Couranga walking track

Couranga walking track is a 10.2 km out-and-back from Waterfall Station to Hacking River, using about 1 km of Uloola walking track to reach Couranga. NSW National Parks lists 5.1 km one way; allow 3 to 4 hours for the return. It is a Grade 3 walk, worth choosing for the change from open heath and eucalyptus forest to a cool creek-side rainforest. The rainforest comes after a fairly long approach, so this is a half-day walk rather than a quick waterfall stop.

Start at the rear of Waterfall Station car park and follow Uloola for about 1 km, then turn right onto Couranga. The early kilometres cross heath and drier bluegum and blackbutt forest. The track then drops steeply over a loose, stony stretch before the creek and thicker forest; take care here, especially on the return climb. The formed route is signposted, but Grade 3 still means short steep hills and plenty of steps.

Near the lower end, the track reaches a creek and the walk shifts into dense, damp rainforest. Cabbage-tree palms and tree ferns crowd the water, with mossy boulders and a small cascade along the way. A short side path gets closer to the creek. The main Couranga walk turns around at Hacking River; crossing the river and making a Forest Path loop is an optional extension, outside the distance above.

Old sawpits beside the route are a reminder of the logging that once took place here. Higher up, the heath is most colourful in spring, when flowering plants draw honeyeaters and southern emu-wrens. They are a seasonal possibility, not a guaranteed sighting.

Waterfall Station parking is available, though trail sources do not establish the lot’s size, station charges, toilets or water taps. No food stop on the route was confirmed, so bring what you need for the return. Dogs are not permitted in NSW national parks. If you continue beyond the walk to cross Hacking River, the crossing is only possible in dry weather.