In Lake Macquarie, we are completely spoilt to live in and around such a beautiful lake, with so many incredible places right on our doorstep. But there’s so much more to explore beyond the familiar spots, and many of these hidden gems are surprisingly easy to access once you know where to find them. There’s always another corner of Lake Mac waiting to be discovered. The Yuelarbah Track, winding through the beautiful Glenrock State Conservation Area alongside Glenrock Lagoon, is definitely one of those places. It’s a wonderful spot to get outdoors, enjoy the scenery and experience another side of our amazing Lake Macquarie region.
History & heritage of Glenrock
Glenrock has a rich history that stretches back long before European settlement. The area has been home to the Awabakal people for many generations, with evidence of their connection to the land found in middens, axe markings, open campsites and stone quarries. The forests, creeks and lagoons provided important sources of food, medicine, shelter and water.
Glenrock also has a strong connection to the region’s coal mining history. Before becoming a State Recreation Area in 1986, coal mining took place throughout the area. Today, you can still see reminders of this past, including old rails, tunnels, and mine shafts as you explore the landscape.
Exploring Glenrock
Glenrock is home to plenty of walking trails, each offering different levels of difficulty, distances and scenery. For our family, the Yuelarbah Track is a firm favourite, and it never fails to deliver for our young explorers.
Our kids were just 6 and 8 years old when we first tackled the trail, and it quickly became a family favourite. While the walk back certainly gives your legs a good workout, it’s a rewarding adventure for the whole family. Along the way, you can enjoy the fresh air, beautiful surroundings and everything Mother Nature has gifted us here in Lake Macquarie.
Discover the Yuelarbah Track
If you’re looking for a walk that turns into more of a morning adventure, the Yuelarbah Track is a fantastic choice. Along the way, you’ll discover beautiful lookout points with stunning views, two waterfalls and plenty of peaceful spots. Stop, rest and enjoy a picnic while taking in the natural surroundings.
The track begins with a boardwalk before winding its way through beautiful coastal rainforest. This section is accessible to prams and wheelchairs and runs alongside Flaggy Creek. You can stop and watch the water gently flow over the rocks as it makes its way towards the lagoon. It’s a lovely way to slow down, breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the beauty of Glenrock.
Accessing the Yuelarbah Track
Head to Kahibah and you’ll find the designated car park on Burwood Road, near the Fernleigh Track crossing. Allow around 2–3 hours for this family-friendly adventure, with plenty to see along the way.
About halfway through, Leichhardt’s Lookout is a great spot to stop, enjoy the views and refuel before continuing through the lush rainforest and wet gullies. Cross bridges, descend the stairs and you’ll eventually emerge onto the white sandy beach at Glenrock State Conservation Area.
Take some time to enjoy the beach before making the return journey, which includes a challenging climb back up the stairs. It can be a workout for little legs, so take your time, encourage each other and enjoy the adventure along the way.
Preparing for the walk
A little preparation can make your Yuelarbah Track adventure much more enjoyable, especially if you’re walking with kids. Make sure everyone has a full water bottle, particularly on warmer days when you’ll need to stay well hydrated. We also packed a backpack with cut-up fruit for an energy boost along, as well as towels for the beach, sunscreen and insect repellent.
Much of the track is shaded by the beautiful surrounding rainforest, so we usually found caps more comfortable than full sun hats. Once you reach the beach, however, you’ll want to apply sunscreen and find some shade where possible. It’s also a good idea to pack enough snacks and water to keep everyone fuelled for the walk back, as the return journey can be a little more challenging for tired legs.
Bombala Walking Track
If you’re looking for a shorter walk with a beautiful reward at the end, the Bombala Walking Track is a great option. At just 1 km, the track is suitable for most ages and fitness levels and winds through open forest as it descends towards the secluded Dudley Beach. Along the way, you’ll pass a hang-gliding pad, where experienced hang gliders take advantage of the coastal location. Once you reach the beach, you can enjoy a swim, try your hand at fishing or watch the surfers enjoying the waves.
Leggy Point Loop Walking Track
The Leggy Point Loop is a wonderful choice for families who love exploring nature and taking in spectacular coastal views. This easy 2 km walk follows formed tracks through a beautiful mix of trees and wildflowers, with plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the scenery. Keep an eye out to sea during whale migration season, and be sure to stop at Elvis Rock to admire the views. The track also passes an Awabakal Aboriginal midden near the mouth of Glenrock Lagoon, offering a glimpse into the area’s rich history and Aboriginal heritage. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can continue down to Glenrock Beach for a swim or surf before heading home.
Make Glenrock your next family adventure
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