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Somersby Falls walking track

Brisbane Water National Park

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Visitor info

All the practical information you need to know about Somersby Falls walking track.

Track grading

Features of this track

Distance

0.8km return

Time

30 - 36min

Quality of markings

Clearly sign posted

Experience required

Some bushwalking experience recommended

Gradient

Short steep hills

Steps

Many steps

Quality of path

Formed track, some obstacles

Getting there and parking

Somersby Falls walking track starts from Somersby Falls picnic area, in the Somersby precinct of Brisbane Water National Park. It is about 10km west of Gosford and 5mins from the M1 Motorway.

From Newcastle and Sydney:

  • Exit the M1 at the Central Coast Highway towards Gosford.

From Gosford:

  • Take the Central Coast Highway past Kariong
  • Turn onto Wisemans Ferry Road
  • Take the second left onto Somersby Falls Road
  • The picnic area is at the end of Somersby Falls Road.

Road quality

  • Sealed roads

Vehicle access

  • 2WD vehicles

Weather restrictions

  • All weather

Parking

  • Parking is available at the Somersby Falls picnic area, including 4 accessible parking spaces, with accessible signage clearly displayed.
  • The carpark opens at 7am every day and is locked at 8pm during daylight savings time and at 6pm at all other times.
  • It can be a busy place on the weekend and during summer so parking might be limited.
  • Small buses recommended. Drop off and pick up bay suited for small buses only. Bus parking off site.

Facilities

Amenities

  • There are separate facilities at Somersby Falls picnic area for males, females and people with reduced mobility. 
  • Accessible doorways at least 850mm wide with lever handles.

Toilets

There's an accessible toilet at Somersby Falls picnic area that can be reached via a paved stone pathway.

Carpark

Seats and resting points

Maps and downloads

Safety messages

Bushwalking safety

If you're keen to head out on a longer walk or a backpack camp, always be prepared. Read these bushwalking safety tips before you set off on a walking adventure in national parks.

  • The walk is steep and slippery in places, so keep an eye on the kids as they walk along the track.

Fire safety

During periods of fire weather, the Commissioner of the NSW Rural Fire Service may declare a total fire ban for particular NSW fire areas, or statewide. Learn more about total fire bans and fire safety.

Mobile safety

Dial Triple Zero (000) in an emergency. Download the Emergency Plus app before you visit, it helps emergency services locate you using your smartphone's GPS. Please note there is limited mobile phone reception in this park and you’ll need mobile reception to call Triple Zero (000).

River and lake safety

The aquatic environment around rivers, lakes and lagoons can be unpredictable. If you're visiting these areas, take note of these river and lake safety tips.

Water activities

Beaches, rivers and lakes in NSW national parks offer lots of opportunities for water activities. Please take care in the water and find out how to help your family and friends stay safe around water.

Waterfall safety

Waterfalls are beautiful destinations but please be safe when visiting these natural wonders. Read these waterfall safety tips before exploring waterfalls on your next walk.

  • Take care following rain, when there is fast moving water in the area.
  • Remain at least 2m away from cliff edges at all times and supervise children at waterfalls.

Accessibility

Disability access level - no wheelchair access

This walk is not suitable for visitors with restricted mobility.

Prohibited

Camp fires and solid fuel burners

Camping

Gathering firewood

Pets

Pets and domestic animals (other than certified assistance animals) are not permitted. Find out which regional parks allow dog walking and see the pets in parks policy for more information.

Smoking

NSW national parks are no smoking areas.

Somersby Falls walking track

Operated by

Park info

  • in Brisbane Water National Park in the Sydney and surrounds region
  • Two picnic areas in this park – Girrakool picnic area and Somersby Falls picnic area – are closed in the evening. They are open 7am to 8pm during daylight savings and 7am to 6pm 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.

  • Park entry fees:

    $8 per vehicle per day. The park has pay machines that accept both card and coins, or you can pay via the Park'nPay app.

    Other fees:

    You will need a permit to hold a wedding or undertake commercial photography within the park.

    Buy annual pass

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