Sea Cliff Bridge Lookout
South Coast NSW
Wollongong
KEY INFO
Distance (kms):
0.7 kms
Time (hrs):
Allow 1.5 hrs
Elevation gain (m):
59 m
Max. elevation (m):
113 m
Difficulty (Grade):
Moderate (Grade 4)
Route type:
Out-and-back
Traffic:
Moderate
Access:
2WD Sufficient
View of the bridge from the lookout
View of the bridge (drone)
Trailhead point on the roadside
View of the bridge from the lookout
Click to see full image.
A challenging hike to a beautiful lookout over the iconic ocean-side bridge, with excellent views of the bridge, ocean and cliffs.
This moderately trafficked hike starts from a small turn-out on the side of Lawrence Hargrave Drive in Clifton.
The turn-out can only be accessed when driving south and is located just after the bridge on the left-hand side. Note, it also quite small with only limited parking spots available.
Built in 2005 to address safety issues with landslides on the old road, the Sea Cliff Bridge is 665 metre long and an undisputable highlight of the Grand Pacific Drive.
The track up the hill starts from a small warning sign near the bush on the opposite side of the road to the turn-out. Care is needed when crossing the road, as it is on a relatively blind corner.
The path in the bush can be a little tricky to find, with a number of false tracks. The one near the warning sign is recommended.
The track to the lookout is rough and very steep, not very well-maintained, with ropes in place to assist in certain sections.
Once at the lookout, there is a bench, but no constructed lookout or fencing. The edge is a sheer drop and so extreme care is required. Excellent views are offered with no need to get close to the edge.
The lookout offers spectacular views across the cliffs and down onto the bridge, as well as out to the ocean.
If not an experienced hiker, the safer option for enjoying the bridge is to walk along the safely separated path than spans the entire length of the bridge.
Track: The track is ungraded, steep and rough, with ropes in some places to assist. The start of the walk is not well-signed, but once the correct path is found, it is relatively easy-to follow for experienced hikers.
Difficulty: The track is suitable for intermediate and experienced hikers. The track is not suitable for children or those with balance issues. Given the roughness and steepness of the track, proper hiking shoes are recommended.
There is no barrier at the lookout and a significant drop, so extreme caution is required.
Direction: This is an out-and back track that returns the way it came.
getting there
The track starts from a small turn-out on the side of Lawrence Hargrave Drive in Clifton, 10.5 hours drive south of Brisbane, or 1.25 hours south-west of Sydney.
The turn-out can only be accessed when driving south and is located just after the bridge on the left-hand side.
The parking area is quite small, with limited spots available and is often full during peak times.
The nearest additional parking is at Rube Hargrave Park, which adds approximately 400-500 metres of extra walking each way.
best time to go
The walk can be completed year-round. Given the rough, steep track, it would not be recommended during or after rain.
Remember, whenever venturing into the outdoors, practice the Leave No Trace principles and be considerate of others. This means: dispose of your waste properly, don't remove things or move things from their natural position and respect all wildlife. Also be sure to plan ahead and adequately prepare for any adventure.
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I respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which all activities listed on this website are found, as well as Elders past, present and emerging. I strive to not promote sites where requests have been made for people not to explore due to the cultural significance of the site to Indigenous peoples, or note how to respectfully visit a site. If I have a promoted a site with cultural significance, please send me a message and let me know.