This 6-kilometre walk offers a striking cross-section of the landscapes within Royal National Park, moving through coastal headlands, open grassy ridges, and dense forest. Beginning at the Governor Game Lookout car park, the trail follows The Squeeze Way from Garie Road before descending Stockyard Spur to Era Gully. From here, it climbs Burgh Ridge, passing the old Garawarra Farm before looping back along the road to Garie Road. There are optional detours to North Era and Burning Palms for those with extra time to explore. The track is graded as challenging, requiring a reasonable level of fitness due to its steep sections and uneven terrain.
The walk begins at the intersection of Garie Road and The Squeeze Way, where a well-maintained management trail heads away from the road. After a short, level section, the trail gradually descends towards an unmarked intersection, where a smaller bush track branches off to the left. This section moves through a mix of open forest and thick undergrowth before reaching the ridge, offering glimpses of nearby houses through the trees. The track then leads through an open grassy area before arriving at the North Era Bush Campground. This is a great spot for a break, with its coastal setting and access to the nearby beach.
From North Era, the trail continues toward the Burgh Ridge Track, winding up through a mix of ferns and coastal scrub. The climb is steady but rewarding, with sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. At the top, a sign marks the Coast Track, where another optional detour leads down to Burning Palms Beach. This side trip follows a bush track past beachside cabins before reaching a narrow metal walkway that runs behind the beach. The area is well-known for its rugged beauty and is a popular spot for hikers looking to take in the coastal scenery.
Rejoining the main trail, the path veers inland and climbs towards Burgh Ridge. The ascent is steep, but the views along the way are well worth the effort, offering a chance to look back over the coastline. As the track nears the top of the ridge, it enters a dense eucalypt forest, where the trail levels out and becomes easier underfoot. The final stretch follows a management trail past Garawarra Farm and along The Squeeze Way, eventually leading back to Garie Road.
This hike provides a blend of challenging climbs, rewarding lookouts, and the chance to explore both the coastal and forested environments of Royal National Park. With its mix of terrain and varied landscapes, it’s a walk that showcases the park’s natural diversity while offering plenty of opportunities to pause and take in the surroundings.
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Total distance: 5979 m
Max elevation: 236 m
Min elevation: 8 m
Total climbing: 290 m
Total descent: -292 m
Getting to the trailhead: Royal National Park.
Governor Game Lookout is located in the southern section of Royal National Park and is easily accessible by car. If you’re coming from Audley, cross Audley Weir and continue along Sir Bertram Stevens Drive before turning left onto Garie Road—the lookout is about 200 metres ahead on the right. From Waterfall, follow McKell Avenue to its end, turn left onto Sir Bertram Stevens Drive, and continue for around 5 kilometres before turning right onto Garie Road, where the lookout is just a short distance on the right. The roads leading to the lookout are fully sealed and suitable for all vehicles in any weather. Parking is available at the lookout, making it a convenient starting point for the walk.
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.
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