Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 199m
Min elevation: 12m
Total Ascent: 227m
Hike overview
The Heathcote to Audley hike is a rewarding 10-kilometre walk through the diverse landscapes of Royal National Park in New South Wales. Graded as a level 4 track, it typically takes just over four hours to complete and offers a satisfying blend of bushland, swimming holes, and scenic ridgelines. While it has some steeper sections, it’s well-marked and manageable for most hikers with a reasonable level of fitness. Along the way, you'll pass through areas of scrub, heath, and open woodland, encountering popular rest stops like Karloo Pools and Uloola Falls. Both are great places to pause and soak up the surroundings—Uloola Falls even has a toilet nearby, making it a practical spot for a break.
The walk begins at Heathcote Station, where you head southeast along Wilson Parade, shadowing the railway line for a short distance. After passing the emergency services centre, you’ll reach the start of the Karloo Track. From here, the route winds behind the local fire station before heading downhill through eucalypt forest towards Heathcote Brook. Crossing the brook, the track gently ascends to a ridgeline with glimpses into the valleys below, then drops down again through rougher terrain before arriving at the inviting Karloo Pools—a popular swimming spot with a series of rock pools tucked into the bush.
Crossing Kangaroo Creek, the track continues uphill past a wayfinding sign, then begins a steady climb through exposed rocky sections and more open terrain. Painted yellow markers help guide the way as you navigate across sandstone surfaces and through pockets of low-lying scrub. Eventually, you’ll descend into a large, flat clearing, cross Uloola Brook, and follow signs leading to the Uloola Falls Bush Campground. It’s a quiet, scenic place to catch your breath or even stay overnight if you're making a weekend of it.
Beyond the campground, the trail climbs again, winding through more scrub and rock platforms, always guided by the familiar yellow paint marks. The landscape becomes more rugged in places, but the trail is clear and eventually brings you to a signed intersection pointing towards Audley. The track continues along the ridge, surrounded by banksia, gums, and open heathland. After passing a few more signposted junctions, you’ll reach the ‘Robertsons Roundabout’ signpost, marking your final descent.
From here, it’s a steady walk down rock steps and through shaded forest until you emerge at Currawong Flats beside the Hacking River. The path meanders along the riverbank, eventually crossing a bridge and leading you onto Lady Carrington Drive. Following the road past picnic areas and riverside lawns, the final stretch brings you to the Royal National Park Visitor Centre at Audley. It’s a fitting end point, where you can rest, grab something to eat, and reflect on the journey through one of Australia’s oldest and most beloved national parks.
This hike offers not just physical variety, but a sense of progression—starting from a suburban edge, moving through remote-feeling bushland, and finishing in a riverside setting complete with visitor amenities. It’s an excellent day walk for those looking to experience some of the park’s highlights without committing to an overnight trip, and one that rewards walkers with moments of quiet beauty along the way.
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Walk map and GPX file
Max elevation: 199 m
Min elevation: 12 m
Total climbing: 227 m
Total descent: -406 m
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Royal National Park.
The Heathcote to Audley walk begins at Heathcote Railway Station, making it easily accessible by public transport from Sydney or Wollongong via the South Coast Line. For those driving, there is free parking available near the station, providing a convenient option for starting the hike. The trail finishes at the Royal National Park Information Centre at Audley, where facilities such as toilets, picnic areas, and a café are available. If you’re arranging a car shuffle, note that a park entry fee applies for vehicles entering Royal National Park, including those parking at Audley. Planning ahead for transport between the start and end points—either by using two cars or coordinating with public transport—can help make the day run smoothly.
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
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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.