Guy Fawkes River National Park

Guy Fawkes River National Park is located in New South Wales, Australia, within the New England region, approximately halfway between the towns of Dorrigo and Ebor. It is about 80 kilometers northeast of Armidale and 110 kilometers southwest of Grafton, making these towns key access points for visitors. The park was established in 1972 to protect the wild and rugged landscape surrounding the Guy Fawkes River. It has historical significance due to the Guy Fawkes cattle drives that took place in the 19th century, and the park is home to the Guy Fawkes Heritage Horse, a rare breed that still roams the area. Parking facilities are available at several key locations, including Chaelundi and Ebor Falls. These areas provide access to walking tracks, picnic spots, and scenic lookouts. Parking is generally free, though visitors should be mindful of the sometimes rugged, unsealed roads leading into the park, especially in wet conditions. No entry fees apply for visiting the park, though some camping areas may require fees. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife. Notable species include the powerful owl, brush-tailed rock wallaby, and platypus. The park also hosts endangered species like the spotted-tailed quoll and the Rufous scrub-bird, making it a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. The flora of Guy Fawkes River National Park includes a mix of eucalypt forests, rainforests, and heathland. Common species include New England blackbutt, ribbon gum, and snow gum. Rainforest gullies feature tree ferns, mosses, and native orchids. Notable features of the park include the dramatic Ebor Falls, a series of cascading waterfalls that plunge into the Guy Fawkes River gorge, and the vast wilderness areas that offer bushwalking, camping, and birdwatching opportunities. Public transport to the park is limited, so driving is the most practical way to access the park.