Ourimbah State Forest

Ourimbah State Forest is a sprawling tract of native bushland on the Central Coast of New South Wales, offering a peaceful escape into nature just an hour north of Sydney. This working forest is crisscrossed with fire trails and walking paths, making it a favourite for mountain bikers, trail runners, and anyone craving solitude among towering eucalypts and ferny gullies. The forest’s raw, untamed character — with its rocky outcrops and seasonal creeks — feels a world away from the nearby beaches and bustling towns.

Highlights & What to See

• Mountain Bike Trails — Ourimbah is renowned for its network of single-track and fire-trail loops, suitable for intermediate to advanced riders. The Red Hill and Pines trails offer thrilling descents through dense forest.
• Ourimbah Creek Picnic Area — A shady spot by the creek with picnic tables and barbecues, perfect for a family lunch after a short walk.
• Walking & Running Trails — Follow the Forest Loop (approx. 4 km) through tall eucalypt forest, keeping an eye out for lyrebirds and wallabies.
• Wildlife Spotting — Dawn and dusk bring out kangaroos, echidnas, and a chorus of bellbirds and whipbirds.
• Forestry History — Interpretive signs near the main entrance explain the sustainable timber harvesting that has shaped this landscape for decades.

Suggested Time to Spend

Half a day is ample to explore the forest’s highlights. Arrive early (before 9 am) to enjoy the cool morning air and catch wildlife activity. Cyclists can spend 2–3 hours riding the main loops, while walkers might prefer a 1–2 hour stroll to the picnic area and back. If you’re combining a visit with nearby attractions, a morning in the forest followed by an afternoon at the coast works perfectly.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Gosford — The Central Coast’s hub, with waterfront dining, the Australian Reptile Park, and the historic Gosford Regional Gallery.
• Terrigal — A classic surf beach with a lively esplanade, great cafés, and the scenic Terrigal Lagoon.
• Avoca Beach — A quieter surf spot with a rock pool and the lovely Avoca Beachside Market (Sundays).
• Bouddi National Park — Coastal bushwalking with dramatic sea cliffs, hidden beaches, and Aboriginal rock engravings at Bouddi Headland.
• Central Coast Hinterland — Explore the charming villages of Somersby (with its waterfall) and Mangrove Mountain, known for local produce and craft cider.

Please check official sources for current details.