Garigal National Park

The basics

Popular trails include the moderate Cascades trail, which passes waterfalls, and the challenging Natural Bridge track to Davidson Park, which features impressive sandstone rock formations. Guided kayaking tours from the Sydney area paddle through the park’s bushland. There are also several sites of historical interest in the park, such as the former Bantry Bay Explosives Magazine complex, which played a role in the early founding of Sydney, and Middle Harbour Creek’s Stepping Stones where Governor Arthur Phillip camped on his first expedition in 1788.

Things to know before you go

• With its network of walking trails, Garigal National Park is a top destination for hiking and bushwalking.

• There is a per-vehicle admission fee, but it applies only at the Davidson Park entrance.

• Pets aren’t allowed in the park.

• There are picnic and BBQ areas throughout the park, including the Davidson Park Picnic Area on the banks of the Middle Harbour River.

How to get there

Garigal National Park begins 7.5 miles (12 kilometers) north of Sydney CBD. There are five park entry points: Currie Road and Davidson Park (access via an exit from A38) in Forestville; Douglas Street and Hunter Ave in St. Ives; and Ralston Avenue in Belrose. The only entrance with a parking lot is Davidson Park.

When to get there

Garigal National Park is open daily year-round from early morning until evening (later during daylight savings). Spring (September through November) may be the most beautiful time to visit as the blooming wildflowers color the Cascades trail. September is the driest month and March is the wettest.

Wildlife

The park is home to several threatened native animal species, including the eastern water dragon, a subaquatic lizard that is believed to be one of the oldest Australian reptiles. You might also spot tiger quolls, broad-headed snakes, red-crowned toadlets, and the endangered southern brown bandicoot.