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Sphinx Memorial to Bobbin Head loop track

Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

Affected by closures, check current alerts 

Overview

Sphinx Memorial to Bobbin Head loop track takes in historic Sphinx memorial, and is a moderately challenging walk near North Turramurra.

Distance
10km loop
Time suggested
3hrs 30min - 4hrs 30min
Grade
Grade 4
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Entry fees
Park entry fees apply
What to
bring
Sunscreen, drinking water, hat
Please note
  • The gates to Sphinx Memorial carpark close overnight from 7pm.
  • You'll find toilets and picnic facilities at Bobbin Head
  • The gate between Empire Marina and the entrance to the walking track closes at 4pm. Walkers on the track can exit through this gate to the marina at any time, but will not be able to enter through the gate to start a walk on Warimoo track or Bobbin Head trail after 4pm.

If you like to mix things up a bit, you can’t miss Sphinx Memorial to Bobbin Head loop track. The long walk leads along Bobbin Head trail past open forests of smooth barked apple gum and red bloodwoods to Empire Marina Bobbin Head and historic Halvorsen’s boatshed before arriving at Bobbin Head.

Grab a bite here before joining Warrimoo track, which winds through thick mangroves. Keep an eye out for the Aboriginal middens as you walk – these unique heritage sites are testament to the bountiful food supplies enjoyed by the Aboriginal people of this region.

Joining Sphinx track, a short climb will return you to the Sphinx Memorial and several pyramids among rough barked tree ferns. Enjoy a picnic or break at this peaceful spot.

Take a virtual tour of Sphinx Memorial to Bobbin Head loop track captured with Google Street View Trekker.

For directions, safety and practical information, see visitor info

Also see

  • A father and son go fishing next to a marina at Bobbin Head in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Photo: David Finnegan/OEH

    Bobbin Head

    Visit Bobbin Head picnic area in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park and enjoy a barbecue or a spot of fishing for a great daytrip from Sydney.

  • Sphinx Memorial, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Photo: Andy Richards/NSW Government

    Sphinx Memorial

    The Sphinx Memorial at Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park was carved out of sandstone by a returned soldier. Explore Australian military history on the Sphinx walking track.

  • View towards Empire Marina, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Photo: Darren Vaux

    Empire Marina Bobbin Head

    Empire Marina Bobbin Head, just north of Sydney, offers marina berths and moorings, fishing and on-site dining options catering to every visitor in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.

  • Bobbin Head Visitor Centre and the scenic rocky cliff and rainforest surrounds in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Photo: John Spencer © DCCEEW

    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.

 

Sydney native habitats in 360

Explore our 360-degree interactive national park habitats in and around Sydney's urban fringe, and the protected plants and animals that live here.

An eastern pygmy-possum curled up asleep in a nest of eucalypt leaves. Photo: Sue Brookhouse © Sue Brookhouse

 

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

General enquiries

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 always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

    • 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.
    • Gates to Sphinx Memorial carpark are closed overnight from 7pm.
  • 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).

    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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