02 Nov 2021
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8 must-do Shoalhaven Bushwalks
Bushwalking is a brilliant way to explore the Australian great outdoors. And thanks to our rugged mix of unique geography and ecology, the Shoalhaven offers walkers a world-class selection.
You don’t need to be an ultra-elite athlete or Bear Grylls survival fetishist to enjoy them either. The following 8 walks provide an easily accessible scenic smorgasbord of outdoor wandering – from sandy seaside strolls to reflective riverside rambling and up into the mountains for birdlife and breathtaking vistas. Enjoy!
1. WHITE SANDS & SCRIBBLY WALK
Starting at the coast, one of the most popular loops walks is actually two – starting at Greenfield Beach (or further north if you prefer) and walking south past Chinamans, Hyams and Seamans beaches, following the impossibly white squeaky sands and offering plenty of birdlife and perhaps even dolphins! On the way back, Scribbly Gum track takes you through forested woodlands for a pleasant 2.5km loop suitable for all ages and abilities.
2. COOMIES WALK & GOSANGS TUNNEL
For a more dramatic lesson in the timeless rhythm of coastal erosion, Coomies Walk near Currarong takes in the entire headland, with its stunning pancake-stack rock formations. There are plenty of walks in this area – anywhere from 2km to 9km – also known as Abrahams Bosom Reserve. One of the most scenic and ‘#hashtaggable’ is the walk to Gosangs Tunnel or “the hole in the rock” – requiring a short crawl through this geological wonder to a cliff face with stunning views.
At first glance, Nowra is a bustling city, the main centre of the Shoalhaven – an urban hub for dining, shopping and more. However, step to the fringes and nature quickly takes hold, with some rewarding bushwalks navigating these hidden gems. Starting on Narang Road (there is a service station on the corner) and winding along its namesake creek, there is a delightful oasis of bushland – showcasing remnant rainforest, spotted gums, sandstone cliffs and caves. It’s an area rich in Aboriginal heritage, with two main loop walks of approximately one and three hours. Just a short distance from the main highway, you’d never know it was there. (Dogs are permitted, on leash.)
Here’s another example of Nowra’s natural surroundings being always just a short stroll away from civilisation. This time, it’s an arm of the larger Shoalhaven River that you’ll explore, starting at the Showground and looping through gorges, forests and grassy shores, with wonderful views of the river and mountains from Hanging Rock. The full track is 5.5km – around two hours, including a suspension bridge, picnic areas and plenty of opportunities for birdwatching.
Into the mountains we go – although with this one, you’ll first need to start in Kangaroo Valley. This easy 9.5km return track takes in not one, not two, but three viewpoints like fork prongs along the way. In doing so, it follows the Brooks Plateau and Moolatoo Trig fire trail through open woodland and wildflowers (in spring) – with plenty of big views down to Lake Yarrunga, Tallowa Dam and the meandering Shoalhaven River as it gorges itself on rock cliffs below. Despite the summit-sounding title, this is a mostly flat track, so it’s ideal for most fitness levels and ages – with plenty of wildlife and panoramic payoffs.
Not all bushwalks need daypacks and three hours up your sleeve. Case in point with this easy accessed walk not far from Princes Highway, south of Jervis Bay. This informatively signposted walking track offers a quick detour and pleasant wander through bushland filled with eucalypts, stringybark, red bloodwood and turpentine trees. As the name suggests, a waterfall awaits, and it doesn’t take long before the fenced viewing platform comes into view – looking out to the lush valley and impressive 63m-high falls with their unique granite rock face. An easy 30–45-minute return trip. (If you still have energy, carry on up Twelve Mile Rd to the similar length 1km George Boyd rainforest walk.)
A bushwalking list wouldn’t be complete without mention of a name like Mount Bushwalker. It also happens to be very worthy of inclusion in its own right – this rugged 7km return track showing off the stunning and remote bush-clad Budawang Ranges. However, due to the location, terrain and changeable nature of conditions in this area, this one is recommended for more experienced walkers – carry a topographical map and GPS with you. For your efforts, you will be rewarded with impressive views of The Castle, Clyde Gorge and awesomely-named Shrouded Gods.
8. PIGEON HOUSE MOUNTAIN DIDTHUL
A bucket-list achievement, this popular 5km/3-hour return walk through Morton National Park bushland includes many steep areas (which may put it beyond the very young/old or unfit). But conquer the safety-laddered summit and you will be rewarded handsomely, with iconic panoramic views up and down the coast, as well as inland to the remote and undulating Budawang wilderness. Along the way, the track takes in forest, heathland, sandstone and plenty of flora and fauna – although surprisingly few pigeons.
To explore more walking tracks and download our comprehensive guide with detailed information and maps, click here. Please check park alerts and visit COVID-19 updates for more information before visiting any park. A hat, water, sunscreen and phone are essential, even for short walks. And finally, always respect these beautiful natural surroundings – we’d like future generations to enjoy them just as much!
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