In Lake Macquarie, we are completely spoilt living in and around our lake. However, Lake Mac has many more amazing places to explore and they’re all very accessible once you know where to find them. The Yuelarbah track along Glenrock Lagoon is definitely one of them.
History of Glenrock
As with many areas in this region, it was once used for coal mining prior to it being declared a State Recreation Area in 1986. You can still see evidence of this when you visit such as rails, tunnels and shafts.
The history of Glenrock goes back way before European settlement. The Awabakal people have used this area for many years. This is evidenced by middens, original axe markings, open campsites and stone quarries which are Aboriginal Sacred Sites. The area, which at that time was heavily forested, provided a wide variety of plants which the Awabakal people used for food, medicine and shelter. The creeks and lagoons were also a plentiful water source.
Walking in Glenrock Lagoon
You’ll find plenty of trails in Glenrock, each with their own level of difficulty, distance and purpose. Our family’s favourite is definitely the Yuelarbah track because it always delivers on expectations for our young explorers.
Our kids were 6 and 8 years old when we first walked this trail. We all agree that the way back definitely gives our legs a good workout, however, it’s a great activity for all the family to enjoy. Everyone can breathe in the fresh air and enjoy what Mother Nature has gifted us here in Lake Macquarie.
Yuelarbah Track
If you’re looking for a walking trail that’s a little more of a morning activity then the Yuelarbah Track is a great choice. You’ll find a lookout with amazing views, two waterfalls and places to rest along the way, have some lunch and immerse yourself in nature.
The trail starts off as a boardwalk and weaves its way through the coastal rainforest. This area is accessible for prams and wheelchairs and will lead you along Flaggy Creek where there are plenty of spots to watch the water flow over rocks on its way down to the lagoon.
Accessing the Yuelarbah Track
Head over to Kahibah and you’ll find the designated carpark on Burwood road near the Fernleigh Track crossing.
This trail is approximately a 2-3 hour family activity, and about halfway along you’ll come to Leichhardt’s lookout. It’s a perfect place to stop and take in the view, have a drink, some fruit and rest because the second half needs a little bit more fuel in the tank.
Take in the tropical surroundings and wet gullies while you cross bridges and descend down stairs that seem to take you into a hidden world, only to emerge at the end on a white sandy beach at the headland of Glenrock State Conservation Area.
I highly suggest having another break at this point, some more fruit; maybe even take the kids for a swim at the beach.
The trip back up will test your endurance and even strain your calves a little as you climb the stairs to the lookout. To take the focus off our legs we played a game of counting bridges and encouraged each other to keep going, resting once again at Leichhardt’s lookout.
Preparing for the walk
Fill up your water bottles, especially on a hot day because you’ll need to drink plenty of fluids. We took a backpack with cut-up fruit, towels for the beach, sunscreen and insect repellent. Most of the walk is shaded, so we usually walk with caps not hats, it’s only down on the beach where you’ll need sunscreen and shade.
Other walks in Glenrock
Bombala walking track
The Bombala walking track is just 1 km and is suitable for most ages and fitness levels. It descends through open forest to the secluded beach at Dudley. Along this walk is a hang-gliding pad available to experienced hang gliders. Dudley Beach is perfect for a quick swim, a surf or fishing.
Leggy Point Loop walking track
The Leggy Point loop is perfect for nature lovers, offering a wide variety of trees and wildflowers, along with stunning coastal views. Don’t forget to stop and look out for whales migrating along the coast. You can head to the beach for a swim, after stopping to admire the view at Elvis Rock. On your way you will pass an Awabakal Aboriginal midden at the mouth of Glenrock Lagoon. This is an easy 2 kilometre walk on formed tracks. From here you can head down to Glenrock Beach for a quick dip or a surf if the mood takes you.
As with all bushwalking, please be careful, particularly when paths are slippery around areas where there is water or where the path comes close to the edge of cliffs. Always supervise children.
If you haven’t explored Glenrock Lagoon, or maybe you haven’t been since you were a child, now is the time to take your family. It truly is one of our most amazing natural playgrounds for both the kids and for the adults to appreciate.
Here’s some more awesome places to explore on foot in Lake Mac: Family Walks Lake Macquarie