Muogamarra Nature Reserve Open Season

Overview

One of New South Wales' most spectacular natural wonders is also one of its most carefully guarded. Closed to the public for most of the year to protect its precious ecosystems and First Nations heritage, the Muogamarra Nature Reserve is a hidden oasis located near Cowan, 50 kilometres north of Sydney's CBD. More than 900 species of wildflowers bloom here, including waratahs, angophoras, old-man banksias, pink boronias and native orchids, making it one of the most vibrant habitats for native flora in the state.

However, for one brief six-week season every year, this floral wonderland is revealed to visitors. And it's not just the plant life that nature lovers can discover. You can also marvel at ancient First Nations rock engravings, and take in expansive vistas of the Hawkesbury River, Berowra Creek, Bar Island, Milson Island and Spectacle Island.

Between Saturday, 17 August–Sunday, 22 September, there are five guided and self-guided tour options visitors can book. The Muogamarra Bird Gully walk is a 3.5-kilometre trail that skirts the fringes of one of the reserve's swamps, where fascinating ecosystems of insects and plants can be observed. For those who want to learn more about the 90-year history of the reserve, the Muogamarra highlights walk is a three-kilometre guided tour that also explores the story of John Tipper, the reserve's founder.

One of the harder guided treks is the Muogamarra Lloyd Trig and Deerubbin loop walk, a 6.6-kilometre journey to the Deerubbin lookover where some of the reserve's most breathtaking views can be found. The most challenging hike, however, is the Muogamarra Peats Bight walk — a full-day, ten-kilometre excursion that visits the area's diverse geological sites, including the volcanic pipes around Peats Crater.

Alternatively, you choose your own adventure on a self-guided tour. All entrants receive a map of the reserve's various trails and there are friendly volunteers on hand to answer any questions you may have.

Images: Pam Goldie.