The Pigeon House Mountain Didthul walking track in the majestic Morton National Park in Shoalhaven has been upgraded for the Easter school holidays.
Ladders to the spectacular summit section have been replaced with new galvanised steel ladders which are safer for climbers of all ages.
Above: Before and After photos. Images by Rob Perry and Ben Walsh - NPWS
The re-opening of the track comes just in time for the prime bushwalking period in the Easter school holidays when the weather begins to cool making for more comfortable walking conditions.
Situated three hours from Sydney and 2.5 hours from Canberra, up to 30,000 people each year take the 5-kilometre Pigeon House Mountain Didthul walk, with autumn one of the best times to visit the declared wilderness area.
"Pigeon House Mountain Didthul walking track is one of the most popular walks in the Morton National Park and NSW south coast. Located in the Budawang Wilderness Area it boasts natural beauty with unspoiled views of captivating mountains, cliffs, gorges and the coast between Jervis Bay and Bermagui", said National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Area Manager, Michael Phelan. "At the mountain summit you might spot the odd resident lizard sunning themselves in the autumn sun. If you are still enough, you might even have a Rock Warbler, the only species of bird endemic to New South Wales, land on your shoes. They can be found only within the Sydney Basin and Didthul is located at the Basin's most southern extent.
"Visitors can also expect to encounter the new steel ladders near the mountain summit, replacing the existing ladders that were installed 30 years ago on the mountain to help people reach the lookout to enjoy the views of the ocean and wilderness.
Above: The new ladders in place Images by Rob Perry and Ben Walsh - NPWS
"Structurally the steep original ladders had reached the end of their life, weathered by the elements and worn from the wear and tear of thousands of climbers.
"As part of the Pigeon House upgrade program we've also replaced a segment of elevated walkway near the summit.
"Next year in close consultation with the community we will look to deliver other improvements to the mountain track to improve access and visitor amenities", Mr Phelan said.
Visitors will need 3 to 3.5 hours for the walk, and should wear suitable walking or hiking shoes, and pack water, food, sunscreen and a hat.
For information on directions to Pigeon House Mountain Walk and safety, visit: Pigeon House Mountain Didthul walking track
For a virtual tour of Pigeon House Mountain Didthul Walking Track, visit Google Street View Trekker
