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The Engadine to Audley hike is an 11.5 km return trail through the heart of Royal National Park, offering a mix of rugged bushland, tranquil waterways, and scenic lookouts. Graded as a level 4 hike, it typically takes between four and five hours to complete, making it a rewarding day walk for those looking to explore the park’s diverse landscapes.
Starting from Engadine Railway Station, the trail quickly leaves the suburban fringes behind, winding through light scrub and dry sclerophyll forest. The terrain is varied, with sections of sandy track, rocky outcrops, and shaded gullies. One of the first highlights along the way is Tuckawa Rill Creek, where clear water tumbles over rock ledges into small, inviting pools. The contrast between the cool, shaded creek and the drier bushland surrounding it makes this a particularly picturesque spot.
Further along, the track leads to Robertson’s Roundabout, an elevated clearing that offers sweeping views of the Hacking River below. From here, the trail begins its descent into the lush valley surrounding Audley, where the landscape softens into open parkland near the visitor centre. This section of the hike feels a world away from the scrubby ridgelines above, with tall trees lining the riverbanks and the occasional canoe drifting by.
Not far from the main trail, Kangaroo Creek Pools sit at the junction of Engadine Creek and Kangaroo Creek. As the waterway widens before joining the Hacking River, the creek forms a series of natural rock pools—an ideal place to pause, cool off, and take in the quiet beauty of the valley. While there’s limited shade here, the rock-lined edges make for a comfortable resting spot. There are no facilities, so hikers should come prepared.
For those looking to complete this as a one-way hike, arranging transport back to Engadine is essential. Whether tackled as a return walk or a point-to-point journey, this trail showcases the rugged charm and hidden waterways of Royal National Park, making it a memorable outing for those keen to explore beyond the well-trodden paths.
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Total distance: 11479 m
Max elevation: 211 m
Min elevation: 12 m
Total climbing: 441 m
Total descent: -441 m
Getting to the trailhead: Royal National Park.
Getting to the trailhead at Engadine Railway Station is straightforward, whether you’re arriving by train or car. Engadine is on the T4 Eastern Suburbs & Illawarra train line, with regular services running between Sydney and Wollongong. The station is well-connected, making it an easy option for hikers relying on public transport. If you’re driving, free parking is available near the station, though spaces can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Engadine is approximately a 50-minute drive from Sydney’s CBD via the Princes Highway, with well-marked exits leading into town. From the station, the trail begins just a short walk away, making it a convenient starting point for your hike into Royal National Park.
Closest towns to this walk: 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.
Looking for more walks in or near Royal National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Grade 4 (Hard) -
Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the
AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure
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