Deer Pools
Dharawal Country

1 h 30 min to 3 h

3.9 km
return

↑ 103 m
↓ -103 m

Hard track
The walk down to Deer Pools takes you through the heath, which is common in Royal National Park. This bush opens out onto Deer Pool, a beautiful little cascade and pool of water. A lovely walk to one of the well known landmarks in the park. Let us begin by acknowledging the Dharawal people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present. 
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Marley Track sign post. | Photo by admin
White arrows marking track. | Photo by admin
Bush roach. | Photo by admin
Deer Pools. | Photo by admin
Deer Pools. | Photo by admin
Deer Pool waterfall. | Photo by admin
Downloads GPX PDF

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Safer Bushwalks
Tips on staying safe on track
Before you start any bushwalk ensure you;
• Tell someone you trust where you are going and what to do if you are overdue
• Have adequate equipment, supplies, skills & knowledge for the whole journey
• Consider the impact of weather forecasts, park/track closures & fire dangers
• Can respond to emergencies & call for help at any point
• Are healthy and fit enough for this journey
If not, change plans and stay safe. It is okay to delay and ask people for help.
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Getting There
Transport options and directions
Start At the intersection of Marley Trail & Bundeena Drive (-34.1030622,151.1157766)
Mode Car (There is free parking available.)
DirectionsFrom Princes Highway, A1
  • Turn on to Farnell Avenue then drive for 13.1 km
  • Turn left onto Bundeena Drive and drive for another 5.6 km
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Track Notes
Turn by turn instructions & maps
Getting started
From the car park on the northern side of Bundeena Drive (1.7km east of Mainbar Rd), this walk crosses the road and heads into the bush between the two posts, following the arrow. Soon the track pass the 'Marley Track' sign and starts to head downhill. The track continues past the old concrete pipe (with white spray-painted arrows). The track passes a couple of rock platforms, but generally the track is narrow as it winds down the hill. Near Deer Pools, there is a clearing on the left as the track tends right, towards the waterfall. The track passes over the top of the waterfall to head up to a clearing on the other side.....
Turn map Directions & comments
At the intersection of Marley Trail & Bundeena Drive Start heading along Marley Trail (a walking track).
There is a car park (about 7 m back from the start).
After another 1.9 km continue straight.
After another 15 m continue straight.
About 35 m past the end is "Deer Pool".
Deer Pool
Deer Pool

Deer Pool, Royal National Park, is a small and picturesque set of falls that run into a pool with a sandy bank. The waterfall is fed by Marley Creek which continues its journey into Marley Lagoon, behind Big Marley Beach. Royal National Park was once home to many deer, who used to frequent these pools. This is a relaxing spot on a warm day, with the opportunity for a dip or a gentle massage in the cascade. Although a sign suggests camping is permitted by permit, permits are not issued for camping here.
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Deer Pool, Royal National Park, is a small and picturesque set of falls that run into a pool with a sandy bank. The waterfall is fed by Marley Creek which continues its journey into Marley Lagoon, behind Big Marley Beach. Royal National Park was once home to many deer, who used to frequent these pools. This is a relaxing spot on a warm day, with the opportunity for a dip or a gentle massage in the cascade. Although a sign suggests camping is permitted by permit, permits are not issued for camping here.

Turn around here and retrace the main route for 2 km to get back to the start.
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Terrain
Know the Hills, grading & facilities

Deer Pools


Grading
Class 4/6
Hard track
Length 3.9 km
Time 1 h 30 min to 3 h
Quality of track Formed track, with some branches and other obstacles (3/6)
Gradient Short steep hills (3/6)
Signage Minimal directional signs (4/6)
Infrastructure Limited facilities (such as cliffs not fenced, significant creeks not bridged) (4/6)
Experience Required No experience required (1/6)
Weather Storms may impact on navigation and safety (3/6)
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Articles
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Weather & Alerts
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