September can be a great time for trail running. Not too hot, not too cold – just right for an exposed coastal trail. Cronulla to Kurnell fits the bill here. Easily accessible from the Cronulla train station, the 20km+ trail includes plenty of rock hopping, long beach runs and coastal scrub walkways.
This is a really dynamic trail. Firstly, it gives runners a variety of terrain experiences (soft sand, hard sand, hard rock, boulders, dirt and boardwalks). Secondly, it’s there and back nature lets you set your own distance. The dual trails options along the way reduce the amount of trail you need to repeat on the way back.
The trail starts off with a short boardwalk leading to a long stretch of Cronulla beach. From here there are two ways to tackle this segment. There is a sand trail that runs parallel to the beach and ends about halfway up. The sand is dry and lumpy and will really tire you out fast – but it’s great for a challenge. The alternative is running along the beach. This gives you the benefit of running on relatively hard sand and enjoying the sea-side atmosphere. The beach is popular with surfers carving up the waves along the coast and runs for several kilometers north. The long Cronulla beach stretch is finally broken by an unnamed point frequented by 4-wheel vehicle owners enjoying fishing or surfing. Picturesque bay at Boat Harbor Aquatic Reserve follows the point and is a good spot for a water break.
Exiting the beach on the right side of the bay the trail turns into a rock hopping scramble to the air vents at Potter Point sewage outlet. It is interesting to note that Cronulla’s beaches are among the most polluted in Sydney. This is primarily due to the presence of the Cronulla Sewage Treatment Plant which discharges effluent from a clifftop outlet at Potter Point. Hence trail running is the preferred recreational activity when in Cronulla.
The rock formations from this point onward are really out of this world and something really unique about Australia. Blasted by the wind and ocean strange patterns are created by erosion that create a haven for photographers and Instagram fans.
Continuing north, there are at least two trails here either along the beach over the rocks and small sand sections. Alternatively, go through the coastal brush trail which tunnels through the hinterland. I recommend taking alternate trails on the way there and back. There are some really nice views along the cliff tops so make sure to stop and get those Kodak moments.
In Sydney the whale migration goes between May and November with the peak being the end of June to July – so keep a lookout here out to sea to spot a whale tail.
Cape Baily is the next stop for views and access to the lighthouse and stunning cliff top ocean photo opportunities. The trail continues on with a mix of board walks, dirt trails through the coastal scrub and more rock hopping. One can stop here or continue up as far as Botany Bay/ Kurnell – just remember it’s a long way back.
Thanks for reading another trail report, and we hope to see you back next week!
