A fantastic regional bushwalk looping around the historic Parramatta Lake. This track offers great scenery, clear paths, and excellent intermediate amenities like a playground and toilets to break up the hike.

• The Drop-Off / Meeting Point: To avoid main car park congestion, have parents drop off and park in the side streets near 94 North Rocks Road, Northmead / North Parramatta. Gather the youth safely on the footpath before heading onto the trail access point.

• Choosing Your Direction: The 4km circuit can be walked seamlessly in either direction:

  • Clockwise Route: This positions the playground, open grassed areas, and public toilets toward the end of the hike at the 3km mark—great for a reward lunch break or a rest.

  • Anticlockwise Route: This brings you to the playground and toilet amenities early on at the 1km mark.

• The Trail: Follow the main lake circuit track. The terrain is a mix of dirt tracks, boardwalks, and some rocky steps, offering beautiful water views throughout the loop.

• The Pickup: Complete the loop back to the North Rocks Road entry trail for parent pickup.

Extended Route Option (5km): If you are running this with older Cubs or Scouts and want a longer challenge, you can deviate onto the outer fire trails and connecting tracks to extend the total distance to a solid 5km.