Aberdare State Forest Walking Trails

Aberdare State Forest is a patch of eucalypt bush and fire trails near Cessnock, and unlike the national park next door, it lets dogs in. The catch is the boundary, because dogs are banned once you cross into Werakata National Park.

Dogs in the forest

Forestry Corporation of NSW manages the forest and welcomes dogs as long as they stay under control at all times.

Keeping your dog on a lead is the simplest way to do that, especially near the Werakata edge, where you need to turn back.

The walk

There are no formal paths. You walk the fire trails, maintenance roads and dirt bush tracks, which rise and fall gently through native eucalypt forest.

Spring brings wildflowers and plenty of birdlife.

Before you go

There are no taps or bins in the forest. Carry water and a bowl, and take every bag home with you.

The canopy gives good shade on most tracks. Parking is informal, on the roadside or at fire trail entries.

Max: Know where the state forest ends. Werakata National Park is right next door, and dogs can't go in.

Spring is the best time to go, for the wildflowers and milder days. It suits confident dogs and owners who are happy on unmarked dirt trails.