Circling Mount Keira in an engaging loop, the ring track is a terrific setting for a casual hike or an energetic run. Expect to encounter a lush parade of forests and terrain, from cool sub-tropical bush to lofty red cedars and rocky outcrops. Catbirds call in the rainforest as you trace the old route of an early colonial road.
You'll find the track-head by following the trail from the car park to the Girl Guide Camp entrance road. Cross the road, rejoining the trail on the other side. The ring track is just a short distance away.
If you want to make a day of it, pack a picnic. Byarong Park picnic area is a terrific spot to settle down for a relaxing barbecue or an afternoon ball game. Take a virtual tour of Mount Keira Ring track captured with Google Street View Trekker.
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.
The northern section of this track is closed between Mount Pleasant track up to the stairs leading to Queen Elizabeth Drive.
All areas of the park between Mount Keira Ring track to Mount Keira summit are closed, (except for Dave Walsh track and the rock-climbing area on the western face of Mount Keira).
For your own safety, please don't enter the track if signage on the ground indicates that it's closed.
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.
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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.
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area.
Byarong Park picnic area, where the track begins, is in the Mount Keira precinct of Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area. To get there:Heading south on the Southern Freeway from Waterfall towards Wollongong, exit at Figtree.Turn left onto the Princes HighwayAfter 0.5km, turn left again onto Mount Keira Road. It is 3km to Byarong Park. Parking Parking is available at Byarong Park. It can be a busy place on the weekend, so parking might be limited.
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: Albion Park, Austinmer, Bulli, Dapto, Helensburgh, Kiama, Shellharbour, Stanwell Park, Thirroul, Wollongong, Woonona
About the region
Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area in the South Coast region
Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger. However, it is recommended that bushwalking only be undertaken during daylight hours because of the presence of cliff edges and other hazards.
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Gallery
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