Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Discover the wonders of Warrumbungle National Park in New South Wales, a short distance from the quaint town of Coonabarabran. The 14.5km Pincham Carpark Circuit is a Grade 4 hike that promises remarkable views of a rugged volcanic landscape, iconic formations like Belougery Spire, and a wildflower display in spring. This challenging yet rewarding trail provides close encounters with wildlife, including wedge-tailed eagles and peregrine falcons, making it a haven for nature lovers and bushwalkers.

Length:

14.5km

Duration:

5.5 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 968m

Min elevation: 507m

Total Ascent: 738m

Start: Pincham Carpark

End: Pincham Carpark

Warrumbungle National Park

New South Wales

Nearby town: Coonabarabran

From state capital: 524km

Latitude: -31.296141924572037

Longitude: 148.99442422518263

Overview

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Hike overview

The Breadknife and Grand High Tops walk in Warrumbungle National Park is widely regarded as one of the best hikes in New South Wales, offering hikers a chance to experience the park’s dramatic volcanic landscape up close. This iconic trail is well known for its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife. The track starts by following Spirey Creek and then steadily climbs, providing close-up views of some of the park’s most famous rock formations, including Belougery Spire, Bress Peak, and Crater Bluff.

As you make your way up, you’ll pass the Balor Hut campground – a great spot for a rest and a picnic while soaking in one of the best panoramas in the state. The Grand High Tops lookout, perched at a lofty height, offers sweeping views of the ancient volcanic terrain below. From here, continue towards Western High Tops and Ogma Gap campground, with a detour past Dows Camp to take in the impressive sight of Bluff Mountain. To complete the 14.5km loop, follow the West Spirey track back to the Pincham carpark. If you prefer a shorter route, the 12.5km return option via Dagda Shortcut offers a quicker way back to the carpark.

In spring, this walk is a real treat for nature lovers, with vibrant wildflowers such as purple hoveas, white daisies, yellow wattles, and orange pea flowers in full bloom. It’s also a prime spot for birdwatchers – keep an eye out for wedge-tailed eagles soaring above the cliffs and listen for the screech of peregrine falcons as they fly by. Whether you're drawn to the striking rock formations or the rich birdlife, the Breadknife and Grand High Tops walk is a must-do for anyone exploring Warrumbungle National Park.

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Walk map and GPX file
Breadknife & Grand High Tops Walk (14.5km)

Total distance: 13384 m
Max elevation: 968 m
Min elevation: 507 m
Total climbing: 738 m
Total descent: -738 m

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Warrumbungle National Park.

Breadknife and Grand High Tops walk is in the Pincham carpark precinct of Warrumbungle National Park. To get there from Coonabarabran, follow John Renshaw Parkway into Warrumbungle National ParkTurn left into Pincham Road approximately 100m past the Visitor Centre turnoff and continue to the end. Park entry points Camp Pincham carpark See on map Parking Parking is available at Camp Pincham carpark.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Baradine, Binnaway, Coolah, Coonabarabran, Dunedoo, Gilgandra, Gulargambone, Mendooran

About the region

Millions of years ago, a mighty shield volcano sculpted the jagged peaks of Warrumbungle National Park. Today, these ancient formations rise majestically from eucalyptus-dotted plains, creating a landscape unlike any other in New South Wales.

As Australia's first Dark Sky Park, Warrumbungle boasts pristine skies untouched by light pollution. Here, the Milky Way stretches across the heavens, revealing a dazzling display of stars, planets, and distant galaxies. Whether you're a seasoned astronomer or a curious beginner, Warrumbungle offers unforgettable stargazing experiences.

Lace up your boots and explore a network of walking tracks. Hike the iconic Breadknife and Grand High Tops Walk for breathtaking close-up views of the park's most recognizable rock formations. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for camping, birdwatching, and capturing stunning photographs of the dramatic scenery.

While wildfires impacted the park in 2013, the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has meticulously restored walking tracks, campgrounds, and visitor facilities. Start your adventure at the Warrumbungle Visitor Centre, where you can gather park information or purchase a star chart to navigate the night sky.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Warrumbungle National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Track grade

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.

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.

Let someone know

Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure

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Breadknife & Grand High Tops Walk (14.5km)

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Acknowledgement of Country

Breadknife & grand high tops walk (14. 5km)

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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Breadknife & Grand High Tops Walk (14.5km)