By Jenae Johnston, founder of the eco-brand Bushwalk the ’Gong
1. Griffiths Loop Trail, Barren Grounds Nature Reserve
One of my favourite trails, with epic Illawarra views from secluded lookouts, pathways surrounded by beautiful heath and woodland. This walk is reasonably flat, suitable for families.
As part of the Barren Grounds Nature Reserve, this walk starts at the back of Jamberoo. The Illawarra Lookout has spectacular views of the coastline and on a clear day you can see the iconic Wollongong mountains and beyond.
The Glen is a lush temperate rainforest section with an abundance of ferns, tall trees and bioluminescent fungi.
Look out for wombat holes and listen out for beautiful bird calls. Barren Grounds is home to some 180 bird species – so pack the binoculars! A creek crossing makes this a very diverse walk.
2. Mt Kembla Summit, Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area
One of Wollongong’s most beautiful and unique walks. Depending on the weather, expect a plethora of fungi, an eerie stroll in the clouds or simply a great walk to absorb the iconic Wollongong coastline and Lake Illawarra views. This short challenging walk is good at any time of year, with plenty of wildlife around.
The track is generally a luscious green with blankets of moss on the rocks. Make sure you have a good look around on this trail, there are beautiful ferns, fungus, lizards and lots of bird life, including the cheeky lyrebird.
3. Cascades Waterfall, Macquarie Pass National Park
A popular choice for beginners, the Cascades walk is perfect for young children, or those with reduced fitness levels or mobility. It is perfect any time of year, with plenty of wildlife and a short walk to a gorgeous waterfall.
Macquarie Pass National Park has a spectacular diverse range of flora and fauna. Your pathway is often crossed by a curious lyrebird or two and lazy dragons can often be seen on a sunny rock closer to the creek. This is rumoured to even be the home of the platypus, though I’m yet to spot one!
The forest on the Cascades trail has beautiful tall eucalypts, fungi and epiphytes, including the magnificent Bird’s nest fern.
4. Nellie’s Glen, Budderoo National Park
A hidden little gem tucked away near Robertson. If you can arrive when the sun is higher in the sky, you will get the benefit of the lovely blue and green tones of the magnificent pool of water and the beautiful waterfall spilling into it.
It’s a wonderful spot for the kids to explore. An overhang provides a fern ‘cave’ and splashing around the water’s edge will keep them engaged for hours.
For the adults, this traditional picnic spot is the ideal location for a romantic break, reading a book or simply enjoying the sunlight and view.
5. Drawing Room Rocks, Barren Grounds Nature Reserve
Hidden in the hinterland, behind the beautiful country town of Berry, is a local treasure that few people realise is there. This walk features exquisite forests, timeless geological features and, depending on the mood of Mother Nature, a vista of the coastline that is truly magnificent.
The walk is interesting so take your time on the uneven ground and primitive steps as you ascend. Enjoy the beautiful fungi, orchids and the wonderful bird life around you. Even if you are not super fit, by taking your time, you will be able to manage this walk.
On your path, smaller sheer cliffs reveal artistic sculptures of cut-out overhangs and colourful lichens.
Visit www.bushwalkthegong.com, follow @bushwalkthegong on Facebook and Instagram
Before you go, check the NSW National Parks website for warnings or closures
This article is an extract from the South Coaster guidebook, published in December 2020. The guidebooks are $19.99 and available online, at Collins Booksellers Thirroul, and the Southern Gateway Visitor Information Centre at Bulli Tops.