Jingga Pool Track in Dharawal National Park

The Jingga Track is a short yet steep bushwalk in Dharawal National Park, leading to a stunning natural waterhole and a small waterfall.

The waterhole is perfect for a refreshing swim, making it an even more enjoyable adventure on a warm summer’s day.

With more sights and walking tracks nearby, it’s easy to turn this visit into a full day of exploring this beautiful part of Sydney.

The walking track to Jingga Pool is situated in Wedderburn, in the north-western corner of Dharawal National Park, roughly 60 km south of Sydney.

To reach the entrance, follow Victoria Road in Wedderburn, where it transitions into a dirt road as you approach the park gate (see map for location).

A reasonably sized car park is available at the entrance, featuring a large information board with maps that offer more details about the area.

The map below highlights the walking track to Jingga Pool, beginning from the car park on Victoria Road.

The walking track to Jingga Pool may be short, but it’s also steep. The first section of the trail is fairly easy, but the second part is challenging, not only due to the incline but also because of the rough terrain.

With plenty of loose rocks along the path, sturdy footwear is essential to help prevent injuries. A reasonable level of fitness is also recommended for the climb back up on the return trip.

After parking, continue along Victoria Road as it leads into the national park. Shortly, you’ll come across a signpost directing you to continue straight.

A bit further on, a second signpost appears where the Jingga Track branches off to the right, heading into the bush.

From here, the track gradually turns into a steep descent over rocky, uneven terrain. Even the descent can be challenging due to the trail’s rough conditions.

While it’s essential to watch your step, take a moment now and then to look up and enjoy the beautiful scenery and thriving wildlife!

As you begin to hear the gentle sounds of flowing water, you’ll know you’re close to the pool and waterfall.

Jingga Pool

In the Dharawal language, the word ‘jingga’ roughly translates to ‘nice and sweet’, which is a fitting name for this freshwater swimming hole.

Swimming is allowed at Jingga Pool, unlike nearby Minerva Pool, where only women and children may swim according to Dharawal culture and tradition.

Depending on recent rainfall, the waterfall flowing into Jingga Pool can be quite impressive, even overwhelming, up close.

However, the more water there is, the harder it can be to cross to the other side of the pool.

The surrounding rocks provide an excellent spot for a picnic, so consider bringing along some food to enjoy lunch in these beautiful surroundings.

If you decide to go swimming, please keep the following things in mind:

• It’s deep:
  The middle of Jingga Pool is rather deep, so if you’re not a good swimmer, it’s best not to go in.
• It’s slippery:
  It can be very slippery on the rocks surrounding the pool, so always be cautious.
• Jumping in:
  It makes sense to jump into Jingga Pool, but please do so with care because there may be rocks hidden in the water. It’s best to try and find a spot where you don’t have to jump from a high point.
• Don’t leave rubbish:
  As always, please don’t leave rubbish behind in the bush.

More Exploring Nearby

There are several other great sights and walks near Jingga Pool, perfect for making the most of your visit to this part of Dharawal National Park.

Minerva Pool, similar to Jingga Pool, is another beautiful waterhole, though, in accordance with Dharawal tradition, only women and children may swim there.

The walking track to Minerva Pool is approximately 3 km long and begins from the same car park; however, it’s not as steep as the Jingga Track.

Another option is the easy walk to the scenic O’Hares Creek Lookout, also starting from the Victoria Road car park.

This 2.5 km return walk winds through lush bushland, leading to a large lookout platform with sweeping views over the O’Hares Creek valley.