Newcastle’s Best Walking Tracks

Wallarah Peninsula Track begins at the foreshore of Murrays Beach approximately 40 minutes south of Newcaste's CBD and ends at Caves Beach (a great place for a well deserved swim after the long hike). This relatively flat 10km walk runs through Wallarah National Park and has several steep sections with loose gravel but can be great for dolphin and whale spotting.

Bathers Way is a scenic 5km coastal walk beginning at the iconic Nobby's Lighthouse and ending at Glenrock Reserve. Along the path are strategically placed yellow signs that tell stories of history and will also help you navigate the path. During the walk you will pass historical Fort Scratchley, possibly see whales during migration season and have many opportunities to take a swim at one of Newcastle's beautiful beaches.

Blackbutt Reserve has several walking tracks, but this one is one of the longer ones so you can really experience what the nature area has to offer. The 6.5km path is relatively flat with the occasional slight ascent and descent and passes through several reserves and picnic areas so you can really make a day of it. It is a must to make a side trip to the Wildlife Exhibits at Carnley Reserve.

This self guided 3km walk will lead you to many of the iconic places and buildings that have made Newcastle the great place that it is today. You will pass Customs House, the Convict Lumber Yard, Fort Scratchley, Newcastle Ocean Baths and Beach, Christ Church Cathedral and several other historic buildings. If it all becomes a little tiring then you can stop off at one of the many great cafes for a coffee or bite to eat along the way.

Fernleigh Track is not for the faint-hearted... it's a long one. The 15km shared path follows a disused coal rail line between Adamstown and Belmont. You will pass through the suburbs of Kahibah, Whitebridge, Redhead and Jewells, observe many varieties of flora and fauna and be able to view heritage railway relics. Definitely worth it even if it takes you all day!