The Pine Creek Paddle Route is a stunning canoeing area located in Bundagen, specifically in Bongil Bongil National Park near Coffs Harbour. This adventurous route is perfect for experienced canoeists, kayakers, and stand-up paddleboarders who are looking to explore the beauty of pristine Pine Creek, a wildlife haven in the national park.
Access to the Pine Creek Paddle Route is available from Bongil Bongil National Park in the North Coast region. The route is located about 10 kilometres one-way, and it is recommended to allocate approximately 3–4 hours to complete the journey. The paddle is graded as medium difficulty and is best suited for fit and experienced paddlers who can rely on their own skills and knowledge.
Before embarking on the Pine Creek Paddle Route, it is important to come prepared. Visitors should bring essential items such as a hat, sunscreen, snacks, drinking water, suitable clothing, a first aid kit, and a personal locator beacon for safety purposes. It should be noted that this route can be challenging, so it's crucial to be experienced and self-reliant. Paddlers are advised to paddle at high tide on the outgoing tide to avoid obstacles, such as fallen tree branches.
The Pine Creek Paddle Route starts at the riverbank at the end of Burma Road, accessible only by 4WD vehicles. Launching at high tide, paddlers will be able to immerse themselves in nature as they glide downstream towards Bonville Creek in Sawtell. Pine Creek is known for its significant coastal estuary, which serves as a sanctuary for rare plants and animals. As visitors paddle through the creek, they can admire the swampy casuarina and paperbark forests, featuring hoop pines that lend the creek its name, along with staghorn and elkhorn ferns.
Paddling downstream, paddlers will encounter swamp oak and tall riverbank eucalypt forests, where they may spot sleepy koalas nestled in the branches of tallowwoods. Along the way, they will also come across pockets of salt marsh, serving as a home for waterbirds and waders. The paddle concludes at the Bonville Creek boat ramp, located off Lyons Road in Sawtell. It is important to arrange for a pickup or car shuffle to get back to the starting point.
For those with extra energy and time, paddling upstream along Bonville Creek to Bongil picnic area is an option. This allows visitors to enjoy a picnic, fishing, or a more family-friendly paddle along Bonville Creek.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, visitors are encouraged to download the free NSW National Parks app, which provides maps and information about the park. Additionally, it is significant to respect the unique flora and fauna found in the area. The Pine Creek Paddle Route is a part of the Saving Our Species programme, an initiative aimed at conserving Australian animals and plants facing extinction.
For further information, including directions, safety tips, and practical details, visitors can refer to the NPWS office in Coffs Harbour. The office operates from Monday to Friday, between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm. They can be reached at 02 6652 0900 or npws. coffscoast@environment.
nsw. Gov. au. The office is located at 4/32 Edgar St, Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450.
Overall, the Pine Creek Paddle Route offers a thrilling adventure for experienced paddlers, showcasing the breathtaking beauty of Pine Creek and its surrounding environment. Visitors can expect to encounter rare wildlife and enjoy a peaceful and immersive experience in the heart of Bongil Bongil National Park.