Yuelarbah Walking Track

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Posted 2020-09-07 by Janelle ⇒ follow

The Glenrock State Conservation Area (SCA) is a scenic pocket of coastal rainforest on the doorstep of the second-largest city in NSW. To fully appreciate the natural diversity of the area, take a walk along the 3.4 km Yuelarbah Track and learn something about the original landowners and the history of coal mining in Newcastle.

Yuelarbah Track is part of The Great North Walk which stretches 250 km from Sydney to Newcastle. This part of the walk visits areas rich in history and natural features . The Awakabal people, from whose language Yuelarbah (meaning footsteps in the sand) comes, are the traditional owners. Glenrock SCA was an abundant source of food, bush medicine, ochre, coal and tool-making stones and there is much evidence of ancient indigenous life.

The track is well-formed and maintained with signposts and information boards at Leichardt's Lookout. There's a variety of track surfaces and the first 600 metres is suitable for prams and wheelchairs on the boardwalk, compacted gravel and asphalt path.

Yuelarbah Track is very popular with a wide range of people, including young families, trail runners, walking groups and nature lovers. Keen bird watchers and photographers would find plenty to keep them occupied, as would history buffs. During spring, the air is full of birdsong and the scent of wildflowers.

Whilst the walk to Burwood Beach is easily accomplished, there are some steep sections and enough stairs to give you a workout and if you want more of a challenge, you can continue north on towards Merewether Baths and beach.

There are plenty of things for children to look out for including a fairy tree, disused railway lines, birds, lizards, waterfalls and bridges. In the right season, you may see dolphins and passing whales and as always, when walking in the bush, one should be on guard for snakes. Swimming is not recommended at unpatrolled beaches but you could cool your feet in the Glenrock Lagoon.