Bidjigal Reserve - Platypus Track

The Platypus Track winds through Bidjigal Reserve near Castle Hill, in Sydney's Hills district in the city's north-west. A lovely bushwalking trail, it follows a creek through the reserve's bushland — offering a scenic, accessible nature escape, with native bushland, rock formations and the peaceful creek making it a popular spot for walkers and nature lovers in the Hills.

The appeal is that combination of a peaceful bush setting and an enjoyable walk: the track winds through the reserve's bushland and along the creek, with the chance to spot native birds and wildlife and enjoy the natural surrounds, all in a tranquil reserve that feels a world away from the suburbs. It's a wonderful, accessible bit of nature for a walk in the Hills district.

With a 4.6 rating from more than 400 reviews, it's a much-loved walk. The reserve and track are free and open, but it's a genuine bushwalk over natural terrain and conditions vary with the weather, so it's worth checking before you go — and taking water, sun protection and decent footwear — while enjoying the bushland, the creek and the peaceful surrounds of the Platypus Track at Bidjigal Reserve.