Hikes in Australia is graded from 1 to 6. If you’re unfamiliar with the system, I’ve explained it in a post here.
This hike in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is graded a 5, so I anticipated a challenge. The high grading was due to the tough off-track descent to Apple Tree Creek and the creek walk to Apple Tree Bay, which included navigating a boulder field.
The plan was ambitious, with the possibility of adding a second creek walk a little further north. However, this depended on the weather and how we felt after the initial section. Timing was critical as we needed to reach the tidal mangrove section during low tide to avoid soaking our feet.
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park-Apple Tree Creek Hike
- When: 08 February 2025
- Where: Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park
- Weather: Sunny, hot and humid Sydney early autumn day with a 40% chance of a storm in the evening. Low of 71.6°F (22°C) and a high of 90°F (32°C)
- Departure: From Mt Ku-ring-gai train station
- Length: 4.16 miles, 6.71 km
- Elevation gain: 869 ft, 265 m
- Duration: 2 hours 51 minutes moving time
The Start
At 9:00 am, our group of 19 departed, aligning our schedule with the low tide. After a short road walk from Mt Ku-ring-gai Station, we reached the trailhead off King Street.
The descent began on a wide, flat trail that quickly narrowed into a faint bush track. Before long, we were off-trail, bush-bashing our way toward the creek bed.
The descent of 180 meters (590 feet) started gradually but became steeper as we approached the creek. A sandstone rock ledge required careful navigation, but soon we were at the bottom.
Morning Tea by the Creek
An hour and a half later, we arrived at a small tributary of Apple Tree Creek, where we stopped for morning tea. The narrow creek had small pools of water, creating fascinating shapes in the rock bed, a perfect spot to recharge.
Destination: Apple Tree Bay
We continued through the bush until we reached the creek bed. Initially, we navigated over smallish rocks, carefully watching our footing. Soon, we came to the falls, where I enjoyed the cool, refreshing spray of water.
Standing in the gorge surrounded by unusual rock formations was a reminder of the beauty of off-track hiking. These untouched places, only reached by off track hiking, are worth the extra effort.
The most challenging part came next: a boulder field. The rocks were slippery in places, so extra care was required. Eventually, the creek widened and became tidal, flowing into Apple Tree Bay. We hiked through mangroves, where tiny crabs scattered at our feet.
Finally, we reached Apple Tree Bay, a popular boat launch point on the larger Cowan Creek, which flows into the Hawkesbury River. The bay was bustling with activity as boating enthusiasts enjoyed the hot autumn day.
The Hike Out in the Heat
Crossing a footbridge to the northern side of the creek, we began our ascent. With the temperature climbing to 32°C (90°F), the heat was relentless.
The 200-meter (656-foot) climb was steep and challenging. The trail followed an old pipeline, which at times served as a helpful handrail. My hydration bladder was a lifesaver, allowing me to sip water as I made my way up.
At a rock shelf near the top, we paused to rest and catch our breath. The slight breeze was a welcome relief. By the time everyone in the group had reached this point, we unanimously decided to postpone the second creek walk for another day.
Honoring Lost Firefighters
From here, we continued along the Mt Ku-ring-gai Fire Trail. Instead of heading west, we turned east toward the Firefighters’ Rest a lookout dedicated to four National Parks officers who tragically lost their lives on June 8, 2000, during a prescribed burn.
After paying our respects, we followed a narrow path to another lookout, descending between two massive rocks that appeared as though they had been cleanly split in two.
Retracing our steps along the Ku-ring-gai trail, we completed the final 1-kilometer (0.6-mile) walk back to our cars parked near Mt Ku-ring-gai Station on Harwood Avenue.
My Final Thoughts
This grade 5 hike was a challenging yet exhilarating experience, made even tougher by the relentless heat. The off-track sections were slow-going but rewarded us with incredible views of the untouched gorge.
Choosing to cut the hike short was a wise decision, as the conditions could have led to dehydration. I nearly finished the 4 liters (1 gallon) of water I carried. Thankfully, I ended the day with a relaxing Epsom salts bath, a perfect way to recover.
For anyone considering this hike, be prepared for the physical demands, bring plenty of water, and enjoy the beauty of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Happy hiking.
Have you ever hiked in the heat? Leave your comments or questions below.