Trail Fast Facts
Montague Island walking track is a 1.5km, grade 3 hike in Montague Island Nature Reserve, New South Wales. This hike typically takes 45 minutes to complete.
Hike Overview
See the splendours of Montague Island with one of our knowledgeable guides on guided tour of this outstanding nature reserve. The effort of climbing the steep, paved track will be well worth it, as the walk reveals the lighthouse against a dramatic island backdrop.
Once you've captured the perfect Montague Island Lighthouse photo, it will be time to soak in the 360 degree views. Ascending the circular lighthouse stairs will give you an insight into the daily life of a lighthouse keeper from times gone by. Reaching the top, you'll be duly rewarded with an incredible panoramic vista taking in the East Coast of Australia.
This medium difficulty walk leads past penguin breeding boxes where you'll learn how conservation and revegetation programs on Montague Island help protect these unique animals. And if that's not enough, whales, dolphins and migratory seabirds are all regular visitors.
Take a virtual tour on Montague Island walking track captured with Google Street View Trekker.
Tips
Walking tours can be booked through the Narooma Visitor Centre via 1800 240 003.
You can choose a longer morning tour (2.5hrs on the island) or a shorter afternoon tour (1hr on the island). During the months of September - February we also have our 1.5 hour evening penguin viewing tour.
Each tour takes you to the top of the lighthouse, so a reasonable level of fitness is required.
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to bird, whale or dolphin watch.
The island can be windy. A windproof jacket is a good idea at all times.
Tours may be subject to late cancellation in the event of unfavourable weather and sea conditions
Please note: Passengers on a self-guided tour could take as little as 1.5 hours to complete the same walk. Alternatively, they can also take as long as they wish after advising NSW National Parks staff of their whereabouts.
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.
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
Sorry, no records were found. Please adjust your search criteria and try again.
Sorry, unable to load the Maps API.
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 Bermagui wharf. Montague Island walking track is in Montague Island Nature Reserve. Montague Island is only accessible via one of NSW National Parks & Wildlife contracted commercial vessel tour operators.Montague Island water transport charters include:Charter Fish NaroomaIsland ChartersLighthouse ChartersMontague Island Game and Sport FishingNarooma Charters & Montague Island ToursMontague Island tours and overnight stays depart from:Narooma wharf - Bluewater Drive, NaroomaBermagui wharf - Bermagui Harbour, BermaguiAll visitors need to be able to climb the island's jetty ladder and the steep hill that follows. Park entry points Bermagui wharf See on map Narooma wharf See on map Parking Parking is available at Narooma and Bermagui wharves.
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.
About the region
Montague Island Nature Reserve, just off the South Coast near Narooma, offers the chance to experience a spectacular wildlife wonderland. Choose a day trip or indulge your inner mariner and stay in historic lighthouse accommodation. There's always the option to really get amongst it and become a conservation volunteer. Any way you experience it, the incredible heritage, wildlife and breathtaking island views could keep you coming back.
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 Montague Island Nature Reserve or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
Let someone know
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.