You’ll find forest boardwalks, coastal climbs, and mountain lookouts – each offering something a little different. Walkers, hikers, and cyclists will all find tracks to suit their style.
Some trails are easy and family-friendly. Others are steeper, longer, or better suited to experienced hikers. Many can be linked together for a longer loop.
Most tracks run through National Park areas, so stick to the paths, check conditions, and take care of the island’s plants and wildlife. Grab a map from the Visitor Centre – or better yet, ask a local for their favourite route.
If you have an interest in learning about all the different types of flora and fauna found on Norfolk then this should be your first stop. A very well maintained timber boardwalk and forest paths located at the base of Mount Pitt will guide you through endemic trees and plants with identification plaques and some history lessons along the way. An easy walk with a few steps and some benches to have a rest… perfect for all ages.
At the top of the island you’ll find the dual summits of these two mountains. Sitting just over 300m high these are no Everest, but the views from the top will amaze you just as much. Park up at Mt Pitt and follow the trail signs through to Mt Bates, a short walk through forest and well kept grassy tracks. Allow an hour or so for a steady stroll with plenty of time to stop and observe the old radar station and WWII ruins along the way.
Tucked away at the end of Selwyn Pine Rd is the entrance to Palm Glen, a green parrot haven and if you’d like the see one this is usually your best chance. Early morning or late afternoon seems to have the most activity – move quietly and listen for the tell-tale ‘kik-kik-kik’ but be warned these birds can be very cheeky!
There’s a myriad of walking trails that overlook the many islets and crystal clear shallows of the north side of the island. With a few different starting points and a couple of loops you’ll want to do a bit of planning before starting them, but trust us – they have some of the best lookout points you will ever get the pleasure of gazing upon. Some technical hiking and longer distances are involved with these trails.
The above mentioned trails can all be linked together into one big loop, if you drop in to the Visitor Information Centre we will be happy to give you a map and show you how!
The access trail down to one of the most beautiful beaches in world! A wide and winding trail with a moderate decline will have you stopping plenty of times along the way for photo opportunities. This is a well-kept trail as it’s needed for emergency vehicle access so it’s a pretty easy stroll on the way down, but it can be deceptively longer on the way back up! Cycling is permitted but please slow down and give way to walkers and stick to the main track.
Starting off under the magnificent fig trees on New Farm Road, this loop trail will take you all the way out to Rocky Point lookout and back. A steady walk with a little up and down but mostly flat trail and easy going. Along this trail you’ll find great picnic areas, plenty of photo opportunities and depending on the time of year you might even spot some very cute baby terns nested on the pine branches!
If stairs are your game and you want to feel the burn, park at Kingston Pier and take the step trail up to the top of Flagstaff. The view from the top overlooks the historic Kingston township so we think it’s worth all the steps!
The entrance to the Reserve is located on Anson Bay Road between Puppies Point and Anson Bay. A short walk to the clifftop provides stunning ocean views.
