Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 236m
Min elevation: 8m
Total Ascent: 510m
Hike overview
Garie Beach to Helensburgh, also known as the Burgh Track, is an 11-kilometre hike through the Royal National Park in New South Wales. Graded as a level 4 track, it typically takes around four and a half hours to complete. The trail offers a mix of coastal and forest scenery, beginning with rugged ocean cliffs and sweeping views before transitioning into the tranquil embrace of eucalypt forest. As the track winds inland, hikers experience a shift in terrain, from open headlands to shaded bushland, culminating in the final stretch towards Helensburgh.
Starting at the Garie Beach car park, the track follows signs towards North Era, tracing the coastline with the sea ever-present to the left. The path weaves between the ocean and the base of a large grassy hill, leading to the secluded cluster of Little Garie cabins. Past the Little Garie Community Hall, the track begins a steep ascent, aided by wooden steps installed to manage erosion. Reaching the top of the ridge, the effort is rewarded with expansive coastal views before a descent into North Era Bush Campground.
From North Era, the track climbs a grassy hill, keeping the ocean in sight. The route threads its way between rustic beachside cabins before meeting an intersection where two rough bush tracks diverge. Pressing onwards, the trail heads inland, ascending through tall grass to the top of Burgh Ridge. The climb is steady, leading into a dense forested section before arriving at the Garrawarra Farm car park, where the landscape briefly opens up.
Beyond the car park, the walk continues along a short stretch of bushland, crossing a small creek before merging with a broader, unnamed management trail. Here, the environment begins to shift once more, with the track winding westward through thick scrub. The descent becomes more pronounced, following a series of scattered wooden steps that lead towards Lady Wakehurst Drive. This section of the trail is particularly striking, as the path is enveloped by a canopy of eucalypts, creating a cool, shaded passage.
Upon reaching Lady Wakehurst Drive, the track veers northwest, passing signs for the Burgh Track and Helensburgh. A narrow footpath leads downhill, tracing one of the many tributaries of the Hacking River. The creek crossing is aided by large boulders, which serve as natural stepping stones. Beyond the water, the trail climbs gently up a bank before emerging onto an old disused management trail, where several signs point the way towards Helensburgh.
The most challenging section of the walk begins at the intersection of the Hacking River Firetrail. The path takes a sharp right turn, heading north along a rugged management trail that undulates through the landscape. As the route bends westward, the gradient steepens significantly, climbing towards a ridgeline. The ascent is strenuous, but the track eventually flattens out, offering a brief reprieve before reaching a large fenced clearing marked by a ‘Royal National Park’ sign. Here, the walk turns right, following the perimeter of the fenced area for nearly 500 metres before connecting with a short track that leads to the end of Halls Road.
The final leg of the journey transitions from bushland to suburban streets. From Halls Road, the route follows Gardiner Place before reaching Parkes Street, where a right turn leads downhill along a footpath. The last stretch takes hikers along Tunnel Road and Wilsons Creek Road before descending via a set of steps to Helensburgh Railway Station, marking the end of this diverse and rewarding hike.
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Walk map and GPX file
Max elevation: 236 m
Min elevation: 8 m
Total climbing: 510 m
Total descent: -366 m
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Royal National Park.
To reach the trailhead, head to Garie Beach Car Park, located within the Royal National Park. If driving, take Farnell Avenue or McKell Avenue off the Princes Highway and follow the signs towards Garie Beach. Keep in mind that a park entry fee applies for vehicles entering the national park. The car park provides direct access to the trail, making it the most convenient starting point. Public transport options are limited, so driving is the most practical way to reach this hike.
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
About the region
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.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Royal National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
Track grade
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.
Explore safe
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.
Packing checklists
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.
Let someone know
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
Suggest an edit
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.