Mount Imlay national park

Known as Balawan to the local Aboriginal people, this 886m mountain is a towering sentry over the surrounding landscape. It is of particular scientific interest because of its largely undisturbed nature, the presence of several threatened plant species and its biogeographical similarity to Tasmanian peaks. The heavily forested national park covers an area of 3808 ha and is 30 kilometres south of Eden.

The Mount Imlay Summit Walking Track is a challenging 3 kilometre walk rises 600 metres through dry eucalyptus forests and grassy woodlands.  On a clear day, you can see all the way to Mallacoota in Victoria, and Narooma to the north. In spring, stop to admire the delicate beauty and bright colours of wildflowers like mountain speedwell. It’s also a great spot for birdwatching. Watch for yellow-tailed black cockatoos flying overhead and listen closely for lyrebirds as you’re walking up the mountain.

A number of threatened or biogeographically significant plant species occur in the park including Eucalyptus imlayensis; a rare species of eucalypt, endemic to Mount Imlay and classified as endangered..The park is rich in animal life, but many species are rarely seen due to their nocturnal nature. Bird life in the park includes lyrebirds, tree creepers and currawongs with wedge tailed eagles seen on the wing. Rainforest pockets occur in the sheltered gullies within the park. Towards the summit the vegetation is stunted due to the area’s shallow soils and exposure to the weather.

Some areas of this park were affected by fire in 2019/2020. You’ll notice some changes to the landscape, as well as signs of recovery. Be sure to check with NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for alerts and updates. You can also visit the Merimbula National Parks and Wildlife Office from Monday - Friday, or call them on 02 6495 5000.