Hike at a Glance
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Hike overview
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?
Tips
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.
Gallery
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Content use
Please don’t copy GPX files or content from this site to AllTrails or other platforms. Each trail has been personally mapped, documented, and refined to support Australia’s bushwalking and hiking community. While some details come from land managers, every listing reflects significant personal effort. This is a free, community-driven initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.
Walk map and GPX file
It looks like I don’t have a GPX file for this trail yet. If you have one to share, please email it to me! I’ll verify it against official maps before adding it to help other hikers have a safer, easier experience. Thanks for contributing to a better hiking resource.
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.
Closest towns to this walk: Bodalla, Braidwood, Canberra, Cooma, Delegate, Nimmitabel, Queanbeyan
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.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Monga National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
Track grade
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.
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
Suggest an edit
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
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.