Shade, views and towering gums? The Red Gum Trail in Wyrrabalong National Park ticks all the boxes for a Central Coast hike. Just north of The Entrance, it’s a loop you can knock over in less than two hours – getting a proper nature hit without taking up your whole day.
Thanks goes of course to our resident Weekend Walk legend, Dana Chantler of @cennycoasthikes, who has a pretty good radar for family-friendly tracks that don’t feel boring.
Hike the Red Gum Trail With Us
The trail starts off Wilfred Barrett Drive – look for the carpark marked ‘Red Gum & Lilly Pilly Walking Track’. Head down the hill as you enter the park, then take a quick right to jump onto the Red Gum Trail. There’s good signage throughout the park, so it’s easy to stay on track without constantly second-guessing yourself.
There are a few gentle hills to begin, as the trail winds through sandy forest and those tall, towering gums the trail is named for. Nothing too strenuous, just enough to get the legs working.
Not far in, you’ll come across a nice little viewpoint with a wooden platform and bench overlooking the lake. It’s a good excuse to stop, have a breather, maybe a snack if you packed one (or if the kids are already asking).
A bit further along, you’ll crest a ridge with more great views – Tuggerah Lake on one side, ocean on the other – a pretty good payoff for a relatively cruisy walk.
Eventually, the Red Gum Trail ends and becomes the Lilly Pilly Loop. Take a left here, then shortly after another left onto the Burrawang Track to loop your way back to the car park.
Walk Details
- Distance: 3.4km return
- Time: 1–2 hours
- Grade: Easy – Moderate
If you’ve got a bit more time (or the kids still have energy to burn), there are heaps of other loops in the park worth exploring.
And keep an eye out along the way – if you’re lucky you might spot black cockatoos overhead, a lace monitor cruising through the bush or a diamond python stretched out somewhere sunny.
One of those walks that’s simple, scenic and easy to come back to again and again.
Feeling inspired? Make sure to tag @coastiesmag in your own photos – we love to see them!
MORE WEEKEND WALKS:
Graves Walk and Toomeys Trail
Pearl Beach Arboretum to Warrah Lookout
