Rainforest walking track is a 2km, grade 5 hike located in Hat Head National Park, New South Wales. The hike should take around 1.25 hours to complete.
Hike overview
A delightful stroll through rare coastal rainforest, this short track is a great way to introduce the kids to the joys of wildlife-spotting and birdwatching. Only a short drive from South West Rocks on the North Coast, Rainforest walking track links the northern and southern ends of Gap Beach. Even though there's no directional signage, you'll still find it an easy walk for all ages.
Meandering through scenic rainforest beyond the coastal dunes, you'll pass freshwater swamp areas dotted with paperbarks and swamp mahogany. Don't forget your binoculars, as the unique wetlands attract black swans, egrets and herons. Swamp wallabies, goannas, and red-necked wallabies often drop by for a drink.
Round off your day with a beachside picnic and a swim as you return along Gap Beach. The sweeping coastal views from nearby Captain Cook's lookout, accessed by car, are worth the detour.
Route and GPX file
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Trail location
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Getting there
To North gap carpark. Rainforest walking track is in the Smoky Cape precinct of Hat Head National Park. To get there:Take Gap Beach Road off Arakoon Road and follow the signs to North Gap carpark Park entry points North gap carpark See on map Parking Parking is available at North Gap carpark.
Visit NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for more information on this trail.
The longitude and latitude of the start and end points are approximately only and should not be used for navigation purposes. Please contact me if you know the correct coordinates.
Gallery
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About the region
Hat Head National Park on the mid-north coast of NSW near South West Rocks is a natural paradise. Explore the lighthouse, camp by the beach and go fishing and swimming. Hat Head is a national park in New South Wales, Australia, 461.7 kilometres via M1 and Pacific Highway/A1, northeast of Sydney. It lies within the Hastings-Macleay Important Bird Area.
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Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Let someone know
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
Gear to consider
My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.