Trail Fast Facts
Karloo walking track is a 10km, grade 3 hike in Royal National Park, New South Wales. This hike typically takes 4 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
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.
Map and GPX file
Looks like I don’t have a GPX file for this trail yet. If you have one you’d be willing to share, please email it to me so we can help other hikers have a safer, easier time out there. I’ll double-check each file to make sure it aligns with official tracks and topo maps before adding it to this hike. Thanks so much for helping build an even better hiking resource.
Trailhead
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Track Grade
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Getting there
To Heathcote Train Station. Karloo walking track is in the Heathcote precinct of Royal National Park. To get there:Turn off Princes Highway at Heathcote and cross the rail bridge in to Heathcote EastFollow Wilson Parade and leave your car at Heathcote train stationWalk south-east along Wilson Parade and shortly after passing the emergency services centre, you'll arrive at an intersection where Karloo walking track is signposted. Park entry points Heathcote Train Station See on map Parking Parking is available at Heathcote train station.
Visit NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for more information on this trail.
The longitude and latitude of the start and end points are approximately only and should not be used for navigation purposes. Please contact me if you know the correct coordinates.
Photo gallery
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
Suggest an edit
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in Royal National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Weather
Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.