Best Bay Run Alternate Walks in the Inner West

Walking or running represent one of the easiest, most effective and affordable ways to stay active and healthy. If COVID-19 lockdowns have taught us anything over the past 18 months, it’s an appreciation for the outdoors. Walking outside offers a great opportunity to enjoy the surrounding areas as well as social opportunities for friends to catch up.

We’ve curated a list of alternate walks to the ever-popular Bay Run, to help you stay active and healthy without worrying about the crowds.

Concord Foreshore Trail

If a peaceful and historical stroll is something that appeals to you, the Concord Foreshore Trail is a fantastic choice. This relaxing walk stretches from its starting point at McIlwaine Park in Rhodes to Majors Bay Reserve in Concord. The historic route encompasses the mangrove-fringed Brays Bay, Yaralla Bay and Majors Bay along the Parramatta river. Some historic sites you will pass include:

– Heritage Listed Thomas Walker Hospital

– Concord Repatriation General Hospital

– Yaralla Estate

Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway

Covering a route from Rhodes Station to Concord Hospital, this historic walk runs along the mangrove shores of Brays Bay along the Parramatta River. For those who have a respect for history and our soldiers, this is a great walk to stay active and also reflect upon Australia history. The walk serves as a memorial to the Kokoda Track WWII campaign, with 22 stations along the walkway detailing important places or engagements in the battle. Surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, the walking track offers guests tranquillity and time to reflect.

Five Dock Bay Walk

Spanning across 3.6km, this one-way bay-side walk is a great choice for lovers of the outdoors. On this pram friendly walk, you will travel through Raymond Reserve in Drummoyne, Taplin Park, Russell Park and Lysaght Park in Chiswick. This is a great walk for parents, as there’s playground facilities along the way to entertain the little ones. Additionally, the walk is suited for all levels of fitness, allowing every-one the opportunity to keep active.

Hen & Chicken Bay Foreshore Walk

Starting at Cabarita Wharf, this gorgeous track follows the foreshore of Hen & Chicken Bay. Boasting fantastic views and passing parks, golf courses, historic sites such as the Animal Quarantine Station and gorgeous waterside houses, it’s a winning choice in our eyes.

Heritage Trail Burwood

Engulf yourself in the fascinating history of Burwood in the 3km Heritage Trail. Beginning at Burwood Council Chambers, you will experience an impressive showcase of historical building and significant architecture like the Masonic Temple, St James Presbyterian Church and the School of Arts. For any lover of history or design, this walk is a great pick.

Whilst the Bay Run is a staple classic for those living in the Inner West, we hope this list has inspired you to try some new locations and enjoy all the outdoors has to offer.