Pigeon House Mountain Didthul walking track in Morton National Park is a day hike that has it all. The reward far outweighs the short distance (5km return hike) – epic views of the ocean, gorges and wilderness. Right near the town of Milton, it’s a wonderfully different way to explore this beautiful part of the NSW South Coast.
If you’re holidaying anywhere near Mollymook, Ulladulla, Lake Conjola or Sussex Inlet, Pigeon House Mountain Didthul is an easy day trip away. Or, it’s just 3 hrs south of Sydney and super close to some awesome NSW parks camping and accommodation.
Before visiting: Get the most up-to-date info on fires, floods and park closures, check the local weather so you’re prepared with the right clothing and gear for your adventure. If you’re staying bookings are required for ALL campgrounds and campsites – even if it wasn’t required before.
Getting there is easy. From Milton (where you’ll return for the coffee), turn off the Princes Highway, following signs marked ‘Pigeon House’. Drive along Croobyar Road, Woodstock Road, and Yadboro Road, and arrive at the Pigeon House Mountain Didthul picnic area just off Yadboro Road. This is where you can park, visit the pit toilet and start your walk. From Milton to the picnic area is a 45-min drive.
Ranger’s Tip: The road may become boggy in wet conditions so make sure you check the weather before setting off. If there is rain forecast the roads are not suitable for 2WD vehicles.
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Be prepared for a steep walk!
View this post on InstagramThe hike is pretty intense (Grade 4), with steep inclines and ladders to reach the summit, the perfect hike for people with a good fitness level and a sense of adventure. Suitable for kids eight and above. It starts by meandering through heathland and forest before reaching the fun part – a ladder climb to the summit! Okay, I’m not going to lie – parts of the walk are steep, make sure to give your calves a good stretch before setting off. After you catch your breath, I promise you’ll be smiling ear to ear when you get to the top!
Allow between 2.5 – 3.5 hrs return depending on your fitness ability, with an additional half an hour thrown in for a picnic lunch at the top – definitely worth it. You’ll need sturdy shoes (good walking shoes with grip as this hike is steep and can be tricky when wet) and plenty of drinking water (there aren’t any facilities along the way). The track is a grade 4 meaning some rough terrain and steep sections, suitable for walkers with basic bushwalking experience and a moderate level of fitness.
It’s best to enjoy this walk on a fine day as the ladders can become slippery in wet weather and views are much better void of clouds.
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Stunning wildlife and culture
You’ll be walking through a declared wilderness area, which is awesome as you may catch a glimpse of some wildlife such as Yellow-tailed black cockatoo, one of the 176 bird species in the area. Didthul has significant Aboriginal cultural value and is the traditional Country of the Yuin people. It’s crucial we all respect this by keeping to formed walking tracks and leaving no trace.
Walking Pigeon House Mountain Didthul will leave you feeling great. From start to finish you will have a good adventure tale to tell when you get back to the beach to soothe your hiking legs. Do it!
P.S. If steep walks aren’t so much your thing, check out other nearby day walk options such as Little Forest walking track.
