Glenrock National Park: A Guide to Hikes, Bikes & More

As mentioned in a previous article, Emily and I spent a month living in Newcastle, NSW. While that time can only be described as a bit of a disaster, one of the highlights was our trip to Glenrock National Park. Located just a short drive (or a pretty intense cycle) from the city, Glenrock offers stunning coastal views, lush bushland, and a variety of hiking and bike trails. It’s easily one of the best free things to do in Newcastle, NSW. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to escape the city and reconnect with nature.

Whether you’re an avid hiker, a mountain biking enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys a leisurely walk in nature, Glenrock has something for everyone. Our day trip to Glenrock was truly amazing, and we are convinced you’ll love it there too!

Why you need to visit Glenrock National Park

Spanning over 500 hectares, this stunning park is home to pristine beaches, scenic walking trails, dense bushland, and a picturesque lagoon. Glenrock National Park is one of Newcastle’s best-kept secrets, as it isn’t particularly well-known among tourists and isn’t often visited by locals.

It truly feels like a hidden gem. And when you’re there, it’s hard to imagine why it doesn’t attract more visitors! We spent the day there and only ran into a handful of people, which made our time there even more special. Best of all, it’s completely free to visit!

The History of Glenrock

Prior to being renamed Glenrock in 1831, this area was known as Pillapay-Kullaitaran, meaning the ‘Valley of Palms’ by the Awabakal people. If you ask me, that sounds much more interesting than Glenrock! Glenrock, or Pillapay-Kullaitaran, has been home to the Awabakal people since the Ice Age, roughly 11,800 years ago. The area was renowned for its abundant natural resources and variety of wildlife. In the 19th century, following the renaming, the area was developed into a coal mine. This development not only dramatically altered the landscape but also unfortunately led to the forced removal of the Awabakal people from their lands.

Hiking Trails in Glenrock National Park

Glenrock National Park offers a variety of stunning hikes that combine lush rainforest, breathtaking coastal views, and vibrant wildlife. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, there’s a trail for you. Here are our top three picks!

Yuelarbah Track (6.8km return – Moderate) – This was the hike we did when we visited Glenrock National Park, and if you only have time for one, this is the one to choose. Starting at the Yuelarbah car park, the track takes you through dense bushland. Along the way, you’ll pass several stunning lookouts. Best of all, much of the walk is under tree cover, making it ideal for those scorching hot days when the sun feels unbearable. The hike leads you straight to Burwood Beach, a nearly deserted stretch of sand. Here, you can cool off, relax, and enjoy the beach all to yourself!

Flaggy Creek Track (5km loop – Moderate)
Flaggy Creek Track is a scenic 5km loop through lush rainforest and small waterfalls. It leads to coastal viewpoints with bushland and ocean views, showcasing all Glenrock offers! Along the way, you’ll pass tranquil spots perfect for a rest, making it a great option for both nature lovers and photographers.

Glenrock Lagoon Track (4km return – Easy)
A relaxed and scenic walk that takes you to Glenrock Lagoon, where freshwater meets the ocean. The trail is mostly flat and easy, perfect for a leisurely stroll with great views along the way. The lagoon is a fantastic spot to pause, soak in the surroundings, and even enjoy a picnic by the water. If you’re up for a bit more, keep walking, and you’ll find yourself at Burwood Beach!

Glenrock’s Mountain Bike Trails

Glenrock National Park is home to some of the best mountain bike trails in Newcastle. This makes it a go-to spot for local riders. Here are the top three most popular routes in Glenrock National Park.

Beginner: Double Barrel (1.4km) – A smooth, flowing trail with gentle berms and small jumps, perfect for riders looking to build confidence.

Intermediate: Snakes and Ladders (2.5km) – A mix of winding descents and short climbs, offering a good balance of flow and technical sections.

Advanced: BJ’s Way (1.8km) – A challenging ride with steep drops, tight switchbacks, and technical rock gardens, suited for experienced riders.

Must-Have Items for Glenrock

So now that we’ve convinced you to head to Glenrock, it’s important to bring the right things with you. Although Glenrock is close to the city, it feels quite isolated with few visitors. Be sure to stock up on supplies before heading out on a hike!

✅ Water & Snacks – There are no water refill stations or food stops along the trails. Packing enough food and water is essential.

✅ Sun Protection – The Australian sun is no joke, and you can really feel that hole in the Ozone layer. A hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are definitely essentials.

✅ Shelter – If you’re planning to stay at the beach/lagoon bring a lightweight shelter or beach tent. Shade can be pretty hard to find, especially on Burwood Beach!

✅ Weather Check – Before heading out to Glenrock, always check the weather forecast. The conditions can change quickly, especially along the coast. If it’s a hot day, start your hike early to avoid the midday heat, and if rain is expected, prepare for slippery trails!

✅ Bug Spray – The rainforest sections can get buggy, especially after rain. Insect repellant is a must-have when in the great outdoors.

✅ Navigation – While the main trails are well-marked, bring a physical map or download one in advance. You may encounter areas with no reception, so it’s best to be prepared.

✅ Swimwear & Towel – If you’re planning to visit Glenrock Beach or the lagoon, don’t forget to pack swimwear and a towel.

✅ Leave No Trace – With no bins along the trails, make sure to take your rubbish with you. This is vital to help preserve Glenrock’s natural beauty!

Final Thoughts

Glenrock National Park is truly one of Newcastle’s hidden gems! Glenrock offers everything from breathtaking coastal views to lush bushland and thrilling mountain bike trails. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or mountain biker or just want to get out into nature, Glenrock National Park has you sorted. It’s the perfect option if you’re searching for free things to do in Newcastle, NSW.

So, next time you’re in Newcastle and looking for an escape into nature, we highly recommend visiting this stunning park. Remember to bring your essentials and always respect the environment by leaving no trace!