Imagine a steep descent at the start that leads down to a rehabilitated pathway along Kilaben Creek. Starting on a fire trail, our expectations were quite low. It wasn’t long before the Kilaben Bay Walk delivered an adventure beyond our expectations. Weaving our way through the bushland the adventure increased with each step. Yes, there were moments when we took the wrong track and became disorientated. That’s the fun part of exploring new places. When we reached the water’s edge, we stopped, threw in a line, and took some time to appreciate this quiet yet welcoming part of Lake Macquarie.
Getting to the start of the Kilaben Bay Walk
Just off Wangi Road on the western side of Lake Macquarie is the Toronto Fire & Rescue Station on Ridge Road. Adjacent to the station is the start of the fire trail. It’s a little tricky to get your head around a nature walk starting at the corner of busy Wangi Road but trust us on this one. There’s some off-road parking at the start of the trail or you can park in view on Ridge Road.
This walking trail is dog-friendly, as long as they’re on leads. It’s not suitable for prams or wheelchairs. Allow around 30-40 min each way and time at the foreshore to enjoy a rest.
Following the trail
You can see the loop trail on the map image, however, at the bottom of this loop is another track that leads down beside the creek to Lake Mac. Head down this one to reach the water’s edge.
The trail splits at the start and loops back around. Our advice is to take the right trail down and come back up on the left side. The start of this trail descends, so hold onto your toddlers, and you may need to carry them back up this bit.
Various habitats
Once you hit the flat part, the trail changes into a natural wetland environment. The two sides of the loop meet at the bottom where you’ll come to a path leading down beside Kilaben Creek. We missed this turn on the first go, so get your Google Map out if you’re unsure.
As you walk along this track you’ll start to see the work from the Kilaben Bay Landcare Group. You’ll see wooden seats and boardwalks over gullies.
Kilaben Bay Foreshore
As the trail ends, you’ll arrive at a grassed clearing that leads to the water. We brought a fishing rod down so we could have a flick. There’s a seat where you can take a break and enjoy the view. We love these little pockets of Lake Macquarie. Unless you do the walk, it’s not something you’d easily stumble upon. The big rocks on the foreshore provided plenty of opportunities to explore. We fossicked along the water’s edge for flat stones to skim across. It was so nice just sitting and enjoying a moment to breathe.
Visiting Kilaben Bay
Another gorgeous walk of discovery, thanks to the work of local Landcare groups. Their work is definitely something I’ve come to appreciate as we enjoy exploring more amazing places in Lake Mac. If you’ve got time when you get back, jump in the car and pop down to the Kilaben Bay Reserve Playground. You’ll find toilets, a picnic area, a jetty, and a super cool playground. It’s the perfect spot to finish your visit to the area.
