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Merrica River nature trail

Nadgee Nature Reserve

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Visitor info

All the practical information you need to know about Merrica River nature trail.

Track grading

Grade 4

Learn more about the grading system

Features of this track

Distance

8km return

Time

5 - 7hrs

Quality of markings

Limited signage

Experience required

Some bushwalking experience recommended

Gradient

Short steep hills

Steps

Occasional steps

Quality of path

Formed track, some obstacles

Getting there and parking

Merrica River nature trail is in the northern precinct of Nadgee Nature Reserve. To get there from Eden:

  • Travel south along the Princes Highway for 22.5km
  • Turn left on Wonboyn Road and follow it for 8.7km
  • Turn right into old Old Bridge Forest Road and travel for a further 5.6km
  • The Merrica River carpark and track head is located across the Merrica River causeway

Road quality

Check the weather before you set out as the road to Merrica River nature trail can become boggy when it rains.

Parking

Parking is available at Merrica trackhead facility, east of the Merrica River crossing.

Best times to visit

There are lots of great things waiting for you in Nadgee Nature Reserve. Here are some of the highlights.

Autumn

Autumn is a great time to enjoy Nadgee, with the mild climate favouring walking and picnicking, flower spotting and birdwatching.

Spring

Try your luck spotting humpback whales as they migrate south to the Antarctic on any of the beaches and headlands within Nadgee Take one of the many walks – short or long – and view the beautiful wildflowers .

Summer

Relax by the pristine beaches and rivers within the reserve.

Weather, temperature and rainfall

Summer temperature

Average

17°C and 22°C

Highest recorded

37.2°C

Winter temperature

Average

10°C and 16°C

Lowest recorded

2°C

Rainfall

Wettest month

January

Driest month

August

The area’s highest recorded rainfall in one day

370.1mm

Facilities

Drinking water is not available in this area so it's a good idea to bring your own.

Maps and downloads

Safety messages

Beach safety

Beaches in this park are not patrolled, and can sometimes have strong rips and currents. These beach safety tips will help you and your family stay safe in the water.

Swimming is not recommended at the unpatrolled beach due to the strong rips and currents that may be present.

Bushwalking safety

If you're keen to head out on a longer walk or a backpack camp, always be prepared. Read these bushwalking safety tips before you set off on a walking adventure in national parks.

If you’re bushwalking in this reserve it’s a good idea to bring a topographic map and compass, or a GPS.

Mobile safety

Dial Triple Zero (000) in an emergency. Download the Emergency Plus app before you visit, it helps emergency services locate you using your smartphone's GPS. Please note there is limited mobile phone reception in this park and you’ll need mobile reception to call Triple Zero (000).

River and lake safety

The aquatic environment around rivers, lakes and lagoons can be unpredictable. If you're visiting these areas, take note of these river and lake safety tips.

Permitted

Fishing

A current NSW recreational fishing licence is required when fishing in all waters.

Prohibited

Pets

Pets and domestic animals (other than certified assistance animals) are not permitted. Find out which regional parks allow dog walking and see the pets in parks policy for more information.

Smoking

NSW national parks are no smoking areas.

Merrica River nature trail

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