Pennant Hills Park Loop

Bushland starts the moment you leave the playing fields at Pennant Hills Park, and dogs are welcome on lead on the council tracks. The park sits in Pennant Hills beside Beecroft, with Hornsby Shire Council managing the reserve and its trails.

Lead rules

Keep dogs on lead at all times on the tracks and management trails.

The valley trails head toward Lane Cove National Park, where pets are restricted. Turn back at the national park boundary rather than following the full river loop.

The walk

Expect fire trails, service tracks and dirt paths deep in leaf litter, with the odd sandstone or timber step. Creek crossings and a sandstone formation called Whale Rock break up the bush.

Tree canopy shades much of the way. There are taps near the playing fields, but carry water and a bowl for anything longer.

Parking is on site near the sports fields off Britannia Street, and bins sit by the car parks.

Max: Leaf litter, steps and creek crossings slow things down. Keep the lead short and the pace steady.

Make a day of it

Back in Beecroft, Cafe Long Shot and Chicken & Fishhead - Cafe and Store are close for a post-walk stop.

When to go

The shade makes this a better summer choice than an open park. Steps and uneven dirt suit sure-footed dogs more than older ones.