Dog Pound Creek Conservation Reserve

Dog Pound Creek Conservation Reserve protects a rare patch of Sydney blue gum forest growing in a volcanic diatreme, on the Westleigh side of Hornsby. The creekside track is short, shady and on lead.

Lead rules

Hornsby Shire Council welcomes dogs on the walking track, on lead at all times, to protect wildlife and the creek.

The walk

Expect a natural bush track and fire trail, with rough sections of dirt and stone steps. It covers roughly 1.2 to 1.8 kilometres, which takes about 30 to 60 minutes.

Towering blue gums, blackbutts and fern gullies shade the path as it follows the creek toward Wirrega Falls.

Max: Those stone steps are uneven. Take them slowly with an older dog, and keep the lead short near the creek.

Before you set off

There are no water stations or bag dispensers on the track. Pack water, a bowl and bags.

Pair it with

Back in Hornsby, The Refinery espresso or Brewhaha make a good finish.

The canopy keeps it cooler than open parks in summer. It suits sure-footed dogs who enjoy a quiet sniff through the bush.