One of the charms of Sydney's northwest is the way zones of actual forest are tucked away in between residential areas and major highways. Take Cumberland State Forest, for instance. This 40-hectare reserve of green can be accessed off Castle Hill Road, close to the M2 motorway and Northconnex. And yet it's like being in the middle of the bush.
Established in 1939 in lands traditionally visited by Dharug, Guringah and Cammeraygal people, Cumberland State Forest is where you can explore scenic walking trails, enjoy a family picnic or cook up a tasty bush barbecue. A café and native plant nursery are also on site. You can learn about sustainable forest management at the Forest Visitor Centre, or go ziplining at TreeTops Adventure Park.