The America Bay Track in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is a short and easy bushwalk with scenic views and Aboriginal engravings to explore.
The highlight of this 2 km return trail is the lookout point at the end, offering beautiful views over America Bay.
| America Bay Track | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | 2 km (return) |
| Duration: | 1 hour (depending on stops) |
| Grade: | Easy |
| Dogs: | Not allowed |
| Trailhead: | Google Maps |
Getting There
The America Bay Track is situated in the West Head precinct of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, which also features the West Head Lookout and Resolute Beach.
The trailhead for the America Bay Track is located on West Head Road, accessible via McCarrs Creek Road.
Look for the America Bay Track signpost on West Head Road, and you can park your car there at the small parking area.
Note that there’s a $12 National Park entry fee per vehicle per day.
Track Notes
The America Bay Track is a short 1 km trail, making it suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. The path is well-defined from start to finish, though comfortable walking shoes are recommended as some sections are rocky and uneven.
Below is a little map of the walk. After parking in the small designated area, you can begin the walk by entering the track at the signpost.
Aboriginal Engravings
Early in the walk, look for an intersection that’s surprisingly easy to miss.
This is where you can do a short side trip to a hidden site featuring well-preserved Aboriginal engravings.
Interestingly, there’s no signage on the main path indicating the presence of these engravings, so you’ll have to keep an eye out for an intersection with a path to the right.
Turn right at the intersection and follow the path for about 100 metres to reach a large, flat, rocky area.
The engravings are remarkably well-preserved, and with a closer look, you’ll be able to identify the various shapes and animals etched into the surface.
After exploring the engravings, retrace your steps to the intersection and turn right to continue along the main track to America Bay.
Depending on recent rainfall, the path can become a bit challenging at times, with plenty of rocks, tree roots, and other obstacles to navigate.
Small Waterfall
The track winds through a picturesque stretch of bushland before crossing a creek.
Soon, you’ll come across a small, unpretentious waterfall, which is more impressive after recent rainfall (unlike what’s shown in the photo below).
From here, you’ll catch your first glimpses of America Bay as the track continues to the scenic lookout point.
Lookout Point
The views of America Bay from the lookout are quite spectacular, so take your time to soak in the scenery.
The lookout features a large rocky platform, making it an ideal spot for a picnic with million-dollar views.
There are some more cascades here, where the creek flows over the rocks and eventually drops into America Bay.
Interestingly, the America Bay Track once extended all the way down to a secluded beach at the bay.
Unfortunately, that section has been closed for quite some time due to safety issues. The closure sign appears permanent, so it remains to be seen whether it will reopen again in the future.
Check out our list of great walking tracks in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park for more walks in this beautiful area north of Sydney.
