Pigeon House Mountain (Didthul)

Didthul, named Pigeon House by James Cook in 1770 from its shape seen from the sea, rises to about seven hundred and twenty metres with a squared rock cap that makes it recognisable from a great distance along the South Coast. The track climbs steeply through forest for the first section, levels across a heath saddle, then finishes with a series of steel ladders bolted to the summit cliffs. From the top, the view takes in the Budawang Range, the wilderness of Morton National Park and the coast from Jervis Bay south. The mountain is culturally significant to the Yuin people. The round trip is about five kilometres and takes three to four hours.

What you actually see

• The summit ladders - steel stairs bolted up the final rock cap.
• The summit view - the Budawangs, wilderness and the coast beyond.
• The heath saddle - open flowering heath partway up the climb.
• The forest ascent - steep woodland on the lower section.

When to go

April to November for cooler climbing; summer is hot on an exposed track. The mountain and its access roads have been closed for extended periods after bushfire damage, so checking the park status before travelling is essential.

Honest expectations

The climb is short but steep and the ladders are exposed, which is difficult for anyone uneasy with heights. Access roads are unsealed and rough in places. There is no water on the track and no phone coverage. Closures after fire or storm are frequent.

Nearby

Ulladulla and Milton lie on the coast; the Budawang wilderness stretches west.