Trail summary
Hike overview
For a short, relaxing bushwalk, set aside some time to explore Minerva Pool walking track in Dharawal National Park. This picturesque walk leads you through bushland towards a lookout with views of Minerva Pool.
As you wander, keep an eye out for Sydney golden wattle and mountain devil shrub, which the Dharawal People use for bush food and medicine. If you're lucky, you may spot the swamp wallabies or yellow-tailed black cockatoos that call this park home.
At the end of the trail you'll arrive at Minerva Pool, a pristine waterhole with sandstone features and a small stone island. Unpack a picnic lunch and spend some time enjoying the view as you watch the waterfall cascade into the rockpool below.
This is a sacred site for the Dharawal People and an important part of Aboriginal culture, so please remember to tread carefully and with respect during your visit. The Tharawal Local Aboriginal Land Council asks that only women and children enter the waters of Minerva Pool. Take a virtual tour of Minerva Pool walking track captured with Google Street View Trekker.
Map and GPX file
Looks like I don’t have a GPX file for this trail yet. If you have one you’d be willing to share, please email it to me so we can help other hikers have a safer, easier time out there. I’ll double-check each file to make sure it aligns with official tracks and topo maps before adding it to this hike. Thanks so much for helping build an even better hiking resource.
Getting there
To Victoria Road access. Minerva Pool walking track is in the Wedderburn area of Dharawal National Park. To get there:From Appin Road, turn onto Woodland Road at St Helens Park and continue for 1.4kmTurn right onto Karrabul Road and drive for 300m before continuing on Wedderburn Road for 4.6kmTurn right onto Minerva Road and follow for 1.2kmContinue on Lysaght Road for 1.2kmTurn left onto Victoria Road and drive right to the end Parking is available right outside the the entrance gate on Victoria RoadWalk though the entrance gate and down to the the toilet and picnic area. Minerva Pool walking track starts from the point opposite the picnic area. Park entry points Victoria Road access See on map Road quality Sealed roads Vehicle access 2WD vehicles Parking A carpark is located at the end of Victoria Road, Wedderburn, about 100m from beginning of the track.
Visit NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for more information on this trail.
The longitude and latitude of the start and end points are approximately only and should not be used for navigation purposes. Please contact me if you know the correct coordinates.
Photo gallery
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
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.
Suggest an edit
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in Dharawal National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
Let someone know
Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
Weather
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.