Past adventure.
 

ADVENTURE REPORT
What a day! Last Sunday morning, twelve eager hikers converged on Cowan Station in Sydney’s far north, ready to tackle the next leg of the Great North Walk to Newcastle. We arrived from the north and south, and as we peered out our train windows, we saw a fresh, misty morning, with the vast green expanse of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park awaiting us.

The mist didn’t last long. We started by descending a rough and rocky track, that was quite steep at times, through a shrouded bush valley to Jerusalem Bay. Here we stopped a while and took in the incredible views – calm, glassy waters framed by rolling, forested hills. A breathtaking and tranquil sight.

The wake-up call came next, as no journey along the Great North Walk would be complete without a few challenges. And that’s exactly what came next in spades – a steep and tough climb up, then down, and up again. A relentless rock scramble at times, punctuated by recovery stops along the way. Like mountain goats, the team ascended cheerfully and with enthusiasm. Nothing seemed to stop them.

Relief came at the five six mark when we hit the wide, open fire trail that would be our path the rest of the day. As we wound our way along it, we were treated to beautiful glimpses and sweeping views of endless green hills and the Hawkesbury River valley and the river’s many bends and bays. The little village of Brooklyn, our destination, was visible far below. The fire trail was easy going and Brooklyn Dam and it’s camp site towards the end was a pleasant diversion and rest stop.

Our final challenge of the day came at the end – a steep concrete road descending sharply into Brooklyn. At the bottom, the group split: Half had had enough and made a beeline straight for the local pub. The rest continued with me on a short scenic detour around the picturesque headland and foreshore before too arriving at the local.

The pub was bustling and full of life. Here well earned drinks and snacks were consumed as we rested our weary bodies and reflected on our adventurous journey. It was a great day, glorious and perfect weather and a keen, supportive and appreciative bunch of hikers. Well done Eileen, Carmel, Alex, Kaye, Steve, Pam, Farhad, Susie (newbie), Lisa, Pam, and Richard. Great job.

Until next time …
Yours in adventure Nick

>>>  URGENT ADVENTURE UPDATE  <<<
For those coming by train, be sure to travel in the back 4 carriages as the Cowan Station platform is shorter than the train and you won’t be able to get off otherwise 😳.

ADVENYURE DETAILS
Changes on 19 Jun 25 shown in blue.
Recon done 27 Jun 25 – don’t forget your poles !

A continuation of the Great North Walk, this’ll be our 5th stage. A 14.5km hike along bush tracks & fire trails from Cowan to Brooklyn via Jerusalem Bay. It’ll take about 6 hours or so.

It’s typical Great North Walk … find a tall hill climb it, find a deep valley descend it, repeat. The second quarter of this walk will be steep and slow, but we’ll get there, and the second half is mainly downhill and on a fire trail.

A day to use your Opal Card as we start at Cowan Station and finish at Hawkesbury River (Brooklyn) Station. Bring your poles (highly recommended), snacks, water & lunch. Afterwards if there is interest, we can share a drink at the Angler’s Rest in Brooklyn.

If you’re coming by public transport …
This is recommended. Meet at Cowan Station at 9am. If you need a caffeine fix before hand, The Shoppe at Cowan Cafe is 350m up the road and opens at 7am.

If you’re coming by car …
It’s recommended you park at Hawkesbury River (Brooklyn) Station and catch the train back  to Cowan in time for the 9am start. This way you’ll have your car when you finish and don’t have to worry about rushing your walk to meet the infrequent train schedule.

Total elevation climb:  +370m,  -550m

Our route on Komoot.