Palona Cave

Rain‑fed cave with calcite drips and a hidden waterfall

InsideRoyal National Park

Overview

Palona Cave is a short, rewarding detour off Lady Carrington Drive: a sandstone overhang decorated with calcite columns and drips, formed by mineral‑rich water depositing tufa/travertine over time. It feels tucked away in rainforest and, just beyond, a small cascade appears on Palona Brook—best after decent rainfall.

The Walk

Most people start at the Forest Path/Lady Carrington Drive trailhead on Sir Bertram Stevens Drive. Stroll about 1.8–2 km south on the wide, easy Lady Carrington Drive through lush coachwood‑palm rainforest, then watch for a small “Limestone Cave” sign—the turnoff can be subtle. From there, a narrower, rougher foot track climbs for roughly 700–800 m to the cave and waterfall. The return trip is about 5–5.3 km and typically takes 1.5–2 hours. There’s also a much longer day out if you follow Lady Carrington Drive from Audley instead.

What Makes It Special

Unlike most sandstone shelters, the cave sports real “decorations”: creamy calcite columns, stalactite‑like drips, and mossy textures from the constant seep. Please don’t touch—these features are fragile and form very slowly. The nearby fall is a lovely bonus when flowing.

Wildlife and Setting

The valley is classic Royal National Park rainforest—expect cabbage tree palms, coachwood, and mossy boulders. Keep an eye out for birdlife (often lyrebirds) and the occasional wallaby along Lady Carrington Drive. Enjoy the serenity and leave no trace.

Conditions and Practicalities

There are no toilets or drinking water on the side track, and facilities along Lady Carrington Drive are limited. The last section to the cave can be overgrown or slippery, and leeches are common in wet weather. Dogs aren’t permitted. A vehicle entry fee is usually required ($12 per day, or use an annual NSW Parks pass). If you’re on public transport, a park shuttle from Sutherland Station can drop you near the trailhead.

Add‑Ons

If you want more rainforest time, bolt on the 4.4–4.5 km Forest Path loop, which reconnects near the same trailhead. Bola Creek picnic area is an easy pause on Lady Carrington Drive.

Current Alert (as of November 26, 2025)

After‑hours closures (sunset–sunrise, Monday–Thursday, excluding school holidays) are in place on parts of Royal National Park, including Lady Carrington Drive, through December 19, 2025, for a deer control program. Plan to visit in daylight and check official park alerts before you go.

Best Time to Visit

Go after rain if the waterfall is a priority, and stick to daylight hours during the temporary after‑hours closures. The cave is shaded, so harsh sun isn’t a concern—focus more on recent rainfall and track conditions.

Pros

Unusual calcite formations under a sandstone overhang
Pretty waterfall just beyond the cave after rain

Cons

No facilities on the side track
Final 700–800 m can be rough, slippery, and leechy when wet

Tips

Watch for the small “Limestone Cave” sign around 1.8–2 km along Lady Carrington Drive—it faces an odd direction and is easy to miss.
Expect a rougher, sometimes slippery final 700–800 m; sturdy shoes and insect repellent help when it’s wet.
Visit after decent rainfall if you want the waterfall flowing.
Combine the outing with the Forest Path loop to make a fuller rainforest day.
Until December 19, 2025, plan for daylight visits due to after‑hours closures; check park alerts.