Barrington Tops walks and hikes

Discover ancient rainforest trails, enchanting waterfalls and breathtaking lookouts. The incredible World Heritage-listed Barrington Tops National Park, part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia area and the largest stands of subtropical rainforest in the world, is home to a spectacular network of bushwalks.

Scenic walks and cycling trails

You will find short and easy walks as well as overnight hikes. There are also many scenic picnic grounds and cycling trails ideal for day-trippers. Notable walks include:

• Gloucester Tops circuit – 8km loop through ancient rainforest from Gloucester picnic area
• Aeroplane Hill – 6km track through sub-alpine country between Scone and Gloucester
• Gloucester River – 2.5km loop near the Gloucester River campground and picnic area
• Antarctic Beech Forest – 2.5km loop with rainforest, cascades and birdwatching
• Blue Gum Loop Trail – 3.5km riverside walk through untouched forest near Dungog
• Careys Peak Walking Track – 14km spectacular high country track between Scone and Gloucester

Camping under the stars

For a challenging hike, the Corker trail is 20km return from Lagoon Pinch to Careys Peak, winding through woodlands, rainforest and Antarctic beech. It’s a high altitude adventure through steep, rugged bushland. Pitch a tent at the Wombat Creek campground on the way and spend a night under the stars.

Rising from near sea level to more than 1,500 metres, the park is also an irreplaceable wonder of nature and protects Aboriginal cultural heritage sites, including sacred ceremonial places. The Rocky Crossing walking track offers stunning views of temperate rainforest and a gorgeous waterfall.

Spectacular lookouts and guided tours

Some of the best lookouts are at Careys Peak and Devils Hole. A campground and picnic area is near the Devils Hole lookout. Another place to pitch a tent is the remote Gummi Falls campground, which is near mountain bike trails and great fishing spots. You’ll need a 4WD vehicle to access Gummi Falls.

Guided tours are also available in the national park. Barrington Outdoor Adventures in Gloucester offers a day tour of the region’s extraordinary natural beauty or a thrilling kayaking tour on the Barrington River rapids. Before beginning your outdoor adventure, please read these bushwalking safety tips carefully.

Getting there and where to stay

This magnificent region is near the Hunter Valley and the Upper Hunter. It’s only a few hours’ drive north from Sydney and a quick trip from Newcastle and Port Stephens. Trains stop at Paterson, Dungog and Gloucester. You can also fly into Newcastle Airport for the 50-minute drive to Dungog.

Accommodation options range from camping and caravanning to country pubs, cottages, farm stays, motels and secluded retreats. The scenic drive between Dungog in the south and Gloucester in the north is only an hour. Both charming towns are great bases for exploring the region’s natural beauty.