The Welcome Walk

Attraction
Welcome Walk, Hunter Wetlands National Park. Photo: Susan Davis/NSW Government
Gallery showing 1 of 1 images

Park alerts

Hunter Wetlands National Park

4 current alerts · Checked 14 Oct 2026, 11:05 am

  • Closed areasUntil 8 May 2027

    The Welcome Mangrove Walk, Ash Island is closed due to damage

    The Welcome Mangrove Walk of Ash Island, Hunter Wetlands National Parks is closed due to damage, from Monday 26th August 2025 until further notice.

    Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, contact the local NPWS Shortland office on 4946 4100.

About

Did you know mangroves are excellent fish nurseries? That there is a plant called sea celery? Or that saltmarsh is classified as an Endangered Ecological Community? You can learn all about these issues and more on The Welcome walk in Hunter Wetlands National Park. Walking along the raised boardwalk, you’ll meander above the saltwater wetlands of the Hunter River estuary, maybe spotting a fish or two or crabs.

This short walk is ideal for walking with children. You can set your own gentle pace, peeking and pointing at the wildlife and exploring the intricate world beneath you. Birdwatch as you go – there will be plenty of water birds about – and check out the interesting grasses and aquatic plants within the saltmarsh ecosystem.

You’re bound to get some great photos any time you visit, but many say this walk is at its best in spring, when delicate cream-coloured flowers adorn the mangroves.

Hunter Wetlands National Park · North Coast

One of the great short walks of the Hunter region, The Welcome Walk takes you through the Hunter River estuary and is great for birdwatching or walking with children.

Difficulty
Grade 2 · Easy
Distance
1km one-way
Time
20 - 40min
Accessibility
Easy

What to bring

  • Sunscreen
  • Hat
  • Drinking water

Plan your walk

Access, facilities and practical details.

Frequently asked questions

7 questions

Get in touch

Newcastle office

02 4946 4100npws.lowerhunter@environment.nsw.gov.au

1 Wetlands Place, Shortland NSW 2307

Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 4.30pm

Where you'll be

Millams Road

Kooragang NSW 2304