Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 553m
Min elevation: 534m
Total Ascent: 31m
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.
Track grade
Grade 2 (Easy) -Â 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.
Practical information
- 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
Walk map and GPX file
Max elevation: 553 m
Min elevation: 534 m
Total climbing: 31 m
Total descent: -31 m
GPX files, maps and content are copyright Trail Hiking Australia. Not to be copied, redistributed or uploaded to other platforms including AllTrails.
Explore safely
Planning this hike? Most incidents develop before you even start. Safe outcomes depend on how navigation, hydration, environment, load and judgement work together. Small oversights can compound quickly in Australian conditions. See how it happens in the Hiking Safety Systems Foundations. Then use the Hiking Safety Systems, planning calculators, and make sure a trusted contact has your trip plan before heading out.
Leave a trip plan
Before you go, complete a trip intentions form and share it with a trusted contact. Agree on a Late-Back Time and ask them to call 000 (Police) if you have not checked in. A clear trip plan is one of the simplest and most effective safety steps you can take.
Planning checklists
Download the hiking preparation and safety checklists before leaving home to help you think through your plans. They help ensure important considerations are not overlooked and support safer decision-making on the trail.
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: 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.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
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 walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Bungonia National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Acknowledgement of Country
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.





