Bidjigal Reserve
📍 Northmead, NSW 2152 · Managed by The Hills Shire Council
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Bidjigal Reserve is a 186-hectare natural bushland area in Northmead, NSW, renowned for its diverse walking trails including the family-friendly Platypus Track and moderate Burraga Track. The reserve showcases native flora and fauna, including koalas, swamp wallabies, and echidnas.
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About Bidjigal Reserve
Walking Tracks at Bidjigal Reserve
Bidjigal Reserve offers several well-maintained walking tracks suitable for varying fitness levels. The Platypus Track covers approximately 1.9 kilometres and takes 30 minutes to one hour, featuring fern-filled gullies alongside Excelsior Creek and exposed rock formations. The Burraga Track spans 5.2 kilometres with moderate difficulty, requiring about two and a half hours and offering valley views, sandstone shelters, and seasonal wildflowers. The Waterfall Walk extends 2.8 kilometres each way, leading to the only waterfall in The Hills Shire. Bidjigal Reserve tracks showcase diverse vegetation including closed Coachwood forests and ridgetop heathlands, with wildlife spotting opportunities throughout.
Wildlife and Natural Features
Bidjigal Reserve is home to over 370 native plant species and more than 140 native animals. The reserve supports diverse wildlife including koalas, swamp wallabies, echidnas, sugar gliders, and Eastern Water Dragons commonly spotted at Bidgiwong Rock. Bidjigal Reserve contains remnants of Blue Gum High Forest and ridgetop woodlands, with spring wildflowers and orchids abundant along tracks. Bird enthusiasts at Bidjigal Reserve may observe the Powerful Owl, Australia's largest owl species. The reserve provides exceptional opportunities for nature photography and wildlife observation in a pristine bushland setting.
Dog Walking at Bidjigal Reserve
Dogs are permitted at Bidjigal Reserve but must be kept on a leash at all times to protect native wildlife. Bidjigal Reserve does not have designated off-leash areas or fenced dog zones. The Platypus Track and other trails at Bidjigal Reserve provide suitable walking routes for dogs on leads, though visitors should prepare for natural bushwalking conditions including roots and rocks. For off-leash dog exercise, nearby alternatives include Clarke's Point Reserve and Gladesville Reserve. Visitors must follow all posted regulations at Bidjigal Reserve to ensure safety of both pets and local fauna.
Facilities and Amenities
Bidjigal Reserve provides a natural bushland experience with minimal built infrastructure. The reserve does not feature restrooms, picnic areas, BBQ facilities, playgrounds, or water amenities. Visitors to Bidjigal Reserve should bring sufficient water and plan accordingly for bushwalking conditions. For families seeking playgrounds and picnic facilities, nearby Northmead Reserve offers an amenities building, children's playground with equipment for ages 0 to 13+, and parking. Willsford Homes Reserve at 8a Kleins Road also provides a fenced neighbourhood park with swings, climbing gym, and shaded seating within the Northmead area.
Activities at Bidjigal Reserve
Facilities at Bidjigal Reserve
Visitor tips for Bidjigal Reserve
- ✓Bring sufficient water — no water facilities available at Bidjigal Reserve
- ✓Wear appropriate footwear suitable for natural bushwalking conditions including roots and rocks
- ✓Visit in spring (September–November) to see wildflowers and orchids along the Burraga Track
- ✓Allow 2–3 hours for the Burraga Track including time for wildlife spotting and photography
- ✓Keep dogs on leash at all times; no off-leash areas exist at Bidjigal Reserve
- ✓Inform someone of your walking plans before entering the reserve
Getting to Bidjigal Reserve
Common entry points include the end of Excelsior Avenue in Castle Hill and the corner of Sanctuary Point Road and Highs Road in West Pennant Hills. Specific parking details not confirmed in sources; street parking may be available at access points.
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- 📍Northmead Reserve (playground and amenities)
- 📍Willsford Homes Reserve (playground at 8a Kleins Road)
- 📍Richard Webb Reserve
- 📍Excelsior Creek
- 📍Bidgiwong Rock
Frequently asked questions about Bidjigal Reserve
Can I let my dog off-leash at Bidjigal Reserve in Northmead?
No. Dogs are permitted at Bidjigal Reserve but must be kept on a leash at all times to protect native wildlife. Bidjigal Reserve does not have designated off-leash areas or fenced dog zones. For off-leash dog exercise, consider nearby alternatives such as Clarke's Point Reserve and Gladesville Reserve.
What playgrounds are at Bidjigal Reserve?
Bidjigal Reserve does not feature traditional playgrounds. However, families can enjoy the Platypus Track, a 1.9 km loop suitable for children offering an easy and peaceful walk. For playground facilities in Northmead, visit Northmead Reserve (Watson Place) featuring slides, swings, climbing wall, and equipment for ages 0 to 13+, or Willsford Homes Reserve.
What walking paths are there at Bidjigal Reserve?
Bidjigal Reserve features four main walking tracks: the Platypus Track (1.9 km, 30–60 minutes, family-friendly), Burraga Track (5.2 km, 2.5 hours, moderate), Waterfall Walk (2.8 km each way, 2 hours), and Murri-Yanna Track (variable distance, connecting multiple trails). All tracks showcase diverse vegetation, wildlife, and seasonal wildflowers.
Does Bidjigal Reserve have BBQ facilities and picnic areas?
No. Bidjigal Reserve does not have built facilities including BBQ areas, picnic tables, or restrooms. The reserve provides a natural bushland experience requiring visitors to plan accordingly. Nearby Northmead Reserve offers amenities building facilities including picnic areas if needed.
What makes Bidjigal Reserve unique?
Bidjigal Reserve is unique as a 186-hectare nature reserve containing over 370 native plant species and 140 native animals including koalas, swamp wallabies, echidnas, and the Powerful Owl. The reserve features diverse ecosystems including Blue Gum High Forest and ridgetop woodlands, plus access to the only waterfall in The Hills Shire along the Waterfall Walk.
Are there wheelchair accessible facilities at Bidjigal Reserve?
Accessibility information for Bidjigal Reserve is not confirmed in available sources. The natural bushwalking trails feature exposed roots and rocks, suggesting limited wheelchair access. Visitors with mobility concerns should contact The Hills Shire Council for specific accessibility details or consider nearby Northmead Reserve.