Stoney Creek Trail

And Walk

Stoney Creek Trail

Strickland State Forest

The Strickland State Forest, managed by State Forests of NSW, is located on the NSW Central Coast, close to the F3. The Strickland State Forest has a wide range of vegetation, including patches of rainforest along the sheltered creeks. The walking tracks take in some beautiful scenery, including a mixture of native forest and the remnants of an old arboretum. ‘Strickland is no longer actively harvested and is managed for education and recreation purposes’. The ‘Friends of Strickland’ undertake projects including the construction of walking tracks. Note: Access into Strickland is during the daytime only with the entrance gate being unlocked between 7am and 5pm (Apr – Oct) and between 7am and 7pm (Nov – Mar) [3] More info.

(0km) Banksia car park → Banksia picnic area

50 m
1 mins
0m
-2m

Moderate track

From the car park (near the end of Strickland Rd in the Strickland State Forest), this walk passes around the gate and goes across the picnic area to the track intersection at the opposite end. There is a track signpost (‘Strickland Falls Loop Trail’) a little to the left.

Banksia Picnic Area

This picnic area is in the Strickland State Forest, on the NSW Central Coast. The facilities include picnic tables, pit toilets, BBQ fire places, garbage bins and tank water. A few bush walking tracks start from the picnic area.

(0.05km) Banksia picnic area → Int of Cabbage Tree and Stoney Creek trails

1.1 km
25 mins
31m
-106m

Moderate track

Veer left: From the intersection, the walk follows the ‘Cabbage Tree Walk Trail’ arrow along the bush track, leaving the ‘Gosford Lookout’ sign behind, to the right. The walk initially passes through relatively dry forest, with signs naming some of the trees, before descending through moist forest, filled with cabbage palms. After a while the track reaches the intersection signposted ‘Stoney Creek Trail’.

Cabbage-Tree Palm

The Cabbage-Tree Palm (Livistona australis) is a tall, slender palm growing up to about 25 m in height and 0.35 m diameter. It is found in moist open forest, often in swampy sites and on margins of rainforests or near the sea. It is widely spread along the New South Wales coast and extends north into Queensland and southwards to eastern Victoria, growing further south than any other native Australian palm. More info.

(1.17km) Int of Cabbage Tree and Stoney Creek trails → Int of Stoney Creek and Bellbird trails

920 m
20 mins
23m
-73m

Moderate track

Veer left: From the intersection, the walk follows the ‘Stoney Creek Trail’ arrow along the bush track, going down the hill. The track descends gently through forest filled with ferns and cabbage palms, before passing a ‘Rainforests and Preservation’ information sign, and arriving at an intersection with a management trail, beside Stoney [6] Creek.

(2.09km) Int of Stoney Creek and Bellbird trails → Strickland Lower car park

80 m
2 mins
4m
0m

Moderate track

Veer left: From the intersection, the walk follows the management trail up the hill, away from the creek crossing. The walk passes an information board, with a map of the walking trails, and soon reaches the car park.

Maps for the Stoney Creek Trail walk

You can download the PDF for this walk to print a map.
These maps below cover the walk and the wider area around the walk, they are worth carrying for safety reasons.

Gosford	1:25 000 Map Series	91312S GOSFORD	NSW-91312S
Wyong	1:25 000 Map Series	91312N WYONG	NSW-91312N
Gosford	1:100 000 Map Series	9131 GOSFORD	9131

Cross sectional view of the Stoney Creek Trail bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Stoney Creek Trail

Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001

Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.

		Length	2.2 km
		Time	1 Hr
		.
Grade 3/6 Moderate track	AS 2156.1	Gradient	Gentle hills with occasional steps (2/6)
		Quality of track	Formed track, with some branches and other obstacles (3/6)
		Signs	Directional signs along the way (3/6)
		Experience Required	No experience required (1/6)
		Weather	Weather generally has little impact on safety (1/6)
		Infrastructure	Limited facilities, not all cliffs are fenced (3/6)

Some more details of this walks Grading

Here is a bit more details explaining grading looking at sections of the walk

Gradient

Around 2.1km of this walk has gentle hills with occasional steps, whilst the remaining 50m is flat with no steps.

Quality of track

Around 1.1km of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles, whilst the remaining 1.1km follows a clear and well formed track or trail.

Signs

Around 2.1km of this walk has directional signs at most intersection, whilst the remaining 80m is clearly signposted.

Experience Required

This whole walk, 2.2km requires no previous bushwalking experience.

weather

This whole walk, 2.2km is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation).

Infrastructure

Around 2.1km of this walk has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced), whilst the remaining 50m is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats).

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Stoney Creek Trail walk starts at the Banksia car park (gps: -33.37331, 151.32253)
Your main transport option to Banksia car park is by;
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)

The Stoney Creek Trail ends at the Strickland Lower car park (gps: -33.379942, 151.32508)
Your main transport option to Strickland Lower car park is by;
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)

Fire Danger

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_fire_danger.php?walkid=nsw-stricklandsf-sct
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.

Weather Forest

This walk starts in the Hunter weather district always check the formal BOM forecast or pdf before starting your walk.

Forecast snapshot

Park Information & Alerts

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_park_closure.php?walkid=nsw-stricklandsf-sct

Arboretum Loop Trail

And Walk

Arboretum Loop Trail

Download & Print Map and Notes

Strickland State Forest

(0km) Strickland Lower car park → Int of Stoney Creek and Bellbird trails

80 m
2 mins
0m
-4m

Moderate track

From the car park, the walk follows the ‘Walking Trails’ arrow along the management trail. The walk passes an information board, with a map of the walking trails, and continues a short distance to an intersection just before the creek crossing.

(0.08km) Int of Stoney Creek and Bellbird trails → Arboretum junction

450 m
8 mins
6m
-10m

Moderate track

Veer left: From the intersection, the walk crosses the creek and follows the ‘Arboretum Loop Trail’ arrow along the old management trail. The trail meanders through shaded forest, filled with cabbage palms, for some time before reaching a signposted intersection with a bush track.

(0.53km) Arboretum junction → Suspension bridge intersection

130 m
2 mins
0m
-11m

Moderate track

(0.66km) Suspension bridge intersection → North int of Arboretum Loop and Bellbird trail

100 m
2 mins
0m
0m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the old management trail away from the suspension bridge. The walk soon arrives at the intersection signposted ‘Arboretum Loop Trail’.

Strickland State Forest Arboretum

This arboretum is apparently one of the oldest in Australia, with plantings dating from 1887-1924[5]. Numerous signs have been placed along the walking tracks to identify some of the species of trees. There are very tall, and impressive, examples of Hoop Pine, Bunya Pine, Tallow Wood and Red Cedar. More info.

(0.76km) North int of Arboretum Loop and Bellbird trail → Bunya pine grove

430 m
7 mins
3m
-2m

Moderate track

Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Arboretum Loop Trail’ arrow along the bush track, away from the old management trail. The walk passes through moist forest, filled with cabbage palms, with the creek visible to the left. The walk crosses over a number of fallen tree trunks with steps cut into them. There are small signs in places identifying some of the trees. After a while the walk passes a track marker arrow, where a large fallen tree trunk spans the creek, to the left. The walk then passes a ‘Forest Arboretum’ information board and continues, passing a metal box on a post (marked ‘Water Research’), and following several track arrows to reach an intersection with a management trail (with a gate visible to the left). There is a grove of tall ‘Bunya Pine’ trees beside this intersection.

(1.19km) Bunya pine grove → Strickland Lower car park

1.1 km
22 mins
36m
-19m

Moderate track

Veer right: From the intersection, the walk follows the old management trail away from the nearby gate, going gently up the hill. After a short distance the walk arrives at an intersection with a bush track, signposted ‘Bellbird Trail’.
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the ‘Arboretum Trail’ arrow along the old management trail, going gently down the hill. After a short distance, the walk arrives at the intersection, signposted ‘Arboretum Loop Trail’.
Veer left: From the intersection, the walk follows the old management trail, leaving the signposted ‘Arboretum Loop Trail’ behind on the right. After a short distance, the walk reaches an intersection with a narrow bush track, to the left, just before the suspension bridge.
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk crosses the suspension bridge over Narara Creek and follows the overgrown management trail for a short distance to a signposted intersection.
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the ‘Return To Carpark’ arrow along the old management trail, going up the hill. The trail meanders through shaded forest, filled with cabbage palms, for some time before crossing Stoney Creek to an intersection signposted ‘Stoney Creek Walk Trail’.
Veer right: From the intersection, the walk follows the management trail up the hill, away from the creek crossing. The walk passes an information board, with a map of the walking trails, and soon reaches the car park.

Maps for the Arboretum Loop Trail walk

You can download the PDF for this walk to print a map.
These maps below cover the walk and the wider area around the walk, they are worth carrying for safety reasons.

Gosford	1:25 000 Map Series	91312S GOSFORD	NSW-91312S
Wyong	1:25 000 Map Series	91312N WYONG	NSW-91312N
Gosford	1:100 000 Map Series	9131 GOSFORD	9131

Cross sectional view of the Arboretum Loop Trail bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Arboretum Loop Trail

Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001

Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.

		Length	2.3 km
		Time	1 Hr
		.
Grade 3/6 Moderate track	AS 2156.1	Gradient	Gentle hills with occasional steps (2/6)
		Quality of track	Formed track, with some branches and other obstacles (3/6)
		Signs	Directional signs along the way (3/6)
		Experience Required	Some bushwalking experience recommended (3/6)
		Weather	Storms may impact on navigation and safety (3/6)
		Infrastructure	Limited facilities, not all cliffs are fenced (3/6)

Some more details of this walks Grading

Here is a bit more details explaining grading looking at sections of the walk

Gradient

Around 1.7km of this walk has gentle hills with occasional steps, whilst the remaining 580m is flat with no steps.

Quality of track

Around 1.6km of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles, whilst the remaining 740m follows a clear and well formed track or trail.

Signs

Around 2.2km of this walk has directional signs at most intersection, whilst the remaining 160m is clearly signposted.

Experience Required

Around 1.4km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 900m requires some bushwalking experience.

weather

Around 1.4km of this walk is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation), whilst the remaining 900m is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety.

Infrastructure

Around 2.1km of this walk has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced), whilst the remaining 260m is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats).

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Arboretum Loop Trail walk starts and ends at the Strickland Lower car park (gps: -33.379942, 151.32508)
Your main transport option to Strickland Lower car park is by;
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)

Fire Danger

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_fire_danger.php?walkid=nsw-stricklandsf-alt
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.

Weather Forest

This walk starts in the Hunter weather district always check the formal BOM forecast or pdf before starting your walk.

Forecast snapshot

Park Information & Alerts

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_park_closure.php?walkid=nsw-stricklandsf-alt

Strickland Falls and Cabbage Tree loop

And Walk

Strickland Falls and Cabbage Tree loop

Download & Print Map and Notes

Strickland State Forest

(0km) Banksia car park → Int of Strickland Falls trail and Strickland Rd

90 m
2 mins
1m
-2m

Moderate track

From the car park, the walk follows the road away from the picnic area and soon reaches an intersection with a bush track, signposted ‘Strickland Falls’, ’40 Minute Easy Walk’.

(0.09km) Int of Strickland Falls trail and Strickland Rd → Strickland Falls

740 m
18 mins
35m
-49m

Moderate track

Turn left: From the intersection, this walk follows a bush track away from the road, passing the ‘Strickland Falls’ signpost, to the left. The track initially passes through quite dry forest. After a while, the walk passes some nice rock overhangs and descends through increasingly moist forest and boulders, to reach the signposted ‘Strickland Falls’.

Strickland Falls

Strickland Falls are a short walk from the Banksia Picnic Area in the Strickland State Forest, Central Coast, NSW. The falls are often just a trickle, but will be more impressive after good rain. The scenery around the falls is still beautiful with moist rainforest scenery to enjoy.

(0.83km) Strickland Falls → Int of Cabbage Tree and Stoney Creek trails

1 km
33 mins
77m
-139m

Moderate track

Turn sharp left: From the waterfall, the walk follows the arrow (carved into the rock) along the bush track, going gently down the hill (not up the steps). The track meanders through some beautiful scenery with ferns, cabbage palms and boulders. After a while, the walk crosses a gully below some imposing cliffs and continues further before reaching the intersection signposted ‘Cabbage Tree Trail’.
Veer right: From the intersection, the walk follows the ‘Cabbage Tree Trail’ arrow along the bush track, keeping the valley to the right. This section of the walk passes some interesting boulders and continues through forest filled with cabbage palms and ferns, before reaching an intersection, signposted ‘Stoney Creek Trail’.

Cabbage-Tree Palm

(1.87km) Int of Cabbage Tree and Stoney Creek trails → Banksia picnic area

1.1 km
25 mins
106m
-31m

Moderate track

Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the level bush track, away from the signpost, keeping the valley to the right. As the track climbs, the vegetation becomes mush drier. The walk passes through some nice boulders and eventually passes a ‘Cabbage Tree Walk Trail’ sign, to the left, just before reaching the intersection at the end of the Banksia picnic area.

Banksia Picnic Area

(2.99km) Banksia picnic area → Banksia car park

50 m
1 mins
2m
0m

Moderate track

Veer right: From the intersection, this walk goes across the picnic area, and passes around the gate, into the car park (near the end of Strickland Rd in the Strickland State Forest).

Maps for the Strickland Falls and Cabbage Tree loop walk

You can download the PDF for this walk to print a map.
These maps below cover the walk and the wider area around the walk, they are worth carrying for safety reasons.

Gosford	1:25 000 Map Series	91312S GOSFORD	NSW-91312S
Wyong	1:25 000 Map Series	91312N WYONG	NSW-91312N
Gosford	1:100 000 Map Series	9131 GOSFORD	9131

Cross sectional view of the Strickland Falls and Cabbage Tree loop bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Strickland Falls and Cabbage Tree loop

Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001

Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.

		Length	3 km
		Time	1 hr 30 mins
		.
Grade 3/6 Moderate track	AS 2156.1	Gradient	Short steep hills (3/6)
		Quality of track	Formed track, with some branches and other obstacles (3/6)
		Signs	Directional signs along the way (3/6)
		Experience Required	Some bushwalking experience recommended (3/6)
		Weather	Storms may impact on navigation and safety (3/6)
		Infrastructure	Limited facilities, not all cliffs are fenced (3/6)

Some more details of this walks Grading

Here is a bit more details explaining grading looking at sections of the walk

Gradient

2.6km of this walk has gentle hills with occasional steps and another 340m has short steep hills. The remaining (140m) is flat with no steps.

Quality of track

Around 2.9km of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles, whilst the remaining 140m follows a clear and well formed track or trail.

Signs

This whole walk, 3km has directional signs at most intersection.

Experience Required

Around 1.8km of this walk requires some bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 1.3km requires no previous bushwalking experience.

weather

Around 2.3km of this walk is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation), whilst the remaining 740m is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety.

Infrastructure

Around 2.9km of this walk has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced), whilst the remaining 140m is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats).

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Strickland Falls and Cabbage Tree loop walk starts and ends at the Banksia car park (gps: -33.373305, 151.32252)
Your main transport option to Banksia car park is by;
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)

Fire Danger

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_fire_danger.php?walkid=nsw-stricklandsf-sfactl
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.

Weather Forest

This walk starts in the Hunter weather district always check the formal BOM forecast or pdf before starting your walk.

Forecast snapshot

Park Information & Alerts

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_park_closure.php?walkid=nsw-stricklandsf-sfactl

Bellbird Trail

And Walk

Bellbird Trail

Download & Print Map and Notes

Strickland State Forest

Banksia Picnic Area

(0km) Strickland Lower car park → Int of Stoney Creek and Bellbird trails

80 m
2 mins
0m
-4m

Moderate track

(0.08km) Int of Stoney Creek and Bellbird trails → Arboretum junction

450 m
8 mins
6m
-10m

Moderate track

(0.53km) Arboretum junction → Suspension bridge intersection

130 m
2 mins
0m
-11m

Moderate track

(0.66km) Suspension bridge intersection → North int of Arboretum Loop and Bellbird trail

100 m
2 mins
0m
0m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the old management trail away from the suspension bridge. The walk soon arrives at the intersection signposted ‘Arboretum Loop Trail’.

Strickland State Forest Arboretum

(0.76km) North int of Arboretum Loop and Bellbird trail → Bunya pine grove

430 m
7 mins
3m
-2m

Moderate track

(1.19km) Bunya pine grove → South int of Arboretum Loop and Bellbird trail

220 m
5 mins
9m
-9m

Moderate track

(1.41km) South int of Arboretum Loop and Bellbird trail → Bellbird Narara crossing

780 m
16 mins
35m
-21m

Moderate track

Turn left: From the intersection, the walk follows the ‘Bellbird Trail’ arrow along the bush track, going up the hill. There are some track markers on short brown posts in this area, although they are often obscured in the undergrowth. The narrow, and sometimes faint, bush track goes through vine filled forest for a short distance to a ‘T’ intersection marked with a number of arrows.
Turn left: From the intersection, the walk follows the bush track, in the opposite direction to the arrow on the tree, following the short brown arrow post. The walk follows the narrow bush track for some time through beautiful forest, filled with cabbage palms, ferns and vines. Narara Creek is often visible just to the right. After a while, the walk arrives at some concreted steps just before crossing Narara Creek.

Bellbirds

The Bellbird (more properly known as the Bell Miner) is a member of the Honeyeater family. These birds live and breed in large colonies, aggressively defending their territory. More often heard than seen, their call is described as a “Sweet, musical, bell-like ‘tink'”. They are ‘mostly olive-green, with a short, down-curved, bright yellow bill, a red-orange bare eye patch and orange-yellow feet and legs’. More info.

Bellbird Trail Narara crossing

This picturesque crossing of Narara Creek is on the ‘Bellbird Trail’ in the Strickland State Forest. It is a great spot to break for a rest, or lunch, on your walk. There are no facilities, however, there are some steps and rocks to sit on while you soak up the scenery.

(2.18km) Bellbird Narara crossing → Strickland Lower car park

1.2 km
23 mins
36m
-32m

Moderate track

Maps for the Bellbird Trail walk

You can download the PDF for this walk to print a map.
These maps below cover the walk and the wider area around the walk, they are worth carrying for safety reasons.

Gosford	1:25 000 Map Series	91312S GOSFORD	NSW-91312S
Wyong	1:25 000 Map Series	91312N WYONG	NSW-91312N
Gosford	1:100 000 Map Series	9131 GOSFORD	9131

Cross sectional view of the Bellbird Trail bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Bellbird Trail

Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001

Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.

		Length	3.3 km
		Time	1 hr 15 mins
		.
Grade 3/6 Moderate track	AS 2156.1	Gradient	Gentle hills with occasional steps (2/6)
		Quality of track	Formed track, with some branches and other obstacles (3/6)
		Signs	Directional signs along the way (3/6)
		Experience Required	Some bushwalking experience recommended (3/6)
		Weather	Storms may impact on navigation and safety (3/6)
		Infrastructure	Limited facilities, not all cliffs are fenced (3/6)

Some more details of this walks Grading

Here is a bit more details explaining grading looking at sections of the walk

Gradient

Around 3km of this walk has gentle hills with occasional steps, whilst the remaining 320m is flat with no steps.

Quality of track

Around 2.9km of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles, whilst the remaining 490m follows a clear and well formed track or trail.

Signs

Around 3.2km of this walk has directional signs at most intersection, whilst the remaining 160m is clearly signposted.

Experience Required

Around 2km of this walk requires some bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 1.3km requires no previous bushwalking experience.

weather

Around 1.8km of this walk is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation), whilst the remaining 1.5km is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety.

Infrastructure

Around 3.2km of this walk has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced), whilst the remaining 130m is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats).

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Bellbird Trail walk starts and ends at the Strickland Lower car park (gps: -33.379942, 151.32508)
Your main transport option to Strickland Lower car park is by;
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)

Fire Danger

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_fire_danger.php?walkid=nsw-stricklandsf-bt
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.

Weather Forest

This walk starts in the Hunter weather district always check the formal BOM forecast or pdf before starting your walk.

Forecast snapshot

Park Information & Alerts

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_park_closure.php?walkid=nsw-stricklandsf-bt

Strickland Tour

And Walk

Strickland Tour

Download & Print Map and Notes

Strickland State Forest

(0km) Banksia car park → Banksia picnic area

50 m
1 mins
0m
-2m

Moderate track

Banksia Picnic Area

(0.05km) Banksia picnic area → Int of Cabbage Tree and Stoney Creek trails

1.1 km
25 mins
31m
-106m

Moderate track

Cabbage-Tree Palm

(1.17km) Int of Cabbage Tree and Stoney Creek trails → Int of Stoney Creek and Bellbird trails

920 m
20 mins
23m
-73m

Moderate track

(2.09km) Int of Stoney Creek and Bellbird trails → Arboretum junction

450 m
8 mins
6m
-10m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the intersection, the walk crosses the creek and follows the ‘Arboretum Loop Trail’ arrow along the old management trail. The trail meanders through shaded forest, filled with cabbage palms, for some time before reaching a signposted intersection with a bush track.

(2.54km) Arboretum junction → North int of Arboretum Loop and Bellbird trail

230 m
4 mins
0m
-11m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the ‘Arboretum Trail’ arrow down the timber steps and along the overgrown management trail. After a short distance, the walk crosses a suspension bridge over Narara Creek, bends to the left and almost immediately reaches an unmarked intersection with a narrow bush track, to the right.
Continue straight: From the intersection, the walk follows the old management trail away from the suspension bridge. The walk soon arrives at the intersection signposted ‘Arboretum Loop Trail’.

Strickland State Forest Arboretum

This arboretum is apparently one of the oldest in Australia, with plantings dating from 1887-1924[9]. Numerous signs have been placed along the walking tracks to identify some of the species of trees. There are very tall, and impressive, examples of Hoop Pine, Bunya Pine, Tallow Wood and Red Cedar. More info.

(2.77km) North int of Arboretum Loop and Bellbird trail → Bunya pine grove

430 m
7 mins
3m
-2m

Moderate track

(3.2km) Bunya pine grove → Bellbird Narara crossing

1 km
21 mins
44m
-30m

Moderate track

Veer right: From the intersection, the walk follows the old management trail away from the nearby gate, going gently up the hill. After a short distance the walk arrives at an intersection with a bush track, signposted ‘Bellbird Trail’.
Turn left: From the intersection, the walk follows the ‘Bellbird Trail’ arrow along the bush track, going up the hill. There are some track markers on short brown posts in this area, although they are often obscured in the undergrowth. The narrow, and sometimes faint, bush track goes through vine filled forest for a short distance to a ‘T’ intersection marked with a number of arrows.
Turn left: From the intersection, the walk follows the bush track, in the opposite direction to the arrow on the tree, following the short brown arrow post. The walk follows the narrow bush track for some time through beautiful forest, filled with cabbage palms, ferns and vines. Narara Creek is often visible just to the right. After a while, the walk arrives at some concreted steps just before crossing Narara Creek.

Bellbirds

Bellbird Trail Narara crossing

(4.19km) Bellbird Narara crossing → Int of Cabbage Tree and Strickland Falls trails

2.3 km
52 mins
162m
-62m

Moderate track

Continue straight: From the concreted steps, the walk crosses Narara Creek and follows the bush track, which immediately bends to the right, following the creek downstream. The walk passes signs naming some of the trees and meanders through the beautiful forest for some time before reaching an intersection signposted ‘Return To Carpark’.
Turn left: From the intersection, the walk follows the ‘Return To Carpark’ arrow along the old management trail, going up the hill. The trail meanders through shaded forest, filled with cabbage palms, for some time before crossing Stoney Creek to an intersection signposted ‘Stoney Creek Walk Trail’.
Turn left: From the intersection, the walk follows the ‘Stoney Creek Walk Trail’ arrow along the bush track, keeping the creek to the left. The walk passes a ‘Rainforests and Preservation’ information sign, then gently climbs through forest filled with ferns and cabbage palms for some time before reaching the intersection, signposted ‘Stoney Creek Trail’.
Turn left: From the intersection, the walk follows the ‘Cabbage Tree Trail’ arrow along the bush track, going up the hill. This section of the walk passes through forest filled with cabbage palms and ferns. The walk also passes some interesting boulders, before reaching an intersection, signposted ‘Strickland Falls Trail’.

(6.53km) Int of Cabbage Tree and Strickland Falls trails → Strickland Falls

700 m
22 mins
82m
-70m

Moderate track

Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Strickland Falls Trail’ arrow along the bush track, keeping the valley to the left. The track meanders through some beautiful scenery with ferns, cabbage palms and boulders. A cliff line is often visible through the trees to the right. After a while, the walk crosses a gully below some imposing cliffs and continues further before reaching the signposted ‘Strickland Falls’.

Strickland Falls

(7.23km) Strickland Falls → Int of Strickland Falls trail and Strickland Rd

740 m
18 mins
49m
-35m

Moderate track

Turn sharp right: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Banksia Picnic Area’ arrow along the bush track, going up the steps. The walk climbs up through a series of boulders, with some nice overhangs along the way. The vegetation becomes much drier as the walk climbs out of the valley. After a while the track comes to an intersection with the road, signposted ‘Strickland Falls’.

(7.97km) Int of Strickland Falls trail and Strickland Rd → Banksia car park

90 m
2 mins
2m
-1m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the intersection, the walk follows the road to the gate in the car park , just before the picnic area.

Maps for the Strickland Tour walk

You can download the PDF for this walk to print a map.
These maps below cover the walk and the wider area around the walk, they are worth carrying for safety reasons.

Gosford	1:25 000 Map Series	91312S GOSFORD	NSW-91312S
Wyong	1:25 000 Map Series	91312N WYONG	NSW-91312N
Gosford	1:100 000 Map Series	9131 GOSFORD	9131

Cross sectional view of the Strickland Tour bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Strickland Tour

Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001

Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.

		Length	8.1 km
		Time	3 hrs 30 mins
		.
Grade 3/6 Moderate track	AS 2156.1	Gradient	Short steep hills (3/6)
		Quality of track	Formed track, with some branches and other obstacles (3/6)
		Signs	Directional signs along the way (3/6)
		Experience Required	Some bushwalking experience recommended (3/6)
		Weather	Storms may impact on navigation and safety (3/6)
		Infrastructure	Limited facilities, not all cliffs are fenced (3/6)

Some more details of this walks Grading

Here is a bit more details explaining grading looking at sections of the walk

Gradient

7km of this walk has gentle hills with occasional steps and another 460m is flat with no steps. The remaining (340m) has short steep hills.

Quality of track

Around 6km of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles, whilst the remaining 2.3km follows a clear and well formed track or trail.

Signs

This whole walk, 8km has directional signs at most intersection.

Experience Required

Around 4.2km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 3.8km requires some bushwalking experience.

weather

Around 6km of this walk is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation), whilst the remaining 2.3km is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety.

Infrastructure

Around 8km of this walk has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced), whilst the remaining 270m is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats).

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Strickland Tour walk starts and ends at the Banksia car park (gps: -33.37331, 151.32253)
Your main transport option to Banksia car park is by;
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)

Fire Danger

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_fire_danger.php?walkid=nsw-stricklandsf-st
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.

Weather Forest

This walk starts in the Hunter weather district always check the formal BOM forecast or pdf before starting your walk.

Forecast snapshot

Park Information & Alerts

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_park_closure.php?walkid=nsw-stricklandsf-st

Strickland Falls

And Walk

Strickland Falls

Download & Print Map and Notes

Strickland State Forest

Banksia Picnic Area

(0km) Banksia car park → Int of Strickland Falls trail and Strickland Rd

90 m
2 mins
1m
-2m

Moderate track

From the car park, the walk follows the road away from the picnic area and soon reaches an intersection with a bush track, signposted ‘Strickland Falls’, ’40 Minute Easy Walk’.

(0.09km) Int of Strickland Falls trail and Strickland Rd → Strickland Falls

740 m
18 mins
35m
-49m

Moderate track

Strickland Falls

Maps for the Strickland Falls walk

You can download the PDF for this walk to print a map.
These maps below cover the walk and the wider area around the walk, they are worth carrying for safety reasons.

Wyong	1:25 000 Map Series	91312N WYONG	NSW-91312N
Gosford	1:100 000 Map Series	9131 GOSFORD	9131

Cross sectional view of the Strickland Falls bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Strickland Falls

Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001

Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.

		Length	1.7 km
		Time	45 mins
		.
Grade 3/6 Moderate track	AS 2156.1	Gradient	Gentle hills with occasional steps (2/6)
		Quality of track	Formed track, with some branches and other obstacles (3/6)
		Signs	Directional signs along the way (3/6)
		Experience Required	Some bushwalking experience recommended (3/6)
		Weather	Storms may impact on navigation and safety (3/6)
		Infrastructure	Limited facilities, not all cliffs are fenced (3/6)

Some more details of this walks Grading

Here is a bit more details explaining grading looking at sections of the walk

Gradient

Around 740m of this walk has gentle hills with occasional steps, whilst the remaining 95m is flat with no steps.

Quality of track

Around 740m of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles, whilst the remaining 95m follows a clear and well formed track or trail.

Signs

This whole walk, 830m has directional signs at most intersection.

Experience Required

Around 740m of this walk requires some bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 95m requires no previous bushwalking experience.

weather

Around 740m of this walk is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety, whilst the remaining 95m is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation).

Infrastructure

Around 740m of this walk has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced), whilst the remaining 95m is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats).

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Strickland Falls walk starts and ends at the Banksia car park (gps: -33.373305, 151.32252)
Your main transport option to Banksia car park is by;
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)

Fire Danger

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_fire_danger.php?walkid=nsw-stricklandsf-sf
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.

Weather Forest

This walk starts in the Hunter weather district always check the formal BOM forecast or pdf before starting your walk.

Forecast snapshot

Park Information & Alerts

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_park_closure.php?walkid=nsw-stricklandsf-sf

Cabbage Tree Trail

And Walk

Cabbage Tree Trail

Download & Print Map and Notes

Strickland State Forest

Banksia Picnic Area

(0km) Banksia car park → Banksia picnic area

50 m
1 mins
0m
-2m

Moderate track

(0.05km) Banksia picnic area → Int of Cabbage Tree and Stoney Creek trails

1.1 km
25 mins
31m
-106m

Moderate track

Cabbage-Tree Palm

(1.17km) Int of Cabbage Tree and Stoney Creek trails → Int of Cabbage Tree and Strickland Falls trails

340 m
11 mins
57m
-7m

Moderate track

Veer right: From the intersection, the walk follows the ‘Cabbage Tree Trail’ arrow along the bush track, going up the hill. This section of the walk passes through forest filled with cabbage palms and ferns. The walk also passes some interesting boulders, before reaching an intersection, signposted ‘Strickland Falls Trail’.

(1.5km) Int of Cabbage Tree and Strickland Falls trails → Banksia car park

220 m
5 mins
27m
0m

Moderate track

Turn right: Fromt the intersection, the walk follows the ‘walker arrow’ along the bush track, going up the hill. The vegetation on this section of the walk changes from moist forest, filled with ferns and cabbage palms, to relatively dry forest to as the track climbs. The track climbs, using steps cut into the rock in places, before passing the ‘Gosford Lookout’ rock platform, to the right. At this lookout point, the track bends to the left, passes a ‘Gosford Lookout’ signpost and immediately arrives at the intersection at the end of the Banksia picnic area.
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk goes across the picnic area, and passes around the gate, into the car park (near the end of Strickland Rd in the Strickland State Forest).

Maps for the Cabbage Tree Trail walk

You can download the PDF for this walk to print a map.
These maps below cover the walk and the wider area around the walk, they are worth carrying for safety reasons.

Gosford	1:25 000 Map Series	91312S GOSFORD	NSW-91312S
Wyong	1:25 000 Map Series	91312N WYONG	NSW-91312N
Gosford	1:100 000 Map Series	9131 GOSFORD	9131

Cross sectional view of the Cabbage Tree Trail bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Cabbage Tree Trail

Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001

Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.

		Length	1.7 km
		Time	1 Hr
		.
Grade 3/6 Moderate track	AS 2156.1	Gradient	Short steep hills (3/6)
		Quality of track	Formed track, with some branches and other obstacles (3/6)
		Signs	Directional signs along the way (3/6)
		Experience Required	Some bushwalking experience recommended (3/6)
		Weather	Weather generally has little impact on safety (1/6)
		Infrastructure	Limited facilities, not all cliffs are fenced (3/6)

Some more details of this walks Grading

Here is a bit more details explaining grading looking at sections of the walk

Gradient

1.1km of this walk has gentle hills with occasional steps and another 510m has short steep hills. The remaining (95m) is flat with no steps.

Quality of track

Around 1.6km of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles, whilst the remaining 95m follows a clear and well formed track or trail.

Signs

This whole walk, 1.7km has directional signs at most intersection.

Experience Required

Around 1.2km of this walk requires no previous bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 510m requires some bushwalking experience.

weather

This whole walk, 1.7km is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation).

Infrastructure

Around 1.5km of this walk has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced), whilst the remaining 270m is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats).

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Cabbage Tree Trail walk starts and ends at the Banksia car park (gps: -33.37331, 151.32253)
Your main transport option to Banksia car park is by;
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)

Fire Danger

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_fire_danger.php?walkid=nsw-stricklandsf-ctt
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.

Weather Forest

This walk starts in the Hunter weather district always check the formal BOM forecast or pdf before starting your walk.

Forecast snapshot

Park Information & Alerts

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_park_closure.php?walkid=nsw-stricklandsf-ctt

Strickland Falls Loop Trail

And Walk

Strickland Falls Loop Trail

Download & Print Map and Notes

Strickland State Forest

(0km) Banksia car park → Banksia picnic area

50 m
1 mins
0m
-2m

Moderate track

Banksia Picnic Area

(0.05km) Banksia picnic area → Strickland Falls

870 m
26 mins
82m
-95m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the bush track past the ‘Gosford Lookout’ sign, towards the rock platform (the lookout). At the rock platform lookout, the track bends to the right and descends gently, using steps cut into the rock in places. The vegetation on this section of the walk changes from relatively dry forest at the picnic area to moist forest filled with ferns and cabbage palms as the track descends. After a short distance, the walk arrives at an intersection signposted ‘Cabbage Tree Trail’.
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the ‘Strickland Falls Trail’ arrow along the bush track, keeping the valley to the left. The track meanders through some beautiful scenery with ferns, cabbage palms and boulders. A cliff line is often visible through the trees to the right. After a while, the walk crosses a gully below some imposing cliffs and continues further before reaching the signposted ‘Strickland Falls’.

Strickland Falls

(0.92km) Strickland Falls → Int of Strickland Falls trail and Strickland Rd

740 m
18 mins
49m
-35m

Moderate track

(1.66km) Int of Strickland Falls trail and Strickland Rd → Banksia car park

90 m
2 mins
2m
-1m

Moderate track

Turn right: From the intersection, the walk follows the road to the gate in the car park , just before the picnic area.

Maps for the Strickland Falls Loop Trail walk

You can download the PDF for this walk to print a map.
These maps below cover the walk and the wider area around the walk, they are worth carrying for safety reasons.

Wyong	1:25 000 Map Series	91312N WYONG	NSW-91312N
Gosford	1:100 000 Map Series	9131 GOSFORD	9131

Cross sectional view of the Strickland Falls Loop Trail bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Strickland Falls Loop Trail

Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001

Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.

		Length	1.8 km
		Time	1 Hr
		.
Grade 3/6 Moderate track	AS 2156.1	Gradient	Short steep hills (3/6)
		Quality of track	Formed track, with some branches and other obstacles (3/6)
		Signs	Directional signs along the way (3/6)
		Experience Required	Some bushwalking experience recommended (3/6)
		Weather	Storms may impact on navigation and safety (3/6)
		Infrastructure	Limited facilities, not all cliffs are fenced (3/6)

Some more details of this walks Grading

Here is a bit more details explaining grading looking at sections of the walk

Gradient

1.4km of this walk has gentle hills with occasional steps and another 180m has short steep hills. The remaining (140m) is flat with no steps.

Quality of track

Around 1.6km of this walk follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles, whilst the remaining 140m follows a clear and well formed track or trail.

Signs

This whole walk, 1.8km has directional signs at most intersection.

Experience Required

Around 1.6km of this walk requires some bushwalking experience, whilst the remaining 140m requires no previous bushwalking experience.

weather

Around 1km of this walk is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation), whilst the remaining 740m is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety.

Infrastructure

Around 1.4km of this walk has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced), whilst the remaining 320m is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats).

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The Strickland Falls Loop Trail walk starts and ends at the Banksia car park (gps: -33.37331, 151.32253)
Your main transport option to Banksia car park is by;
Car. There is free parking available.
(get details)

Fire Danger

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_fire_danger.php?walkid=nsw-stricklandsf-sflt
Each park may have its own fire ban, this rating is only valid for today and is based on information from the RFS Please check the RFS Website for more information.

Weather Forest

This walk starts in the Hunter weather district always check the formal BOM forecast or pdf before starting your walk.

Forecast snapshot

Park Information & Alerts

https://www.wildwalks.com/wildwalks_custom/includes/walk_park_closure.php?walkid=nsw-stricklandsf-sflt

And Walk

Stoney Creek Trail

Strickland State Forest

(0km) Banksia car park → Banksia picnic area

Moderate track

Banksia Picnic Area

(0.05km) Banksia picnic area → Int of Cabbage Tree and Stoney Creek trails

Moderate track

Cabbage-Tree Palm

(1.17km) Int of Cabbage Tree and Stoney Creek trails → Int of Stoney Creek and Bellbird trails

Moderate track

(2.09km) Int of Stoney Creek and Bellbird trails → Strickland Lower car park

Moderate track

Maps for the Stoney Creek Trail walk

Cross sectional view of the Stoney Creek Trail bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Stoney Creek Trail

Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001

Some more details of this walks Grading

Gradient

Quality of track

Signs

Experience Required

weather

Infrastructure

Similar walks

Other Nearby walks

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

Fire Danger

Weather Forest

Park Information & Alerts

Comments

And Walk

Arboretum Loop Trail

Strickland State Forest

(0km) Strickland Lower car park → Int of Stoney Creek and Bellbird trails

Moderate track

(0.08km) Int of Stoney Creek and Bellbird trails → Arboretum junction

Moderate track

(0.53km) Arboretum junction → Suspension bridge intersection

Moderate track

(0.66km) Suspension bridge intersection → North int of Arboretum Loop and Bellbird trail

Moderate track

Strickland State Forest Arboretum

(0.76km) North int of Arboretum Loop and Bellbird trail → Bunya pine grove

Moderate track

(1.19km) Bunya pine grove → Strickland Lower car park

Moderate track

Maps for the Arboretum Loop Trail walk

Cross sectional view of the Arboretum Loop Trail bushwalking track

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the Arboretum Loop Trail

Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001

Some more details of this walks Grading

Gradient

Quality of track

Signs

Experience Required

weather

Infrastructure

Similar walks

Other Nearby walks

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

Fire Danger

Weather Forest

Park Information & Alerts

Comments

And Walk

Strickland Falls and Cabbage Tree loop

Strickland State Forest

(0km) Banksia car park → Int of Strickland Falls trail and Strickland Rd

Moderate track

(0.09km) Int of Strickland Falls trail and Strickland Rd → Strickland Falls

Moderate track

Strickland Falls

(0.83km) Strickland Falls → Int of Cabbage Tree and Stoney Creek trails

Moderate track

Cabbage-Tree Palm

(1.87km) Int of Cabbage Tree and Stoney Creek trails → Banksia picnic area

Moderate track

Banksia Picnic Area

(2.99km) Banksia picnic area → Banksia car park