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A few wealthy Sydney entrepreneurs might see Ku-ring-gai Chase as little more than 14,883 ha of wasted prime real estate, 26 km north of Sydney. Thankfully, the rugged sandstone country that fringes the mighty Hawkesbury River, with its stunning views and rich array of native wild animals and plants, is safe from further suburban encroachment and has been since some bright spark (with infinite foresight) decreed it such in 1894. As well as views across Pittwater and Broken Bay (the mouth of the Hawkesbury River), from the West Head Lookout, the park has some lovely bush walks, secluded beaches and regionally significant Aboriginal rock art. It is also a great place to see New South Wale's much celebrated state flower in bloom – the warratah. The park is named after the Guringai Aboriginals who occupied the region for over 20,000 years before the arrival of European entrepreneurs.
Sights
Without doubt the highlight of the park is the West Head Lookout that sits high above the peninsula overlooking Broken Bay and the mouth of the Hawkesbury River. To the north is the beginning of the central coast and Brisbane Water National Park, while to the west, is the tip of the northern beaches and the historic Barrenjoey Lighthouse. West Head is criss-crossed with walking tracks starting from West Head Road. Aboriginal rock art can be seen along the Basin Track (which falls to the Basin Beach campsite and the arrival/departure point of the Palm Beach ferry) and the 3.5-km Red Hand Track (Aboriginal Heritage Track). Bobbin Head at the western end of the park is a popular base for water-based activities and hosts the VIC plus several more interesting walks around the Cowan Creek foreshore. The VIC can supply all the details.
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