Burns Bay Reserve

Burns Bay Reserve in Riverview is a fantastic hidden gem for bushwalking, offering a mix of tranquil waterfront views and lush sandstone gully scenery. ​Because it sits at a junction of several Sydney Harbour foreshore tracks, you can choose between a quick local loop or a more "epic" trek. Here is a review of the primary bushwalking loops that start right from the reserve. ​1. The Burns Bay & Tennyson Park Loop (Short) ​Distance: Approx. 2–3km ​Difficulty: Easy ​Best for: Families, dog walkers, and casual strollers. ​This is the most popular local circuit. Starting from the car park near the boat ramp, the track heads east toward Tennyson Park. It’s a dog-friendly route that stays relatively flat, following the curve of the bay. ​The Vibe: You’ll pass through a mix of open grassed areas and pockets of mangroves. It’s perfect if you want a quick 45-minute "nature fix" without needing heavy hiking gear. ​Pro Tip: If it has rained recently, the grassed areas near the reserve can get quite boggy, so stick to the defined paths. ​2. The Linley Point Circuit (Medium) ​Distance: Approx. 3.5km ​Difficulty: Easy-Moderate ​Best for: Photographers and those looking for a quiet retreat. ​Instead of heading east, you cross the small bridge (or head toward the Burns Bay Road side) to explore Linley Point Reserve. ​The Vibe: This loop offers some of the most serene water views in Lane Cove. The track is well-maintained and winds through tall Blue Gums and Casuarinas. It feels more secluded than the main reserve and has some lovely sandstone outcrops that are great for a quick rest. ​3. The "Lane Cove Loop" Section (Long/Advanced) ​Distance: Variable (Part of a 15km larger loop) ​Difficulty: Moderate ​Best for: Serious hikers. ​Burns Bay Reserve is a key waypoint on the official 15km Lane Cove Loop. From the reserve, you can head north through Lovetts Reserve towards Blackman Park. ​The Vibe: This section is much more "bushy" and rustic. You’ll leave the manicured parklands behind for unpaved tracks, ferns, and steeper inclines. ​Note: As of early 2026, check local Council signage; there have been occasional detours near Ventemans Reach, but the track from Burns Bay to Blackman Park generally remains a reliable, scenic challenge. ​Why we love it ​Facilities: Unlike many remote tracks, you have access to toilets, a playground, and plenty of parking at the start/end. ​Accessibility: The initial sections around Burns Bay are quite flat, making them accessible for those with limited mobility (though the deeper bush tracks are strictly for those on foot). ​Water Sports: It’s one of the few places where you can finish a bushwalk and immediately jump into a hired kayak to see the trails from the water. ​Things to watch out for ​Signage: The tracks heading up into Riverview can be a bit confusing and split in several directions. It's helpful to have a map app open. ​Cafes: There are no cafes directly in the reserve. The nearest coffee is a 10-15 minute walk (or 2-minute drive) up to the Riverview Shops ​

A lovely area to use the flying fox, go for a walk. Feed the ducks or hire a kayak. Dog lovers enjoy the off leash oval and the boat ramp for a quick dip in the water.

Nice place to bring the kids to play or pets to run around. Another option is to hire a kayak at the bay and enjoy. Good for stand up paddle also.

Great little park down by the water. Small swing section flying fox and plenty of open field. Never overly busy. Good for dogs. Has a self serve kayak facility. Boat ramp Bush walk up to Lane Cove

I'm a regular visitor, and, being a local resident, I guess I'm biased, but BBR, is a super spot. Whether you're a boatie, a picnicer, or just someone who loves to sit by the still waters of the bay and enjoy the peace and calm with a chardy or two, it'll be on your list of favs