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Karloo walking track

Royal National Park

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Overview

For a moderate walk through Royal National Park, the delightful Karloo walking track offers swimming, picnicking and scenic waterfall views, south of Sydney.

Where
Royal National Park in Sydney and surrounds, South Coast
Distance
10km return
Time suggested
3 - 5hrs
Grade
Grade 3
Trip Intention Form

It's a good idea to let someone know where you're going. Fill in a trip intention form to send important details about your trip to your emergency contact.

Entry fees
Park entry fees apply
What to
bring
Hat, sunscreen, drinking water
Please note

Check the weather before you set out as Karloo walking track can become boggy when it rains.

For a quick nature fix only a short drive or train ride from Sydney, try Karloo walking track. This medium walk leads from Heathcote train station to the scenic Uloola Falls in the north-west section of Royal National Park.

This moderately challenging track leads through heathland, passing beautiful Karloo Pool, a popular swimming and picnic spot. You might be tempted to stop for a refreshing dip before continuing. Be sure to look for the 'whaleback' rock outcrops, named after their resemblance to whales surfacing for air. The fascinating rock outcrops of Uloola Turrets are also worth exploring.

At Uloola Falls, enjoy a relaxing lunch beside the delightful waterfall. Nearby Uloola Falls campground is a popular spot; however if you want to make a weekend of it you'll need to book online in advance. Return the way you came or take Uloola walking track to Waterfall Station. 

Take a virtual tour of Karloo walking track captured with Google Street View Trekker.

For directions, safety and practical information, see visitor info

 

Google Street View Trekker

Using Google Street View Trekker, we've captured imagery across a range of NSW national parks and attractions. Get a bird's eye view of these incredible landscapes before setting off on your own adventure.

Google Trekker at Cape Byron State Conservation Area. Photo: J Spencer/OEH.

Conservation program:

Conservation and coastal engravings in Royal National Park

The conservation and coastal engravings project in the Royal National Park is working to preserve one of the region’s finest expressions of Aboriginal culture: the Jibbon Headland Aboriginal engravings. A new boardwalk and viewing platform limit the foot access that was damaging the engravings, while encroaching soil and vegetation are being removed.

Aboriginal engravings in Royal National Park. Photo: David Finnegan

General enquiries

Operated by

Park info

  • in Royal National Park in the Sydney and surrounds and South Coast regions

  • Royal National Park is open 7am to 8.30pm but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

  • Park entry fees:

    $12 per vehicle per day. Payment options include Audley Visitor Centre, vehicle entry stations, pay machines and the Park’nPay app.

    Vehicles over 8 seats: $4.40 per adult, $2.20 per child (per day). Students on educational programs: $1.10 per student. Teachers/educational supervisors: free (1 adult per 10 students).

    Buy annual pass
See more visitor info

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