Macquarie Pass National Park wilderness guide
National Park · NSW

Macquarie Pass National Park

Macquarie Pass National Park, located in New South Wales, offers lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and exciting opportunities for adventure and exploration.

National Park2,4602+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

2,460

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Macquarie Pass National Park

Macquarie Pass National Park, located in New South Wales, offers lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and exciting opportunities for adventure and exploration.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Macquarie Pass National Park is a stunning area located at the foothills of the Illawarra escarpment in New South Wales, Australia. Covering rugged terrain, the park boasts dense temperate rainforests, high cliffs, and picturesque waterfalls, including the magnificent Macquarie Pass Falls. This park is rich in biodiversity, providing a habitat for various flora and fauna, among them the endangered ground parrot and the long-nosed potoroo. The park also holds historical significance as it was a route used by local Aboriginal people and early European settlers. Visitors can explore the park's numerous hiking trails, discover the serenity of the forests, and experience breathtaking views from renowned lookouts. The diverse terrain of this park makes it a haven for hikers, bird watchers, and nature enthusiasts seeking a day of exploration or a weekend of relaxation.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Macquarie Pass National Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Macquarie Pass Falls✦ Illawarra Escarpment✦ Temperate Rainforest✦ Cascading Waterfalls
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Macquarie Pass National Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Macquarie Pass National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entry fees required

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Macquarie Pass National Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Robertson, NSW
⌖ 4.34 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Robertson, NSW

Robertson is a gem in the Southern Highlands, offering waterfall hikes, serene bird-watching, and unique caving experiences, all nestled among rich greenery and rural charm.

Albion Park Rail, New South Wales
⌖ 7.64 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Albion Park Rail, New South Wales

Albion Park Rail offers a peaceful base for outdoor adventures like hiking in the Illawarra Escarpment, kayaking on Lake Illawarra, and spotting native birds. Ideal for those who want nature close to town with varied trails and water activities nearby.

Autumn and Spring
Explore Town
Jamberoo, New South Wales
⌖ 8.74 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Jamberoo, New South Wales

Jamberoo is a quiet South Coast town perfect for nature lovers seeking peaceful hikes, waterfalls, and paddling spots. With lush reserves and rural charm, it offers a relaxed outdoor escape year-round.

Spring and Autumn
Explore Town
Shell Cove, New South Wales
⌖ 11.46 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Shell Cove, New South Wales

Shell Cove offers a relaxed coastal adventure with kayaking, fishing, paddleboarding, and cycling amid scenic beaches and estuaries. Ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking calm waters and vibrant wildlife.

Spring and Autumn
Explore Town
Shellharbour, New South Wales
⌖ 11.64 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Shellharbour, New South Wales

Shellharbour, NSW, is a relaxed coastal town popular for surfing, coastal hikes, and paddling. Its natural reserves and beaches create a welcoming playground for outdoor lovers seeking sun, waves, and scenic trails year-round.

Spring and Autumn
Explore Town
Kiama, New South Wales
⌖ 13.15 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kiama, New South Wales

Kiama is a vibrant coastal town known for its famous blowhole, scenic hiking trails, and excellent surfing beaches. Outdoor lovers can enjoy paddling, whale watching, and cycling in a welcoming seaside environment year-round.

Spring and Autumn
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Macquarie Pass National Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Balancing Breath and Board: SUP Yoga on Lake Illawarra
ADVEXPEDITION
Lake Illawarra, New South Wales
SUPADV Bookable

Balancing Breath and Board: SUP Yoga on Lake Illawarra

A one‑hour SUP Yoga session at Lake Illawarra led by a Surfing Australia, AusActive & YogaFit accredited instructor — this guide explains arrival, what to bring, and who the class suits.

SUPPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Leatherhard Revelation: A Two-Day Carving Workshop in Shellharbour
ADVEXPEDITION
Shellharbour, New South Wales
WorkshopADV Bookable

Leatherhard Revelation: A Two-Day Carving Workshop in Shellharbour

Run by Black Duck Studio, this two-day Clay @ the Village workshop guides you through making a piece on day one, leaving it to leatherhard overnight, then returning to carve and refine it — this guide outlines what to expect and how to prepare.

WorkshopPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Kangaroo Valley: Waterfalls, Singletrack and Walking Trails
ADVEXPEDITION
Kangaroo Valley, New South Wales
Walking TourADV Bookable

Kangaroo Valley: Waterfalls, Singletrack and Walking Trails

A walking-tour style experience in Kangaroo Valley, New South Wales, combining waterfall viewing with mountainbiking and hiking, operated by Kangaroo Valley Adventure Company.

Walking TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip