Fairfax Walk
Greater Sydney
Sydney Harbour National Park
View from Burragula lookout
View from Burragula lookout
Typical section of track
View from Burragula lookout
Click to see full image.
A beautiful and accessible walk atop North Head, with spectacular views across Sydney Harbour to the CBD, Watsons Bay and North Bondi.
This heavily trafficked walk is located at the end of Scenic Drive, in Manly/North Head.
The walk is a paved and relatively flat 1km loop, making it an accessible and easy stroll, ideal for families and those in wheelchairs.
The loop track can be completed in either direction, however clockwise is recommended to save the best for last, as you loop through arid bushland around North Head to two incredible lookouts.
From Yiningma lookout, look down and along the rugged cliffs as the waves crash below, or enjoy the ocean views out to the Tasman Sea.
From Burragula lookout, get postcard-perfect views across Sydney Harbour as yachts and other boats dance on the water in front of the city skyline.
Each of the lookouts are large concrete platforms, with adequate safety railings and seating.
You’ll also see Hornby Lighthouse sitting prominently on South Head, as well as Macquarie Lighthouse and the South Head Signal Station in the distance atop the cliffs, as the views stretch down to North Bondi.
The location is a particularly great place to watch sunrise and sunset, however be sure to note that the gates to North Head are open from 6am to 8pm during daylight savings, and 6am to 6pm the rest of the year.
Given its elevated location atop of North Head, overlooking the mouth of the harbour, the walk is a fantastic spot for whale watching during the season (June-October).
For those wanting to stretch their legs further, there is a series of tracks through North Head Sanctuary to Manly.
There are public toilets located at the nearby North Head Sanctuary, and numerous picnic tables with amazing views along Scenic Drive.
If the views across to South Head and the Hornby Lighthouse piqued your interest, venture there for the South Head Heritage Trail, Gap Bluff walking track and Hermitage Foreshore Track.
If you enjoyed this walk, the Bradleys Head Track at Mosman is another gem in the Sydney Harbour National Park, offering even more incredible views of the harbour and city skyline, as well as some military history.
Track: The trail involves concrete and asphalt paths. The track is relatively flat, is well-signed and easy to follow.
Difficulty: The track is well-maintained and relatively flat, making it an easy stroll and suitable for all fitness levels, families with prams and wheelchair accessible.
Direction: The walk is a loop track that can be completed in either direction, however clockwise is suggested to finish at the arguably better lookout.
getting there
The walk is located at the end of Scenic Drive, in Manly/North Head, 30 mins drive northeast of Sydney.
There are a number of car parks along Scenic Drive, however the location becomes extremely busy during peak periods, including weekends.
There is also a bus stop at the lookout for those seeking public transport options.
The gates to North Head are open from 6am to 8pm during daylight savings, and 6am to 6pm the rest of the year.
best time to go
The walk can be completed year-round.
Note that there are park fees associated with entering many national parks in New South Wales. Check the New South Wales Parks and Wildlife Service website for more information.
Remember, whenever venturing into the outdoors, practice the Leave No Trace principles and be considerate of others. This means: dispose of your waste properly, don't remove things or move things from their natural position and respect all wildlife. Also be sure to plan ahead and adequately prepare for any adventure.
I respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which all activities listed on this website are found, as well as Elders past, present and emerging. I strive to not promote sites where requests have been made for people not to explore due to the cultural significance of the site to Indigenous peoples, or note how to respectfully visit a site. If I have a promoted a site with cultural significance, please send me a message and let me know.