Walking Sydney’s trails takes you beyond the city streets and into landscapes of coastal cliffs, shaded bushland, and harbour lookouts. Whether you’re out for exercise, a relaxed stroll, or preparing for a bigger challenge, these routes offer a fresh way to experience the city.
If you’re ready to push your limits,the Kokoda Challenge Sydney is set in the Heathcote and Royal National Parks. It’s a team endurance event with 18 km, 48 km, and 96 km options, it’s an opportunity to test your limits while supporting youth programs through the Kokoda Youth Foundation.
This guide rounds up the best walking trails in and around Sydney to help you train, explore, or simply find your next unforgettable day outdoors.
If you prefer to pick up the pace, you might enjoy our guides to Sydney Ultra Marathons and Sydney Running Trails.
Best Walking Trails in Sydney
1. Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk
One of Sydney’s most iconic walking trails, this 6 km track links beaches, cliffs, and ocean rock pools in a stunning coastal stretch.
- Distance & Elevation: 6 km one-way, approx. 120 m elevation gain
- Terrain & Difficulty: Paved path with stairs and inclines; easy to moderate
- Best Time to Walk: Early morning for sunrise over the ocean
- Highlights: Bondi Icebergs pool, cliff-top views, beachside cafés, and the famous Sculpture by the Sea (in season)
2. The Spit to Manly Track
A must-do Sydney walking trail with harbour lookouts, bushland, and historic Aboriginal sites.
- Distance & Elevation: 10 km one-way, approx. 230 m elevation gain
- Terrain & Difficulty: Well-maintained paths, sandstone steps, and occasional natural trail sections; moderate difficulty
- Best Time to Walk: Weekdays or early weekends to avoid heavy foot traffic
- Highlights: Grotto Point Aboriginal engravings, secluded beaches, panoramic views of North Head
3. Bradleys Head to Chowder Bay
Short and scenic, this harbour-side track offers a mix of nature and history.
- Distance & Elevation: 4 km one-way, approx. 80 m elevation gain
- Terrain & Difficulty: Sealed path and bush track; easy
- Best Time to Walk: Late afternoon for golden light over the harbour
- Highlights: Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House views, military fortifications, Clifton Gardens beach
4. Bundeena to Wedding Cake Rock (Royal National Park)
A striking coastal walk featuring the famous white cliff formation known as Wedding Cake Rock.
- Distance & Elevation: 6.8 km return, approx. 150 m elevation gain
- Terrain & Difficulty: Rugged coastal path, exposed rock, some sandy sections; moderate difficulty
- Best Time to Walk: Cooler months or early mornings, little shade along the route
- Highlights: Dramatic cliffs, ocean views, and spring wildflowers
For more route options in this area, check out our guide to the Best Walks in Royal National Park.
5. Narrabeen Lagoon Trail
A relaxed, flat loop ideal for families or an easy weekend walk.
- Distance & Elevation: 8.4 km loop, approx. 40 m elevation gain
- Terrain & Difficulty: Mostly sealed with boardwalk sections; easy
- Best Time to Walk: Early morning for calm water and birdlife
- Highlights: Lakeside scenery, picnic spots, and long uninterrupted stretches
6. Manly Dam Circuit
A bushland trail that feels surprisingly remote for its location.
- Distance & Elevation: 7.3 km loop, approx. 160 m elevation gain
- Terrain & Difficulty: Fire trails and singletrack with moderate climbs; moderate difficulty
- Best Time to Walk: Morning or late afternoon to avoid heat
- Highlights: Reservoir views, shaded forest, and varied terrain
7. Lane Cove National Park Riverside Walk
A peaceful riverside track just minutes from the city.
- Distance & Elevation: 10 km return, approx. 120 m elevation gain
- Terrain & Difficulty: Well-defined bush track; easy to moderate
- Best Time to Walk: Early morning for cool, quiet conditions
- Highlights: Native wildlife, river views, and picnic areas
8. Wolli Creek Track
A hidden gem in Sydney’s inner west, rich with native vegetation and birdlife.
- Distance & Elevation: 5 km one-way, minimal elevation gain
- Terrain & Difficulty: Dirt paths and boardwalk; easy
- Best Time to Walk: Morning or late afternoon
- Highlights: Wetland habitats, shady bushland, and surprising tranquillity so close to the city
Looking for something more challenging? See our list of the Best Hikes to Do in Sydney.
Event Spotlight: The Kokoda Challenge Sydney
If you love walking Sydney’s trails and want to test yourself physically and mentally, the Kokoda Challenge Sydney is the ultimate event.
Held in Heathcote and Royal National Parks, just south of the CBD, the event offers 18 km, 48 km, and 96 km distances. But it’s not just about distance, it’s about teamwork, resilience, and supporting a greater cause.
You and your team will navigate steep climbs, winding bush tracks, and unpredictable conditions while embodying the Kokoda Spirit: endurance, mateship, courage, and sacrifice. Every step helps fund youth programs run by the Kokoda Youth Foundation, giving Aussie teens the tools to build resilience and purpose.
Registrations are open, gather your team and take on the challenge.
Tips for Enjoying Sydney Walking Trails
- Wear supportive shoes: Choose footwear with good grip for uneven surfaces.
- Bring water and snacks: Even shorter trails can be dehydrating on hot days.
- Plan for the weather: Sunscreen, hat, and a light jacket if needed.
- Follow trail etiquette: Stay on marked paths and respect other walkers.
- Walk with friends: It’s safer and makes the experience more enjoyable.
