Get Amongst Nature in Newcastle
Newcastle is made for embracing the outdoors. From coastal trails and bushland adventures to wildlife encounters and mountain bike tracks, nature is never far away. Explore ancient rainforest, discover hidden lookouts, spot native wildlife or simply find your own patch of green space and slow down.
However you like to get outdoors, you'll find your adventure here.
Walk, Ride & Explore
Whether you're chasing ocean views, harbour scenery or a leisurely cycle, Newcastle offers a network of shared pathways and scenic trails that make it easy to explore.
Bathers Way
Stretching from Nobbys Headland to Merewether Beach, this iconic coastal walk links beaches, ocean baths and lookouts along one of Australia's most scenic urban coastlines.
Hickson St to Merewether
Part lookout, part adventure, this off-beat coastal walk rewards curious explorers with dramatic cliff faces, rock pools and uninterrupted ocean views.
Fernleigh Track
Follow a historic railway corridor through bushland, wetlands and heritage sites on this 15km walking and cycling trail connecting Newcastle and Lake Macquarie.
Glenrock State Conservation Area
Glenrock State Conservation Area is home to more than 14km of purpose-built mountain bike trails, an extensive network of bushwalking tracks through native bushland, and spectacular coastal lookouts. It’s also a popular launch point for hang gliders.
The Yuelarbah Walking Track rewards visitors with panoramic views over Glenrock Lagoon and Burwood Beach, all just 5km from Newcastle’s city centre.
Explore Glenrock
Enjoying the view in Glenrock State Conservation Area
Mountain biking in Glenrock State Conservation Area
Nature & Wildlife
Blackbutt Reserve
Known as Newcastle's green heart, Blackbutt Reserve is home to free wildlife exhibits, native bushland and more than 10kms of walking trails. Meet koalas, wombats, kangaroos and a host of native birdlife.
Explore Blackbutt
Hunter Wetlands
Explore wetlands and mangroves, spot resident and migratory birds or paddle peaceful waterways by canoe at this environmental sanctuary just outside the city.
Parks, Picnics & Open Spaces
Slow down, roll out a picnic rug and make the most of Newcastle's great outdoors.
Park Guide
Big adventures start in Newcastle's parks and playgrounds. Climb, swing, explore and play your way through some of the city's best green spaces, from nature-inspired playgrounds to parks with room to roam.
Top Picnic Locations
Newcastle is packed with picnic spots worth seeking out. Pack a basket, bring your favourite people and discover a new spot to settle in.
