Now that the temperature has dropped it’s the perfect time to rug up and get outdoors. Staying active is so important in the cooler months for your physical wellbeing and one of the easiest ways to get moving is by walking. Out amongst nature you can reset, recharge and reconnect and we've discovered the best walking tracks in and around Stockland Green Hills for you to discover on your next outdoor adventure.
Maitland Park
Maitland Park is centrally located in the heart of Maitland surrounded by Victorian period landscapes and architecture. Maitland Park is family friendly as the flat path suitable for prams, cyclists and easy walking.
Getting there: Maitland Park is located on Les Darcy Drive (New England Highway) in Maitland.
Distance: 1.8km
Difficulty: Easy
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
Stairs: 0
Find more information here.
Walka Water Works
Walk Water Works is a popular picnic and recreation area in the Maitland district. For wildlife enthusiasts, the large lake area is home to over 140 species of birdlife with various walking trails around the lake. The walking trail is a great walk to combine with a family picnic. The lake trail is suitable for cyclists and prams with the bush trail perfect for those wanting to explore.
Getting there: Located only 5 minutes drive from central Maitland.
Distance: 4.8km
Difficulty: Moderate
Opening hours: Open daily from 7.00am to 7.00pm during daylight savings and 7.00am to 5.00pm during non-daylight savings
Stairs: 0
Find more information here.
Glenrock State Conservation
Located 10 minutes from Newcastle CBD, Yuelarbah walking track is set within the Glenrock State Conservation area, and located within one of the last remaining coastline rainforests in the region. Set within 500 hectares of natural coastline, walk over bridges, through coastal rainforest, wet gullies and past water falls to meet the sea at Burwood Beach. Leichardt’s Lookout offers clear views of Glenrock Lagoon. The colonial history of the area is relevant in the hidden railway tracks and remains of the original Burwood Colliery. Part of the Great North Walk, Glenrock State Conservation Area offers numerous spots of stop and have a picnic and take in an untouched piece of the Hunter’s Coastline.
Getting there: From Newcastle, Charlestown and Sydney, exit the Pacific Highway at Dudley Road or Kahibah Road, then turn into Burwood Road.
Distance: 6.8km return
Difficulty: Moderate - Hard
Time: 2 – 3 Hours
Opening hours: Glenrock State Conservation Area is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.
Stairs Many
Find more information here.
Morpeth Heritage Walk
Have you ever wanted to experience the rich heritage of Morpeth located on the historic Hunter River? The Morpeth Heritage walk will take you back in time to the historically significant sites of this beautiful riverside town. The Morpeth Heritage walk takes you to 25 of the towns historic sites along Swan Street and High Street. This walk is for those who are interested in the history of Morpeth and enjoy a leisurely walk. You will fall in love with the genuine charm this small tourist town has to offer.
Getting there: Morpeth is located on the banks of the Hunter river 14km east of Maitland and 35km North West of Newcastle.
Distance: 4.1km
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 40 minutes
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Stairs: 0
Find more information here.
Anzac Memorial Walk
Anzac Memorial Walk is located along the headland between Bar Beach and Strzelecki lookout. The 450m clifftop walkway was opened in 2015 to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the ANZAC landing in Gallipoli. The 160m cliff top bridge inscribed with the family names of almost 4000 Hunter Valley men and women enlisted in WW1. The steel structure is a quiet nod to the steel making history of Newcastle, whilst serving as a vantage point for the best ocean views and city skyscape. Enjoy the easy walk with family during the day, or for the more adventurous head out after dark to experience the city lights come alive from above.
Getting there: Anzac Walk is located on the headland Memorial Drive, The Hill. Park at Strzelecki Lookout or Bar Beach carpark for a short return trip. Wheel chair access to the lookout is available from Strzelecki Lookout.
Distance: 450m
Difficulty: Easy - Moderate
Opening Hours: 24 Hours
Stairs: 137 stairs in total
For the energetic, take in the full stretch of Newcastle’s coastline by walk the full Bather’s Way from Merewether to Nobby’s Beach. The 6km coastal from Merewether Beach to Nobby’s is linked by Anzac Memorial Walk.
Find more information here.
How many walks have you ticked off? Stretch your legs and get a buddy on-board because walking with a friend is a social adventure! There is so much to see and do at each garden, reserve or park that your social calendar will be filled for weeks to come. Want to discover other activities to keep you busy while in isolation? Head straight to our Belong hub and get reading
