Trail summary
Hike overview
Hike through the rugged Budawang Ranges and experience some of the state's most glorious bushland views on the Mount Bushwalker track.
The track begins approximately 6km north of Pointer lookout in Morton National Park on the far south coast of NSW. While its remote location makes it best suited to more experienced walkers, most agree the track's flat plateau is easy enough to walk. You'll soon forget the leg strain at any rate as the unobstructed views are enough to take your breath away.
The only way to do the vista justice is to see it for yourself. Gaze in awe at the mountainous backdrop, including the Castle and the unbelievable Shrouded Gods, and be amazed by the sight down to the Clyde Gorge below.
Stop for photo opportunities beneath the prolific eucalypts and pinch yourself to prove your surroundings are real. This is definitely a walk you'll be recommending to others.
Tips
If you're bushwalking in this park, it's a good idea to bring a topographic map and compass, or a GPS.
The Budawangs is a declared wilderness area. To protect the environment there are some restrictions on group sizes, firewood use and camping locations, including camping in rock overhangs. Please read the Guidelines for walking in the Budawang Wilderness.
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.
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 Mount Bushwalker carpark. Mount Bushwalker walking track is in the southern precinct of Morton National Park, about 30 minutes from Milton. To get there, turn into Porters Creek Dam Road from the Princes Highway, about 5km south of Fishermans Paradise. Park entry points Mount Bushwalker carpark See on map Road quality Porters Creek Dam Road is suitable for 2WD vehicles but can be rough and uneven. Parking Parking is available on Mount Bushwalker Road
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 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.
About the region
Easily accessible from Nowra, Morton National Park is great for a daytrip or school excursion. Visit Fitzroy Falls for scenic waterfall views; go mountain biking, walking or enjoy a picnic lunch.
Be enthralled by nature on a grand scale at Morton National Park. If the cascading Fitzroy Falls don't leave you breathless, try the sweeping views from the top of Pigeon House Mountain Didthul.
This enormous park really does have something for everyone; whether you're an experienced bushwalker looking for remote wilderness hiking, a novice mountain biker looking for an easy ride or a keen photographer looking for some scenic waterfalls to capture.
You'll find imposing gorges dissecting the landscape alongside pockets of rainforest that are full of wildlife. There are a number of well equipped picnic areas and numerous informal spots where you can stop for a break to enjoy the view and if you'd like to go camping, head to Gambells Rest campground in the Bundanoon precinct of the park.
The park is easily accessible from Bundanoon, Kangaroo Valley, Nowra and Ulladulla, so it makes for a great day trip or weekend getaway.
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 Morton 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.