The best walks and hikes in Ourimbah State Forest

Ourimbah State Forest offers a selection of 6 hiking routes. These include 5 easy trails and 1 moderate trail, catering to various fitness levels.

Yes, Ourimbah State Forest has several easy trails suitable for families. A good option is the Strickland Falls Trail loop, which is an easy 1.8 km walk featuring lush, mossy sections and leading to Strickland Falls. The Watanobbi Knoll loop from Wyong is another easy 3.6 km trail through rural valleys with gentle gradients.

Hikers in Ourimbah State Forest will experience diverse landscapes, including towering eucalypt forests, serene rural valleys, and areas along Ourimbah Creek with lush ferns and mossy sections, some even resembling rainforest. The terrain features varied elevation changes, offering a dynamic hiking experience.

Yes, the Strickland Falls Trail loop specifically leads to Strickland Falls, offering a scenic destination within the forest.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the diverse eucalypt forest scenery, the tranquil rural valleys, and the presence of rainforest-like flora, making for a rewarding outdoor experience.

Yes, several routes in Ourimbah State Forest are loops. Examples include the Strickland Falls Trail loop, the Strickland State Forest loop from Banksia Picnic Area, and the Watanobbi Knoll loop from Wyong.

Beyond hiking, Ourimbah State Forest is a popular destination for mountain biking, with dedicated tracks and guided tours available. It also hosts the TreeTop Adventure Park, offering activities like rope bridges, flying foxes, and the world's longest roller-coaster zipline, as well as Networld and children's courses.

Yes, within the Ourimbah area, you can explore the Forest of Tranquility, an Australian Rainforest Sanctuary. It's floristically significant, hosting nearly 200 rainforest species and a high diversity of climbing vines and palms like the Bangalow Palm.

For those seeking a moderate challenge, the Strickland State Forest loop from Banksia Picnic Area is an 8.3 km path with varied elevation, winding through diverse eucalypt forest scenery.

Ourimbah State Forest can be enjoyed year-round. However, for comfortable hiking, spring and autumn generally offer milder temperatures and pleasant conditions. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

State Forests in NSW generally permit dogs on a leash, but it's always best to check the specific regulations for Ourimbah State Forest with Forestry Corporation NSW before your visit to ensure compliance.

Parking is typically available at designated trailheads and picnic areas within Ourimbah State Forest. For specific routes like the Strickland State Forest loop, parking is often found near the Banksia Picnic Area. Always look for official parking signs.

The Mount Alison Reserve loop from Mount Alison Reserve offers a 6.7 km hike through eucalypt forests, providing a classic Ourimbah forest experience. Additionally, the TreeTop Adventure Park offers unique canopy views from its elevated courses.