New England National Park

New England National Park is located in the Northern Tablelands region of New South Wales, Australia, about 85 kilometers east of Armidale and 60 kilometers south of Dorrigo. The park sits within the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area and is known for its diverse ecosystems, ranging from subalpine woodlands to ancient rainforests. The park was established in 1935, making it one of Australia’s earliest national parks. It was created to protect the unique plant and animal species of the area and its stunning escarpments and gorges. The park’s inclusion in the Gondwana Rainforests World Heritage list in 1986 highlights its global environmental significance, especially its role in preserving ancient flora from the supercontinent of Gondwana. Parking facilities are available at several locations, including the popular Point Lookout area, which offers panoramic views across the escarpment. There are no park entry fees, though some campgrounds may charge for overnight stays. Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment and follow all park regulations. New England National Park is home to a range of native wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, and echidnas. Birdwatchers may spot lyrebirds, satin bowerbirds, and the endangered Hastings River mouse. The park is also home to a variety of reptiles, amphibians, and bats. The park’s flora is diverse, with cool temperate rainforests dominated by Antarctic beech trees, as well as areas of eucalypt woodland and heathland. Mosses, ferns, and lichens thrive in the moist, shaded areas, while wildflowers bloom in the higher elevations during spring. Key features of the park include Point Lookout, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding wilderness, and the escarpments that drop dramatically into the Bellinger Valley. There are also several well-marked hiking trails. Public transport to the park is limited, and visitors generally access it by private vehicle from nearby towns such as Armidale and Dorrigo.