Oyster tracks

Oyster Tracks is the local name for the shared path running along Terranora Creek in Bilambil Heights on the NSW far north coast: a flat, easy 4.8 kilometre return gravel walk with water views most of the way. It is an on-lead walk rather than an off-lead run, but the wide, calm surface and creekside scenery make it a solid pick for a morning lap with the dog, and easy underfoot for dogs, prams and joggers alike.

The walk

The route runs about 4.8 kilometres return along the Terranora Creek foreshore, linking Scenic Drive and Peninsula Drive. The path is wide, flat and mostly gravel, with no climbs to speak of, so it suits older dogs, young dogs learning the ropes and owners after distance rather than elevation. The water stays in view for most of the way, and the tidal creek changes the look of the walk completely between tides.

Leash status

Treat the main track as leash-only for the whole distance: this is a shared path with cyclists and joggers, not a free-range area. Check the local signage for any small sandy patches by the water with different rules, but plan on the lead staying on.

Max: keep the lead on the whole way. Cyclists come through fast on the flat sections and a dog off-lead here is asking for trouble.

Water and terrain

Terranora Creek is tidal, so how much beach your dog gets depends on timing. At low tide there are sandy patches where a dog can wade in; at high tide the water sits right up against the bank with little sand exposed. Check tide times before you go if a paddle is the point of the walk, and note there is no drinking water on the track, so bring your own.

Getting there and parking

Start from either Scenic Drive or Peninsula Drive in Bilambil Heights, with parking available at both ends. There is no direct public transport to the trailhead, so driving is the practical option.

When to go

Weekday mornings are quietest; weekend mornings and late afternoons bring out the local cyclists and walkers. Time it with a low tide if you want your dog in the water rather than just alongside it, and go early in summer before the heat builds on the exposed sections.

Close by with the dogs

For an off-lead run after the walk, Banora Point Dog Park and John Baker Reserve Fenced Dog Park are both close by. Dulcie and Edna and Bambi Deluxe are dog friendly coffee options on the drive back.

More options are on the NSW dog walks guide and the Bilambil Heights destinations page.