Hike at a Glance
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Hike overview
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.
Tips
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.
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: 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.
Closest towns to this walk: 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.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Brisbane Water National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
Track grade
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.
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.