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Kalkari discovery trail

Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

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Overview

Kalkari discovery trail is a short, easy walking track in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. It’s a great introduction to the park’s amazing views, wildlife, and native plants.

Where
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park in Sydney and surrounds
Accessibility
Easy
Distance
1km loop
Time suggested
30 - 45min
Grade
Grade 2
Entry fees
Park entry fees apply
What to
bring
Drinking water, hat, sunscreen, sturdy shoes
Please note
  • Kalkari Discovery Centre is a great place to view informative displays, watch a film in the Discovery Theatre, and learn from the volunteer team.
  • Remember to take your binoculars if you want to birdwatch.

This family-friendly trail connects 2 loop tracks in the Bobbin Head area of the park. Choose from the shorter, fully-accessible 500m loop or the easy 1km circuit.

Starting from the picnic area behind Kalkari Discovery Centre, the concrete path leads over a pretty pond and through open parkland before arriving at Kalkari lookout. This timber lookout is perched on the edge of the rocky ridge overlooking a densely forested valley and Cockle Creek. Take advantage of the seats to enjoy the stunning scenery and sounds of nature.

As you continue along the track, take time to read the signs to learn interesting facts about the native plants and animals you might see (and some rare and remarkable species you might miss). Keep an eye out for eastern grey kangaroos and brush turkeys which are known to live in this area.

If you're visiting with a pram or have reduced mobility,  you may prefer to head left at the junction to stay on the accessible loop. The main track meanders through ridgetop forest, passing another man-made pond before returning to the picnic area.

For a longer walk, connect with Birrwanna walking track. This adventurous track leads downhill to Bobbin Head, where you can enjoy the waterfront or a snack at the cafe.

For directions, safety and practical information, see visitor info

Combine this walk with

  • A visitor stands at the info desk talking to a volunteer at Kalkari Discovery Centre, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Photo: Johny Spencer © DCCEEW

    Kalkari Discovery Centre

    Walk the Kalkari Discovery Centre’s easy Discovery trail to learn more about Ku-ring-gai’s native species, Aboriginal history and network of bushwalks.

  • Birrawanna walking track, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Photo: Elinor Sheargold © OEH

    Birrawanna walking track

    Historic Birrawanna walking track offers a great family day trip with wildlife-spotting, birdwatching and picnicking options and scenic views in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.

  • Bobbin Head Visitor Centre, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Photo: Andy Richards

    Bobbin Head Visitor Centre

    Visit historic Bobbin Head Visitor Centre for information on walking, picnicking and the Aboriginal culture of Ku-ring-gai National Park, a short drive from Sydney.

 

Download our app

The free NSW National Parks app lets you download maps and explore parks, things to do and places to stay—all without mobile reception.

Hand holding a phone with NSW National Parks app on screen. Photo: Branden Bodman/DPIE

 

Big name, big aims

More than 250 Assets of Intergenerational Significance (AIS) areas have been declared in our parks as home to the most threatened animal and plant habitat, giving them extra special protections.

A Threatened Species Officer gently holds an endangered mountain pygmy-possum in their hand. Photo credit: John Spencer © DPE

General enquiries

  • National Parks support
  • Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.
  • 02 9995 6518

Operated by

  • Bobbin Head Visitor Centre
  • 10am to 4pm daily. 9am to 4pm during summer school holidays, closed 12pm-12:30pm. Closed Christmas Day.
  • 02 9472 8949
  • 688 Ku-ring-gai Chase Road, Mount Colah, NSW 2079

Park info

  • in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park in the Sydney and surrounds region

  • Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is open sunrise to sunset but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

    • The entrance to Bobbin Head and Appletree Bay is closed from 8pm to 6am during daylight savings periods, and from 5.30pm to 6am the rest of the year.
    • Gates to West Head are closed from 8.30pm to 6am during daylight savings periods, and from 6pm to 6am the rest of the year.

  • Park entry fees:

    $12 per vehicle per day. You can also pay for your visit via the Park’nPay app.

    Vehicles over 8 seats: $4.40 per adult, $2.20 per child (per day). Students on educational programs: $1.10 per student. Teachers/educational supervisors: free (1 adult per 10 students).

    Other fees:

    A $3 per adult, $2 per child landing fee may apply for day visitors to The Basin campground. Please pay at the campground wharf. Landing fees are included in your camping fees.

    Group bookings:

    Under the Plan of Management for this park, prior written approval is required for organised groups of 40 or more people planning to visit this park. Contact the park office before your visit.

    Buy annual pass
See more visitor info

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