Trail South Narrabeen

Trail South Narrabeen covers the Wheeler Heights side of the Narrabeen Lagoon Trail, an 8.4 kilometre loop around the lagoon on a mostly flat, sealed shared path. It is as popular with joggers and cyclists as dog walkers, and it stays on-leash the whole way, trading off-lead freedom for water views and an easy surface.

The walk

The path runs along the southern edge of Narrabeen Lagoon between Wheeler Heights and Narrabeen, good for a full loop or an out-and-back from Bilarong Reserve. Expect boardwalk and paved sections, lagoon views the whole way, and a surface that suits bikes, prams and older dogs alike.

Leash status and water

Dogs are on-leash at all times, with a maximum of four dogs per person. This is wildlife protection country: black swans, water dragons and migratory birds live around the lagoon, so keep dogs clear of the mangroves and foreshore vegetation. Water bubblers with dog bowls are dotted along the circuit, and waste bins sit at the main entrance points.

Hazards

The shared path carries fast-moving cyclists, especially on weekend mornings, so keep the lead short near blind corners and bridges. The trail can turn muddy after rain even though tides do not affect it, and summer midday sun is unshaded in stretches.

Max: this path gets heavy cyclist traffic on weekend mornings. Keep the lead short near blind corners and bridges, and you will both enjoy it.

Getting there and parking

Drive in via Wakehurst Parkway or Pittwater Road and park at the Bilarong Reserve car park, which has picnic tables, toilets and a playground if you are making a morning of it. Bus stops on Pittwater Road and Wakehurst Parkway are within walking distance, and the trail also connects straight off residential streets in Wheeler Heights.

When to go

Go before 8am or on a weekday for a quiet lap; weekend mornings between 9 and 11 draw heavy crowds of runners and riders. Early light over the water is the payoff for the early alarm.

While you're out there

For an off-lead session afterwards, Griffith Park Dog Park at Collaroy is a short drive south. Lakehouse Cafe and FOUR Knots Cafe around the lagoon do dog-friendly outdoor tables, and the Bicentennial Coastal Walk to Long Reef Point adds a headland option nearby.

More options are on the New South Wales dog friendly trails guide and the Wheeler Heights destination page.