McMahons Point Foreshore Walk

The McMahons Point foreshore is less a single track than a harbourside ramble linking Blues Point Reserve and Sawmillers Reserve. Dogs can come the whole way, and North Sydney Council lets them off lead in these reserves as long as they are under effective control.

Leads and the exclusions

The off-lead freedom has limits. Dogs must stay at least 10 metres from children's playgrounds, including the one at Blues Point Reserve, and keep off organised sports fields.

Some other North Sydney reserves and bushland areas are on-lead or dog-free, so check the signs if you wander further.

The walk

Expect paved footpaths, quiet residential streets, park paths and the odd stretch of timber boardwalk. The payoff is the view, with the Harbour Bridge and city skyline in front of you most of the way.

At Sawmillers Reserve you pass old timber ruins and a shipwreck, and a small sandy edge where dogs can wade into the harbour.

Pepsi: The little beach at Sawmillers is the best bit. A paddle there, then a drink at the bubbler, and I'm set for the walk home.

Water and getting there

Both reserves have drinking bubblers with bowls or low basins, and big figs at Blues Point throw good shade. Parking is scarce and tightly regulated, so walk down from North Sydney or come by public transport.

Pair it with

Grab a coffee at The North Spoon or finish at the Greenwood Hotel in North Sydney.

Local owners treat these reserves as a regular meeting spot, so expect company. It suits sociable dogs with reliable recall best.