Gardens Of Stone National Park

Gardens of Stone National Park is a rugged, lesser-known gem in the Blue Mountains region, offering dramatic sandstone pagodas, deep canyons, and ancient rainforest pockets. This wild landscape rewards adventurous travellers with spectacular views and a true sense of discovery, far from the crowds of more famous national parks.

Highlights & What to See

• Pagoda Lookout: Marvel at the extraordinary sandstone formations that resemble giant stone gardens, especially stunning at sunset when the rocks glow golden.
• Donkey Mountain Trail: A challenging but rewarding hike through pagoda country, with panoramic views over the Capertee Valley — one of Australia's largest canyon systems.
• Glen Davis Ruins: Explore the atmospheric remains of an early 20th-century oil shale mining town, complete with a cemetery and abandoned buildings.
• Deep Pass Canyon: A spectacular slot canyon walk featuring mossy walls, ferns, and seasonal waterfalls — best visited after rain.
• Bungleboori Picnic Area: A peaceful spot for lunch surrounded by scribbly gums and wildflowers, with easy access to short walks.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate a full day to experience the park's highlights. Start early with a morning hike on the Donkey Mountain Trail (3–4 hours), then visit the Glen Davis Ruins and enjoy lunch at Bungleboori. In the afternoon, take a short walk to Pagoda Lookout for sunset. For serious hikers, an overnight trip into Deep Pass Canyon is possible, but requires planning and permits.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Blue Mountains National Park — iconic lookouts, waterfalls, and the Three Sisters, just a short drive east.
• Wollemi National Park — vast wilderness with ancient Wollemi pines and remote bushwalking.
• Lithgow — historic town with the Zig Zag Railway and the Glow Worm Tunnel.
• Capertee Valley — spectacular valley views and excellent birdwatching, especially for regent honeyeaters.
• Mudgee — renowned wine region with cellar doors, fine dining, and heritage accommodation, about 1.5 hours west.

Please check official sources for current details.