Trail Running in Hawkesbury River Trails
The Hawkesbury River carves a spectacular sandstone gorge system northwest of Sydney, forming the boundary between Wollemi National Park and the farms of the Hawkesbury Valley. Trail running here taps into some of the most genuinely remote and rugged terrain within two hours of the city, with cliff-top ridge tracks above the river, dense bushland, and occasional lookouts over the river gorge. Dharug National Park on the river's southern bank offers additional track options, and the historic Great North Road is a unique heritage running route through the bush. This is trail running for those who enjoy solitude and raw landscape.
Region
Hawkesbury, NSW
Difficulty
Moderate
Best Seasons
Autumn, Winter, Spring
Trails
4 featured
Terrain
Rocky sandstone ridges above river gorge, dense scribbly gum bush, heritage gravel road, and creek crossings.
Best Trails
Great North Road Heritage Track
ModerateRun a UNESCO World Heritage convict road built by hand through the Hawkesbury bush in the 1820s, with river gorge views and a profound sense of history.
Historic convict-built gravel road and rough bush track
Dharug National Park River Loop
ModerateA bush loop in Dharug National Park with lookouts over the Hawkesbury River and passage through pristine dry sclerophyll forest.
Bush single-track with rocky sections and creek crossings
Marlow Track
ModerateA lesser-known sandstone ridge track in Dharug National Park with river views and outstanding solitude close to the Old Great North Road.
Rocky sandstone track and fire trail
Cattai National Park Circuit
EasyA gentle loop through Cattai National Park along the Hawkesbury River floodplain, passing an 1821 heritage homestead and open river foreshore.
Flat bush track and grassy river flat
Gear Recommendations
Carry adequate water as there are no facilities on any of the Dharug or Great North Road tracks
Navigation is important as tracks in Dharug National Park are not well signed
Sturdy trail shoes for rocky sandstone and creek crossings on the main bush routes
Pack extra food for longer routes as nearest resupply is in Wisemans Ferry or Richmond
Safety Tips
Mobile coverage is minimal throughout the Dharug and Wollemi areas, always inform someone of your route
The Great North Road can be hot and exposed in summer, choose cooler months for longer runs
Wollemi National Park beyond the Great North Road is extremely remote and not suitable for solo trail runners without significant navigation experience
Creek crossings can be dangerous after heavy rain, check conditions before departing
Getting There
Wisemans Ferry on the Hawkesbury River is the main gateway, approximately 90 minutes northwest of Sydney via Old Northern Road. Free camping is available at Dharug National Park for multi-day trips. There is no public transport to the area.
Post-Run Refuel
The Wisemans Ferry Inn, built in 1827, is one of NSW's most historic pubs and a legendary post-run stop. Cold drinks and meals are available with sweeping views over the Hawkesbury River.
Turn Your Trail Runs Into Territory
Done with the trails? Take the competition back to the streets. Motera turns every run into a territory capture game. Claim parks, streets, and entire suburbs by running loops. Compete on leaderboards, earn XP, and explore through Fog of War. Perfect for runners who want more purpose in every run.
Download Motera Free
MoteraFrequently Asked Questions
What is the Great North Road and why is it special for trail running?
The Great North Road is a 264 km convict-built road from Sydney to the Hunter Valley, constructed in the 1820s and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage convict site. The section through Dharug National Park near Wisemans Ferry is a unique trail running experience on hand-built historic stone road through remote bush.
How remote is trail running in the Hawkesbury area?
Very remote by Sydney standards. Mobile coverage is minimal, facilities are non-existent once on trail, and some areas border Wollemi National Park, one of the largest wilderness areas in eastern Australia. Navigation skills and self-sufficiency are essential.
Is Hawkesbury suitable for day trips from Sydney?
Yes, Wisemans Ferry is about 90 minutes from Sydney, making it a manageable day trip. Arrive early to maximise time on trail, especially in summer when temperatures climb quickly in the sheltered gorge.
Are there easy trail options in the Hawkesbury area?
The Cattai National Park Circuit (7 km, easy) along the Hawkesbury River floodplain is the most accessible option for recreational runners. The Great North Road and Dharug tracks are more demanding.
Can I camp overnight for multi-day running in Hawkesbury?
Yes. Dharug National Park has basic camping areas, and the Great North Road corridor has designated camping spots. Check National Parks NSW for current booking requirements and fire restrictions before planning a multi-day run.
