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Sydney has a solid share of gorgeous gardens and nearby national parks, but there’s a new one taking shape on the site of a former quarry that’s got us intrigued. For decades, the huge quarry carved into Hornsby's volcanic rocky edge was off-limits to the public, but a long-term project by Hornsby Shire Council is turning the area into an accessible pocket of bushland on an easily-accessible corner of the city. There’s a whole lot in the works for the 60-hectare site, but the first glimpse of Hornsby Park has officially arrived – with the park’s Crusher Plant Precinct now open to visitors (ft sweeping views over the rugged landscape that shaped the area).
Where is Hornsby Park?
Hornsby Park is located off Quarry Road in Hornsby, on Sydney’s Upper North Shore. The site sits beside the former Hornsby Quarry, a vast crater-like landscape carved into ancient volcanic rock and surrounded by bushland.
Is Hornsby Park open?
Yes – part of Hornsby Park is now open to the public. The newly completed Crusher Plant Precinct is the first stage of the project to welcome visitors. This section includes the Southern Lookout, grassy picnic areas, shelters and barbecues, offering a first look at what the larger park will eventually become.
How do you get to Hornsby Park?
The easiest access point is via Quarry Road in Hornsby, where visitors can enter the Crusher Plant Precinct. Keen walkers can also reach the area by tackling the Heritage Steps, a steep bush track that begins near the Hornsby Aquatic and Leisure Centre and descends into the precinct. From there, the path links to the Blue Gum Walk and the Great North Walk – the longest walking trail in NSW.
What can you do at Hornsby Park?
Right now, a visit to Hornsby Park is all about taking in the views and exploring the bushland. The Southern Lookout provides a dramatic vantage point over the former quarry and surrounding forest, while the precinct’s lawns, picnic shelters and barbecues make it an easy spot for a relaxed afternoon outdoors. Keen to get moving? Active park-goers can tackle the Heritage Steps, a steep but scenic bushwalk that threads through the area and connects with established walking routes nearby (as mentioned above).
Is Hornsby Park still under development?
Yes – this is just the beginning. Hornsby Park is being delivered in stages, and several major features are still in the works. Future plans include a Quarry Loop walking and cycling track, additional scenic lookouts, a bike jump and pump track, and the Old Mans Valley Field of Play. As construction continues, new sections of the park will open progressively, slowly revealing the full scale of this mega quarry-to-park transformation. You can stay in the loop over here.
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