The America Bay Track in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is an ideal choice for those seeking a fun and easy bushwalk escape in beautiful natural surroundings.
The highlight of this 2 km return track is the scenic lookout at the end, offering breathtaking views of America Bay.
Read on to discover more about the highlights of this walk, how to locate the trailhead, and where to park your car.
| America Bay Track | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 2 km (return) |
| Duration: | 1 hour (depending on stops) |
| Grade: | Easy |
| Dogs: | Not allowed |
Getting There
The America Bay Track is situated in the West Head and Basin precincts of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, which also features the West Head Lookout and Resolute Beach.
The trailhead for the America Bay Track is located on West Head Road, accessible via McCarrs Creek Road.
Look for the America Bay Track signpost on West Head Road, and you can park your car there at the small parking area (see location on map).
Keep in mind there’s a $12 entry fee per vehicle for the park, granting you access for the entire day.
Track Notes
The America Bay Track is a short 1 km trail, making it suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels.
The path is well-defined from start to finish, though sturdy walking shoes are recommended as some sections are rocky and uneven.
After parking in the small designated area, begin your family-friendly bushwalking adventure by entering the track at the signpost.
Aboriginal Engravings
Early in the walk, keep an eye out for an intersection that’s surprisingly easy to miss.
This is where you can take a short side trip to a site featuring well-preserved Aboriginal engravings. Look for a wooden pole, as shown in the photo below.
Interestingly, there’s no signage indicating the presence of these engravings, at least not at the time of writing.
Turn right at the intersection and follow the path for about 100 metres to reach a large, flat, rocky area.
The engravings are remarkably well-preserved, and with a closer look, you’ll be able to identify the various shapes and animals etched into the surface.
After exploring the engravings, retrace your steps to the intersection and turn right to continue along the main track to America Bay.
Small Waterfall
The track winds through a picturesque stretch of bushland before crossing a creek.
Soon, you’ll come across a small, unpretentious waterfall, which is most impressive after recent rainfall (unlike what’s shown in the photo below).
From here, you’ll catch your first glimpses of America Bay as the track leads to the stunning lookout point.
Lookout Point
The views of America Bay from the lookout are truly spectacular, so take your time to soak in the scenery.
The lookout features a large rocky platform, making it an ideal spot for a picnic with a view.
There’s another small waterfall here, where the creek cascades down to eventually flow into America Bay. However, getting a clear view of the waterfall from the lookout can be a bit tricky.
The America Bay Track once extended all the way down to a secluded beach at the bay.
Unfortunately, this section is closed until further notice. The closure sign appears permanent, so it remains to be seen whether it will reopen again in the future.
Check out our list of great walking tracks in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park for more walks in this beautiful area north of Sydney.
