Ever popular with locals and visitors, the Bong Bong Track runs alongside the glorious Wingecarribee River linking Burradoo and Moss Vale.
Tucked away from the main roads, this gem of a paved track lies amongst rustic countryside and boasts sweeping views of farmlands and open spaces – VERY Highlands!
Instead of catching up with a friend at a café, why not grab a takeaway and go for a walk together. It is the ultimate family friendly (and budget friendly) way to entertain the kids and we can’t think of a more suited setting for a spot of meditation.
Whether you’re pushing a pram, walking a pup, skating, blading, scooting, riding or running, we love that this track has so much to offer.
Here’s what you need to know.
Family-friendly :: Very, from babes in prams to toddlers on scooters to big kids on bikes, this track is for everyone. The beauty of the track is you can decide how long you want to go for it – be it one lap, a return loop or simply venture out and when you see those little legs start to tire, turn around and head back to the safety of the car!
Easily Accessible :: There are two car parks bookending the track. The north entrance in Burradoo is located on Railway Road [past Oxley College] and Moss Vale is your southern entrance, just past the Cecil Hoskins Nature Reserve and before the Bong Bong Bridge. Additionally there are three cheeky side entry paths along the way.
Dog Friendly :: Absolutely – just keep your furry friends on leads + pick up their poo!
Stairs :: No stairs, in fact this track is for the most part, flat. There are some short hills at the Burradoo end but nothing too daunting [and actually a bit of added fun for those on wheels!].
Length :: The track is five kilometres from one end to the other. The kilometres are conveniently marked along the track so you can monitor how far you have come and how far you have to go. But with these views, you won’t even feel like you are exercising!
Time :: This all depends if you’re on foot or on wheels, if you want to stop along the way and essentially how long you want to go for. The ball [or bike] is in your court.
Cost :: No cost
Good to know :: After a lot of rain, with which we are all too familiar at the mo, some parts of the track tend to become slightly submerged and the river banks can be quite muddy. Whilst the little ones will love this, I don’t think you need muddy shoes as a souvenir, do you?
Whilst it’s easy to get lost in that true crime podcast episode, keep an eye and ear out for passing cyclists and be mindful of other track-goers by sticking to the left-hand side at all times.
Where is it?
The Bong Bong Track lies within the public space known as ‘The Bong Bong Common’ and runs alongside the beautiful Wingecarribee River from Burradoo to Moss Vale.
Getting trackside
In addition to the main entrances, you can also access the track via these entry points:
- Hurlingham Avenue, Burradoo [in the cul-de-sac at the end of the street]
- Sullivan Road, Burradoo [at the end of the road is what looks like a dirt track / driveway, just follow this all the way down]
- Phillip Street, Burradoo [between house numbers 17 and 19]
We love that the different entry points can create a new perspective each and every time you take to the track. The crisp morning sunshine creates a distinctive atmosphere to that of the afternoon light seeping through the trees.
For the history buffs
Wanting more than just a fresh air fix? There is signage along the track providing brief outlines of the historical significance of the area. But for those who will be too immersed in the serenity of their walk, here are the Cliff Notes:
- The Bong Bong Common area was the site of the first surveyed township in the Southern Highlands (in 1821).
- In 1947 an obelisk made from polished trachyte (the unique local stone) was erected to mark the site’s significance. The trachyte was specially mined from Mount Gibraltar (talk about symbolic) and is located near the carpark of the Moss Vale entrance.
- And finally, the track itself was officially opened in 2003.
Every day really is a school day isn’t it?
Wildlife central
Brimming with wildlife and so much to see, hear and observe, nature lovers will be in their element. We came across a very energetic kangaroo who bounded down the track before disappearing into the bush! You really know you’re in the country when you share the track with a roo…
And of course, we love getting our farm animal fix!
Pull up a pew
Scattered along the track are a number of benches and seats conveniently placed at different vantage points allowing tired legs to rest or a chance to sit back and inhale whilst taking in the gorgeous surroundings.
Go off-track
It’s not all about the track… take the time to explore the flora, fauna and other points of interest along the way. We spent a LOT of time collecting and throwing rocks and sticks.
Before we retired to our car we saw two men setting up by the river for a day of fishing whilst another couple [along with their doggo] casually hopped into a canoe and paddled off down the river! Cos’ why not??
Is that a bird? No, it’s a plane! Coooool….
Just along from the southern entrance is The Southern Highlands Model Aero Club which was formed in 1989. You can usually catch these magnificent radio controlled model planes, weather dependent of course, flying on the weekends. The club welcomes visitors and spectators but for your own safety, make sure you adhere to any instructions regarding viewing areas and procedures.
We were lucky enough to see [and hear] some planes out and about for a Sunday flight – the kids loved it!
What to do afterwards
If you’re not done burning those calories you could check out the neighbouring Cecil Hoskins Nature Reserve.
But if you’re like us and keen to rehydrate, head to Briars for a refreshing beverage and stretch your fatigued legs on the grass.
Who knows, maybe that drink will lead to an early lunch…but hey, we earned it!
This Adventure Guide was brought to you by The Fixed Wheel……
The Fixed Wheel is a full-service bicycle shop in Bowral and is under new ownership. The guys and girls in-store are all cyclists themselves with quite a collection of championships, race wins and real experience under their belts. They definitely know their stuff! If you’re keen to start cycling, you want to try a different type of cycling or perhaps you’re ready to go next level, start at The Fixed Wheel.
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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!