Watagan's via Congewai Valley (Info)

Landy

I have a mate that lives in the Cessnock area, and we did that exact trip together several years ago now. It was a pleasant but easy trip up the range. I made a goat of myself crossing the creek at the bottom but once hauled out and following the obvious path was through in a flash, then it was a pleasant drive up the hill.

My mate had checked with, I think the Rural Fire Service people and National Parks, and while he thinks the gate is still open, you might like to ring the authorities as above to double check.

Max

ps this is the NP contact info

Watagans National Park
Update:
Fires, closures, firebans
Contact the park office
Lake Munmorah
Phone: 02 4972 9000

Fax: 02 4972 9055

Street address: Blue Wren Drive, Munmorah State Conservation Area

Postal address: PO Box 8068, Summerland Point, 2259

As a local resident (sort of) been on the road now for 10 months & in WA. Last time I went up there (approx 18 months ago) the gate was closed but not locked. Be careful after rain as there is a major bog hole just after the gate!!!!!

CU down the road
Tony H
Hunter Valley

Thanks for the guidance provided Max & Tony

I spoke with the park ranger this morning (Jeff) and he confirmed that access is available the way I described from Congewai Road, and there isn’t actually a gate at Rope Road. Apparently there was one in the ‘forestry’ days.

He also mentioned that it is best not to use this route after heavy rain.

I’ll post a note after I go that way….

Cheers
The Landy

The locked gate most likely indicates PRIVATE land. Unsure about cessnock but landowner's pay a fee to have locked gate (this is the case were I am)
I know the gate you are talking about from 30 years ago. From memory PRIVATE land.
You need to check this a lot more.

I live in a different area now and the owners pay a considerable fee to council to have locked gates. I live here in order to put straight people who have a ? map ! tresspassers. If tresspassers are not sufficient humble their vehicle can be inpounded and a long walk back to a phone.

Take that locked gate seriously and get permission from the person in charge of the key!
There is also insurance issues on private property and private roads.

My son has just returned (about an hour ago) from a ride with a mate and advises that there is an unlocked gate, giving access into the Watagans. All good, according to him.

Jack