Places to run on Sydney's North Shore

With Sydney's North Shore your playground there are some terrific runs that you might want to try, even if you can't get down to run with us. Some are described below - get out and give them a go!

If there are any North Shore runs you'd like to share, please contact us.

 

Cremorne Point (UBD map 8 and 216) -

Cremorne Point offers some excellent views of the city and harbour as you run a level, and well laid path, around the point. Some of the houses and gardens you pass are also well worth checking out and, if you're happy to take a break, there are a number of signs explaining some of the history of the area. You can pick up the path at Bogota Ave Cremorne Point or from Reid Park Mosman.

Little Sirius Cove Reserve to Clifton Gardens Reserve (UBD Map 216, 217, and 237) -

Known as the "bush track" to us, this run extends from Sirius Cove Reserve past Taronga Zoo to Clifton Gardens via Bradley's Head and Chowder Head. This route takes you through some of the fabulous Sydney Harbour National Park. The path is often unsealed but most of it is comfortable to run in most conditions. But be warned, it can be slippery and muddy in places when wet. You can pick up the trail from the reserve at either end.

Chowder Bay, Georges Heights and Middle Head (UBD map 217) -

The opening of the Chowder Bay Barracks to the public along with the establishment of a trail along the ridge (George's Heights) above Chowder Bay makes this a great location to run. The Harbour views are not to be missed. You can access the trail from Middle Head road (on the right just after the last house). The trail is more easily found if you climb the stairs from Balmoral Beach (they start behind the oval). At the other end you can access it by crossing the beach at Clifton Gardens and going through the barracks (view from the barracks pictured below). Spectacular views of the heads are afforded from this trail but watch your step too.

If you cant find the trail, Chowder Bay Rd isn't a bad substitute as it carries very little traffic and it will bring you close to the WWII fortifications along the point.

The Middle Head headland has also become more accessible with the Harbour Trust taking over the land at the end of the point. You can now follow Middle Head road to the end for some spectacular harbour views and access to the historical inner harbour defences. Watch your step though because there are quite a few 'pits' for you to fall into.

Balmoral Beach (UBD map 217) -

The start and end point of all of our runs, Balmoral provides a comfortable, flat run. Two full laps of the Beach and the park/oval at each end will give you close to a 6km run. This location offers you plenty of opportunities to pick up coffee and breakfast after your run. It is also perfect for a dip in the harbour afterwards. Watch out though, parking can be difficult when the weather is good.

You can also:
• climb the stairs behind the oval to connect with the Chowder Bay / Georges Heights / Middle Head territory described above; or
• follow the path along the route the tram once followed through Lawry Plunkett Reserve - you can find the start of that path near the beach end of Botanic Rd.

Clontarf and Dobroyd Head (UBD map 197) -

From the north end of the Spit Bridge you can run to Manly on a (mostly) bush track which follows the harbour foreshore. You'll find the quality of the surface on this route varies widely with concrete paving from North Harbour Reserve to Manly and a mix of good to rough dirt tracks, boardwalks, grass and sand. But, do this run and you'll be rewarded with some stunning harbour views while enjoying the beauty of another part of the Sydney Harbour National Park.

Access is via the Esplanade at Manly or just North of the Spit Bridge (suggest you park at the Spit Reserve and cross the bridge). You can also access various sections of the path at places like Clontarf Beach, Tania Park, and North Harbour Reserve. The photo above shows the view towards the Spit Bridge from Clontarf.