Parramatta Park to Rydalmere Ferry Wharf

This is the long one: a river walk from Parramatta Park out to the Rydalmere Ferry Wharf and back, logged by AllTrails at 14.5 km and around three hours. It is flat and fully paved the whole way, so the difficulty is distance rather than terrain, and the lead stays on from end to end.

The walk. The route follows the Parramatta Valley Cycleway along the river, roughly 7 km each way, through parkland, boardwalk and riverfront reserves. There is no gradient to speak of and no rough ground, and the birdlife along the water is most of the scenery. If 14.5 km is more than your dog has in them, walk out as far as suits and turn around. Every section is the same easy surface.

The rules. Greater Sydney Parklands manages Parramatta Park at the start, dogs are on lead throughout, and the lead stays on along the shared riverside path as well. Keep clear of children's playgrounds and barbecue areas. The path carries cyclists moving at speed, so a short lead is the safe setup rather than a long one.

The ferry, and why it may not help. The obvious plan is to walk one way and ride back, but check this before you rely on it. Transport for NSW allows pet animals on ferries only if the animal is confined in a box, basket or other container for the whole trip, and pet dogs are not permitted on trains at all. Only approved assistance animals travel freely. For anything bigger than a carrier-sized dog, this is a there-and-back walk or a two-car job.

Water. Bubblers sit in the major parks along the route, but the gaps between them are long. Carry a bottle and a bowl, particularly on the Ermington side where shade thins out.

Getting there. Start at Parramatta Park near Old Government House or the George Street gatehouse, a short walk from Parramatta station. Mind the park gates: 6am to 6pm, or 8pm during daylight saving. Parking inside the park is paid on weekdays and free and unlimited on weekends and public holidays, and there is free street parking around Rydalmere at the far end.

Nearby with the dogs. Big Tree House Cafe and Little Angel Cafe are both near the wharf end. Dan Mahoney Reserve at North Parramatta is fenced for an off-lead run, and the People's Loop is the short version of this walk inside the park itself.

When to go. Early morning, or any weekday. Sunday mornings are the busiest, and a crowded shared path plus a long lead plus a tired dog is how the last few kilometres go wrong. Summer afternoons are the wrong call given the shade gaps. Good for big runners in condition.

Sources

• Getting to Parramatta Park - Greater Sydney Parklands · greatersydneyparklands.nsw.gov.au
• Travelling with animals and pets - Transport for NSW · transportnsw.info
• Parramatta Park to Rydalmere Ferry Wharf - AllTrails · alltrails.com

Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.