If you're visiting Monga National Park on a day trip, you simply can't miss Penance Grove. Enter this shady forest glen dappled with sunlight and discover the ancient rainforest from the wheelchair-friendly boardwalk.
You'll see plumwood trees decorated with ferns, mosses and lichen forming a cathedral-like canopy for the tall mosses below. It's incredible to think that many of the plant species here date back millions of years to when Australia was part of the super continent, Gondwana.
In summer, it's a great place to retreat from the heat and the holiday crowds. And in early autumn, you'll see the cream-coloured flowers of the plumwood trees dotted around the rainforest floor and smell their delightful perfume.
Why not walk another 400m along Link walking track to Mongarlowe River picnic area, or drive to Dasyurus picnic area for a relaxing picnic by the banks of the river?
Grade 1 (All-abilities) -Â Perfect for Families and Beginners: Grade 1 on the
AWTGS represents the easiest walking tracks, perfect for families with young children or those new to bushwalking. No prior experience is required. These gentle walks feature a flat, even surface with no steps or steep sections. They are suitable for wheelchair users with assistance due to the even terrain. The total distance of a Grade 1 walk is typically no greater than 5 kilometers, making them a comfortable and manageable option for all ages and fitness levels.
Drinking water is not available in this area, so it's a good idea to bring your own.
There is no mobile reception in this park.
Visit NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for more information on this trail.
The longitude and latitude of the start and end points are approximately only and should not be used for navigation purposes. Please contact me if you know the correct coordinates.
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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.
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Monga National Park.
To Penance Grove carpark. On entering Monga National Park:Continue on River Forest Road for approximately 4.9kmPass the sign to Mongarlowe River picnic area and after 500m, you’ll see the Penance Grove walking track carpark on your right. Park entry points Penance Grove carpark See on map Parking Parking is available at Penance Grove walking track.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
About the region
Monga National Park has something for all, with 4WD touring routes, walking and horse riding tracks to enjoy, peaceful places to picnic, and ancient forests to discover. Whether you're looking for a peaceful place to picnic, a stroll through the forest, a challenging full day hike, or a scenic drive on a 4WD touring route, there's something for everyone at Monga National Park.
You'll find cool temperate rainforest filled with ancient plumwood trees from the Gondwana Age, warm temperate rainforests and old growth eucalypt forests. Enjoy relaxing picnics along the banks of Mongarlowe River, with peaceful spots to watch the local wildlife and admire the unique Monga waratahs in flower.
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