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Couranga walking track

Royal National Park

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Overview

Vivid wildflowers pepper this medium walking track near Waterfall. Only an hour from Sydney, it offers several picnic spots and birdwatching opportunities.

Where
Royal National Park in Sydney and surrounds, South Coast
Distance
5.1km one-way
Time suggested
1hr 30min - 2hrs 30min
Grade
Grade 3
Entry fees
Park entry fees apply
What to
bring
Drinking water, hat, sunscreen
Please note

The crossing at Hacking River is only possible during dry weather.

You could close your eyes and pretend you’re in your happy place, but why not jump on the train or get in the car and be there for real? Only an hour from Sydney, this medium walk near Waterfall on the western edge of Royal National Park is the perfect day trip for those in need of a dose of nature.

Feel the city stress peel away as you follow the track through the heathlands, a real treat in spring when the vivid wildflowers attract the nectar-loving honey eaters and southern emu wrens. Meandering downhill, you’ll realise that the heath gives way to majestic forests of bluegum and blackbutt.

After joining the track from Uloola walking track, you’ll pass the historic sawpits, remnants of the logging days, before reaching Hacking River. Spend a relaxing afternoon under the rainforest trees or if you’re after a longer walk, cross the river and take a loop around Forest path before retracing your steps to Waterfall or continuing on to McKell Avenue.

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

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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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