Balcombe Estuary Circuit Walk (Mount Martha)

An easy 6.1km circuit walk which follows the Balcombe Creek along a wooden boardwalk and passes two dog off leash areas, two playgrounds, a sandy beach and the Mount Martha shops with plenty of cafes. This is a great walk to bring along your dog.

Route Map

Balcombe Estuary Circuit Walk (Mount Martha)

Near the start of the walk (point #1 on map) is the Uralla Reserve Dog Off Leash Area which is a reasonably large secluded and open area.

After crossing the first bridge to get to the northern side of the creek, there are tracks through the thick bushland to get to the huge Citation Reserve which has the Citation Reserve Fenced Dog Park at the northern end (point #3). The remainder of this reserve is on-leash. You'll pass a playground on the way to the fenced dog park.

After visiting Citation Reserve, there you can cross back onto the southern side of the creek near the end of Augusta Street. The walk then follows the Balcombe Creek boardwalk. Even though dogs may be tempted to have a swim here, they are likely to come out muddy and smelly if you don't pick your swimming spot carefully.

The boardwalk has many side branches but they are very well sign-posted. For the first half of the walk follow the signs "Beach" and when coming back follow the signs "Briars". The sign "Balcombe Creek" points to a short dead-end path with a seat next to the creek.
Balcombe Estuary Circuit Walk (Mount Martha)

Along the walk there are two audio trails - one that speaks of the locations natural, historical and cultural significance for grown ups (Yellow Robin Audio Trail) and the character guided educational walk designed specifically to keep kids (ages 5 - 15) entertained (Dragonfly Audio Trail).

Located on the banks of the Balcombe Creek is another playground with shelters, BBQs, tables, water tap with bowl and toilets (#9). This area also has lots of metal sculptures of animals and birds, murals and a little jetty overlooking the creek.

The walk then crosses a busy road and reaches Mount Martha beach which is not an off-leash beach. Dogs are not allowed on the beach during day light savings from 9am to 7pm, but are allowed on-leash at other times of the year and between 7pm and 9am during day light savings period (#11).

Balcombe Estuary Circuit Walk (Mount Martha)

At Mount Martha shops there are plenty of places for eating and drinking including outdoor seating where dogs are welcome. There is also a playground in the shopping centre area and public toilets (#13).

Then return back to the car park. The diversion to Citation Reserve can be skipped on the way back by staying south of the creek and following the signs "Briars".

Overall the walk is quite well shaded and you will meet many dogs along the way.

Photos:

Map Credit: Walking Maps