Many people don’t know that Hornsby Park has quietly opened its first stage already! This used to be a huge quarry, and now it has directly been transformed into a super atmospheric jungle-like secret park in Sydney’s north — and the key point is there aren’t many people yet!! Going now is really comfortable.
It’s located on Quarry Road in Hornsby, and you can get there by car or on foot. The currently open area is the Crusher Plant Precinct, and the most recommended spot is the southern viewing platform, where you can directly overlook the whole quarry and surrounding forest. That kind of fault-line + original jungle feeling is really shocking, and you can take good photos anywhere. Next to it there are also grass areas, shaded spots, and BBQ facilities, very suitable for bringing friends for a picnic or taking kids to relax for an afternoon.
This long weekend, with good weather, we went to Hornsby to catch up with friends. I always thought it was quite far when looking at the map, so I never went before — but I didn’t expect the CCN express train from Central only takes under 40 minutes. It’s a new train too: spacious, comfortable, with power sockets and small tray tables. Only three stops and you’re there.
Hornsby itself also feels like a small town. As soon as you walk out of the station, there’s a mural alleyway, which is quite nice. The Crusher Plant Precinct, where the sky walkway is located, feels like a newly built recreational park. In the afternoon it’s perfect for sitting in the sun, having a picnic, and relaxing — there are benches everywhere, great for reading a book or just zoning out.
There is also a very atmospheric Heritage Steps, from near Hornsby Aquatic and Leisure Centre all the way down into the park. It is a bit steep but very nice-looking, a forest path with a bit of an adventure feeling (not very suitable for prams). If you like hiking, you can also connect from here to the Blue Gum Walk and the Great North Walk, directly starting a longer hiking mode.
The sky walkway looks quite low at first and doesn’t feel scary when you step on it. If you have a fear of heights, proceed with caution!
And this is only the first stage — later there will be more openings including a loop trail (walking + cycling), more viewing platforms, a bike pump track, and a Valley Sports Field!
My summary is go now it’s quiet, beautiful, and very photogenic, but a bit later it might turn into a viral Instagram spot!