Western Ridge walk is a 6km, grade 5 hike located in Mutawintji National Park, New South Wales. The hike should take around 3.5 hours to complete.
Warning
There is No directional signage. The track is very steep, rough and has many obstacles. Recommended for experienced bushwalkers. If you're planning to watch the sunset on Western Ridge walking track, please take a torch with you.
Hike overview
Western Ridge walking track is a spectacular walk for fit bushwalkers. From the ridge you'll overlook the vast desert plains and the beautiful Bynguano Range. It's especially beautiful at sunset.
Also known as Sunset Ridge trail, it's a spectacular hike if you're into rugged scenery and enjoy a challenging walk. Very steep in sections, however the breathtaking scenic views in every direction make it well worth the effort. Time this walk in the afternoon for one of the most beautiful sunsets you're likely to experience.
Following the red markers as you climb the ridge, look for wedge tailed eagles and pink cockatoos. A birdwatching paradise, corellas and finches are often seen flitting through the mallee scrub.
As you clamber up, drink in the views all around you. From the vast western desert plains to the dramatic gorges and rich red ochres of the Byngnano Range to the east, you'll feel on top of the world. For more big sky views, try the Bynguano Range walking track.
Route and GPX file
Max elevation: 313 m
Min elevation: 204 m
Total climbing: 201 m
Total descent: -200 m
Tips
- In wet weather, access within the park maybe closed, and the public roads are susceptible to weather closures. Please check with the park office before you head out.
- If you're planning to watch the sunset on Western Ridge walk, please take a torch with you.
- Remember to take your binoculars if you want to bird watch.
- Mutawintji National Park is best visited during spring. Daytime weather is pleasant and the nights are not yet too cold.
- Toilets and picnic facilities are located at the Homestead Creek campground.
- There is No directional signage. The track is very steep, rough and has many obstacles. Recommended for experienced bushwalkers.
Trail location
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Getting there
On entering Mutawintji National Park, Western Ridge walk starts near Homestead Creek campground. Parking Parking is available at Homestead Creek campground.
Gallery
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About the region
The ancient landscape of Mutawintji National Park, north east of Broken Hill, is rich in Aboriginal history. Explore bushwalks and camp under the outback night sky. Visiting Mutawintji National Park in the NSW outback is a uniquely Australian experience. You'll find a ruggedly beautiful desert region showing evidence of continuous use by Aboriginal people for thousands of years. Dominated by the Bynguano Ranges, whose vibrant red colour dramatically captures changes in the light, this outback park is home to the famous hand stencil art of local Aboriginal communities as well as many other important cultural and historic sites.
Similar trails nearby
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
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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.
1 Review on “Western Ridge Walk (6km)”
This is a spectacular walk that does require a level of fitness and a bit of navigation confidence as markers are non existent. From the ridge you’ll overlook the vast desert plains and the beautiful Bynguano Range. It’s especially beautiful at sunset. Loved it.
Cheers Grant, sounds like one to add to my list. I see there are other challenging (grade 5) hikes in the same area. Could be a good spot to camp and explore.
https://www.trailhiking.com.au/hikes/region/mutawintji-national-park/