This park is in a remote location, so please ensure you’re well-prepared, bring appropriate clothing and equipment and advise a family member or friend of your travel plans.
Nestled within Heathcote National Park, near Waterfall, lies the Lake Toolooma trail – a jewel waiting to be explored. Though challenging at times, this invigorating hike unveils a hidden gem: a secluded dam teeming with birdlife and boasting breathtaking views.
This hidden gem of a hike might surprise you. While the Lake Toolooma trail can be completed in just a couple of hours, the tranquility it offers provides a true escape from the everyday hustle. Immerse yourself in the uninterrupted bushland as the path winds its way towards the scenic dam. Keep your binoculars handy – this spot is a haven for birdwatchers, with honeyeaters, wattlebirds, and delicate fairy wrens flitting amongst the trees.
The trail itself reflects the rugged beauty of Heathcote National Park. Expect some steeper sections, but the rewards are more than worth it. As you navigate the track, soak in the picturesque views – a mesmerizing blend of Sydney sandstone vegetation and captivating glimpses of the water.
Spring transforms the landscape into a vibrant canvas. The heath comes alive with a dazzling display of wildflowers – Gymea lilies, tea trees, grevilleas, waxflowers, and banksias paint the surroundings in a spectrum of colors. Don't forget your camera – you won't want to miss capturing the magic of this seasonal spectacle.
So, lace up your walking boots and enjoy a journey to discover the magic of Lake Toolooma trail. A challenging yet rewarding hike awaits, promising a dose of nature's beauty and a chance to reconnect with yourself.
- Remember to take your binoculars if you want to go birdwatching.
- Heathcote National Park offers an exceptional visit all year round. You're sure to find a walk, tour, activity or attraction to appeal, regardless of the season.
- Visit Heathcote National Park in spring to see blooming Gymea lilies give a scarlet glow to the gullies.
- This park is in a remote location, so please ensure you’re well-prepared, bring appropriate clothing and equipment and advise a family member or friend of your travel plans.
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.
Total distance: 4900 m
Max elevation: 229 m
Min elevation: 144 m
Total climbing: 176 m
Total descent: -175 m
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Getting to the trailhead: Heathcote National Park.
Reaching the trailhead can be done by car or train. Hikers arriving by train can start their journey at Waterfall Station. Head south on Korooban Street, crossing the Princes Highway, and continue for about 400 meters. Take a right turn onto Camp Coutts Trail, followed by another right to officially begin the Lake Toolooma Trail.
For those arriving by car, there is no designated parking at the trailhead. Navigate to the end of Warabin Street and look for the signposted Bullawarring walking track along the fire trail. Follow this trail for 50 meters. At the junction, turn left to continue onto the Lake Toolooma Trail. Remember, since there’s no parking at the trailhead, plan your transportation accordingly.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Heathcote National Park, tucked beside Waterfall in southern Sydney, is a place that rewards those looking for a more self-sufficient bushwalking or camping experience. Unlike some of the larger and busier reserves, Heathcote feels quieter and more rugged, with a character shaped by sandstone ridges, thick bushland, and the clear waters of Heathcote Creek. The park is easy to reach by train or car, yet once you are on the trail the city feels distant, replaced by the sounds of birdlife and the crunch of leaves underfoot. It is a favourite spot for hiking, mountain biking, and swimming in freshwater pools, making it a natural choice for a daytrip or an overnight walk.
The walking tracks here take you deep into the Australian bush, with paths that lead past rocky outcrops, shaded gullies, and hidden pools that invite a refreshing dip. For those keen to extend their time in the park, bush camping at Kingfisher Pool offers a chance to spend the night surrounded by the quiet of the creek and the bush. At the northern end of the park, the track to Mirang Pool provides a shorter option that is equally rewarding, with its tranquil picnic area set right by the water. Facilities throughout the park are limited, which adds to its appeal for walkers who prefer the simplicity and independence of carrying what they need and finding solitude along the way.
Heathcote’s landscapes change subtly with the seasons, and there is something to notice at any time of year. In spring, the gullies light up with the striking red blooms of Gymea lilies, their tall stalks standing out against the sandstone slopes. Summer days bring opportunities to swim in the deeper pools along Heathcote Creek, while the cooler months are perfect for longer walks, when the crisp air carries the scent of eucalyptus and the trails are at their most inviting. This is a park that offers more than just a walk in the bush; it provides a genuine sense of being away from it all, while still being surprisingly close to Sydney.
Wondering where to stay near this hike? Find accommodation close to the trailhead — hotels, cabins and campgrounds nearby. Click the button to view the interactive map.
Closest towns to this walk: Barden Ridge, Como, Engadine, Heathcote, Loftus, Lucas Heights, Menai, Miranda, Sutherland, Waterfall
Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.
Looking for more walks in or near Heathcote National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
