Glenrock State Conservation Area

Glenrock State Conservation Area sits on Newcastle's southern fringe, reached via tracks like the Yuelarbah Track at Highfields. A beautiful coastal bushland reserve, it's a much-loved natural escape — combining walking and mountain-biking trails through forest and gully with stunning beaches, a lagoon, dramatic coastline and lovely ocean views.

The appeal is that combination of genuine natural beauty and great outdoor activity: scenic walking trails that wind down to the coast, secluded beaches, the chance to spot wildlife, and sweeping views over the ocean. Popular with walkers, mountain bikers and nature lovers, it offers a real sense of wilderness surprisingly close to the city.

With a 4.8 rating from more than 300 reviews, it's a much-loved spot. The reserve and its trails are free and open, but conditions vary with the weather and the bushland and coastal sections can be exposed or steep, so it's worth checking before you go — and taking water, sun protection and decent footwear — while enjoying the trails, beaches and ocean views that make Glenrock such a rewarding Newcastle escape.