Wondabyne to Patonga walking track is part of the renowned Great North walk, and is an absolute must for experienced bushwalkers and campers keen to explore Brisbane Water National Park. Starting at Wondabyne railway station, this challenging rough track winds through superb grassy woodlands, rainforest and coastal heath.
Soak up spectacular views over Brisbane Water, Broken Bay and Hawkesbury River and stop for a swim near Kariong Brook waterfall; particularly impressive after rain. Pitch your tent at remote Mount Wondabyne bush campground - be sure to look for the fire circle near the base of the mountain.
Birdwatching enthusiasts are spoilt for choice all year round, so keep an eye out for cockatoos, brush turkeys and owls. You may even spot a koala in one of the grey gums. Upon reaching Patonga, take the ferry to Palm Beach or the bus to Woy Woy or Gosford.
Grade 4 (Hard) -
Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the
AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to go birdwatching.
There is limited 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: Brisbane Water National Park.
To Patonga. Wondabyne to Patonga walking track is within Brisbane Water National Park. Whichever end you choose to walk from, the easiest way to get there is by public transport.Catch a train to Wondabyne railway stationCatch the ferry to Patonga Wharf Park entry points Patonga See on map Parking Parking is not available; access is via a walking track. By public transport Wondabyne train station is an optional stop, and any passenger wishing to alight at the station must inform the guard of their intention to do so. They should then travel in the last carriage of the train and exit through the rear door only.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Accommodation nearby
Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: East Gosford, Ettalong Beach, Gosford, Holgate, Horsfield Bay, Kariong, Koolewong, North Gosford, Pearl Beach, Saratoga, Umina Beach, Woy Woy, Wyoming
About the region
The Brisbane Water National Park is a protected national park that is in the Central Coast region of New South Wales, in eastern Australia. The 11,506-hectare national park is situated 47 kilometres north of Sydney, 10 kilometres west of Woy Woy, and 12 kilometres southwest of Gosford. The Brisbane Water National Park has two picnic areas within the park close of an evening: Girrakool picnic area is open 9am to 5pm every day Somersby Falls picnic area is open 8am to 8pm during daylight savings and is open 8am to 5pm at other times Other areas of Brisbane Water National Park will be open at all times, however may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.
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Looking for more walks in or near Brisbane Water National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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