Platypus Track, Bidjigal Reserve

Platypus Track, Bidjigal Reserve

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Posted 2015-09-07 by Catfollow
Bidjigal Reserve , managed by a Community Trust, is 186 hectares of bush land located within the Hills district of Sydney. Its name commemorates the Bidjigal people (members of the Darug Nation) who lived in the area. Bidjigal reserve was set aside for the purposes of preservation of Aboriginal cultural heritage, flora and fauna and public recreation in October 2004.

There is a lot to see in the reserve with over 370 native plants (including native orchids), over 140 native animals (including sightings of koala, swamp wallaby, echidna, eastern water dragon, and sugar gliders) and lots of birds (127 documented species). Sadly, there are no platypus to be found in the creek anymore.

There are many walking trails within the reserve, and three marked tracks, with one of the tracks being Platypus Track. Platypus Track is a great track for novice bush walkers and families or just for those looking for a peaceful walk. I headed out with hubby, toddler and baby and we had no problems navigating the track, with the baby in a carrier.


The Track is a 1.7km loop with some of the sections paved and some a bit rocky and steep. As it is a loop you can enter the walk to the left or right of the welcome sign. We headed right where there is a section of paved path.


The paved section of the track ends after a short while and you move onto a more natural path. This path is really beautiful, laid with rocks and surrounded by towering eucalyptus trees. The ambiance of the track is really quiet and peaceful and feels far, far away from suburbia. The path begins to descend down to the creek, and is easy to follow as it is fully signed.


The path on the way down is a charming rocky path, however there are quite a few steps and it is a bit uneven in places.


If you are there in spring, on the way down you will spot many beautiful wildflowers.


Once at the bottom of the track you will come to Darling Mills Creek. Here the track is pretty easy to walk, there are some narrow sections but in most cases an alternative route is offered.


The track meanders its way along the banks of the creek. You will see caves, many rock formations and of course lots of native trees and plants. A rustic bridge will take you over the creek.


There is also a beautiful set of stepping stones that the kids will love!


The last bit of the walk is a little steep, but you can reward yourself with a picnic lunch at the top grassy section.


You could also take the kids over to the park at Eric Mobbs Reserve. Here you will also find toilets and electric BBQ's.


Dogs are welcome on leash only. As with any bush walk make sure you bring water and food and tell someone where you are going. GPS signals work even at the bottom of the trail, so you can use google maps should you wander off the path. The walk is not suitable for prams or wheelchairs.

You will find the track at the end of Excelsior Avenue, Castle Hill. Drive all the way to the end of the road and you will be able to park at Eric Mobbs Reserve. The entrance is a little hard to spot as it is not signed. The track begins at the left of the entrance to the sporting ground.



#castle_hill
#free
#fun_things_to_do
#hills_district
#kids
#national_parks
#north_shore
#northern_suburbs
#outdoor
#west
%wnsydney
215414 - 2023-06-16 07:16:57

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