Lockdown starting to wear thin? Sick of the walk around the block or the crowds down the beach? Home-schooling already bringing you down? Walking in nature is a wonderful way to rejuvenate and restore your body and your mind – and we have the best lockdown nature walks here for you. A total refresh to give you the stamina to take on whatever lockdown life is throwing your way. Let’s take a look at some local nature walks in our beautiful bushland and where they fit into your 10km radius, so you are not in breach of any health orders.
To check your distances, simply go to Google Maps directions and put in your home address and the walk name.
Basic Covid-19 bushwalking considerations;
- Stay within your local government area or within 10km of your home.
- You can exercise with 1 other person who is not from your household.
- If there are more than 2 people in your household, you can go out together for exercise.
- If you are driving to outdoor exercise and recreation within your local government area or within 10km from your home, you can only share a private vehicle (your car) with other people from your household.
- You will need to take your proof of address, you must show your proof of address if asked by the NSW Police.
- If you are sick or have been to a potential outbreak site – isolate at home, don’t go bushwalking!
- Be respectful of other walkers and maintain social distancing.
Please keep up to date on local health orders via Service NSW to ensure you and your community remain safe.
Northern Suburbs – click on the walk name for the full trail guide.
Kelly’s Falls – Stanwell Tops/Otford/Helensburgh
You can choose your adventure on this walk, just go to the viewing platform, take the scramble to the bottom of the falls or take on the longer Princess Marina Walk. As the name suggests, there are beautiful falls on this walk and a swimming hole.
Sublime Point – Austinmer
One of Wollongong’s most iconic walks is the Sublime Point lookout – which has just had an upgrade. With access at the top and bottom of the walk there are a few options on the best way to tackle this walk, and you can certainly mix it up according to your fitness ability. In addition the walk intersects with the Gibson Trail and also joins the Woodward trail at the top, so plenty of options are available to tailor the walk to your needs – perfect lockdown nature walks in your own backyard!
Wodi Wodi – Stanwell Park
This longer version of the Wodi Wodi track will put your fitness and stamina to the test as you meander through forest, creek beds and rainforest then joining into the Forest Trail to ponder your eyes across epic views of the Northern Illawarra Coastline.
Wollongong CBD – click on the walk name for the full trail guide.
Mt Keira Ring Track – Mt Keira/Wollongong
For generations the Mount Keira Ring Track has been the ‘stomping ground’ for many Scouts, picnickers and bushwalkers… but it’s the history beyond, that makes this beautiful natural place so significant and special in the hearts of many Wollongong locals. This is a detailed guide, featuring all the local tricks of the in’s and out’s of the trail so you can make your way around the wonderful ring trail and maybe even take a few little side trails…
Mt Kembla Summit – Mt Kembla
One of Wollongong’s most beautiful and unique walks. Depending on the weather; a plethora of fungi, an eerie walk in the clouds or simply a great walk to absorb the iconic Wollongong coastline and Lake Illawarra views. A great walk anytime of year, enjoying plenty of wildlife with a short challenging walk.
Ken Ausburn Trail – Keiraville/Mt Keira/Wollongong
A short CBD trail that offers plenty of options to extend for a longer hike or stay with the shorter trail to enjoy all it’s health benefits, views, history, art and wildlife. Best part – it’s close to town, a clear defined trail and wide enough to handle a few people too. The Mt Keira area providing the most lockdown nature walks.
SOUTHERN SUBURBS – click on the walk name for the full trail guide.
Kiama Coastal Trail – Kiama/Gerringong
A great coastal adventure for the whole family, including the dog! The walk around the rugged coastline allows everyone to enjoy epic coastal views, geological wonders and the ability to learn some history along the way with informational signage.
Drawing Room Rocks – Berry
Hidden in the hinterland behind the beautiful country town of nearby Berry, few people realise there is a local treasure hiding exquisite forests, timeless geological features and depending on the mood of Mother Nature, a vista of the coastline that is truly magnificent.
Cascade Trail – Albion Park
A popular beginners walk which is especially good for those with young children or reduced fitness levels or mobility. A great walk anytime of year, enjoying plenty of wildlife and a short walk to one of Wollongong’s most gorgeous cascade sites.
For more local trail inspiration and full trail guides visit www.bushwalkthegong.com or visit us on Facebook and Instagram @bushwalkthegong
