The Royal Nationwide Park in Sydney is without doubt one of the finest nationwide parks in Australia… disagree? No? Good. Whether or not you’re a mountaineering novice or extra superior, there’s one thing for everybody inside the 150km² Royal Nationwide Park.
We acknowledge the Dharawal individuals, the Conventional Custodians of the Nation on which these adventures happen who’ve occupied and cared for these lands, waters, and their inhabitants for hundreds of years. We pay our respects to them and recognise that sovereignty was by no means ceded.
Able to discover a number of the finest walks close to Sydney? The Royal Nationwide Park is your go-to with a number of the coolest strolling tracks in NSW (and Australia).
Enjoyable reality: The Royal Nationwide Park was created in 1879, and it’s Australia’s oldest nationwide park. It’s additionally the third oldest nationwide park within the world. Thoughts = blown.
Whether or not you’re tackling the favored Coast Observe, with its beautiful ocean views and secluded seashores alongside the best way, or mountaineering to the picture-perfect Marriage ceremony Cake Rock, in every single place you flip gives a wide ranging vista.
The very best half is that the Royal Nationwide Park is filled with many mountaineering trails and choices for everybody – whether or not you’re after a chill meander by way of the Aussie bush or trying to deal with an extended, tougher hike throughout a few days. Alright, let’s lace up our mountaineering boots and get into it!
I’ve listed the very best Royal Nationwide Park walks by size, beginning with the longest, as a result of that’s how all of us choose our hikes, proper?
Greatest Royal Nationwide Park Walks
1. Royal Nationwide Park Coast Observe: South to North
Distance: 26km
Length: 2 days
Issue: Superior
In my humble opinion, that is the very best stroll within the Royal Nationwide Park. This 26km coastal observe could be accomplished south to north or vice versa. One of the best ways to do it is going to rely on the place you reside, however I feel ending in Bundeena (and ranging from Otford station) is the easiest way.
You possibly can deal with the hike in someday when you’ve obtained the stamina, but it surely’s such a stunning hike with so many secluded and exquisite seashores to cease at alongside the best way, I’d suggest taking your time and doing it over two days. Pitch your tent at North Period Campground, and when you go mid-week, you’ll doubtless have the location all to your self! Simply be sure to e-book forward.
Photograph by James Tugwell
The hike itself is graded as a 5, so it’s undoubtedly thought-about difficult. There are a couple of steep sections and heaps of steps alongside the route. Nevertheless, I feel nearly anybody can do that hike with the correct perspective. Thoughts over matter, eh?
And the views? Man … the views. The hike hugs the attractive shoreline a lot of the approach, however you’ll dip out and in of dense bushland alongside the route too. Preserve an eye fixed out for wildlife like wallabies and, when you’re fortunate, migrating Humpback whales (June to August and September to November).
2. Uloola Strolling Observe
Distance: 11.3km
Length: 4.5 hours
Issue: Intermediate
The Uloola Observe is so beautiful you received’t consider you’re simply an hour away from the town. It’s a good 11km observe you may full in slightly below 5 hours (relying on how typically you cease to marvel on the natural world, which, by the best way, is an absolute spotlight).
Uloola Observe is especially beautiful in spring with the heathlands bursting with wildflowers. Preserve your eyes peeled for the Gymea lily – it’s exhausting to overlook although with its large pink flower reaching for the sky within the hotter months.
Oh, and when you’re into birdwatching, look out for the Rockwarbler’s distinctive hanging nest beneath the sandstone ledges.
You possibly can fairly simply full this hike in a day, however when you’re trying to make an evening of it, I’d suggest Uloola Falls Campground – it’s the proper spot to pitch a tent. From there, you may both loop again to Heathcote by way of the Karloo Observe (be sure to cease in for a dip at Karloo Pool or one of many different many swimming gap spots) or push on in direction of Audley ( place to park your automobile).
3. Bundeena to Massive Marley & Little Marley Seaside
Distance: 11km
Length: 3.5 hours
Issue: Intermediate
This path is a unbelievable technique to expertise the Royal Nationwide Park’s beautiful shoreline. The path entry level kicks off from the automobile park on the finish of Beachcomber Ave in Bundeena and takes you previous Jibbon Hill and right down to the secluded Massive Marley Seaside and Little Marley Seaside.
It’s a straightforward path to navigate (simply observe the markers), and whilst you may have to be a bit cautious together with your footing right here and there, the trail is generally easy crusing. As you stroll alongside the clifftop Coast Observe, you’ll get unbeatable views of the enduring Marriage ceremony Cake Rock.
The very best a part of this stroll is the tip once you hit both Massive Marley or Little Marley Seashores. Each of those seashores are solely accessible by strolling, and also you’ll typically discover you’re one of many solely souls there. So, don’t neglect to pack ya cossies!
Learn extra: Marley Seaside – The right way to Discover These Rolling Sand Dunes Near Sydney
4. Curra Moors Loop Observe
Distance: 10km
Length: 5 hours
Issue: Newbie-Intermediate
In search of a stroll that’ll provide you with exercise and clear your head? The Curra Moors Loop within the Royal Nationwide Park is simply that. This path is an attractive mix of pure bushland and beautiful seaside views, with dramatic cliffs that’ll have you ever reaching on your digicam repeatedly.
The trail takes you thru forests of Scribbly gums and angophoras, opening as much as heathland that’s actually spectacular. For many who love birdwatching, hold an eye fixed out for the Lewin’s honeyeater and the Jap spinebill – they love the nectar round right here. And when you are available spring, the wildflowers, particularly the hakeas, are merely beautiful.
A superb place to cease alongside the best way is Curracurrong Waterfall which seems to be insane after some rain. Plus, when you’re mountaineering throughout whale watching season, be sure to hold your eyes peeled as you observe the Coast Observe south to Garie North Head.
Learn extra:Â 9 Epic Whale Watching Spots Close to Sydney
5. Palm Jungle Loop
Distance: 10km
Time: 5 hours
Issue: Intermediate-Superior
The Palm Jungle Loop Observe is without doubt one of the extra in style Royal Nationwide Park walks, however for good cause. You’ll hike by way of lush rainforest and alongside cliff tops with scenic coastal views, in addition to a number of the most pristine seashores you’ve ever seen. It’s a superb stroll for hikers who love journey and experiencing the very best of our nationwide park.
Beginning at Garawarra Farm, the path takes you thru large gum forests and beautiful angophoras. As you go down the primary steep hill to Burgh Ridge, make sure that to cease and take within the beautiful views of the coast. Once you hit the Coast Observe, a proper flip will lead you previous outdated seaside shacks all the best way to Burning Palms Seaside – an ideal place for a swim or to take pleasure in a picnic.
The trail then snakes by way of a dense palm jungle, ending up at Werrong Lookout, the place the views are merely breathtaking. On the fork within the street, you may both flip proper to go again to your automobile by way of cool, shaded woodlands or go left to discover a bit extra in direction of Otford.
Only a fast heads up: A part of the Palm Jungle Loop Observe between Burning Palms and Werrong Lookout is closed for upgrades till thirtieth of June, 2024. You possibly can nonetheless discover this space by taking a detour by way of Garawarra Farm and Burgh Ridge Path, and the Determine 8 Swimming pools are accessible from Burning Palms Seaside.
6. Karloo Swimming pools Observe
Distance: 10km
Length: 4 hours
Issue: Intermediate
Ranging from Heathcote Station, the Karloo Swimming pools Observe is an attractive hike that’ll swimsuit most mountaineering ranges. The observe takes you thru dense heathland and previous Karloo Pool, which is a good spot for swimming and picnics, so make sure that to pack your swimmers.
Preserve an eye fixed out for the ‘whaleback’ rock formations en route, which because the title suggests, look a bit like whales! One other spotlight alongside the best way is the Uloola Turrets, a gaggle of interesting-looking rock outcrops.
For those who’re excited about tenting in a single day, Uloola Falls Campground is near the tip of Uloola Observe. However keep in mind to e-book on-line forward of time as it may possibly e-book out shortly. For those who’re heading dwelling, you may observe the observe again the best way you got here or proceed on the Uloola Observe to Waterfall Station for a unique route.
7. Wattamolla to Eagle Rock
Distance: 9km
Length: 2.5 hours
Issue: Intermediate
One other private favorite of mine is the Wattamolla to the Eagle Rock lookout stroll. This Royal Nationwide Parl stroll is a part of the bigger Coast Observe that stretches from Otford to Bundeena and is a well-liked strolling observe because of its scenic magnificence and comparatively easy accessibility – together with a combination of boardwalk and pure terrain.
Beginning on the Wattamolla automobile park, the path heads in direction of Providential Level, a secluded seaside providing a unbelievable spot for whale watching throughout the season and panoramic ocean views. The observe then continues to the enduring Eagle Rock, a singular formation that resembles an eagle’s beak, and Curracurrong Falls, one of many few waterfalls that circulation instantly into the ocean, making a critically spectacular sight, particularly after some heavy rainfall.
Photograph by @domforty
8. Marriage ceremony Cake Rock Stroll
Distance: 7km
Length: 2 hours
Issue: Intermediate
Marriage ceremony Cake Rock Stroll is a little bit of a vacationer sizzling spot, I received’t lie. However that doesn’t imply you shouldn’t test it out! It’s an excellent beautiful rock formation, with its vibrant white color contrasting sharply with the sandstone cliffs round it.
Nevertheless (and this can be a large, nevertheless), the cliff prime will not be steady, so there’s a security fence round it that you simply can not cross. This doesn’t cease individuals from crossing it, however on your security and to protect the integrity of this lovely formation, don’t cross the fence, okay?
The stroll to Marriage ceremony Cake Rock can be tremendous enjoyable. It’s a bit difficult at occasions, dipping out and in of steep and rocky sections of path, however you’re rewarded with superb views of the coast and ocean. Plus, when you go on the proper time of 12 months, you may see wildflowers, wallabies, and birds alongside the best way.
After reaching Marriage ceremony Cake Rock, you may both head again to Bundeena the identical approach you got here or hold going and discover extra of the park, like Marley Seaside.
9. Determine 8 Swimming pools
Distance: 6.1km
Length: 2 hours
Issue: Intermediate-Superior
For those who haven’t seen one of many million Insta reels of Determine 8 Swimming pools, you’re clearly not on social media sufficient (and good for you, tbh). This part of the Royal Nationwide Park close to Burning Palms Seaside is an absolute icon and the foot site visitors proves it. I counsel visiting both within the cooler months or mid-week to keep away from the loopy crowds.
Extra importantly, you should plan your journey and I imply actually plan – verify occasions, tides, surf reviews, the entire shebang. The Determine 8 Swimming pools are situated on a harmful rock shelf and accidents are usually not unusual when you’re not ready. Listed below are some ideas:
- Arrive earlier than noon (you don’t need to be navigating the steep rocky path again up in the dead of night)
- Examine the climate and tide. The ocean right here could be unpredictable. Waves can instantly crash over the rock shelf, even when it appears calm
- All the time go to at low tide (you may verify the forecast on-line earlier than you go)
- And at all times, hold a respectful distance from the ocean. Take a while to watch the wave patterns earlier than getting too near the swimming pools
and, on the threat of nagging, it’s additionally finest to not swim within the swimming pools. Years of individuals leaping out and in has actually damage the biodiversity within the swimming pools.
With all that in thoughts, this actually is a spectacular strolling observe and part of the Royal Nationwide Park. The 6km return hike is difficult with plenty of steep paths and steps, but it surely’s tremendous lovely, particularly when you attain the swimming pools.
You’ll begin from the Garawarra Farm automobile park off Garie Rd. Comply with the observe right down to the Coast Observe, head to Burning Palms Seaside, after which south to the swimming pools. Keep in mind, the return is identical approach you got here!
10. Forest Path Stroll
Distance: 4.4km
Length: 1.5 hours
Issue: Newbie
The Forest Path is a good stroll within the Royal Nationwide Park that’s simple sufficient for almost everybody. It kicks off from the outdated stone gates on Sir Bertram Stevens Drive. This loop is basically doable even for households with kiddies.
This path wraps round Forest Island, a really cool spot price testing that’s surrounded by lovely rivers and creeks. As you wander alongside, you’ll end up strolling beneath large eucalyptus bushes, previous teams of Cabbage Tree palms, and may even see some Gymea lilies if it’s winter.
Feeling like strolling a bit additional? The trail connects with the Couranga Strolling Observe for an extended journey, which is one other nice observe to discover.
Planning Your Go to to the Sydney Royal Nationwide Park
About 30km south of the town, the Royal Nationwide Park is tremendous simple to get to – whether or not you’ve your personal transport or are getting public transport.
The right way to Get to the Royal Nationwide Park
By Automobile
The Royal Nationwide Park is roughly 30km south of Sydney CBD. Relying in your start line, the drive can take round an hour.Â
By Practice
The commonest route entails catching a prepare from Central Station to Cronulla prepare station, adopted by a ferry journey to Bundeena, which is without doubt one of the most important entry factors to the park. It’s such a enjoyable technique to get to the Royal Nationwide Park! Another choice is to take a prepare to Waterfall prepare station, which is on the southern fringe of the park. Each these prepare stations are simply accessible by way of the Sydney Trains community, making them handy choices for public transport customers.
By Bus
There are additionally bus and shuttle bus providers that may take you nearer to or instantly into some areas of the park. For instance, buses run from Sutherland Station to numerous factors alongside the park’s boundary. It’s a good suggestion to verify the Transport NSW web site for the newest schedules and routes, as these can shortly change.
Royal Nationwide Park Charges
There’s a small price concerned in bringing your automobile into the park but it surely helps pay for the maintenance and upkeep of the Royal Nationwide Park.
Park entry charges:
- All Day Move – $12 per automobile
- Single Yearly RNP Move – $22 per automobile
- All Parks Move –$190 a 12 months (or $65 with out Kosciuszko)
For those who’re coming into on foot or by bike, there’s no charge.
Gate Opening Hours
The park is open from dawn to sundown. Nevertheless, particular gate opening occasions can range all year long, so it’s a good suggestion to verify the Royal Nationwide Park web site earlier than you go. Keep in mind, some areas inside the park could have completely different opening hours, and occasions could be topic to vary because of climate situations or park upkeep.
Services
The park is provided with picnic areas, bathrooms, and customer centres the place you may snag a map or get recommendation from park rangers. Don’t neglect to pack your personal meals, water, solar safety, and a sturdy pair of mountaineering footwear. And naturally, keep in mind to depart no hint.
Why stroll within the Royal Nationwide Park?
Why not stroll within the Royal Nationwide Park? It’s a hop, skip, and leap away from Sydney and an absolute playground for hikers, bikers, surfers… anybody who loves journey. The Royal Nationwide Park is an absolute gem and the proper day journey spot. Whereas its in style strolling trails and seashores can get crowded at occasions (particularly on the weekends), with a little bit of exploration off the crushed path, you may simply discover a slice of paradise the place it seems like you’ve the entire park to your self.
What else are you able to do within the Royal Nationwide Park?
For those who’re in search of a little bit of selection in your go to to the Royal Nationwide Park, you’ve obtained loads of selections past simply mountaineering:
- Kayaking: Hit the water for a peaceable paddle on the Hacking River. It’s a stunning technique to see the park from a unique approach
- Biking: Carry your bike or lease one to discover the park’s paths. There’s one thing for everybody, from simple rides that allow you to soak within the surroundings to tougher tracks that’ll get your coronary heart pumping
- Path Operating: For those who love working, the park’s trails provide an attractive backdrop on your exercise. There are routes to swimsuit all ranges, so you may take it as simple or as exhausting as you want
- Swimming: The park’s calm bays and secluded seaside spots are good for a swim. Locations like Wattamolla Seaside, Jibbon Seaside, and Werrong Seaside are nice choices. Keep in mind to swim in designated areas and control the situations – not all swimming spots are manned by lifeguards
- Browsing: For many who love browsing, Garie Seaside is a well-liked spot inside the park identified for its pumping waves
Royal Nationwide Park Walks FAQs
What’s the simple observe at Royal Nationwide Park?
One of many best tracks within the Royal Nationwide Park is the 4km Forest Path. It’s a delicate stroll that takes you thru lush greenery and is ideal for a straightforward stroll – tremendous family-friendly.
How lengthy is the stroll to Marriage ceremony Cake Rock?
The stroll to Marriage ceremony Cake Rock (a part of the Coast Observe) is about 6-7km return, relying on the place you begin. By way of time, enable for about 2-3 hours return.
Is Royal Nationwide Park free?
Visiting the Royal Nationwide Park isn’t utterly free, as there’s a small entry charge for automobiles. For those who’re driving in, you’ll must pay a every day charge per automobile ($12 per automobile, per day). You may also get a single park yearly cross for $22. Nevertheless, when you’re coming into the park on foot or by bike, you don’t must pay this charge. The entry charge helps with the upkeep and conservation of the park, guaranteeing it stays an attractive place for everybody to take pleasure in.
Are canine allowed within the Royal Nationwide Park?
No, canine are usually not allowed wherever within the Royal Nationwide Park. That is to protect our treasured natural world, so please depart Fido at dwelling. For those who’re after canine pleasant bush walks in Sydney, take a look at our large record of choices.
Function picture by @franmagiera
