Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore the beauty of Bungonia National Park with the Molly O'Neill Nature Track, a short 800m, Grade 2, easy return walk perfect for wildlife lovers and amateur botanists. Meander through open woodland, spot kangaroos, wallabies, and lyrebirds, and relish the colourful spring wildflowers. The track culminates at The Lookdown lookout offering panoramic views, making it a must-visit hiking trail near Bungonia.

Length:

800m

Duration:

30 mins

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 553m

Min elevation: 534m

Total Ascent: 31m

Start: David Reid Carpark

End: David Reid Carpark

Bungonia National Park

New South Wales

Nearby town: Bungonia

From state capital: 195km

Latitude: -34.80141323068718

Longitude: 150.01777678728104

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Hike overview

The Molly O'Neill Nature Track is a delightful short walk perfect for visitors seeking a gentle introduction to Bungonia National Park. Named after an amateur botanist who extensively explored the area, this easy loop winds through open woodland teeming with wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for kangaroos, wallabies, wallaroos, and goannas basking in the sun, while the calls of lyrebirds might fill the air. During spring, wildflowers add a splash of colour to the landscape. Interpretive signage along the track educates visitors about the park's native flora.

The 400-meter track takes you to The Lookdown lookout, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. You return via the same route. If you're looking for a more extended adventure, consider the Green Track, which takes you deeper into the park's diverse ecosystems.

Visit NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for more information.

Tips

Bungonia National Park is a rugged natural area containing cliffs and steep gorges.
Visitors should exercise caution when exploring the site and children should be supervised at all times.
On entering the park, register your intention at the park office visitor register
A park use fee applies to all vehicles entering the park (including motorbikes) unless you hold a NSW National Parks Annual Pass.
Make sure you have a day-use ticket clearly displayed in your vehicle
The weather in this area can be extreme and unpredictable, so please ensure you're well-prepared for your visit.
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to birdwatching

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Walk map and GPX file

Molly O'Neill Nature Track Bungonia (800m)

Total distance: 767 m
Max elevation: 553 m
Min elevation: 534 m
Total climbing: 31 m
Total descent: -31 m

Getting there

Closest towns to this walk: Bungonia, Goulburn, Marulan, Tallong, Tarago, Wingello

Getting to the trailhead in Bungonia National Park.

Bungonia National Park is 190km southwest of Sydney, 140km northeast of Canberra and 35km east of Goulburn. Access is via the village of Bungonia (25km east of Goulburn or 15km south of Marulan). At Bungonia follow the signposts to Bungonia National Park, a further 10km along Lookdown Road.

Situated within Bungonia National Park’s northern precinct, follow Lookdown Road from the township of Bungonia. Upon reaching the park entrance, continue along Lookdown Road past the park office. Your destination will be clearly marked – David Reid carpark offers ample parking, including a designated accessible spot, right beside the trailhead. Alternatively, if you prefer to start the walk from the scenic vantage point, The Lookdown lookout also has a smaller bitumen carpark with a designated accessible spot available.

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

Bungonia National Park, located an easy drive from Canberra, caters to all adventure levels. Nicknamed the "adventure capital of the Southern Tablelands," this park transforms from a seemingly dry plateau into a wonderland of dramatic landscapes and hidden surprises. Whether you seek a leisurely stroll or a challenging climb, Bungonia has something for you.

Start your exploration at the park office to discover the perfect trail. The Molly O'Neil track offers a short walk to The Lookdown lookout, while Adams Lookout provides stunning views of the Bungonia Slot Canyon. Imagine enjoying a picnic lunch after your hike through this impressive natural wonder!

For the truly adventurous, Bungonia boasts over 200 wild caves. However, tackling these requires experience and proper equipment. Beyond caving, the park offers rock climbing, canyoning, and abseiling for thrill-seekers. Designated picnic areas are perfect for relaxation, making Bungonia National Park a great destination for all.

Similar trails nearby

Looking for hikes and trails in Bungonia National Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.

Track grade

Grade 2 (Easy) - A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.

Packing checklists

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.

Let someone know

Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure

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Molly O'Neill Nature Track Bungonia (800m)

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Acknowledgement of Country

Molly o'neill nature track bungonia (800m)

Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Tips

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file

Molly O'Neill Nature Track Bungonia (800m)