Photo: Baltimike / CC BY 2.0
Morton National Park is a rugged wilderness of sandstone plateaus, deep gorges, and pristine eucalypt forests, straddling the Southern Highlands and South Coast of New South Wales. It's a paradise for hikers, birdwatchers, and anyone craving solitude in nature. The park's dramatic landscapes include the famous Fitzroy Falls and the wild Budawang Range, offering some of the state's most challenging and rewarding bushwalks.
Highlights & What to See
- Fitzroy Falls – Plunging 81 metres into a lush valley, this iconic waterfall is accessible via a short, wheelchair-friendly walk with multiple lookout points. On a misty day, rainbows often appear in the spray.
- The Pinnacle Lookout – A breathtaking viewpoint reached by a moderate walk from Fitzroy Falls, offering panoramic views over the Kangaroo River valley and beyond.
- Budawang Range – A remote and rugged area for experienced bushwalkers, with multiday treks through heathlands and rock formations like The Castle and Mount Budawang.
- Bungonia State Conservation Area – Adjacent to the park, this area features limestone gorges, caves, and excellent rock climbing, as well as the Bungonia Lookout.
- Birdwatching – Keep an eye out for lyrebirds, wedge-tailed eagles, and the elusive superb parrot. The park is a haven for birdlife, especially around creeks and forest edges.
Suggested Time to Spend
For a quick visit, half a day is enough to see Fitzroy Falls and a couple of lookouts. To explore the park more deeply—especially if you want to tackle a section of the Budawang Range or walk to The Pinnacle—plan for a full day. Overnight camping is possible in designated areas for those wanting to immerse themselves in the wilderness.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Kangaroo Valley – A charming village with historic buildings, artisan shops, and the stunning Kangaroo River. Great for kayaking and picnics.
- Berry – A picturesque town known for its cafés, boutiques, and the Berry Donut Van. It's a perfect lunch stop on the way to or from the park.
- Jervis Bay – Famous for its white-sand beaches and clear waters, just under an hour's drive east. Combine a hike with a swim or dolphin-watching cruise.
- Southern Highlands – Towns like Bowral, Berrima, and Moss Vale offer gardens, antique shopping, and cool-climate vineyards—ideal for a relaxing break.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Fitzroy Falls — Bjenks / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Kangaroo Valley — user:Grahamec / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Berry — Eva Rinaldi / CC BY-SA 2.0
- Jervis Bay — Charliekay / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Southern Highlands — Photohome_UK / CC BY 2.0