If you’re up for a short hike in Shoalhaven exchange for always-impressive views into Kangaroo Valley and across Jervis Bay, then Drawing Room Rocks hike is for you. Because the beginning of the hike is already largely on the mountain, so it’s not much of a trek to the top.
I’ve done this walk a few times. And, each time it’s surprising that there’s only a few other people on the trail—mind you, I’m pretty strategic about when I go to avoid possible crowds. The trail is visited by locals and tourists alike, looking to escape and get a look at these incredible views.
The name Drawing Room Rocks, otherwise called “Table and Chairs” by some locals, is based on the oddly shaped rocks at the top of the hike. The rock formations look roughly similar to table and chairs.
There’s lots of wild life on the trail along with many types of birds. I’ve come across a lyrebird, an echidna and even a feral pig.
Drawing Room Rocks Hike, Shoalhaven NSW
Hike time: 1.5 hours (minimum)
The Drawing Room Rocks hike is a well-marked trail located in Shoalhaven, NSW. A sign at the beginning of the trail recommends says the hike takes three hours.
However, as with many recommended hike times in Australia, this hike can be done in half this time. Both times I’ve done this trail I finished in an hour and a half, while taking time to see all the view points and enjoy time at the top.
If its rained recently, consider wearing waterproof boots aside from regular running or track shoes. A small stream runs through most of the upper section of the trail (past the first lookout) and it’s easy to get wet and uncomfortable feet. Otherwise, water pools in other parts of the trail for slippery mud.
Starting at the beginning of the trail head, the hike starts out next to a green pasture. After a relatively easy up hill section the trail runs into a Barren Grounds Nature Reserve sign.
Follow the trail to the left and keep going. The trail gets a bit steeper, but it’s quick so take your time and enjoy the fresh air.
After the sign, the trail wraps through a steeper section, ascending to the first lookout. The first lookout is towards the east of Shoalhaven and of course, the ocean.
Heading back to the trail and heading further up, the trail starts to head through goes through a few switch backs ascending further to another view point.
This viewpoint on rocks points west, and despite the clearing, there’s lots of trees around.
Next, the trail continues up and begins to follow a tiny creek upwards. This is where water-proof shoes and perceptual-motor skills come in handy. On this part of the trail there’s another trail off to a viewpoint, but I usually skip it because it’s so close to the top.
Finally the trail evens out and plateaus to the top of the hill. This is where the main and final viewpoints are. Heading straight from the trail is where the Drawing Room Rocks are.
Take the time to have a snack, drink some water and walk around the rocks before heading back down.
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