Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Discover the stunning Apsley Gorge Rim Walking Track, a 2km, Grade 2 circuit located in Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, New South Wales, just a short drive from the town of Walcha. This easy, 45-minute stroll offers spectacular waterfall views and abundant birdlife, making it a must-visit for nature lovers. Starting and ending at the Apsley Gorge Campground, this scenic track is perfect for a quick nature immersion, followed by a relaxing picnic at the Apsley Falls picnic area.

Length:

2km

Duration:

45 mins

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 1034m

Min elevation: 964m

Total Ascent: 130m

Start: Apsley Gorge Campground

End: Apsley Gorge Campground

Oxley Wild Rivers National Park

New South Wales

Nearby town: Walcha

From state capital: 430km

Latitude: -31.053722136281067

Longitude: 151.76245987065298

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Hike overview

Craving a scenic escape without a lengthy commitment? Check out the Apsley Gorge Rim Walking Track in Oxley Wild Rivers National Park. This 1.2km (grade 2) loop takes approximately 45 minutes to complete and offers a delightful introduction to the park's natural beauty.

Despite its short distance, the Apsley Gorge Rim Walking Track packs a punch in terms of scenic rewards. As you navigate the trail, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of waterfalls cascading down rugged ravines – a true testament to the dramatic landscape of the Northern Tablelands.

The Apsley Gorge Rim Walking Track is a haven for wildlife and birdwatching enthusiasts. Keep your eyes peeled for brush-tailed rock wallabies perched on the gorge rim, and gaze upwards for a chance to spot a majestic wedge-tailed eagle soaring on thermals or even a peregrine falcon nesting on the distant rocky outcrops.

After your invigorating walk, head back to the Apsley Falls picnic area for a well-deserved lunch break. If you have more time to explore, consider staying overnight at the Apsley Falls campground, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the area.

Visit NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for more information on this trail.

Track grade

Grade 2 (Easy) - A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.

Walk map and GPX file
Apsley Gorge Rim Walking Track (2km)

Total distance: 1907 m
Max elevation: 1034 m
Min elevation: 964 m
Total climbing: 130 m
Total descent: -129 m

Gallery

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Oxley Wild Rivers National Park.

The Apsley Gorge Rim Walking Track is conveniently located within the Apsley River precinct of Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, making it easily accessible for travelers along the Oxley Highway.

You can begin the walk directly from either the Apsley Gorge Campground or Picnic Area. Whichever option you choose, follow the Oxley Highway from Walcha or Port Macquarie and keep an eye out for signs directing you to your chosen starting point.

Parking is available in a designated bitumen carpark at the Apsley Falls picnic area, including an accessible parking space.

Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

Immerse Yourself in Wild Beauty: Oxley Wild Rivers National Park. Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, a World Heritage-listed Gondwana rainforest sanctuary near Armidale, stuns visitors with its dramatic gorges, magnificent waterfalls, and rare dry rainforests. Explore scenic drives along the Waterfall Way, or delve deeper with multi-day hikes like the Green Gully walk, offering overnight stays in heritage-listed stockman's huts. For a touch of luxury, stay at East Kunderang Homestead.

Camping, walking, paddling, picnicking, cycling, horse riding – Oxley Wild Rivers National Park caters to every outdoor enthusiast. Hike through diverse landscapes – wet and dry eucalypt forests, grassy woodlands, and heathlands. Keep an eye out for native flora like olive trees, lacebarks, and towering stinging trees.

Dramatic ridges, towering rock formations, and cascading waterfalls create a breathtaking backdrop for your exploration. Gaze upon the majestic Wollomombi Falls, the highest in New South Wales, or spot a wedge-tailed eagle soaring on the thermals.

Make the most of your Oxley Wild Rivers National Park adventure by checking the park website for current conditions, permits, and specific activity details.

Find a place to stay

Find Accommodation

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, Bendemeer, Dorrigo, Ebor, Gloucester, Guyra, Tamworth, Uralla, Walcha

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 Oxley Wild Rivers National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

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.

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Apsley Gorge Rim Walking Track (2km)

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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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Track grade

Walk map and GPX file
Apsley Gorge Rim Walking Track (2km)