Trail summary
Hike overview
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.
Tips
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.
Map and GPX file
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.
Getting there
Closest towns to this walk: Dorrigo, Bellingen, Thora, Ebor, Urunga
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.
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.
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.
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.
Suggest an edit
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.
Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in Dorrigo National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
Let someone know
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 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.
Explore safe
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
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.