Heathcote to Engadine Hike (15km)

The Heathcote to Engadine via Audley walk is a rewarding 15-kilometre day hike through the heart of the Royal National Park in New South Wales. Classified as Grade 4, it’s a track that requires moderate experience and a reasonable level of fitness, but what it offers in return is a peaceful and immersive escape into classic bushland landscapes. The route is well signposted and maintained, weaving through ridgelines, creeks, and pockets of heath, with ample places to pause and enjoy the serenity of your surroundings. Toilets and water can be found at both Uloola Falls and Reid’s Park, and with train stations at either end, this loop-style walk is particularly convenient for those using public transport.

Starting at Heathcote Station, the walk initially follows Wilson Parade along the railway line. It doesn’t take long to leave the bitumen behind, as a signposted trail soon directs you onto the Karloo Track—a popular path that gently winds downhill through dry bushland, eventually leading to the cool, inviting waters of Karloo Pools. This is a natural swimming hole tucked into the bush, and a well-loved resting point. The track continues over Kangaroo Creek, climbing steadily up rocky ground, with yellow trail markers helping guide the way. The landscape gradually shifts as you gain elevation—scrubby bush gives way to broad sandstone platforms, where views open up across the valleys below.

The trail reaches a broad, open area and the turn-off to Uloola Falls Campground, a designated site with basic facilities including a toilet and water from the creek (though it should always be treated). Fires aren’t permitted here, and booking in advance is essential if you’re planning to stay the night. If you’re continuing on, follow the signs toward Audley. From here, the path climbs once more, eventually flattening out as it threads its way through banksia scrub and eucalypt forest. The sense of isolation is strong here, even though you’re not far from civilisation—a hallmark of many Royal National Park tracks.

Eventually, you’ll reach Robertson’s Roundabout, where a short detour leads you down toward the Hacking River at Currawong Flats. Back on the main trail, the walk then climbs again, skirting the hillside with glimpses of the river far below. It isn’t long before you reach Kangaroo Creek again—this time at a deeper, wider section near its junction with Engadine Creek. The pools here are another excellent place to cool off, particularly on warmer days, and though there are no formal facilities, the setting among the trees and rock platforms is hard to beat.

From here, the track climbs steadily once more, eventually joining a series of bush trails and management tracks that make their way through dense eucalypt forest toward Engadine. The final stretch involves a couple of gentle ascents and descents, crossing Forest Brook and Gnarra Rill before winding its way toward the back of Engadine Railway Station. It’s a quiet end to a long walk—one that offers a real sense of accomplishment, and perhaps even a stronger connection to the landscape you’ve passed through.

This route can comfortably be completed in a day, typically taking around six and a half hours depending on your pace and how often you stop. With access to public transport at both ends, it's easy to plan your trip without needing to shuffle cars—though parking is also available at both Heathcote and Engadine stations if preferred. Whether you're looking to test your endurance, find some solitude, or simply enjoy a long day in the bush, this track offers a satisfying mix of challenge and reward.