Karloo Pools Track
Getting There
Heathcote railway station is a great place to start the Karloo Pools Track, having ample car parking, or providing easy access from Sydney’s rail network.
We chose to use the train from Central Station, which was a quick and convenient trip taking just under an hour.
From the train station, walk through the car park, past the Sutherland Shire Rural Fire Brigade building to the start of the track.
The Karloo Pools Walking Track
NSW Parks and Wildlife maintain the track and manage the Royal National Park. They give the track a rating of three, meaning that it is well sign posted, with some steep areas and unformed paths and is moderately challenging.
Compared to other grade 3 and 4 tracks we have walked, this would be at the high end of grade 3. Several steep areas also had steep slopes adjacent to the track, so care was needed not to slip down.
The walk starts with an easy walk through eucalyptus forest, passing the outskirts of Heathcote before descending through the valley. In places you need to climb over rocks, but the scenery is amazing and worth the effort.
Climbing up to opposite valley, you are rewarded with views over the National Park. From here the track descends to the Karloo Pools.
Karloo Pools
Surrounded by forest and rock outcrops the pool’s setting is picturesque and rewards your hour’s walk to get there. Whether you want to relax in the shade, swim in the pool or sit on the rocks, it’s a great place to enjoy lunch.
This is a popular swimming hole, it is often crowded particularly in summer, so be prepared to share it with others. Although we only saw a few people on the walking track, several dozen were there when we arrived around 10:30am.
We relaxed there after the walk, had lunch and spent time taking photos before walking back to the train station.
What Did We Think?
We thoroughly enjoyed the walk and pools, as it was a little challenging, with a great reward. Remember to wear good walking shoes, because you will need them in some of the more difficult places. There is no lifeguard on duty so take care when swimming and supervise children. It is also important to check the the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service’s page, because the park may be closed, or warnings in place.
Our photos are available for purchase on
To see what else there is to do in New South Wales, please see some of our other stories.