Uloola walking track is an 11km, grade 3 hike in Royal National Park, New South Wales, ideal for a day trip from Sydney. This picturesque trail, typically completed in around 5 hours, offers a serene escape just an hour from the city centre. The track weaves through the rugged highlands of the park, moving away from the bustle of civilisation and immersing hikers in nature. Uloola walking track is shared with mountain bikers, so visitors should remain mindful of cyclists along the way.
As the path continues past Couranga walking track, it opens into heathlands adorned with wildflowers in spring. The iconic gymea lily, with its tall stalks and striking red flowers, is especially prominent in warmer months. Following the ridge line, hikers are treated to expansive scenic views, with fascinating sandstone features, including a ‘whaleback’ formation, enhancing the landscape.
For those interested in extending their journey, the Uloola Falls campground provides a peaceful overnight stop near the cascading falls. From the campground, hikers can return to Heathcote along the Karloo walking track or continue toward Audley. Birdwatchers will appreciate the area’s diverse avian life, with the unique, hanging nest of the rock warbler often spotted beneath sandstone ledges.
- Park entry fees apply.
- Bring drinking water, a hat, and sunscreen.
- Check the weather before setting out, as the Uloola walking track can become boggy after rain.
- Pack binoculars if you plan to birdwatch along the trail.
Uloola walking track is located in the western precinct of Royal National Park. To reach the trailhead from Waterfall, turn off the Princes Highway at Waterfall train station, where the trail begins at the rear of the station's car park. Alternatively, for those starting from Audley, drive across Audley Weir, take a right turn after the Weir Café, and follow signs over Varneys Bridge to the Currawong Flat or Wattle Forest picnic areas, where the track also begins. Parking is available at both Waterfall train station and Audley, but spaces can be limited, especially on weekends.
Total distance: 10960 m
Max elevation: 236 m
Min elevation: 17 m
Total climbing: 117 m
Total descent: -330 m
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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.
Located between Sydney and Wollongong, the heritage-listed Royal National Park is one of the world’s oldest national parks and covers over 16,000 hectares of diverse natural landscapes. Established in 1879, the park is renowned for its pristine beaches, littoral rainforests, ancient Aboriginal sites, and rich biodiversity, providing a sanctuary for abundant wildlife, seasonal wildflowers, and striking waterfalls.
Popular among locals and visitors alike, Royal National Park offers a variety of recreational activities, including bushwalking, cycling, picnicking, and scenic clifftop walks. The park also features swimming holes, excellent surfing spots, and scenic lookouts, making it an ideal destination for both leisurely day trips and extended camping stays. Birdwatching, fishing, and whale watching are seasonal highlights, while its many picnic areas and barbeque facilities make it well-suited for family outings and school excursions.
Known fondly as “the Nasho” or simply “the Royal,” the park’s unique combination of coastal and forested environments attracts outdoor enthusiasts from all over, offering everything from accessible trails to remote beach spots and camping areas. Positioned within an hour's drive from both the Sydney CBD and Wollongong, this iconic park provides an extraordinary natural escape close to the city, with endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.
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.
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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.
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
1 Review on “Uloola Walking Track (11km)”
This trail offers a variety of highlights, from stunning rock formations to peaceful sections surrounded by nature, with a few more challenging stretches along the way. The walk begins on a fire trail, which can feel a bit monotonous, especially with limited natural shade, but it soon rewards hikers with beautiful scenery. The section near Engadine is particularly striking, with lush bromeliads adding to the charm. The path from Audley can be tough on the knees due to its steepness, but it’s still manageable for most. Some parts of the trail can be muddy, so sturdy footwear is a must. The views, especially near the rock outcrops and Karloo Pool, make the occasional less-exciting sections worthwhile. Overall, it’s an enjoyable, moderately easy hike that showcases a diverse range of landscapes.