Hike at a Glance
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Hike overview
See the splendours of Montague Island with one of our knowledgeable guides on guided tour of this outstanding nature reserve. The effort of climbing the steep, paved track will be well worth it, as the walk reveals the lighthouse against a dramatic island backdrop.
Once you've captured the perfect Montague Island Lighthouse photo, it will be time to soak in the 360 degree views. Ascending the circular lighthouse stairs will give you an insight into the daily life of a lighthouse keeper from times gone by. Reaching the top, you'll be duly rewarded with an incredible panoramic view taking in the East Coast of Australia.
This medium difficulty walk leads past penguin breeding boxes where you'll learn how conservation and revegetation programs on Montague Island help protect these unique animals. And if that's not enough, whales, dolphins and migratory seabirds are all regular visitors.
Take a virtual tour on Montague Island walking track captured with Google Street View Trekker.
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.
Practical information
Walking tours can be booked through the Narooma Visitor Centre via 1800 240 003.
You can choose a longer morning tour (2.5hrs on the island) or a shorter afternoon tour (1hr on the island). During the months of September - February we also have our 1.5 hour evening penguin viewing tour.
Each tour takes you to the top of the lighthouse, so a reasonable level of fitness is required.
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to bird, whale or dolphin watch.
The island can be windy. A windproof jacket is a good idea at all times.
Tours may be subject to late cancellation in the event of unfavourable weather and sea conditions
Please note: Passengers on a self-guided tour could take as little as 1.5 hours to complete the same walk. Alternatively, they can also take as long as they wish after advising NSW National Parks staff of their whereabouts.
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.
Walk map and GPX file
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Explore safely
Planning this hike? Most incidents develop before you even start. Safe outcomes depend on how navigation, hydration, environment, load and judgement work together. Small oversights can compound quickly in Australian conditions. See how it happens in the Hiking Safety Systems Foundations. Then use the Hiking Safety Systems, planning calculators, and make sure a trusted contact has your trip plan before heading out.
Leave a trip plan
Before you go, complete a trip intentions form and share it with a trusted contact. Agree on a Late-Back Time and ask them to call 000 (Police) if you have not checked in. A clear trip plan is one of the simplest and most effective safety steps you can take.
Planning checklists
Download the hiking preparation and safety checklists before leaving home to help you think through your plans. They help ensure important considerations are not overlooked and support safer decision-making on the trail.
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Montague Island Nature Reserve.
To Bermagui wharf. Montague Island walking track is in Montague Island Nature Reserve. Montague Island is only accessible via one of NSW National Parks & Wildlife contracted commercial vessel tour operators.Montague Island water transport charters include:Charter Fish NaroomaIsland ChartersLighthouse ChartersMontague Island Game and Sport FishingNarooma Charters & Montague Island ToursMontague Island tours and overnight stays depart from:Narooma wharf – Bluewater Drive, NaroomaBermagui wharf – Bermagui Harbour, BermaguiAll visitors need to be able to climb the island’s jetty ladder and the steep hill that follows. Park entry points Bermagui wharf See on map Narooma wharf See on map Parking Parking is available at Narooma and Bermagui wharves.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Accommodation nearby
Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: Bermagui, Bodalla, Central Tilba, Narooma, Tilba Tilba
About the region
Montague Island Nature Reserve, just off the South Coast near Narooma, offers the chance to experience a spectacular wildlife wonderland. Choose a day trip or indulge your inner mariner and stay in historic lighthouse accommodation. There's always the option to really get amongst it and become a conservation volunteer. Any way you experience it, the incredible heritage, wildlife and breathtaking island views could keep you coming back.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Montague Island Nature Reserve? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
Gallery
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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.





