Watch the ever-changing landscape as you tackle Blackbutt walking track in Dorrigo National Park. This challenging hike has a couple of steep climbs that will really get your heart racing. Winding through lush rainforest, along Endiandra Creek, it follows the escarpment offering breathtaking views towards Dorrigo plateau.
Don't forget your camera because you'll want to capture images of beautiful Callicoma and Casuarina Falls, as well as the majestic rainforest trees. Before or after your walk, enjoy the serenity of Never Never picnic area.
At the end of the walk, either return the same way or take the easier option and follow Dome Road back to the carpark. Round off your visit with a tasty treat at Dorrigo Rainforest Centre.
Take a virtual tour of Blackbutt walking track captured with Google Street View Trekker.
This area has high rainfall, so please ensure you're well-prepared for your visit.
There is limited mobile reception in this park
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to go bird watching
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.
Grade 4 (Hard) -
Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the
AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
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Gallery
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Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Dorrigo National Park.
To Dome Road. Blackbutt walking track starts at Never Never picnic area in Dorrigo National Park. To get there:Follow Dome Road from Waterfall Way (1km south of Dorrigo) to Dorrigo Rainforest Centre.Dome Road veers to the left at Dorrigo Rainforest Centre. Follow for 10km to Never Never picnic area.Alternatively, commence Blackbutt track from the small carpark 5.5km along Dome Road from Dorrigo Rainforest Centre. Park entry points Dome Road See on map Parking Parking is available at Never Never picnic area. The western trackhead offers only two or three parking spaces, but other off-street parking locations are available nearby.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
About the region
Dorrigo National Park in the North Coast region
Dorrigo National Park is open daily (except Christmas Day) 9am to 4.30pm but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.
9am to 4.30pm daily. Closed Christmas Day.
Find a place to stay
Wondering where to stay near this hike? Find accommodation close to the trailhead — hotels, cabins and campgrounds nearby. Click the button to view the interactive map.
Closest towns to this walk: Armidale, Bellingen, Coffs Harbour, Coramba, Dorrigo, Ebor, Glenreagh, Guyra, Thora, Urunga, Woolgoolga
Let someone know
Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Dorrigo National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
Packing checklists
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.