Challenging Hikes Sydney

2026 WHALE TRAIL: La Perouse Headland! 11kms Coastal Hike. With Drinks!

Okay. Here we go... **14 hikes totalling 200kms**. **All on the coast. Looking for whales, and celebrating with ales. Sure, we'll mix it up with Blue Mountains, a Christmas in July Pub Crawl, and more... but with 40,000 whales coming north, The 2026 SYDNEY WHALE TRAIL continues!** **La Perouse (check the pics down below for hiking map)...** the French history. The stunning beaches. The nude beach. The bush walk. The cliff face views... This one is a stunner with perfect cliff views to spot some whales. **Cruwee Beach** my goodness - it's one of the nicest of the unknown beaches that I've seen in Sydney. *After you hit "Attend" join our WHATSAPP group [HERE](https://chat.whatsapp.com/D0kTzio3fhXGORHjSPzZDd) (not before). We use WHATSAPP for last minute changes, chat, and more. It's a must to join our hikes, or you'll be moved into the "Not Going" column.* **THE HIGHLIGHTS:** a) ***Congwong Beach***… beautiful. b) ***Little Congwong Beach***… clothing optional. We’ll stop for a quick perve(?) then carry on. c) ***Henry’s Head Lookout***. Gorgeous views overlooking Captain Cook’s Landing Point in 1770. d) ***Cape Banks***. Boardwalk. Natural rocks. Lovely sea views. e) ***Cruwee Beach.*** Stunning. A National Park with a beach this beautiful must be seen. f) At ***Jolong Rocks*** we’ll loop back and enjoy the views heading in the opposite direction. There's numerous ways to get there, so please use your travel app wisely - I'll be on the 390x bus. If you're driving, the hike is a loop back to your car(s). Our hike starts at 950am sharp at Cann Park. You’ll see me in my white Nike hat, and off we go. THE PUB: Post-hike we'll head to the pub towards Bondi Junction... **The DOG** in Randwick? **Robin Hood Hotel**? Somewhere to "Cheers" on a Saturday. See you soon! MJ \| **THE 2026 WHALE TRAIL** \| **KMs** \| \| La Perouse Headland \| 11\.0 \| \| Figure 8 Pool \| 14\.0 \| \| Wattamolla\, Eagle Rock \| 14\.0 \| \| Bundeena to Wedding Cake Rock \| 17\.0 \| \| North Head Manly \| 12\.6 \| \| Malabar to Coogee \| 11\.2 \| \| Coogee Watson's Bay \| 16\.6 \| \| Long Reef to Newport \| 15\.2 \| \| Cronulla to Kurnell \| 14\.9 \| \| Dee Why to Manly \| 10\.9 \| \| Macmaster's to Killcare \| 13\.5 \| \| Patonga to Pearl Beach\, Palm Beach \| 14\.0 \| \| **12 HIKES THAT TOTAL** \| **165KMs** \| **______________________________________________________** **THE DETAILS.** **WHATSAPP.** You’re not 100% confirmed until you’re in the whatsapp group. Join it 'cause we love it, and we use it! Click on the link (above) – if not, sadly you’ll be removed from the event on MeetUP. **Cancels / No shows.** Treat your RSVP like a restaurant reservation. *No show / cancel on the day?* That restaurant is my hiking group – you won’t be welcomed in the future. Respect and manners matter as I put my credit card down for your reservation. Double booked with another group? Come on… be kind. **Gratuity.** $10 PayID or Cash. **Safety.** Let’s chat, let’s have some laughs… but let’s be safe. **Fitness.** Yup. Fitness matters for all of our hikes – especially if we are going into National Park. **Guests.** Bring mates, dates, co-workers. **Good energy, smiles, and laughs…** Bring ‘em all! You’re joining the most fun hiking group in Sydney. ***In pressing the “Attend” button for this hike, you acknowledge that:*** a) You are healthy and fit to complete the hike describe; b) You have read and will follow [NSW National Parks Bushwalking Safety Guidelines](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/safety/bushwalking-safety) for this hike; c) You have no chronic / underlying health issues that deter you from completing this hike; d) You understand your host is just that – your host, not a professional hiker – and that you and you alone are responsible for your hiking health, safety, and wellness; e) You’ve been advised to download the “Emergency Plus App” and f) You’ve been advised to obtain individual [hiking insurance from 1Cover](https://www.1cover.com.au/adventure-travel-insurance/hiking-trekking/?utm_source=google&utm_source_platform=gads&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=13564994076&utm_term=adventure%20travel%20insurance&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=13564994076&gbraid=0AAAAAD_bfRAu6Io5ZkHeiIYCP_evtsQ_z&gclid=CjwKCAjwz5nGBhBBEiwA-W6XRLm8Itjn1am8sdPMxVhBtRmsDOWkolLlVATJcXW5jW-9JgB7hb9kMhoC7M0QAvD_BwE). g) Over 60yrs old, and new to the group? Send me a note first please.

Coal Loader Hike, Wendy's Garden, Wine Festival & Best Beer Garden!!!

How's this for a top event!!! ***\- A delightful Sunday hike / walk that includes Wendy's Secret Garden;*** ***\- A spectacular Sydney Ferry ride with views;*** ***\- A charming Pyrmont Food & Wine Festival for a sip\, perve\, and a pat; and*** ***\- "Cheers" at one of the best \(and secretive\) wine gardens in Sydneytown\.*** Do we do some fun shit in this group or what? **THE HIKE.** We meet at **Wollstonecraft Station** on the western side (you can't miss us) and after a quick chat, off we go. You won't believe that you're in the Aussie bush hiking just 5minutes after we've departed. From there, it's a unique mix of gardens, bush, neighbourhoods, views, and Sydney history: a) **Wendy's Secret Garden** \- a paradise of greenery; b) **McMahon's Point**; c) **Berry's Bay Lookout & Balls Head Reserve**; d) **The Coal Loader (tunnel pic)**; and e) **Berry Island Reserve**. ***[(IMPORTANT: AFTER YOU HIT ATTEND COME BACK HERE AND CLICK ON THIS LINK TO JOIN THE WHATSAPP GROUP FOR THIS EVENT)](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JAYsFdxH28eEEUMybCwU4q)*** The hike is 10kms in distance that isn't technically challenging, but there are enough ups / downs to test your fitness. Be chatty, share some laughs, but please be ready to move with passion. We'll finish at **Milson's Point Ferry Stop**, and it's a quick two stops to The Pyrmont Food & Wine Festival. **THE PYRMONT FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL.** This is a cracker of an event - right on the water, and it features: *"Free entry - everyone in the community is welcome, 30+ wineries, breweries and distilleries from NSW regions, and local food trucks.* I think 45minutes here is good. Please stay longer, or please leave when you fancy. Or? Please grab my arm and carry on... **THE SECRETIVE WINE GARDEN.** The wine festival will be crowded... so let's finish off properly at **Gallon Wine Bar** \- it's just up the road in Pyrmont\. If you've never been\, you'll grab your drink up front\, and when you get to the rear garden\.\.\. the eyes / mouth will open with that **"Wow. What a place"** look on your face. Transport to Town Hall or Central is easy from there. This will be a super fun Sunday session! See you there. MJ **___________________________________________** **THE DETAILS.** **WHATSAPP.** You’re not 100% confirmed until you’re in the whatsapp group. Join it 'cause we love it, and we use it! Click on the link (above) – if not, sadly you’ll be removed from the event on MeetUP. **Cancels / No shows.** Treat your RSVP like a restaurant reservation. *No show / cancel on the day?* That restaurant is my hiking group – you won’t be welcomed in the future. Respect and manners matter as I put my credit card down for your reservation. Double booked with another group? Come on… be kind. **Gratuity.** $10 PayID or Cash. **Safety.** Let’s chat, let’s have some laughs… but let’s be safe. **Fitness.** Yup. Fitness matters for all of our hikes – especially if we are going into National Park. **Guests.** Bring mates, dates, co-workers. **Good energy, smiles, and laughs…** Bring ‘em all! You’re joining the most fun hiking group in Sydney. ***In pressing the “Attend” button for this hike, you acknowledge that:*** a) You are healthy and fit to complete the hike describe; b) You have read and will follow [NSW National Parks Bushwalking Safety Guidelines](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/safety/bushwalking-safety) for this hike; c) You have no chronic / underlying health issues that deter you from completing this hike; d) You understand your host is just that – your host, not a professional hiker – and that you and you alone are responsible for your hiking health, safety, and wellness; e) You’ve been advised to download the “Emergency Plus App” and f) You’ve been advised to obtain individual [hiking insurance from 1Cover](https://www.1cover.com.au/adventure-travel-insurance/hiking-trekking/?utm_source=google&utm_source_platform=gads&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=13564994076&utm_term=adventure%20travel%20insurance&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=13564994076&gbraid=0AAAAAD_bfRAu6Io5ZkHeiIYCP_evtsQ_z&gclid=CjwKCAjwz5nGBhBBEiwA-W6XRLm8Itjn1am8sdPMxVhBtRmsDOWkolLlVATJcXW5jW-9JgB7hb9kMhoC7M0QAvD_BwE). g) Over 60yrs old, and new to the group? Send me a note first please.

2026 WHALE TRAIL - Wedding Cake Rock, 17kms Royal National Park Coast Hike!

Is there a more beautiful site to spot whales than the 2nd oldest National Park in the world? This hike is 90% coast, and it's unforgettable. And if you've never been to **The Royal National Park**… well, this is THE perfect intro session to tempt the taste buds. Then? You’ll want more. Believe it. Our **2026 WHALE TRAIL continues...** **THE HIKE.** **The Bundeena Ferry.** It’s the oldest ferry in Sydney (+85yrs), and you’re gonna love this “Little Engine that Could” (my favourite book that Mom used to read to me) experience to start off the day to our hike start... **Little Jibbon Beach.** Wow. A stunning beach stroll surrounded by National Park. **Jibbon Head & The Royal National Park Coastal Hike.** It starts here… perfect views. Whales. Beautiful coastline in the 2nd oldest National Park in the world. **Wedding Cake Rock.** You’ve seen the photos. Now see it in person. It’s pretty damn cool. **Marley Beach & Little Marley Beach.** Two loooooovely beaches. We’ll stop at Little Marley for views, snacks, and a rest before turning around. **Bundeena** is a gorgeous little town… Quiet. Artsy. It’s a one of a kind place in Sydney. The distance… *10.30kilometres from Bundeena to Little Marley Beach, and it’s 6.75 kilometres (smaller map pic) back* as we take a shortcut up the ass-end of Bundeena to get to the beers / food more quickly! **Timing...** we meet at 915am at the Cronulla Ferry Wharf (5min walk from train station). It's easy to find. **THE FOOD & DRINK.** Cronulla is such a cool little town… let’s find something there (no stress if you head back early on the train). Cronulla RSL Club has beautiful ocean views, and the town’s Corso has endless Thai, pizza, burritos, etc… It’s Sunday, so we won’t get as loose as we normally do, but let’s “cheers” with a nice meal / beer, wine because that’s what we do! If you're thinking "Wow, that's a journey" please stop because it’s 110% worth it. I loooooove this National Park and Coastal Hike. See you for a beauty. MJ **[If you hit the "Attend" button, the next step is to join our whatsapp group HERE](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IXzvSqDf0E98z48J9OQk86)**[.](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IXzvSqDf0E98z48J9OQk86) See you in The Royal National Park! MJ \| **THE 2026 WHALE TRAIL** \| **KMs** \| \| La Perouse Headland \| 11\.0 \| \| Figure 8 Pool \| 14\.0 \| \| Wattamolla\, Eagle Rock \| 14\.0 \| \| Bundeena to Wedding Cake Rock \| 17\.0 \| \| North Head Manly \| 12\.6 \| \| Malabar to Coogee \| 11\.2 \| \| Coogee Watson's Bay \| 16\.6 \| \| Long Reef to Newport \| 15\.2 \| \| Cronulla to Kurnell \| 14\.9 \| \| Dee Why to Manly \| 10\.9 \| \| Macmaster's to Killcare \| 13\.5 \| \| Patonga to Pearl Beach\, Palm Beach \| 14\.0 \| \| **12 HIKES THAT TOTAL** \| **165KMs** \| **___________________________________________________** **THE DETAILS.** **WHATSAPP.** You’re not 100% confirmed until you’re in the whatsapp group. Join it 'cause we love it, and we use it! Click on the link (above) – if not, sadly you’ll be removed from the event on MeetUP. **Cancels / No shows.** Treat your RSVP like a restaurant reservation. *No show / cancel on the day?* That restaurant is my hiking group – you won’t be welcomed in the future. Respect and manners matter as I put my credit card down for your reservation. Double booked with another group? Come on… be kind. **Gratuity.** $10 PayID or Cash. **Safety.** Let’s chat, let’s have some laughs… but let’s be safe. **Fitness.** Yup. Fitness matters for all of our hikes – especially if we are going into National Park. **Guests.** Bring mates, dates, co-workers. **Good energy, smiles, and laughs…** Bring ‘em all! You’re joining the most fun hiking group in Sydney. ***In pressing the “Attend” button for this hike, you acknowledge that:*** a) You are healthy and fit to complete the hike describe; b) You have read and will follow [NSW National Parks Bushwalking Safety Guidelines](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/safety/bushwalking-safety) for this hike; c) You have no chronic / underlying health issues that deter you from completing this hike; d) You understand your host is just that – your host, not a professional hiker – and that you and you alone are responsible for your hiking health, safety, and wellness; e) You’ve been advised to download the “Emergency Plus App” and f) You’ve been advised to obtain individual [hiking insurance from 1Cover](https://www.1cover.com.au/adventure-travel-insurance/hiking-trekking/?utm_source=google&utm_source_platform=gads&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=13564994076&utm_term=adventure%20travel%20insurance&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=13564994076&gbraid=0AAAAAD_bfRAu6Io5ZkHeiIYCP_evtsQ_z&gclid=CjwKCAjwz5nGBhBBEiwA-W6XRLm8Itjn1am8sdPMxVhBtRmsDOWkolLlVATJcXW5jW-9JgB7hb9kMhoC7M0QAvD_BwE). g) Over 60yrs old, and new to the group? Send me a note first please.

3 Hikes. Ghosties Cave / Tomaree Headland!!! Overniter. Huge discount on hotel.

**The 2026 SYDNEY WHALE TRAIL HAS OFFICIALLY BEGUN!!!** 14 hikes... 200kms of the most beautiful coastline in the world, chasing 40,000 whales as they migrate north! Our first official hike is the beautiful Tomaree Headland to Samurai Beach... one of the seven New South Wales Great Walks! Here's the lowdown on the whole weekend... **3 Epic Hikes. 2 very cool pubs. And $145+ in savings on your hotel room. I can’t arrange a better Saturday-Sunday session away. Let’s do this! 30 Max Hikers. Whales could be running too!** **THE HIKES.** **Hike 1, Saturday Lunch.** Team, you’ve gotta see this (Tik Tok is better) [Tik Tok](https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSuJUcHMh/) or [YouTube](https://youtu.be/_wzIuBe3cus) of the **Ghosties Beach Caves**. It’s a 5kms hike. We’ve gotta hike this. It starts from our pub lunch with easy parking. Perfect. **Hike 2. Saturday Sunset, Tomaree.** After hotel check in, let’s hike a shorty, but one of the prettiest views on the NSW Coast – Tomaree Headland. [Let’s watch the sunset](https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSuJUTFBP/) (Tik Tok). It’s a climb sure – but no different than hiking Palm Beach Lighthouse – yet the view is even better! **Hike 3. Sunday. Tomaree Headland to Anna Bay.** This Coastal Hike is 10/10 beautiful (it's a 2 day hike - we'll only hike Day 1)… last time we hiked it we were looking for Noah’s Fahkin’ Ark, so this will be a treat to see with clearer skies. **THE PUBS.** **Catherine Hill Bay Hotel (The Catho)** is something out of the movies… see it to believe it. It’s our starting point for lunch on Saturday before we get hiking – so cars can arrive at different times. Low tide is 118pm, so we’ll start hiking from 1pm. Arrive at the pub at 11am, 11:30am, whenever. Grab a beer, burger, enjoy this rustic, classic gem built in 1875 to serve the local mining community – this joint hasn’t changed. **Shoal Bay Country Club… this is our nite spot in Shoal Bay.** Great food with water views. Live music. Get as loose as you fancy – it’s part of our hotel property, and it’s a definite hotspot for the Central Coastie Locals. **THE HOTEL.** **Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay** is a really nice property right on the water. Many in the group stayed there last year… from the morning coffee / croissant to the drinks to the start of the hike – this is the spot. Quick search on Wotif is ***$495 for a De Luxe 2 bedroom Beachfront Saturday nite stay. I’ve negotiated group rates for $350 – that’s $175 per person***. We’ll get ya matched up – everybody has their own bedroom (if you do want your own room, we can make it happen - all discussed in whatsapp group). **Weekends has a "2nite minimum stay" - I have negotiated a "Just Saturday stay" at a great price. It doesn't get better than this.** There's a "no cancel policy" so keep that in mind, but if another hiker wants to come, you could transfer the room to them. 3 great hikes. 2 super cool bars. Do we finish with a Central Coast Sunday Roast on the way back? Could be the go… If you hit “Attend”, please join [WHATSAPP HERE](https://chat.whatsapp.com/CeMF3LX6Gdq3wZy5fGFYAW), and we’ll discuss the plan or send me an SMS on 0439 635 699 if you can't get into that group. Drivers, payment etc… We’ve got 2 weeks to get this locked in!

Nite Hike with Mike. Stunning 7kms Taronga Zoo to Balmoral Beach Hike! Beer too!

A few weeks ago we hiked Coogee to Bondi at nite - it was really, really cool. Beer before... and (meal) after. We'll keep up with the Nite-Hikes that finish at the pub! Love it - it's a different kind of energy when you hike in the evening. Let's hike post-sunset Taronga Zoo towards Balmoral Beach while talking shit and licking our beautiful city then head up to the lovely Buena Hotel in Mosman (one of my favourite Lower North Shore pubs) for a great pub meal. ***Taronga to Balmoral***. It’s an Aussie fahkin' beauty of a due to its diversity… Of course the ***ferry ride from CQuay to Taronga (ferry leaves at 545pm - be early*** is amazing, and the first stint of the walk transports you to another part of Australia – it’s a rainforest start to ***Bradley’s Head*** with perfect views of ***Sydney Opera House / Harbour Bridge***. Turning the corner we’ll stop at a secluded beach then carry on to ***Taylor’s Bay*** – the greenery / plant life there will amaze all. [NOTE: YOU MUST JOIN OUR WHATSAPP GROUP FOR THIS EVENT HERE.](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EjKueK9RY6DJzKL6roTpGm) From there the walk heads to ***Chowder Bay***, one of the coolest little beaches that not many Sydneysiders know of. There’s a café / bathroom stop there, then up the only real incline to ***George’s Head***: a historic military spot with the most picture perfect view from Manly to the CBD. We head back into the bush for a 15min walk to the ***Balmoral Stairs*** that will guide us down to Balmoral Beach. ***(SAFETY NOTE: I'm recommending a head lamp if you don't have one, as "I'll just use my mobile phone's light" may not be sufficient. Get to KMart... they are $10)*** Post-food / drinks you have many transport options from Balmoral Beach / The Buena to get back home or to Wynyard. I'll guide you. Oh, stay tuned for location to meet at 530pm. I'll be at a pub from 5pm around Circular Quay warming up... join from 5pm-530pm then we'll walk to the ferry wharf as a team. See you for a fun Friday session! MJ **_____________________________________________________** **THE DETAILS.** **WHATSAPP.** You’re not 100% confirmed until you’re in the whatsapp group. Join it 'cause we love it, and we use it! Click on the link (above) – if not, sadly you’ll be removed from the event on MeetUP. **Cancels / No shows.** Treat your RSVP like a restaurant reservation. *No show / cancel on the day?* That restaurant is my hiking group – you won’t be welcomed in the future. Respect and manners matter as I put my credit card down for your reservation. Double booked with another group? Come on… be kind. **Gratuity.** $10 PayID or Cash. **Safety.** Let’s chat, let’s have some laughs… but let’s be safe. **Fitness.** Yup. Fitness matters for all of our hikes – especially if we are going into National Park. **Guests.** Bring mates, dates, co-workers. **Good energy, smiles, and laughs…** Bring ‘em all! You’re joining the most fun hiking group in Sydney. ***In pressing the “Attend” button for this hike, you acknowledge that:*** a) You are healthy and fit to complete the hike describe; b) You have read and will follow [NSW National Parks Bushwalking Safety Guidelines](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/safety/bushwalking-safety) for this hike; c) You have no chronic / underlying health issues that deter you from completing this hike; d) You understand your host is just that – your host, not a professional hiker – and that you and you alone are responsible for your hiking health, safety, and wellness; e) You’ve been advised to download the “Emergency Plus App” and f) You’ve been advised to obtain individual [hiking insurance from 1Cover](https://www.1cover.com.au/adventure-travel-insurance/hiking-trekking/?utm_source=google&utm_source_platform=gads&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=13564994076&utm_term=adventure%20travel%20insurance&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=13564994076&gbraid=0AAAAAD_bfRAu6Io5ZkHeiIYCP_evtsQ_z&gclid=CjwKCAjwz5nGBhBBEiwA-W6XRLm8Itjn1am8sdPMxVhBtRmsDOWkolLlVATJcXW5jW-9JgB7hb9kMhoC7M0QAvD_BwE). g) Over 60yrs old, and new to the group? Send me a note first please.

✨ Vivid Sydney Lights Walk: The Rocks, Barangaroo & Dinner (~7km)

Join us for **our annual Vivid walk**—a captivating evening exploring the awe-inspiring Vivid Sydney light and sound installations! This walk covers nearly 7 kilometres and follows over half of the official Vivid Light Walk route at a leisurely pace, with short breaks at the most popular installations. 🚨 **Critical Vivid Info:** While I will share our live location in the group chat, please make a strong effort to stay with the group. Vivid gets incredibly crowded and it is very easy to get separated! If you do get lost, don't panic—you can simply enjoy the installations at your own pace by following the official map (select "Map" on the page): [https://www.vividsydney.com/events/date/upcoming](https://www.vividsydney.com/events/date/upcoming) **Here's what you need to know (read this all before RSVP):** * **Difficulty and Terrain:** Easy. This is a leisurely evening stroll on fully paved urban streets, footpaths, and waterfront boardwalks. Please note: navigating through very dense crowds will be required. * **Start time:** 6:00 PM sharp outside Wynyard Station (York Street Stand N). Please arrive by 5:50 PM. * **Finish:** Around 8:30 PM near Barangaroo / Wynyard Station. Afterwards, some of us will head out for an optional group dinner and drinks at a local bar (venue TBD). * **Route:** We will embark on the official Vivid Light Walk, taking in the illuminated wonders around the City, Circular Quay, and The Rocks. We will continue through Walsh Bay and wrap up at Barangaroo, checking out the spectacular light and music installations along the way. * **Gratuity:** A $5 contribution is appreciated to help cover our Meetup subscription and group running costs. Carry Cash or ask for PayID. **Important - Please Read:** * **What to bring:** Comfortable shoes (uneven terrain possible in some areas), water (refills available), torch for dark sections, and weather-appropriate clothing. * **RSVP responsibly** – Treat it as a commitment; update or cancel 12–24 hrs before. * **Arrive early** – All route/gear info is in the description; hosts can’t field messages during the event. * **Stay together** – It's a volunteer-led community walk; keep the host in sight and let them know if you leave. * **Safety first** – **Your safety is your own responsibility**! You agree to follow host instructions, public-health orders and OZ Outdoors guidelines: [https://www.meetup.com/ozoutdoors](https://www.meetup.com/ozoutdoors) * **Get involved** – You're welcome to send the host feedback or let us know if you’d like to lead such walks. * **Connect with us on Instagram:** [https://instagram.com/ozoutdoors.syd](https://instagram.com/ozoutdoors.syd) * **LinkedIn (Manish):** [https://linkedin.com/in/manishpm/](https://linkedin.com/in/manishpm/)

Mt Banks Summit via One Trail Loop Hike

H is for Himalaya-India/Pakistani cuisine

GRAND CANYON HIKE — EXPLORING BLUE MOUNTAINS

A relaxed day hike and picnic through one of the most beautiful canyon walks in New South Wales — shaded trails, waterfalls, valley lookouts, good coffee, and an easy picnic overlooking the Grose Valley. Perfect autumn escape from Sydney with a relaxed social pace. MEETING POINTS 1\. North Strathfield station \- 6:15 AM 2\. Penrith Station \- 6:45 AM ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🗓️ PLAN FOR THE DAY 🚗 6:30 AM — Depart Sydney Meet early and head west before traffic builds. Easy cruise toward the mountains with a quick stop along the way. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ ☕ 8:00 AM — Coffee Stop in Leura Morning fuel stop in Leura. Coffee, pastries, breakfast rolls, and a chance to grab trail snacks before the hike. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🌄 9:15 AM — Arrive at Evans Lookout Quick stop at Evans Lookout before heading down into the canyon. Panoramic views over the Grose Valley and a good chance for photos before we start walking. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🥾 9:30 AM — Grand Canyon Track Loop 📍 Grand Canyon Track Track Details: • \~5.5 km loop • Around 3–3.5 hours relaxed pace • Moderate difficulty • Mostly shaded canyon terrain What to Expect: • Narrow sandstone canyon walls • Fern-filled rainforest sections • Small waterfalls and creek crossings • Cooler temperatures inside the canyon • Steady climb back up past Beauchamp Falls We’ll stop midway near the creek for a proper rest/snack break. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🧺 1:00 PM — Picnic / Lunch / Relax at Evans Lookout Back at the cars for a relaxed picnic overlooking the valley. Bring something simple/shareable if you’d like: • sandwiches / sourdough • cheese & dips • fruit • pastries / sweets • tea, coffee, or cold drinks There’s space around the lookout and grassy areas to sit with picnic rugs, though formal tables are limited. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ ☕ Final Coffee Stop Optional caffeine stop in Blackheath before heading home. Suggested spots: • Sanguinary • Hounslow ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🚗 Return to Sydney Leave around 2:30 PM Expected arrival back in Sydney around 5:00 PM. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🎒 What to Bring • 1.5–2L water • Hiking shoes or trail runners with grip • Warm layer or fleece • Light rain shell/jacket • Picnic rug or compact mat • Hat + sunscreen • Spare socks for after the hike (strongly recommended) Blue Mountains mornings in late May can be cold, especially at the lookouts, but the canyon warms up once moving. Track can also be damp/slippery in shaded sections, so avoid flat sneakers if possible. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🚗 Carpooling (Optional) • Can be organised depending on availability • Riders expected to share fuel/toll/parking costs • Arrange directly in comments/messages • Please be punctual and respectful ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ ⚠️ Important • Stay on track and follow organiser instructions • Keep safe distance from cliff edges • No dogs allowed • Please respect the group pace and timings ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 👥 Who Can Join • Beginner-friendly (basic fitness required) • Open to solo joiners, friends, and newcomers • Relaxed social hiking pace ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🌦️ Weather • Weather dependent event • May be rescheduled if conditions are unsafe ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 📌 Terms & Conditions By joining, you agree to participate at your own risk and follow all safety guidelines. Full T&Cs: [https://tinyurl.com/433pn3ws](https://tinyurl.com/433pn3ws) ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ ✅ Notes • Limited spots — please cancel if you can’t attend • Admin/Club fee: $10 per person (Cash or PAYID on arrival) ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 👉 RSVP if you’re coming! Comment/message if you can offer or need a ride.

2026 WHALE TRAIL: Long Reef to Newport, a Coastal Stunner!

This session is easily in my Top 5 Hikes in Sydney... the bush, the beaches, the neighbourhoods, and a lush pub to finish. And? It's a star in our **2026 WHALE TRAIL** series as we smash the coast spotting whales along the way. There's something very fahkin' special about those Northern Beaches, and **Long Reef Headland to Newport is a 10/10 journey showcasting the best of the best**! **THE HIKE. LONG REEF HEADLAND TO THE NEWPORT - 15kms.** We start at **Long Reef Headland**… one of *the most stunning sections of our Sydney Coastline*, from Palm Beach all the way down to The Royal National Park. We meet there in the grass by **Long Reef Surf Life Saving Club.** **Long Reef** is 240million years old, and the views are unforgettable. We bend around **Long Reef Golf Course** and exit to a cute little beach walk at **Fisherman’s Beach** (we saw sting rays galore there last time) which finishes at **Collaroy Rockpools**… leading to **Collaroy Beach**. Admittedly, the stretch of Narrabeen Beach is either torture on the legs in the sand or a boring-as-hell street walk, so we'll jump on a 5min bus (trust me, this works) to skip it. Hiking continues at **Narrabeen Headland** and gives the most stunning views south so you'll see it all. Onward we go to **Turimetta Beach** (10/10 stunning) and **Lookout**… to the **Turimetta Headland Reserve, Warriewood Lookout & Blowhole**, **Warriewood Beach (again gorgeous), then to Mona Vale Beach (voted 6th best in the world, Conde Naste)**… **[(QUICKLY... YOU MUST JOIN OUR WHATSAPP GROUP HERE AFTER YOU HIT ATTEND HERE ON MEETUP)](https://chat.whatsapp.com/HcJO5KPN8aZ8eX0CurXW7L)** North of that? **Basin Beach. Bungan Beach**.... these two are absolutely stunning. Let's explore, then we'll make a left into Newport to easily one of the best bars in all of Sydney - **The Newport**. If you haven't been, you're going to be floored. If you have, it's probably why you're signing up to this hike! **15kms in total**. Beach walk. Inclines. And all the rest. Fitness required for this one. The **B1 bus / 199 bus are our friends all day to start, get home, and even provide some outs if you want to stop hiking and meet us at the pub.** If you parked your car at the start (there is free parking) it's super easy to bus back south. Post-pub the 199 bus is literally out the front door running every 10minutes. **THE STARTING POINT.** Coming from North or South? B1 bus gets you close, but it’s an easy transfer to the 199 bus that drops you at the **Collaroy at Pittwater Rd before Hay St stop**. Cross the road there (be careful, look at pic for the stairwell), take the trail down, and the grassy bit is our meeting point (please see pics below). It’s a little tricky, but you’ll find it. Drivers, there’s freebie parking around that area – DIY research please. See you for one of my favourite Sydney hikes! MJ \| **THE 2026 WHALE TRAIL** \| **KMs** \| \| La Perouse Headland \| 11\.0 \| \| Figure 8 Pool \| 14\.0 \| \| Wattamolla\, Eagle Rock \| 14\.0 \| \| Bundeena to Wedding Cake Rock \| 17\.0 \| \| North Head Manly \| 12\.6 \| \| Malabar to Coogee \| 11\.2 \| \| Coogee Watson's Bay \| 16\.6 \| \| Long Reef to Newport \| 15\.2 \| \| Cronulla to Kurnell \| 14\.9 \| \| Dee Why to Manly \| 10\.9 \| \| Macmaster's to Killcare \| 13\.5 \| \| Patonga to Pearl Beach\, Palm Beach \| 14\.0 \| \| **12 HIKES THAT TOTAL** \| **165KMs** \| **______________________________________________________** **THE DETAILS.** **WHATSAPP.** You’re not 100% confirmed until you’re in the whatsapp group. Join it 'cause we love it, and we use it! Click on the link (above) – if not, sadly you’ll be removed from the event on MeetUP. **Cancels / No shows.** Treat your RSVP like a restaurant reservation. *No show / cancel on the day?* That restaurant is my hiking group – you won’t be welcomed in the future. Respect and manners matter as I put my credit card down for your reservation. Double booked with another group? Come on… be kind. **Gratuity.** $10 PayID or Cash. **Safety.** Let’s chat, let’s have some laughs… but let’s be safe. **Fitness.** Yup. Fitness matters for all of our hikes – especially if we are going into National Park. **Guests.** Bring mates, dates, co-workers. **Good energy, smiles, and laughs…** Bring ‘em all! You’re joining the most fun hiking group in Sydney. ***In pressing the “Attend” button for this hike, you acknowledge that:*** a) You are healthy and fit to complete the hike describe; b) You have read and will follow [NSW National Parks Bushwalking Safety Guidelines](https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/safety/bushwalking-safety) for this hike; c) You have no chronic / underlying health issues that deter you from completing this hike; d) You understand your host is just that – your host, not a professional hiker – and that you and you alone are responsible for your hiking health, safety, and wellness; e) You’ve been advised to download the “Emergency Plus App” and f) You’ve been advised to obtain individual [hiking insurance from 1Cover](https://www.1cover.com.au/adventure-travel-insurance/hiking-trekking/?utm_source=google&utm_source_platform=gads&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=13564994076&utm_term=adventure%20travel%20insurance&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=13564994076&gbraid=0AAAAAD_bfRAu6Io5ZkHeiIYCP_evtsQ_z&gclid=CjwKCAjwz5nGBhBBEiwA-W6XRLm8Itjn1am8sdPMxVhBtRmsDOWkolLlVATJcXW5jW-9JgB7hb9kMhoC7M0QAvD_BwE). g) Over 60yrs old, and new to the group? Send me a note first please.

South Coast Classic!! Gerringong - Kiama - Minnamurra: 22 km - Medium/Hard

**South Coast Classic!!! Gerringong to Minnamurra: the Kiama Walk! - 22 km - Medium/Hard** Let’s get well out of the City! For the whole day! We’ll travel two hours south of Sydney and be transported to some of Australia’s most gorgeous rural and coastal landscapes. Our trek starts at **Gerringong Railway Station**, from where we take local roads up to the town’s southern headland, before descending to Werri Beach. At the northern end of the beach, we cross Werri Lagoon. The local low tide coincides with our visit, so we should be able to cross the Lagoon whilst staying nice and dry! On the other side we enter a truly unique Coastal Track which ends 5km later at **Loves Bay**. From Loves Bay a further 5km of beaches, parks, stairs and local roads take us past the reliable **Little Blowhole** and into the local population centre, the beautiful township of **Kiama**. Here, we have a generous 1 hour lunch on the foreshores of Kiama Harbour. The Big Blowhole is a five minute stroll, for those who can’t resist having a peek! Following lunch, we step up the pace as we still have 9 km to go. After an easy climb out of Kiama, to Pheasant Point, sweeping views of **Bombo Beach** open up. We skirt this big beach on local footpaths. At its end we enter trails through a complex of bays and inlets which harbour spectacular volcanic formations, such as **The Boneyard and Cathedral Rocks**. With the long sweep of Jones Beach behind us, we ascend its northern headland. On the far side we look down on the **Minnamurra River**, curved around its Namesake Village and twisting again as it empties into the sea. It looks like the Garden of Eden! A short walk to Minnamurra Train Station completes the walk. **Distance:** 22 km **Type of Walk:** This walk is a full day adventure filled with great natural beauty, coastal tracks, a rich diversity of pristine eco-systems and idyllic coastal communities. **Difficulty:** Medium/Hard, although we must maintain a good pace all day to ensure we arrive at Minnamurra no later than 5pm. A good level of fitness is required. The only real get out point is Kiama, from where you can train back to Sydney. **Walking Pace:** We will maintain a steady pace all day and average 4,5 km per hour. We must be at Minnamurra by no later than 5:00 pm, to ensure we catch the 5.10 train to Sydney. **Meeting Place and Transport:** The train leaves from Central Station Platform 25 at 7:29am. At Kiama we change for the Gerringong Train, which leaves Kiama Platform 1. Please make sure you do not miss the connection to Gerringong. **What to bring:** Trail runners/trainers; 2 litres of water, refill at Kiama; hydrolytes; snacks; light rain jacket; sunscreen and a cap or hat with a wide brim. Consider some warmer clothing. Think about snacks for the return train journey! **Suggested Donation:** $10 **Pub:** Members can purchase take away from the local bottle shop, and have pleasant drink at Minnamurra Headland at the end By RSVPing to this event, you (and your guests) agree to and are bound by the terms and conditions of SOMG which you can view here: [Sydney Outdoors Meetup Group Discussions](https://www.meetup.com/sydney-outdoors-meetup-group/discussions/?eventOrigin=home_groups_you_organize) If you have any questions, please leave a comment below. I look forward to seeing you on this walk. I will post my mobile number closer to the day. Ted.

🌈 🍂 Porters Pass, Colliers Causeway, Grotto, Waterfalls & Lookouts 🌲🐦‍⬛🍂

⚠️ FOR YOUR SAFETY & ENJOYMENT, PLEASE READ DESCRIPTION BELOW FULLY BEFORE YOU CLICK ‘Attend’! ******************************************** 🗓 DATE: Saturday, 30 May 2026. ⏰ MEETING TIME: 10.40am - late start! 🚆 MEETING POINT: (start & finish) Blackheath station - Station Street entry/exit. 🌍 Please use Google maps for exact location, not Meetup maps! ******************************************** 🥾 DISTANCE: 10.5km return. 🥾 GRADE: Moderate/slightly Hard on a relaxing pace, not snail pace! 💪🏽 Reasonable fitness recommended due to uneven rocky surfaces, ups and downs hills, steep stair climbs, creek crossings, rocks scrambling and a bit of bush bashing at few overgrown sections. 💪🏽Tracks expected to be wet, muddy and slippery in parts. ❗️NOTE:- this walk is not for whingers, those with fear of heights or hardcore fast walkers! ✅ This walk is more suitable for nature lovers, birdwatchers and keen photographers. ******************************************** 📸 WHAT TO EXPECT: 🚶‍♂️Upon arrival at Blackheath station, we will proceed on local roads to Porters Pass and Colliers Causeway enjoying the bushland and the wonderful views across the valley and rock formations. 🥪 We will have byo lunch break at Colliers Lookout overlooking the valley. 🚶‍♂️After lunch, we will continue our exciting exploration to few amazing lookouts and waterfalls with lots of photo stops and selfies. 🚶🏼‍♀️We’will then continue our adventure to Centennial Grove Grotto and Walls Ledge Track with great views and wildlife. 🚶‍♂️After enjoying time in the nature, we will head back to Blackheath station. 🍂 Optional - you may check out beautiful garden near the station and tree lined Autumn leaves. 🍂 🥧 There’s few shops, pubs, cafes and restaurants in the town centre if you like a bite to eat or a drinks before heading home 🍹 ******************************************** ⚠️ IMPORTANT INFORMATION ⚠️ 📝 TERMS & DISCLAIMER: Attending this event is voluntarily at your own risk. Organiser/s accepts no liability of any kind including injuries, accidents, misadventure etc during and after this event. ✅ You must assess your own fitness and ability before participating in this event. ✅ You are responsible for looking after your own health, safety and belongings. ✅ You must adhere and follow the instructions from your organiser/s at all times during this event. ✅ You must take personal accountability for your own choices, actions and/or misadventure. If you’re not sticking with the group or getting lost during the walk, you’re responsible for finding your own way out. The group DO NOT wait for you! ✅ You must also take care not to put other people at risk. ✅ Keep well back from cliff edges at all times, especially when taking photos. ❎ NO facilities or cafes on the trails, so please come well prepared. ❎ NO smoking of any kind on the walk including during photo stops and lunch break. ❎ If you do not wish to be photographed (randomly or group photos), please DO NOT join this event! ❎ NO pets including service dogs are permitted on my events. You may join pet friendly walking group instead. ✅ Please be mindful and respectful to members and guest/s from diverse background. This is not a datng event. ✅ If something’s come up, please Edit your RSVP to ‘Not Going’ asap at least by 7pm the day before. It’s only take a second!
❎ Late cancellation or No Show would not be tolerated. You will forfeit the opportunity to join my future events! ******************************************** 🎒WHAT TO BRING 🎒 👕 Comfortable outfit for the weather preferably hiking gear. Jeans or cotton t-shirt are not be suitable for this walk. 🥾 Waterproof hiking boots or good grip walking shoes highly recommended. 💦 At least 1.8L of WATER, Hydralyte or sports energy drinks. 🥪 Snacks and PACKED LUNCH. 🧢 Hat, sunscreen, insect repellent ie: Bushman or Aerogard and hand sanitiser. ⛑ Basic First Aid Kit - BandAids, bandages, antibacterial wipes etc. 🧥 Light raincoat or a poncho just in case of wet weather. 💵 GRATUITY: $5 CASH per person for this event to be collected at the start of the walk. ✅ Please bring correct change on the day to speed up the meet and greet. 📱Or PayID to my mobile: 0405038557. Ref: (your name) & Blackheath. ✅ Please get it done asap upon arrival and TEXT me receipt of payment. Easy! ******************************************** 🚊 Check Opal Trip Planner for public transport services, weekend trackwork etc. https://transportnsw.info/ 🚗 Car park on Station Street or side streets. 🏃‍♂️ Please leave home with plenty of travel time and arrive promptly. If you’re running late, we don’t wait! ******************************************** ✍️ I will update further information during mid week on weather forecast, train schedule from Central etc. So relax! 😉 📲 Any questions or concerns, please send me a TEXT message instead to avoid any confusion. ❗️Note that I do not answer calls from unknown phone numbers or text messages after meeting time! 🍂 Let’s explore and enjoy the great outdoors! 🌿 Norra 😎 📱0405038557 (TEXT & PayID only)