails and hikes to enjoy in Sydney’s Royal National Park. Once you’ve done one, you’ll want to try them all!

What are the best hikes near Sydney for whale watching?

The best hikes to bag a whale are those in Sydney’s Royal National Park (the Royal Coast Track and all the shorter sections of it), the coastline between Kiama and Gerringong, Bouddi Coastal Walk, and the Wreck Beach Hike in Tomaree National Park.

Where does the Bondi to Coogee walk start and end?

The walk starts at the south end of Bondi Beach near the Icebergs Dining Room & Bar and ends at the north end of Coogee Beach.

Is the Bouddi Coastal Walk the same as the Bouddi National Park Walk?

Yep, both of these names refer to the same 8km hike between Putty and Macmasters Beaches.

What’s the longest hike near Sydney?

The Great North Walk takes hikers to Newcastle via a 250km trail and is the longest walking track departing Sydney passing through many national parks along the way.

More Places to Hike Near Sydney

• Most Beautiful Coastal Walks Sydney Has to Offer
• Best Bushwalks Near Sydney
• Best Walks Accessible by Train Sydney
• Dog Friendly Walks Sydney
• Best Walks in Sydney
• Best Overnight Hikes Near Sydney

Feature photo via Dan Schnelle. 

Table of contents photo by Erin Rooney.