Gardens of Stone National Park

Gardens of Stone National Park is a rugged, otherworldly landscape of pagoda-like rock formations, deep canyons, and ancient rainforest tucked away in the NSW Central Tablelands. Named for the eerie stone 'gardens' sculpted by wind and water, this park offers a wild, uncrowded alternative to the nearby Blue Mountains. It's a paradise for hikers, photographers, and anyone seeking dramatic geological wonders without the tourist throngs.

Highlights & What to See

• Pagoda Lookout & Track: A short walk leads to surreal sandstone pagodas – layered rock towers that look like giant beehives – with panoramic views over the Wolgan Valley.
• The Drip: A stunning, fern-lined gorge with a permanent cascade of water dripping over mossy cliffs; a cool, lush escape on a hot day.
• Glow Worm Tunnel: An abandoned railway tunnel now home to thousands of glow worms – bring a torch and walk silently to see the eerie blue-green light show.
• Donkey Mountain: A challenging but rewarding 8 km return hike to a summit with 360-degree views of the park's maze of canyons and pagodas.
• Lost City: A lesser-known area of towering sandstone pillars that resemble a ruined city; requires a 4WD and some off-track navigation.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend a full day exploring the highlights – start early with the Pagoda Lookout and Glow Worm Tunnel (the tunnel is best in late afternoon for glow-worm viewing), then tackle a longer hike like Donkey Mountain. If you're keen on photography or canyoning, consider an overnight stay at the basic campground or nearby Lithgow. Two days allow you to explore the Lost City and The Drip at a relaxed pace.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Lithgow: The nearest town for supplies, pubs, and the fascinating Lithgow Small Arms Factory Museum.
• Zig Zag Railway: A heritage steam train winding through scenic valleys – a fun detour for rail enthusiasts.
• Wollemi National Park: Adjacent wilderness with the famous Wollemi Pine and deep canyons for experienced bushwalkers.
• Blue Mountains National Park: An hour south, offering iconic lookouts, the Three Sisters, and the Scenic World experience.
• Mudgee: A two-hour drive west, this wine region is perfect for a post-hike tasting tour of cellar doors and farm-to-table dining.

Please check official sources for current details.