Antarctic Beech Forest walking track is a 2.5km, grade 3 Circuit hike located in the Barrington Tops National Park, NSW. The hike should take approximately 1.5hrs to complete.

Summary

Step through a portal into the other-worldly charms of Antarctic Beech Forest walking track near Gloucester Tops in Barrington Tops National Park. You’ll wander the lush landscape of the prehistoric Gondwana era on this medium walk near Gloucester, offering some spectacular birdwatching and scenic views.
Forming part of Gloucester Tops circuit, this medium track leads through airy sub-alpine woodlands of snow gums, before entering the shaded world of cool, temperate rainforest. The dense canopy of Antarctic beech is high above, vibrant moss carpets the ground, and the sharp smell of humus fills the air. Tree ferns crowd the track leading to some delightful, mossy cascades.
Dipping between forests of beech and eucalypt, this section is a favourite haunt of the rufous scrub-bird, one of Australia’s rarest birds. Descending into a rocky gorge you’ll see wild white water crashing over dramatic black rocks. After a steep climb out, you’ll be ready to enjoy a bite at Gloucester Tops picnic area or Gloucester Falls picnic area.
Take a virtual tour of Antarctic Beech Forest walking track captured with Google Street View Trekker.

About the Region

Barrington Tops National Park in the North Coast and Country NSW regions
Barrington Tops National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

Getting There

Antarctic Beech Forest walking track starts at Antarctic Beech Forest carpark in the Gloucester Tops precinct of Barrington Tops National Park. To get there:From Bucketts Way, between Gloucester and Stroud.Turn into Gloucester Tops Road and continue to Gloucester RiverContinue past the river for approximately 40 minutesTake the left fork to Antarctic Beech Forest carpark Road quality Unsealed roads Vehicle access 2WD vehicles Weather restrictions All weather Parking Parking is available opposite the track head, at Antarctic Beech Forest carpark.

Tips

Check the weather before you set out as the road to Gloucester River and Gloucester Tops may be inaccessible during wet weather.
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to birdwatch.

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.