Gulaga National Park

On the far south coast of New South Wales, Gulaga National Park is a place of profound spiritual significance and raw natural beauty. The park is centred on Mount Gulaga (formerly Mount Dromedary), a dormant volcano that rises dramatically from the coastal plain. For the local Yuin people, Gulaga is a sacred women's place, and the park is jointly managed with traditional owners, offering visitors a rare chance to connect with both ancient Aboriginal culture and lush subtropical rainforest. This is a destination for walkers, wildlife lovers and those seeking a genuinely off-the-beaten-path experience, far from the crowds of the Blue Mountains.

Highlights & What to See

• Mount Gulaga Summit Walk – A challenging 12 km return trek through temperate and subtropical rainforest, emerging above the clouds for panoramic views of the coast, Montague Island and the distant Snowy Mountains. The summit is a sacred site; visitors are asked to treat it with respect.
• Gulaga Legend Walk – A shorter, easier loop (2.4 km) that tells the Aboriginal creation story of Gulaga through interpretive signs and art installations. It’s an excellent introduction to Yuin culture and the park’s spiritual meaning.
• Rainforest trails – The park protects one of the largest stands of subtropical rainforest in southern NSW. Look for towering bangalay palms, ancient tree ferns and the elusive lyrebird. The less-travelled trails feel like stepping into a prehistoric world.
• Wildlife spotting – Keep an eye out for wombats, wallabies, echidnas and over 100 bird species, including the powerful owl and glossy black-cockatoo. Dawn and dusk are magic hours.
• Cultural connection – Join a guided tour led by Yuin rangers (book ahead) to hear stories, learn about bush tucker and understand the deep significance of Gulaga as a place of women’s business.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors should allow a full day to tackle the summit walk and explore the lower trails. If you’re short on time, the Legend Walk and a picnic near the park entrance can be done in a couple of hours. For a deeper experience, base yourself in nearby Tilba Tilba or Narooma for two days – one for the summit, one for the cultural walks and nearby coastline. The park is at its best in spring (wildflowers) and autumn (mild temperatures); summer can be humid and leechy after rain.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Narooma – A charming coastal town 20 minutes north, famous for its oyster farms, the Australia Rock blowhole and boat trips to Montague Island (seals, penguins and a historic lighthouse).
• Tilba Tilba – A heritage-listed village of timber-and-iron buildings, with artisan galleries, a cheesery and a general store that feels frozen in time. Perfect for a lazy afternoon.
• Mystery Bay & Camel Rock – Secluded beaches just south of Narooma, great for swimming, surfing and spotting kangaroos on the dunes at sunset.
• Montague Island Nature Reserve – Accessible by tour from Narooma, this island is a haven for little penguins, fur seals and seabirds. A must for wildlife enthusiasts.
• Bermagui – A laid-back fishing village 25 km south, with a beautiful harbour, excellent seafood and access to the stunning Camel Rock and Horseshoe Bay.

Please check official sources for current details.