Yes, Cherry Tree Walk is as charming as its name suggests.
Right in the heart of Bowral, you’ll find a tranquil and quaint pathway with a significant nod to history and even though the hustle and bustle of town is only a stone’s throw away, you would never know.
Beautiful any time of year but if ever there was a walking track made for springtime, this is the one. When the cherry trees are in flower, it is truly glorious.
Be it for early morning exercise, a midday stroll or an after school activity, it’s the perfect setting for family outings, a leisurely bike ride, walks with furry friends and active coffee dates.
At any time of day you will pass people of all ages and abilities, with friendly faces as they give you a happy hello.
It’s such a great spot for walking, riding, scootering, roller skating and we go back again and again.
Here’s what you need to know about Cherry Tree Walk.
Family-friendly :: Absolutely, this even path makes it fit for the whole family. You can decide for how long you want to walk or ride, simply turning around when you’ve had enough.
Easily Accessible :: The start of the track is at Settlers Park [next to Bowral Swimming Centre] where you will find plenty of parking. As the pathway crosses over roads and footpaths around Bowral you can start and finish the walk wherever and whenever suits you.
Dog Friendly :: Yep, just keep them on a lead and as always, clean up after them. Warning: your dog might have a better time than you do with so much to see and sniff!
Stairs :: None, the walk is mostly flat.
Length :: It’s about a 5km round trip [unless you decide to keep on tracking and join other pathways].
Time :: This all depends on your mode of transport – feet vs wheels – and how many two legged [or four!] little ones you’re chasing after.
Cost :: No cost.
Good to know :: There are several roads to cross as you follow the path so best not to let your little ones get too far ahead of you. It’s a handy opportunity to toss in a bit of road safety training!
The banks of the river and grass alongside the track can become muddy after rain and whilst this is like describing a lolly shop to kids, you might want to try to avoid bringing home muddy shoes and socks.
Where is it?
The walk starts at Settlers Park at the foot of Mount Gibraltar, at the northern end of Bowral.
Running alongside the Mittagong Rivulet [or Creek], it winds behind the main streets of Bowral past lovely neighbourhood homes.
For those keen for a pretty and picturesque walk but more conveniently located than that of a bushwalk, this is for you.
It may be in the middle of town but it has an air of serenity about it.
Honouring history
Along the Bowral Vietnam War Memorial Cherry Tree Walk there is one cherry tree planted in memory of and dedicated to each and every Australian military personnel killed in the Vietnam War.
That’s 526 trees in total, and is a truly unique and moving tribute.
You will also find a group of stone pillars, located in a grove near the start of the path, where honour rolls are inscribed with the names of the Australians who gave their lives in the service of their country. Both the monument and the walk itself are registered as a Vietnam War Memorial.
The meaning behind the trees
Spring is Cherry Tree Walk’s time to shine.
When the impossibly beautiful Tai-Haku trees [‘Tai-Haku’ means ‘Big White’ in Japanese and hence its common name of ‘Great White Cherry ‘] are in flower they are exceptional in both size and beauty.
With their deep symbolism and the way they light up the path, they are super Instaworthy!
Keep an eye out for them from the beginning of October onwards [although with the crazy weather we’re having at the moment, they’re probably very confused about when to bloom!].
The Mighty Ducks
Are you even in the Highlands if you haven’t seen a duck?
Humans and pups aren’t the only creatures who enjoy the Cherry Tree Walk. It’s a duck’s paradise and you’ll find them quacking all along the path. And when there are ducklings about, well it doesn’t get any cuter. Just keep your little ones from going too close to the babies as Mumma duck can become very protective!
Gym junkies
Fancy a side of weights with your cardio? Near the start of the track, you will find a designated area with a few pieces of exercise equipment.
A covid friendly gym? Tick!
Take a seat
Along the pathway you’ll find a number of benches and seats, some with beautiful commemorative plaques, perfect for taking a moment to breathe in some fresh Highlands air or complete your daily Wordle.
Pack a picnic or some snacks – there are plenty of tables and chairs around or simply spread out a picnic rug on the grass.
Or stop and chill for a rest while walking your pup.
Bridges galore
Bridge [not Bridgerton, sorry] fans will be thrilled by the number of little bridges along the pathway. Stick and rock throwing enthusiasts will be in their element [provided parents + carers aren’t in a rush!].
What to do afterwards?
So many options!
For those wanting a longer walk or cycle, keep tracking towards East Bowral and join the network of pathways beyond Old South Road.
Or if the kids fancy some playground play, peel off at Boolwey Street and head to Glebe Park next to Bradman Oval.
In the warmer months, what better way to cool off post walk in the summer months than at Bowral pool?
And for those who have well and truly clocked up their daily step goal, pop along to one of Bowral’s fab cafes or pubs for a bite to eat and some well-earned refreshments!
Cherry Tree Walk is the quintessential Highlands walk that ticks all the local walk and ride boxes!
See you on the track!
Oh, and don’t forget to check out our list of other walks and rides via our Outdoor Adventures Hub.
We love sharing our awesome outdoor adventures with The Fold readers and want to make sure everyone stays safe and healthy when giving our walks and rides a crack for themselves. So, always check the weather forecast before you venture out. If you’re heading into a National Park, be sure to consult the National Parks website for up-to-date information about current alerts. Prepare yourself with the right equipment, clothing, safety items, with plenty to eat and drink if you’re going on longer hikes, and always let someone else know where you’re going and what time you are expected to be back. Have fun and stay safe!