Balls Head Reserve, located on Sydney’s lower north shore, is a stunning forested headland facing Sydney Harbour.
The reserve features several short bushwalking trails that blend natural beauty with sweeping views of Sydney Harbour, the CBD skyline, the Harbour Bridge, Goat Island, and the surrounding peninsulas.
Just nearby, Carradah Park on the Waverton Peninsula is also worth a visit. Its rich history, peaceful atmosphere, and panoramic views make it a fascinating spot to explore.
| Balls Head Reserve Walk | |
|---|---|
| Distance: | Approx 2 km (various trails) |
| Duration: | 1-2 hours (depending on stops) |
| Grade: | Easy |
| Dogs: | On a lead |
Getting There
Spanning 9 hectares of scenic bushland, Balls Head Reserve remains somewhat of a hidden gem, located just 1.5 kilometres from the Sydney CBD.
The reserve sits at the southern end of Balls Head Drive on the Waverton Peninsula. There’s a small car park within the reserve, and free street parking is available on Balls Head Road. If you’re heading to Carradah Park, parking is available on Larkin Street.
The area is also easily accessible by public transport, with Waverton train station just a short 10-minute walk away.
To begin exploring Balls Head Reserve, start from the car park and follow the path heading north. Continue walking in a clockwise direction to eventually reach the Coal Loader.
About Balls Head Reserve
A visit to Balls Head Reserve is a great way to spend a few hours, and as a lesser-known spot, it rarely gets too busy.
The reserve is ideal not only for light bushwalking but also for enjoying a relaxing picnic amidst its natural surroundings.
Balls Head Reserve takes its name from Henry Lidgbird Ball, a Royal Naval officer and commander of one of the ships in the First Fleet that arrived in Botany Bay in 1788.
Before European settlement, this area was home to the Cammeraygal people. Middens, art sites, and rock engravings can still be found within the reserve and its surrounds. The Aboriginal name for Balls Head is Yerroulbine.
Public Parkland
In 1926, Balls Head Reserve, along with Berry Island, was declared a public parkland.
During the Great Depression of the 1930s, the area was often used as a shelter, leading to the loss of much of its original vegetation.
To restore the natural beauty of this sandstone headland, a beautification scheme was later introduced.
Today, managed by North Sydney Council, the reserve is a picturesque and quiet spot to explore and enjoy.
Walking Trails
Balls Head Reserve features several interconnected short bushwalking trails. To familiarise yourself with these trails, it’s a good idea to check the information board at the car park.
One of the trails, the Harbour View Walk, is wheel-friendly and offers scenic views of Sydney Harbour and the CBD.
Although the trails are well-signposted, the various intersections and lack of a designated starting point can make navigation a bit tricky.
We recommend starting from the car park and following the Midden Walk north. From there, continue along the reserve’s shoreline in a clockwise direction.
At the easternmost point of Balls Head Reserve, marked by a grassy area, take the Ballasters Track heading west.
This track eventually connects to the Harbour View Walk near the picnic area. From there, follow the Isabella Brierly Track further west.
Along the way, you’ll find rest areas, benches, and caves where you can sit, rest up, and enjoy the views.
You can then choose to follow the Coal Loader Link Track to the Coal Loader Centre for Sustainability or return to the car park.
The Coal Loader is a fascinating and unique destination, so we highly recommend continuing on that trail to check it out.
The Coal Loader
Managed by North Sydney Council, the Coal Loader has transformed a former industrial site into a unique space where visitors can learn about sustainable living.
It’s a place to unwind, find inspiration, or enjoy a coffee while exploring sustainable technology, community gardens, native bush nurseries, and regenerated parklands.
A standout feature of the Coal Loader is the modern Coal Loader Platform, a stunning open green roof space.
Spanning one hectare, this concrete and sandstone platform serves as a versatile recreational area, offering spectacular views of Sydney Harbour as an added bonus.
Balls Head Reserve Facilities:
- Toilets
- BBQ and picnic tables
- Water fountain
- Walking tracks
- Shelter and benches
- Free parking area
About Carradah Park
A visit to Balls Head Reserve wouldn’t be complete without exploring its neighbour, Carradah Park, on the Waverton Peninsula.
This serene spot offers stunning, uninterrupted views of the Sydney CBD skyline and Sydney Harbour in a peaceful setting.
Overlooking Berrys Bay, Carradah Park has a fascinating history.
In the 20th century, the area served as a major oil storage facility for BP Australia, which ceased operations in 1993. By 2005, the Waverton Peninsula was reopened as public parkland.
Following 1993, a significant transformation project turned the industrial site into a recreational space, with BP Australia heavily investing in the redevelopment.
Some remnants of its industrial past have been thoughtfully integrated into the park’s design, such as the large circular features marking the locations of the former oil tanks.
Today, the park features several scenic walking trails with beautiful lookout points along the way.
The highlight is the Berrys Bay Lookout, which offers incredible views of Sydney Harbour, the city skyline, and the Harbour Bridge.
