Wolli Creek Walking Track

Wolli Creek Walking Track runs 10.5 km through Wolli Creek Regional Park, starting near Waterworth Park in Tempe and finishing up near Bexley North. It is rated easy, takes most walkers around two to two and a half hours one way, and is one of the few pieces of NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service land where dogs are actually welcome on the track, as long as they stay on lead.

The walk. This is a one-way route rather than a loop, mostly natural bush trail with mangrove forest and sandstone cliff views, linked by some paved paths and suburban footpaths. Expect a few uneven, rocky stretches and some steps along the way. The surface is not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers, and it is worth knowing that ahead of time if you are planning the walk around anyone's mobility needs.

The rules. Dogs must stay on lead at all times. NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service manages the track and confirms on-lead dogs are permitted, which is unusual since dogs are normally banned in NSW national parks. This is a regional park exception, and part of the reason for the leash rule is a large Grey-headed Flying-fox colony near Turrella, best seen at dusk. Keeping dogs on lead also protects the native bushland, so stick to the designated track rather than cutting through the undergrowth.

Hazards. Snakes turn up in the bushland sections, so keep an eye on where your dog is sniffing. Parts of the track get muddy and slippery after heavy rain, particularly near the creek itself, so this is not the day for light-coloured paws if there has been recent rain.

Getting there. Tempe Station or Bardwell Park Station both make good starting points, with Bexley North Station as a natural finish, so a one-way train trip suits this walk well. Street parking near Waterworth Park in Tempe or around Turrella Reserve is limited, so the train is the easier option if you are travelling from further away. Toilets are available at parks along the route including Waterworth Park, and there are picnic spots at Girrahween Park and Turrella Reserve if you want a break partway.

Nearby with the dogs. After the walk, Cahill Park Fenced Dog Park is a good spot to let your dog off lead for a run. For a coffee stop, both Where's Wolli Cafe and Kals on Cahill are close by in Wolli Creek.

When to go. Cooler months make the muddy creekside sections easier going, and dusk brings the flying-fox colony to life near Turrella if you time your walk right. Good for confident walkers rather than big runners, given the steps and uneven ground.

Sources

• Wolli Creek walking track - visitor info - NSW National Parks · nationalparks.nsw.gov.au

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