This park is in a remote location, so please ensure you’re well-prepared, bring appropriate clothing and equipment and advise a family member or friend of your travel plans.
Nestled within Heathcote National Park, near Waterfall, lies the Lake Toolooma trail – a jewel waiting to be explored. Though challenging at times, this invigorating hike unveils a hidden gem: a secluded dam teeming with birdlife and boasting breathtaking views.
This hidden gem of a hike might surprise you. While the Lake Toolooma trail can be completed in just a couple of hours, the tranquility it offers provides a true escape from the everyday hustle. Immerse yourself in the uninterrupted bushland as the path winds its way towards the scenic dam. Keep your binoculars handy – this spot is a haven for birdwatchers, with honeyeaters, wattlebirds, and delicate fairy wrens flitting amongst the trees.
The trail itself reflects the rugged beauty of Heathcote National Park. Expect some steeper sections, but the rewards are more than worth it. As you navigate the track, soak in the picturesque views – a mesmerizing blend of Sydney sandstone vegetation and captivating glimpses of the water.
Spring transforms the landscape into a vibrant canvas. The heath comes alive with a dazzling display of wildflowers – Gymea lilies, tea trees, grevilleas, waxflowers, and banksias paint the surroundings in a spectrum of colors. Don't forget your camera – you won't want to miss capturing the magic of this seasonal spectacle.
So, lace up your walking boots and embark on a journey to discover the magic of Lake Toolooma trail. A challenging yet rewarding hike awaits, promising a dose of nature's beauty and a chance to reconnect with yourself.
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.
- Remember to take your binoculars if you want to go birdwatching.
- Heathcote National Park offers an exceptional visit all year round. You're sure to find a walk, tour, activity or attraction to appeal, regardless of the season.
- Visit Heathcote National Park in spring to see blooming Gymea lilies give a scarlet glow to the gullies.
- This park is in a remote location, so please ensure you’re well-prepared, bring appropriate clothing and equipment and advise a family member or friend of your travel plans.
Help fellow hikers navigate with confidence. Share your GPX or KML file for this trail and help build a more comprehensive resource with precise waypoints and elevation profiles. Your contribution will empower adventurers with details they need for a safer and more enjoyable experience. I meticulously verify every file using official maps and surveys, ensuring the highest level of accuracy and reliability. Submit your file now and become a trailblazer for your fellow outdoor enthusiasts.
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Reaching the trailhead can be done by car or train. Hikers arriving by train can start their journey at Waterfall Station. Head south on Korooban Street, crossing the Princes Highway, and continue for about 400 meters. Take a right turn onto Camp Coutts Trail, followed by another right to officially begin the Lake Toolooma Trail.
For those arriving by car, there is no designated parking at the trailhead. Navigate to the end of Warabin Street and look for the signposted Bullawarring walking track along the fire trail. Follow this trail for 50 meters. At the junction, turn left to continue onto the Lake Toolooma Trail. Remember, since there's no parking at the trailhead, plan your transportation accordingly.
If you have any photos from this hike and are happy to share them, please upload your .jpg files here.
Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
Visit Heathcote National Park near Waterfall in southern Sydney for self-sufficient bushwalking or camping. The park is easy to access and popular for mountain biking, hiking and waterholes, making for a great daytrip.
Enjoy bushwalking amid the rugged beauty of the Australian bush at Heathcote National Park, in the south of Sydney, adjacent to Royal National Park. The park is known for magnificent native vegetation and wildlife, rocky outcrops, and hidden freshwater pools. Heathcote is a great place for mountain biking along Pipeline trail, and is within easy reach of Sydney and several train stations.
Seasoned bushwalkers will enjoy excellent walking tracks, as well as bush camping at Kingfisher Pool. The northern end of the park offers a short walk from Heathcote down to Mirang Pool picnic area. This park has limited facilities so it's ideal for those who are comfortable with self-sufficient and relatively isolated walking and camping experiences.
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While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
Trail changed? New features discovered? Has the route changed? Trail permanently closed? Help fellow hikers by suggesting edits! Click above to update route descriptions, GPX file, trail features (like boardwalks), or access conditions (like parking availability). Help me keep the trails info fresh!
