Trail Fast Facts
Aeroplane Hill walking track is a 12km, grade 4 hike located in Barrington Tops National Park, New South Wales. The hike should take around 4-5 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
The Aeroplane Hill walking track in Barrington Tops National Park, located between Scone and Gloucester, winds through the sub-alpine region offering scenic views, diverse wildlife, and stunning wetlands. This high country track climbs to an elevation of 1,500 metres, showcasing the unique beauty of the Barrington Tops plateau. Beginning at Junction Pools campground, the trail traverses scenic woodlands and wetlands before reaching the spectacular Careys Peak lookout. Here, panoramic views stretch towards the distant coast.
As you cross the Barrington River, the landscape transforms into snow gum woodlands dotted with snow grass. Approaching Black Swamp campground, the vegetation changes yet again, giving way to fields of sedges. This one-of-a-kind sub-alpine environment provides a haven for rare and threatened plants and animals. Some species, like the broad-toothed rat and several rare ground orchids, are found nowhere else in the world.
Wombat Creek campground, accessible only by foot, offers an idyllic place to camp under a blanket of stars. Alternatively, you can retrace your steps back to the starting point.
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.
Tips
- Check the weather or contact NPWS Gloucester area office on (02) 6538 5300 before you set out. Access via Barrington trail to Aeroplane Hill walking track, may be closed at other times of year due to snow, ice and rain.
- Weather can change quickly and dramatically in the plateau region, so please ensure you arrive well-prepared.
- If you're bushwalking in this park, it's a good idea to bring a topographic map, compass and GPS.
- A water-based mould (Phytophthora cinnamomi) is prevalent in this area. The mould attacks the roots of plants causing them to rot, causing a dieback of trees and plants. Efforts are in place to contain the area of contamination north of Black Swamp. Assist the long-term containment of the mould by cleaning your shoes before and after entering this region.
- A current NSW recreational fishing licence is required when fishing in all waters
- It's a good idea to put sunscreen on before you set out and remember to take a hat and plenty of water
- Remember to take your binoculars if you want to birdwatch
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 1553 m
Min elevation: 1438 m
Total climbing: 358 m
Total descent: -358 m
Trailhead
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Getting there
Accessing the Aeroplane Hill walking track requires reaching Junction Pools campground first. Located within the Barrington Tops precinct of Barrington Tops National Park, the campground is accessible via two routes depending on your starting point.
For those travelling from Gloucester, take Thunderbolts Way which transitions into Scone Road and eventually Barrington Tops Forest Road. Look for the Barrington Trail picnic area on your left after Devils Hole and turn left onto Barrington Trail. Follow this trail for roughly 12.5km until you reach Junction Pools campground.
If departing from Scone, head out on Hunter Road. Turn right onto Moonan Brook Road followed by a left turn onto Barrington Tops Forest Road. Approximately 1km past Polblue, you'll find Barrington Trail on your right. Take this trail for about 12.5km to Junction Pools campground. Remember, Barrington Trail is only open to vehicles between October 1st and May 31st, and even during this period, closures due to weather can occur. Always check for current alerts before setting off. Luckily, parking is available at Junction Pools campground itself.
Photo gallery
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
About the region
The Barrington Tops National Park offers a diverse range of experiences for every visitor. Immerse yourself in the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests, teeming with ancient walking trails, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking lookouts. Explore the park's extensive network of walking tracks, catering to all levels, from gentle strolls to challenging overnight hikes. Scenic picnic areas and cycling trails provide perfect options for day trips.
Carved by ancient volcanic flows, the park boasts one of mainland Australia's largest temperate rainforests. Rising from near sea level to over 1,500 metres, it encompasses diverse habitats teeming with birdlife and animals. Camping enthusiasts can find designated spots for an unforgettable evening under the stars.
For those seeking adventure, options abound. Kayak across serene waters, challenge yourself with abseiling, or explore the terrain on a mountain bike. At the foothills, Chichester State Forest offers stunning scenery along the Allyn River, with campsites even welcoming your canine companions.
Beyond the park, discover the charming towns of Dungog and Gloucester. Gloucester, nicknamed the "basecamp for Barrington Tops," provides a welcoming gateway to your Gondwana adventures. Enjoy a refreshing dip in Ladies Well on a hot day, or venture further for hiking and picnicking opportunities in nearby Mount Royal National Park. Trout fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines in the Gloucester River between October and June.
Barrington Tops National Park, a magnificent region near the Hunter Valley and Upper Hunter, is easily accessible. Just a few hours' drive north of Sydney or a short trip from Newcastle and Port Stephens, this World Heritage wonder awaits exploration.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? 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
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.
Weather
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.