Otford to Helensburgh Hike (13km)

This rewarding 13-kilometre walk links Otford and Helensburgh Stations through the southern reaches of Royal National Park, following a mix of service trails and well-maintained bush tracks. It’s a journey that combines the quiet charm of eucalypt forest, glimpses of coastal cliffs, and the rich textures of the park’s varied terrain. Allow around five hours to complete the route, depending on your pace and how long you pause to enjoy the scenery along the way.

From the top of Otford Station, follow the signs to Royal National Park, climbing the stairs and continuing up the steep concrete path to Station Road. A short walk along this quiet dirt road leads to Fanshawe Road, where the steady ascent continues until reaching Lady Wakehurst Drive. Cross the road to the Otford Lookout car park, marked by the large green Royal National Park sign.

From Otford Lookout, the track climbs gently along the seaward cliffs, with the ocean to your right and the wind often carrying the faint scent of salt. The path gradually veers inland, winding through thick coastal scrub and stands of ferns until it meets a broad service trail leading toward Garawarra Farm. The route remains well-defined as it passes the intersections of the North Era and Lilyvale tracks, continuing through open forest and across rolling terrain before arriving at the signposted Cliff and Burgh Tracks.

From here, follow the track toward Garawarra Farm car park, crossing the open area and keeping to the right-hand side until you reach the Burgh Track sign. The trail dips into dense bushland, crosses a small creek, and begins its descent through tall eucalypts and patches of low scrub. The terrain becomes steeper as you head downhill, the path lined with rough wooden steps in places, until you reach Lady Wakehurst Drive at the bottom of the valley.

Continuing across the road, follow the signs pointing toward Helensburgh. The track passes two large boulders and traces the course of a small tributary of the Hacking River. Use the boulders to cross the creek, then climb gently through cool, shaded forest until you reach an old disused management trail. From here, turn onto the Hacking management trail, which winds north and west through regenerating bush. The climb is steady but rewarding, leading up to the ridgeline before easing into a long, flat section.

As the trail nears the edge of the park, it skirts a large fenced clearing before emerging near the end of Halls Road. Follow Halls Road south, passing Gardiner Place, and continue until the junction with Parkes Street. Turn right and descend the hill, following the footpath to Tunnel Road. Across the intersection, you’ll see the sign for Helensburgh Station. Turn right onto Wilsons Creek Road, then take the steps down to the station to complete the walk.

Otford to Helensburgh offers an enjoyable combination of coastal outlooks, forested gullies, and open ridges. It’s a fine choice for walkers seeking a moderate challenge with varied scenery and the convenience of public transport at both ends.