Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience the blend of natural beauty and rich Aboriginal culture on the Giriwa walking track in Meroo National Park, near Ulladulla, Australia. This 6km Grade 3 (Moderate) hike, only a stone's throw from Ulladulla, meanders along the southern shore of Burrill Lake, offering sightings of unique wildlife and native plants. With informative signs highlighting 20,000 years of Aboriginal history and picnic areas for a leisurely meal, this trail promises an enriching and enjoyable bushwalk. Don't forget to enjoy swimming or kayaking in the serene waters of Burrill Lake!

Length:

6km

Duration:

2-3 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 35m

Min elevation: 8m

Total Ascent: 203m

Start: Western Arm Picnic Area

End: Western Arm Picnic Area

Meroo National Park

New South Wales

Nearby town: Woodburn

From state capital: 242km

Latitude: -35.387274395667006

Longitude: 150.41403293609622

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Hike overview

Discover the rich Aboriginal cultural heritage along the Giriwa walking track in Meroo National Park, near Ulladulla. This 3 km track, just a 10-minute drive from Ulladulla and 35 minutes from Batemans Bay, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural history. Starting at the Burrill Lake East picnic area, the track follows the southern shore of Burrill Lake, leading to the Western Arm picnic area.

The name ‘Giriwa’ means goanna, and as you walk, you may spot the track’s namesake along with honeyeaters and crimson rosellas amongst the tallowwood and flowering black wattle trees. Informative signs along the way highlight over 20,000 years of continuous Aboriginal culture in this region, offering insights into the deep connection the Aboriginal people have with this land. Learn about traditional bush medicines, edible native plants like the native cherry, and the cabbage tree palms used for basket weaving.

With picnic areas at both ends of the track, it's an ideal spot to pause and enjoy a meal by the lakeshore. The serene waters of Burrill Lake are also perfect for swimming, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or fishing.

This track is part of the longer Giriwa Bagan ‘goanna country’ walking trail, which also includes the Gari walking track. ‘Gari,’ meaning snake, is a 1 km extension from the lake’s East picnic area to an Aboriginal rock shelter, offering further exploration of the area’s cultural heritage.

Tips

Giriwa walking track: This track can be walked in either direction. For families with young children, consider using two cars to shuttle between the trailheads for a shorter walk.
Gari walking track extension: The Gari walking track, which leads to the Burrill Lake Rock Shelter, is managed by Shoalhaven City Council.

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Walk map and GPX file
Giriwa Walking Track (6km)

Total distance: 5940 m
Max elevation: 35 m
Min elevation: 8 m
Total climbing: 203 m
Total descent: -203 m

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Meroo National Park.

Accessing the Giriwa Walking Track: The Giriwa walking track is located in the northern section of Meroo National Park. To reach the trailhead, drive to Burrill Lake. From Ulladulla, head south on the Princes Highway and turn right onto Romney Park Road after crossing the bridge. From Batemans Bay, travel north on the Princes Highway and turn left onto Wheelbarrow Road before reaching Burrill Lake. Follow signs to either Burrill Lake’s East or Western Arm picnic area. Please note that the roads leading to the picnic areas are unsealed and may be challenging for some vehicles, especially in wet weather. Four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended. Parking is limited at both picnic areas.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Adaminaby, Batemans Bay, Bawley Point, Berridale, Berry, Bomaderry, Cooma, Jindabyne, Kangaroo Valley, Meroo, Meroo Meadow, Milton, Moruya, Nelligen, Nowra, Termeil, Ulladulla

About the region

Discover Meroo National Park, a pristine coastal sanctuary nestled between Ulladulla and Batemans Bay on the New South Wales South Coast. This idyllic park offers a wealth of experiences for visitors of all ages and interests. Immerse yourself in nature as you explore the park's diverse landscapes. Enjoy fishing, swimming, walking, bushwalking, hiking, and cycling amidst stunning coastal scenery. For those seeking tranquillity, the park's peaceful lakes provide opportunities for kayaking and birdwatching.

Meroo National Park is also a haven for camping enthusiasts. Pitch your tent at Meroo Head campground and wake up to the sound of waves crashing on the shore. This beachfront location offers easy access to swimming, snorkelling, surfing, and fishing, as well as breathtaking views. Whether you're planning a family getaway, a romantic escape, or a solo adventure, Meroo National Park promises an unforgettable experience.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Meroo National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Track grade

Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.

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

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Giriwa Walking Track (6km)

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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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Tips

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Giriwa Walking Track (6km)