Norfolk Island - a magical slice of paradise

Norfolk Island is often placed in the ‘small’ category – so it may come as a surprise that there are so many tracks and trails to walk or ride but rest assured, there’s plenty of ground to cover on this magical slice of paradise!

We’ve covered a few of the trails in the article but there’s plenty more if you start exploring on your own too.

Botanical Gardens Boardwalk

If you have an interest in learning about all the different types of flora and fauna found on Norfolk then this should be your first stop. A very well maintained timber boardwalk and forest paths located at the base of Mount Pitt will guide you through endemic trees and plants with identification plaques and some history lessons along the way. An easy walk with a few steps and some benches to have a rest… perfect for all ages.

Mount Pitt to Mount Bates

At the top of the island you’ll find the dual summits of these two mountains. Sitting just over 300m high these are no Everest, but the views from the top will amaze you just as much. Park up at Mt Pitt and follow the trail signs through to Mt Bates, a short walk through forest and well kept grassy tracks. Allow an hour or so for a steady stroll with plenty of time to stop and observe the old radar station and WWII ruins along the way.

Palm Glen

Tucked away at the end of Selwyn Pine Rd is the entrance to Palm Glen, a green parrot haven and if you’d like the see one this is usually your best chance. Early morning or late afternoon seems to have the most activity – move quietly and listen for the tell-tale ‘kik-kik-kik’ but be warned these birds can be very cheeky!

Bridle Track from Captain Cook to Red Road Entrance

There’s a myriad of walking trails that overlook the many islets and crystal clear shallows of the north side of the island. With a few different starting points and a couple of loops you’ll want to do a bit of planning before starting them, but trust us - they have some of the best lookout points you will ever get the pleasure of gazing upon. Some technical hiking and longer distances are involved with these trails.

The above mentioned trails can all be linked together into one big loop, if you drop in to the Visitor Information Centre we will be happy to give you a map and show you how!

Anson Bay

The access trail down to one of the most beautiful beaches in world! A wide and winding trail with a moderate decline will have you stopping plenty of times along the way for photo opportunities. This is a wellkept trail as it’s needed for emergency vehicle access so it’s a pretty easy stroll on the way down, but it can be deceptively longer on the way back up! Cycling is permitted but please slow down and give way to walkers and stick to the main track.

Hundred Acres

Starting off under the magnificent fig trees on New Farm Road, this loop trail will take you all the way out to Rocky Point lookout and back. A steady walk with a little up and down but mostly flat trail and easy going. Along this trail you’ll find great picnic areas, plenty of photo opportunities and depending on the time of year you might even spot some very cute baby terns nested on the pine branches!

Flagstaff Hill

If stairs are your game and you want to feel the burn, park at Kingston Pier and take the step trail up to the top of Flagstaff. The view from the top overlooks the historic Kingston township so we think it’s worth all the steps!

Selwyn Pine Reserve

work of trails to ride socially. There is a small group of riders who are always looking for more cyclists to join and enjoy the amazing biking now on offer in Norfolk.

The entrance is located on Anson Bay Road between Puppies Point and Anson Bay (look for the gates on either side of the road). Please respect these trails and ride within your limits.

Phillip Island

If you’re still wanting more... then consider a trip out to Phillip Island where the summit trail will take you from the water’s edge to the highest accessible point on the island. This is a trek like no other and definitely one you will never forget but you can only access this special place with a guided tour.