Looking for a weekend bushwalk on the Central Coast that ticks the boxes for bushland, rainforest and big views? Hidden away in Holgate is Katandra Reserve – and there’s more to this little slice of land than meets the eye. A firm fave amongst locals, Graves Walk and Toomeys Trail offer the perfect adventure for families and anyone keen for a half-day hike close to home.
This trail comes recommended by our resident ‘Weekend Walk’ legend, Dana Chantler. Always out exploring with his wife Shell and their three adventurous boys (10, 7 and 5), Dana shares plenty of trail inspo for Coastie families over at @cennycoasthikes.
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Hike Graves Walk and Toomeys Trail With Us
This is a circuit track, so you’ve got two options from the carpark at the end of Katandra Road: head left up Graves Walk or right down Toomeys Trail. Dana prefers Toomeys first, as it drops you straight into a beautiful, lush rainforest. As you start to gain elevation, the forest opens up with some lovely gum trees and lots of rock outcroppings. The final stretch does get a little steep, but it’s short and very manageable.
At the top, you’ll emerge at Mount Elliot, where the reward is all about the views – the perfect spot to catch your breath and soak it in.
From here, continue across the reserve to loop back via Graves Walk for the descent. Just be warned: after heavy rain, the bottom section can be very leechy (yes, that’s the official term).
Walk Details
• Distance: 4km return
• Time: 2–2.5 hours
• Grade: Moderate
• Facilities: Toilets available at the top and bottom of both trails.
This short, varied walk packs in a little of everything – rainforest, gum forest, rocky climbs and a panoramic lookout – making it one of the most rewarding little hikes on the Coast.
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