If you hanker for the rugged beauty of wild and remote places, then Barraba track in Mount Kaputar National Park, near Narrabri, will definitely get your heart pumping. Stretching from Kaputar plateau to the secluded eastern boundary, this steep track boasts spell-binding clifftop views. There's no reward without effort, and this limited access track will challenge experienced mountain bikers and walkers alike.
Ascending the rocky track, stringybarks and blackbutts give way to majestic snow and mountain gums. You'll pass lush ferns and grass trees before arriving at the summit, where you'll glimpse the dramatic volcanic landscape of Mount Dowe and Lindsay Rock Tops, through the trees.
If you're cycling or walking, enjoy a hearty picnic lunch, before heading back down. If driving, round off your trip with a visit to picturesque Horton Falls.
4WD use of this track requires a key and permit with very specific conditions which may effect journey time, routes and availability.
This track is closed during wet weather. Please check the park alerts for this track's status before setting out on your journey.
The weather in the area can be extreme and unpredictable, so please ensure you're well-prepared for your visit.
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to go birdwatching
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.
Looks like I don’t have a GPX file for this trail yet. If you have one you’d be willing to share, please email it to me so we can help other hikers have a safer, easier time out there. I’ll double-check each file to make sure it aligns with official tracks and topo maps before adding it to this hike. Thanks so much for helping build an even better hiking resource.
To Barraba trackhead. Barraba track is in the Kaputar plateau precinct of Mount Kaputar National Park. Please also note vehicle access to Barraba track is by permit and keys only. A $10 fee and $40 refundable deposit is payable by cash in advance. They are available from Barraba Café. To get there:From Narrabri:Take Old Gunnedah Road, and turn left onto Kaputar Road.Travel 27km to the park entrance, and follow the road up the mountain. Please be aware, it's a very steep, narrow and winding road.At the T-junction, turn right and drive 250m.The gate to Barrabra track will be on your left. Please ensure your vehicle doesn't block the gateway.From Barrabra:Travel west on Trevallyn Road, and turn left onto Mount Lindsay Road.Continue left on Mount Lindsay Road as it becomes an unsealed track to the park boundary. Park entry points Barraba trackhead See on map Road quality Barraba track is 4WD accessible only. Check the weather before you set out as the road to Barraba track can become boggy when it rains. Parking Parking is available near Barraba track.
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.
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the
AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
With camping, cycling, walking, horse riding and bird watching waiting for you on this scenic mountain range, Mount Kaputar is a fantastic wilderness escape in NSW. Be awed by towering forests, breathtaking rock formations and stunning scenery at Mount Kaputar National Park. Roughly 1 hour's drive from Narrabri in northern NSW, Mount Kaputar is an explorer's paradise.
Take in the views from the park's lookouts, have a relaxing picnic or barbecue, or stay overnight in a picturesque campground or cabin accommodation. Bring your binoculars to enjoy bird watching, or to search for possums and greater gliders after dark. Or for a more adventurous trip; walk one of the park's many tracks, or go for a mountain bike or horse ride through the spectacular landscape.
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
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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.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
