Five walks to ‘brave’ this winter near Sydney

Immerse yourself in clifftop heathland on the Lockleys Pylon walking track. You’ll see hardy native flowers and dive through pockets of resilient eucalypts before nearing Lockleys Pylon itself, a small but distinctive peak overlooking Govetts Gorge.

Satisfy your curiosity with a climb to the top and enjoy mega views of the Grose Valley, multiple waterfalls (you can see as far as Govetts Leap!) and the dramatic sandstone cliffs of Mount Hay and Mount Banks. This 7km return walk takes 2 – 3 hours, but in winter can take up to 4 due to hypnotic, day-dream-inducing clouds in the valley.

The luscious bushland around the Basin is an old favourite. Heading out from West Head Road, power along the Basin Track to the  Mackerel track intersection and walk to the point for sweeping views of Pittwater. You can then walk down to The Basin campground to cool your feet in the bay. The walk back is steep, so you’ll have earnt yourself a BYO refreshment at the top!

Lake Toolooma trail is the perfect fit for late risers. The tough 5km trail will only take a few hours but you’ll be instantly transported to classic Australian bush. Sydney sandstone, hardened natives like the Banksia and a plethora of nectar-feeding birds will suck their worries away like a honeyeater on payday.

If you’re not into thrashing out a five-hour hike, take some me-time at the little known Lake Toolooma dam. It’s about halfway along the trail and a perfect spot for a picnic. Blend in and see how many native birds you can spot. Just don’t forget your jacket!

What the 11km Walking Track lacks in creative naming, it more than makes up for in its challenging nature! The track’s grade five rating means “long, steep and rough” and although it’s signposted, you’ll need to be a capable navigator or with an experienced guide (bring a map and compass!).

Got what it takes? Then strap in for a full day wild walking. You’ll duck into juicy, protected gullies, be dwarfed by towering eucalyptus trees and pass beneath intriguing rocky overhangs. The track is close to the Hawkesbury River, but far from civilisation, making it a haven for wildlife spotting.

This walk is actually best undertaken in winter. Cold air on your face and the promise of a banquet back home are a knockout combo.

Been to a rainforest in the winter? It’s creepy cool. The sheltered zone beneath the canopy exudes maximum tranquility and the moss-covered ground takes on an eerie green texture. It’s hard to believe sometimes that the Mount Kembla Ring track is only 20 minutes from Wollongong!

With views up and down the South Coast you’ll feel the immense power of the mountain, so give yourself a whole day to soak in the beauty and heritage of this South Coast icon.