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Great North walk stage 4: Into the gorge

Berowra Valley National Park

Open, check current alerts 

Current alerts in this area

Last reviewed: Tue 29 October 2024, 1.27pm

Applies from Mon 28 Oct 2024, 4.15pm to Fri 15 Nov 2024, 5.00pm. Last reviewed: Tue 29 Oct 2024, 1.27pm.

Closed areas: Berkeley Trail partial closure for surface works

There will be emergency surface repair works on the Berkeley Trail in Berowra Valley National Park from Wednesday 30 October 2024 until Friday 15 November 2024, weather permitting.

Please follow all signage and instruction from NPWS staff and contractors. Penalties apply for non-compliance.

For more information, contact the North Western Sydney area office on 02 8448 0400.

Applies from Mon 30 Sep 2024, 1.16pm to Mon 30 Dec 2024, 5.00pm. Last reviewed: Fri 25 Oct 2024, 1.28pm.

Closed areas: Quarry trail and Great North Walk closure in Berowra Valley National Park

Due to upgrade works on Steele Bridge on the Quarry trail in Berowra Valley National Park, there will be changed access to the surrounding trail network from Tuesday 8 October until Mon 30 December 2024.

There will be no access across Berowra Creek on the Great North Walk (GNW) from the Quarry trail section in Hornsby, between Simon trail and Galston Gorge via Tunks Ridge campground.

Walkers using the GNW will be required to detour via Simon trail, Sydney Road or Ulolo Road, Galston Road, Montview Parade, McKay Road or McKay trail in Hornsby Heights.

Walkers planning to use Tunks Ridge campground can only access this area from the north, via Galston Road GNW entrance and Tunks Ridge trail.

Access between Tunks Ridge campground and Quarry Road, Dural via Quarry trail through the Rifle Range safety template is prohibited at all times.

Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, contact the local park office on (02) 8448 0400.

Affects 1 location in this park: Show list

Applies from Thu 1 Feb 2024, 12.07pm to Tue 4 Feb 2025, 5.00pm. Last reviewed: Wed 23 Oct 2024, 10.34am.

Safety alerts: Swimming safety in Berowra Valley National Park

Swimming is not advisable in Berowra Creek at certain times as the water may be subject to variable pollution levels and algal blooms. Please refer to the Hornsby Shire Council website before swimming in Berowra Creek. Alternatively you can call the Hornsby Council 24 hour information line on 9847 6666 or the Algal information line on 1800 999 457.

Swimming at Fishponds is not advised at any time due to heavy water pollution.

Penalties apply for non-compliance.For more information, contact the NPWS Chatswood area office on 02 8448 0400 or visit the NSW National Parks safety page for park safety guidelines.

Affects 3 locations in this park: Show list

Nearby alerts

Applies from Wed 31 Mar 2021, 11.53am. Last reviewed: Fri 1 Nov 2024, 11.05am

Closed areas: Bluefish Point closed

The Bluefish Point bushland area is closed to public access for public safety and to protect the landscape and important plant and animal communities. Access to rock pools is difficult and dangerous. Please stay on sign-posted walking tracks when visiting Sydney Harbour National Park for your safety and observe warning signs in the area.

Affects 1 park nearby. Show list

Applies from Thu 31 Oct 2024, 12.41pm to Mon 25 Nov 2024, 12.42pm. Last reviewed: Thu 31 Oct 2024, 12.48pm

Closed areas: Barrenjoey access trail closed on weekdays

Barrenjoey access road is closed on weekdays from Monday 8 July 2024 to Monday 25 November 2024 due to construction works. Pedestrian access to Barrenjoey Lighthouse will be via Smugglers track.

The Smugglers track is a grade 3 walking track – mostly stairs. It is a steeper and more challenging walk to the top of the headland. Please consider your ability prior to ascent.

For further information please call the local area office.

Affects 1 park and 1 location nearby. Show list

Applies from Mon 28 Oct 2024, 11.49am to Fri 29 Nov 2024, 11.52am. Last reviewed: Mon 28 Oct 2024, 2.38pm

Closed areas: Ironbark Picnic Area Closed

A section of Ironbark Road will be closed for maintenance works from 28/10/2024 until 29/11/2024.

Access to the following sites will will not be possible during this time: 

  • Ironbark Picnic Area
  • Hominy Creek Walking Track
  • 248 Trail
  • Mount Olive Train
  • Mount Olive Lookout

Temporary fencing will be in place, please obey signage and do not enter closed areas during this time. 

 

Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information phone the Local National Parks area office on 4342 4200.

Affects 1 park and 5 locations nearby. Show list

Applies from Mon 21 Oct 2024, 7.00am to Sat 14 Dec 2024, 7.00am. Last reviewed: Mon 28 Oct 2024, 3.09pm

Closed areas: Shark Island wharf closed for maintenance

Shark Island wharf is closed from 7am, Monday 21 October until 7am, Saturday 14 December 2024.

Please note:

  • No public access to Shark Island wharf, including kayak landings to the wharf, is permitted during this time.
  • No vessels are permitted to approach or use the wharf or to berth or moor at Shark Island during this time.
  • No bookings, events or commercial activities are permitted on Shark Island during this time.
  • Access to the wider island via beach kayak landings (excluding the wharf area) is permitted during this time.

Essential maintenance works will be occurring to the wharf during this period.

Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, email or call the NPWS Sydney South Area office on 02 9337 5511.

Affects 1 park and 2 locations nearby. Show list

Applies from Fri 18 Oct 2024, 10.38am to Fri 15 Nov 2024, 10.39am. Last reviewed: Mon 28 Oct 2024, 8.58am

Closed areas: Salvation Loop and Wallaroo trails closed for upgrade works

There will be vegetation and surface works on the Salvation Loop and Wallaroo trails in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park from Friday 18 October 2024 until Friday 15 November 2024, weather permitting.

Please follow all signage and instruction from NPWS staff and contractors. Penalties apply for non-compliance.

For more information, contact the Sydney North area office on 02 9451 3479.

Affects 1 park and 2 locations nearby. Show list

Applies from Fri 18 Oct 2024, 8.02am to Fri 29 Nov 2024, 5.00pm. Last reviewed: Sat 26 Oct 2024, 9.33am

Closed areas: Murrua trail closed for surface works

There will be emergency surface repair works on the Murrua trail in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park from Wednesday 23rd October 2024 until Friday 29th November 2024, weather permitting.

Please follow all signage and instruction from NPWS staff and contractors. Penalties apply for non-compliance.

For more information, contact the North Western Sydney area office on 02 8448 0400.

Affects 1 park and 7 locations nearby. Show list

Applies from Mon 16 Sep 2024, 12.16pm. Last reviewed: Wed 16 Oct 2024, 7.48pm

Closed areas: Shark Beach, Kiosk and promenade at Nielsen Park closed

Shark Beach at Nielsen Park is closed while the concrete seawall, bleachers and promenade are under construction. The Nielsen Park Kiosk, Halbert Pavilion and former surf club are closed for renovation. For more information on these projects, please visit the project webpage or email or phone the NPWS Sydney South office on 02 9337 5511.

Affects 1 park and 3 locations nearby. Show list

Applies from Mon 14 Oct 2024, 2.58pm to Fri 29 Nov 2024, 6.00pm. Last reviewed: Mon 14 Oct 2024, 3.03pm

Closed areas: Towlers Bay fire trail closed for major works

Towlers Bay Trail is closed from Tuesday 15 October to Friday 29 November 2024 while major works are undertaken.

Access to Halls Wharf, Morning Bay remains open.

Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, contact the local NPWS office.

Affects 1 park nearby. Show list

Applies from Wed 5 Dec 2018, 7.23pm. Last reviewed: Mon 4 Nov 2024, 9.31am

Other planned events: North Head Scenic Drive gate opening times

The North Head Scenic Drive gate opening times are:

  • AEDT From 7 October 2024 to 6 April 2025 - from 5am to 8.30pm
  • AEST From 7 April 2025 to 5 October 2025 -  from 6am to 6pm

Affects 1 park and 2 locations nearby. Show list

Applies from Tue 1 Oct 2024, 9.56am to Mon 30 Jun 2025, 9.56am. Last reviewed: Tue 5 Nov 2024, 11.29am

Other planned events: Cattai National Park- Flood repair works

Occasional flood remediation work may occur Monday to Friday which may create noise disturbance. Please contact the area office on (02) 4580 2750 for further information.

Affects 1 park and 1 location nearby. Show list

Applies from Fri 27 Sep 2024, 1.39pm to Fri 20 Dec 2024, 11.59pm. Last reviewed: Tue 8 Oct 2024, 8.49am

Closed areas: Closed for ground pest control operations

Mitchell Park is closed due to pest animal control shooting operations.

Shooting operations will occur on select nights throughout this period, excluding weekends and public holidays. The operations will run from sunset to sunrise, where the park will be closed for public access.

 

Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, contact the Cumberland Area Office on 02 4580 2750

Affects 1 park and 2 locations nearby. Show list

Applies from Fri 27 Sep 2024, 1.36pm to Fri 20 Dec 2024, 11.59pm. Last reviewed: Tue 8 Oct 2024, 8.49am

Closed areas: Closed for ground pest control operations

All of Scheyville National Park excluding Long Neck Lagoon are closed due to pest animal control shooting operations.

Shooting operations will occur on select nights throughout this period, excluding weekends and public holidays. The operations will run from sunset to sunrise, where the park will be closed for public access.

 

Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, contact the Cumberland Area Office on 02 4580 2750.

Affects 1 park and 3 locations nearby. Show list

Applies from Wed 31 Jul 2024, 10.15pm to Sat 1 Feb 2025, 2.17am. Last reviewed: Fri 27 Sep 2024, 12.07pm

Other planned events: ‘1080 pest management’

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service will be conducting a baiting program using manufactured baits and fresh baits containing 1080 poison (sodium fluroacetate) for the control of foxes. The program is continuous and ongoing between 1 August 2024 and 31 January 2025 in Lane Cove National Park. Don’t touch baits. Penalties apply for non-compliance.

All baiting locations are identifiable by signs.

Domestic pets are not permitted in NSW national parks and reserves. Pets and working dogs may be affected (1080 is lethal to cats and dogs). Pets and working dogs must be restrained or muzzled in the vicinity and must not enter the baiting location. In the event of accidental poisoning seek immediate veterinary assistance.

For more information, contact the local park office on:

Lane Cove: 8448 0400 (business hours)

NPWS after-hours call centre: 1300 056 294 (after hours)

Affects 1 park nearby. Show list

Applies from Mon 23 Sep 2024, 2.24pm to Tue 2 Sep 2025, 2.25pm. Last reviewed: Fri 25 Oct 2024, 1.28pm

Closed parks: Muogamarra Nature Reserve closed

Muogamarra Nature Reserve is only open to the public for 6 weeks every year, around spring time.

Due to the sensitive nature of the reserve, access is restricted at other times to approved educational and research activities only.

For more information about the reserve, call the NPWS Contact Centre on 1300 072 757 or the NPWS North Western Sydney area office on 02 8448 0400.

Affects 1 park nearby. Show list

Applies from Fri 30 Dec 2022, 11.19am. Last reviewed: Wed 11 Sep 2024, 8.19am

Closed areas: Longneck Lagoon walking track partial closure, Scheyville National Park

Longneck Lagoon walking track open.  Boardwalk currently closed due to flood damage

Affects 1 park and 1 location nearby. Show list

Applies from Wed 18 Aug 2021, 5.01pm. Last reviewed: Sat 12 Oct 2024, 2.50pm

Closed parks: Prospect Nature Reserve closed public

Prospect Nature Reserve is closed to the public indefinitely as it's part of a Special Water catchment area. There is no public access at any time.

If you wish to visit the Prospect Reservoir area, Andrew Campbell Reserve on William Lawson Drive has picnic tables, playground and toilet facilities.

For more information about visiting Andrew Campbell Reserve, please contact Sydney Water on 13 20 92. 

Affects 1 park nearby. Show list

Applies from Wed 31 Jul 2024, 10.21pm to Sat 1 Feb 2025, 2.26am. Last reviewed: Fri 6 Sep 2024, 11.03am

Other planned events: 1080 pest management operation

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service will be conducting a baiting program using manufactured baits, fresh baits and Canid Pest Ejectors (CPEs) containing 1080 poison (sodium fluroacetate) for the control of foxes.

The program is continuous and ongoing between Thursday 1 August 2024 and Friday 31 January 2025 in the following areas of Sydney Harbour National Park:

  • Chowder Bay 
  • Dobroyd Head 
  • Bradleys Head 
  • Georges Head 
  • Middle and North Head (North Head includes the adjoining land of Sydney Harbour Federation Trust, Australian Institute of Police Management, and Quarantine Station).

Please don’t touch baits or ejector devices. All baiting locations are identifiable by signs.

Domestic pets are not permitted in NSW national parks and reserves. Pets and working dogs may be affected (1080 is lethal to cats and dogs). Pets and working dogs must be restrained or muzzled in the vicinity and must not enter the baiting location. In the event of accidental poisoning seek immediate veterinary assistance.

Fox baiting in these reserves is aimed at reducing their impact on threatened species.

Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, contact the local park office on:

Middle Head: 02 9960 6266 (business hours)

NPWS after-hours call centre: 1300 056 294 (after hours)

North Head Sanctuary, Manly (Harbour Trust Lands): 02 8969 2128 (business hours).

Affects 1 park nearby. Show list

Applies from Wed 31 Jul 2024, 10.11pm to Sat 1 Feb 2025, 2.12am. Last reviewed: Mon 14 Oct 2024, 7.05am

Other planned events: ‘1080 pest management’

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service will be conducting a baiting program using manufactured baits, fresh baits and Canid Pest Ejectors (CPEs) containing 1080 poison (sodium fluroacetate) for the control of foxes. The program is continuous and ongoing between 1 August 2024 and 31 January 2025 in Garigal National Park. Don’t touch baits or ejector devices. Penalties apply for non-compliance.

 

All baiting locations are identifiable by signs.

Domestic pets are not permitted in NSW national parks and reserves. Pets and working dogs may be affected (1080 is lethal to cats and dogs). Pets and working dogs must be restrained or muzzled in the vicinity and must not enter the baiting location. In the event of accidental poisoning seek immediate veterinary assistance.

Fox baiting in these reserves is aimed at reducing their impact on threatened species.

For more information, contact the local park office on:

Forestville 9451 3479 (business hours)

NPWS after-hours call centre: 1300 056 294 (after hours)

Affects 1 park nearby. Show list

Applies from Wed 31 Jul 2024, 10.58pm to Sat 1 Feb 2025, 2.04am. Last reviewed: Mon 14 Oct 2024, 7.06am

Other planned events: ‘1080 pest management’

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service will be conducting a baiting program using manufactured baits, fresh baits and Canid Pest Ejectors (CPEs) containing 1080 poison (sodium fluroacetate) for the control of foxes. The program is continuous and ongoing between 1 August 2024 and 31 January 2025 in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Don’t touch baits or ejector devices. Penalties apply for non-compliance.

 

All baiting locations are identifiable by signs.

Domestic pets are not permitted in NSW national parks and reserves. Pets and working dogs may be affected (1080 is lethal to cats and dogs). Pets and working dogs must be restrained or muzzled in the vicinity and must not enter the baiting location. In the event of accidental poisoning seek immediate veterinary assistance.

Fox baiting in these reserves is aimed at reducing their impact on threatened species.

For more information, contact the local park office on:

Forestville 9451 3479 or Lane Cove 8448 0400 (business hours)

NPWS after-hours call centre: 1300 056 294 (after hours)

Affects 1 park nearby. Show list

Applies from Sat 29 Jun 2024, 3.18pm to Tue 31 Dec 2024, 3.20pm. Last reviewed: Sat 26 Oct 2024, 9.33am

Closed areas: Berowra walking track partial closure

Berowra walking track is partially closed until further notice from Apple Tree Bay to the Mt-Ku-ring-gai access track. There is a threat of rockfalls due to slope instability caused by recent weather events. NPWS is in the process of carrying out necessary repair works.

The Berowra walking track from Berowra Station to Mt Ku-ring-gai is open for use.

Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, contact the local NPWS office on 02 8448 0400 or call 1300 072 757 (13000 PARKS).

 

Affects 1 park and 7 locations nearby. Show list

Applies from Thu 7 Apr 2022, 11.17am to Mon 30 Jun 2025, 8.00pm. Last reviewed: Sat 12 Oct 2024, 11.15am

Closed areas: Brieses fire trail partial closure

The section of Brieses fire trail between Mooney Mooney Creek and Old Mooney Dam trail is closed until further notice due to a landslip, making it unsafe for vehicles.

Signs are in place around closed areas. This area will re-open as soon as it is safe and repair works have been completed.

Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, contact the local NPWS office on 02 4320 4200.

Affects 1 park nearby. Show list

Applies from Tue 21 May 2024, 11.41am. Last reviewed: Sat 12 Oct 2024, 11.15am

Closed areas: Warrah Trig Road closed to vehicles

Warrah Trig Road is closed to vehicles due to an increase in illegal activities throughout the area.

The road will remain closed until investigations are completed and further recommendations are made.

The road is open to pedestrians and cyclists.

 

Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, contact the local NPWS office.

Affects 1 park and 5 locations nearby. Show list

Applies from Thu 15 Dec 2022, 4.29pm. Last reviewed: Thu 29 Aug 2024, 6.07pm

Closed areas: North Mackerel track closed and Mackerel trail partially closed

North Mackerel track is permanently closed due to a potential risk of rockfalls and unstable cliff edges in the Great Mackerel Beach area.

The only designated land access to or from Great Mackerel Beach is via Mackerel track to the north, which intersects with Resolute track.

Due to land instability and risk to personal safety, there is no through or return access to or from the following places:

  • The south end of Great Mackerel Beach via The Basin or Mackerel trail
  • The west of Great Mackerel Beach via North Mackerel track, which is closed.

Please be aware of the risks associated with visiting natural areas, including rock falls, unstable edges, falling branches and interactions with wildlife.

For more information, contact the local NPWS office.

Affects 1 park and 8 locations nearby. Show list

Applies from Thu 1 Feb 2024, 12.10pm to Tue 4 Feb 2025, 5.00pm. Last reviewed: Fri 18 Oct 2024, 8.02am

Closed areas: Sugarloaf carpark closed

Sugarloaf car park in Lane Cove National Park is no longer open to the public. We apologise for any inconvenience.

For more information, please contact the NPWS Chatswood Area office on 02 8448 0400 or visit the NSW National Parks safety page for park safety guidelines.

Affects 1 park and 1 location nearby. Show list

Applies from Thu 1 Feb 2024, 12.05pm to Tue 4 Feb 2025, 5.00pm. Last reviewed: Fri 18 Oct 2024, 8.02am

Closed areas: Toilet closures in Lane Cove National Park

Some toilets within this park will be closed during the week, opening only on weekends, public holidays and during school holidays. The closed toilets are at:

  • Carters Creek (Area 9)
  • Scribbly Gums (Area 17)
  • Haynes Flat (Area 32)

Please note: This does not apply to bookings. Where there are bookings, toilets will be opened.

For more information, please contact the NPWS Chatswood area office on 02 8448 0400.

Affects 1 park and 16 locations nearby. Show list

Applies from Wed 31 Jan 2024, 8.00am to Fri 28 Feb 2025, 8.00am. Last reviewed: Thu 8 Aug 2024, 8.23am

Safety alerts: Ironbark Road access to picnic area - last 850m 4WD only

The last 850m of Ironbark Road (Crown Road) to access Ironbark picnic area is currently limited to 4WD vehicles only.

This section is not suitable for conventional 2WD vehicles due to a severely eroded hill along the Crown Road.

Visitors to this section of the park travelling by conventional 2WD vehicles will need to walk the last 850 metres to access the park and Ironbark picnic area.

Affects 1 park and 1 location nearby. Show list

Applies from Mon 9 Jul 2018, 11.06am. Last reviewed: Mon 11 Mar 2024, 10.10am

Closed areas: Fort Denison closed

Fort Denison is currently closed.

Conservation and upgrade works are currently underway. Key elements include the construction of a new accessible wharf and maintenance and upgrade to buildings and services. Fort Denison will be closed to visitors until these works have been completed.

Penalties apply for non-compliance.

Standard work hours during the construction phase will be between:

  • 7am and 6pm Monday to Friday
  • 8am and 1pm on Saturday

For more information, visit the project webpage or email us. Visit the NSW National Parks safety page for park safety guidelines.

Affects 1 park and 1 location nearby. Show list

Applies from Sat 17 Oct 2020, 10.59pm. Last reviewed: Mon 6 Nov 2023, 9.52am

Closed areas: North Head partial closure

Some parts of North Head in Sydney Harbour National Park are closed due to fire damage and geological instability. The closed areas include:

  • Bluefish Point
  • Wastewater Treatment Plant emergency access road

The following areas, and the bushland surrounding them, are also closed due to steep and unstable ground:

  • Old Man's Hat
  • Cannae Point
  • Quarantine Head

Do not enter the closed areas.

Open areas include:

  • Q Station
  • North Head Sanctuary and Bella Vista Cafe (entry via North Fort)
  • The track between Shelly Beach and Bluefish Drive
  • Bluefish Drive to the Avenue of Honour
  • Collins Flat Beach
  • Fairfax track
  • Burragula and Yiningma lookouts

Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, please contact the National Parks Contact Centre on 1300 072 757 or Sydney North area office on 02 9451 3479 between 9.30am and 4pm, Monday to Friday.

Affects 1 park and 4 locations nearby. Show list

Applies from Wed 10 Feb 2016, 3.18pm. Last reviewed: Fri 20 Sep 2024, 9.49am

Closed areas: Flat Rock track partial closure

The section of Flat Rock track from the Killarney Drive entrance to the Downpatrick Street entrance, is permanently closed as the old track passes through private property near Killarney Point.

Please note:

  • Walkers heading west should exit Flat Rock track at the eastern end of Killarney Drive and use Killarney Drive until you reach Downpatrick Street. Then walk down the street and re-enter Flat Rock track from the Downpatrick Street fire trail.
  • Walkers heading east should exit Flat Rock track at the Downpatrick Street fire trail and use Downpatrick Street, then Killarney Drive until you reach the end of Killarney Drive. Re-enter Flat Rock track from the Killarney Drive entrance.

For more information, please contact the NPWS Forestville area office on 02 9451 3479 between 9.30am and 4pm, Monday to Friday.

Affects 1 park and 1 location nearby. Show list

Local alerts

For the latest updates on fires, closures and other alerts in this area, see https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/guided-tours/great-north-walk-stage-4-into-the-gorge/local-alerts

Park info

  • in Berowra Valley National Park in the Sydney and surrounds region
    • Berowra Valley National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger
    • Crosslands Reserve is open 8am to 7.30pm during daylight savings and 9am to 5pm the rest of the year
    • Barnetts Road Reserve and the lookout is closed from sunset to sunrise
See more visitor info

Emergency services

For all NSW fires visit the Rural Fire Service

For the latest information on wildfires in your area please contact the NSW Rural Fire Service.

View all alerts for NSW

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