 by John Baas.JPG)
 by John Baas.JPG)
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Description
The Monument Hill Track in Arakoon National Park is a scenic walking trail. Starting from the car park near the historic Trial Bay Gaol, the path climbs through a mosaic of coastal heath and littoral rainforest. You will be rewarded with sweeping views toward South West Rocks and Hat Head. Along the way, interpretive signs share stories of the area’s past, leading you to the German Monument, a tribute to the internees held at the gaol during World War I.
Birds are abundant in Arakoon National Park. On the heath, there are fantails and honeyeaters. Hawks, falcons, Ospreys and eagles soar above the cliffs and forage along the beaches. During the spring, when the she-oaks produce fruit, Glossy Black-Cockatoo come in to feed on the ripe seeds.
Despite its small size, Arakoon harbours several threatened species. You're also likely to spot wallabies and echidnas, and the nocturnal brush-tailed phascogales and sugar gliders. During September and October, you can often see humpback whales just offshore, on their return journey to Antarctica.
Details
Access
Monument Hill walking track starts at Trial Bay Gaol in the Trial Bay Gaol precinct of Arakoon National Park. From South West Rocks follow Phillip Drive, turn left onto Cardwell Street. Continue along Trial Bay Gaol Access Road until you reach Trial Bay Gaol. The walk begins 200m back up Trial Bay Gaol Access Road. Trial Bay Gaol carpark is close to the start of the track. Press P on the map for directions.
The circular walking route is about 3 km. While the terrain is generally accessible, be prepared for a few short, steep sections, though there are plenty of well-placed benches to take in the scenery.