Trail summary

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Quick overview: Explore the extraordinary limestone marvel of The Big Hole on this 3.5km, Grade 4 (Hard) return hike found in southeast NSW, Australia. Starting from Berlang campground, the trail takes you across the Shoalhaven River, through dry eucalypt forest and unique nana heath, offering expansive park views. Don't miss the breathtaking sight of the 100m deep, roofless cave from the lookout, and if you're lucky, spot its resident lyrebird. For a more challenging adventure, extend your hike to Marble Arch or unwind with a picnic and a swim at Shoalhaven River.

Length: 3.5km

Duration: 1.5 hrs

Grade 4 (Hard)

Style: Return

Start: Big Hole Marble Arch Walk

End: Big Hole Marble Arch Walk

Location: Deua National Park

State: New South Wales

Nearby town: Krawarree

From state capital: 331km

Latitude: -35.722443

Longitude: 149.6561312

Hike Overview

Map and GPX file

Directions

Photos

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Hike overview

In 1862, a young man called Boxall used four long saplings, a rope and a candle to explore a deep chasm out in the bushland of southeast NSW. The rubbly bottom he eventually landed on was 96m from the surface. Onlookers were all shaking their heads at his reckless behaviour but also itching to know what he'd found down there inside what is now known as The Big Hole.
Thought to be around 400 million years in the making, this is an extraordinary limestone marvel; a roofless cave which is over 100m deep and 50m wide. It can be reached by walking from Berlang campground, wading across Shoalhaven River, then continuing through dry eucalypt forest and unique nana heath, with expansive views of the park on your journey. The vast open chasm can be viewed from the lookout and, if you're there in the early morning or late afternoon, you may see its resident lyrebird come out from its ferny grotto to feed. For a more challenging hike, carry on to Marble Arch or return to Shoalhaven River for a picnic and a swim.

Tips

The weather can be extreme and unpredictable, so please ensure you are well prepared for your visit.
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to birdwatch.

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

The Big Hole Walking Track (3.5km)

Share your 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

The Big Hole Walking Track (3.5km)

The Big Hole walking track starts at Berlang campground in the northwest precinct of Deua National Park.To get there:From Braidwood, drive south along Cooma Road for 30 minutes.Turn left at the sign to Berlang/The Big HoleDrive 700m to Berlang campground carpark Parking Parking is available at Berlang campground. It can be a busy place on long weekends or school holidays, so parking might be limited.

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Photo gallery

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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

Deua National Park in the South Coast, Country NSW and Snowy Mountains regions
Deua National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

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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 Deua National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.

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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.

Reviews

The Big Hole Walking Track (3.5km)

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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

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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.

Trail summary

Hike overview

Tips

Map and GPX file

The Big Hole Walking Track (3.5km)