The Audley to Gibraltar Rock walk is a short but rewarding 2.2-kilometre return hike in Royal National Park, New South Wales. Graded as an easy trail, it takes around an hour to complete and is perfect for those looking for a gentle walk through a historically rich and picturesque part of the park.
Starting at the Audley picnic area, this walk begins in a setting steeped in history. The grand old dance hall and picnic grounds invite visitors to pause and take in the tranquil surroundings. Whether you choose to enjoy a packed lunch or grab a coffee from the nearby café, the relaxed atmosphere makes for a great starting point. From here, the trail follows a quiet public road alongside the Hacking River, offering a peaceful stretch before reaching a locked gate that marks the transition onto the old Lady Carrington Drive trail.
A short 450-metre walk along this well-trodden path leads to Gibraltar Rock, a striking sandstone overhang near the northern end of Lady Carrington Drive. The historic road once used by horse-drawn carriages runs beneath the overhang, with a small section of original sandstone cobblestones still intact. From this vantage point, sweeping views extend across the Hacking River towards Wattle Forest picnic area. The combination of natural rock formations and remnants of the past makes this an interesting spot to pause and appreciate the park’s heritage. A picnic table tucked beneath the overhang provides a scenic rest stop before retracing your steps back to Audley.
Audley itself is a hub of activity within Royal National Park, offering a range of facilities including a visitor information centre, toilets, a kiosk, and a boat shed where rowboats can be hired for a leisurely paddle on the river. The historic weir and well-maintained picnic areas make it a great place to spend time before or after your walk. Exploring the heritage buildings, wandering the park grounds, or simply enjoying an ice cream by the water adds to the charm of this peaceful setting.
This trail is a great choice for those looking for an easy walk that combines history, scenic river views, and a taste of Royal National Park’s natural beauty.
Grade 2 (Easy) - A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the
AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.
Total distance: 2188 m
Max elevation: 27 m
Min elevation: 12 m
Total climbing: 45 m
Total descent: -44 m
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Getting to the trailhead: Royal National Park.
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Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: Audley, Barden Ridge, Bundeena, Caringbah, Cronulla, Engadine, Heathcote, Helensburgh, Loftus, Maianbar, Menai, Miranda, Otford, Oyster Bay, Stanwell Park, Sutherland, Sylvania, Waterfall, Wattamolla, Wollongong, Woodenbong, Woronora, Woronora Heights
Located near Cronulla, just an hour’s drive from both Sydney and Wollongong, Royal National Park is a sprawling 16,000-hectare expanse of coastal cliffs, secluded beaches, lush rainforests, and tranquil rivers. Established in 1879, it holds the distinction of being the world’s second-oldest national park and remains a favourite destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Known locally as “the Nasho” or simply “the Royal,” this historic park offers an incredible variety of landscapes, making it a prime spot for walking, hiking, cycling, and countless other outdoor adventures.
From the towering sandstone cliffs along the Coast Track to the serene freshwater swimming holes of Karloo Pool, the park’s diverse terrain caters to all levels of walkers and hikers. Scenic bushwalks wind through dense eucalypt forests, past ancient Aboriginal rock engravings, and along windswept headlands where the ocean stretches endlessly to the horizon. Seasonal wildflowers bring bursts of colour to the landscape, while waterfalls cascade over rock ledges into pristine pools below. Whether you prefer a short family-friendly walk or a challenging full-day hike, Royal National Park offers trails suited to every experience level.
Beyond its network of tracks, the park is a playground for nature lovers. Picnic areas are scattered throughout, perfect for a relaxed lunch after a morning on the trails. Surfers flock to Garie Beach for its consistent waves, while birdwatchers can spot lyrebirds, black cockatoos, and sea eagles soaring overhead. In the cooler months, the clifftops provide one of the best vantage points for watching humpback whales as they migrate along the coast. Those looking to extend their visit can set up camp at North Era or book a stay in one of the historic cottages dotted throughout the park.
With its breathtaking scenery and wealth of outdoor activities, Royal National Park is an unforgettable destination for anyone seeking to explore New South Wales’ natural beauty.
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Looking for more walks in or near Royal National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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