Get ready for a challenging yet rewarding adventure with the Bluff Mountain Walking Track in Warrumbungle National Park. This 17km, grade 4 hike is a true test for experienced bushwalkers, offering unparalleled views of the park's ancient volcanic landscape.
The journey begins and ends at Pincham carpark. Start by following Pincham Trail alongside Spirey Creek. As you pass Spirey View lookout, prepare for a steep climb that will soon unveil breathtaking panoramas of the iconic Breadknife and Belougery Spire.
Near Balor Hut campground, you'll have a choice. Take the Grand High Tops trail to its summit for even more stunning vistas of the Breadknife, or opt for the Dagda Shortcut for a faster route towards Bluff Mountain's peak.
Dows Camp serves as a perfect spot to catch your breath and admire the imposing cliff face of Bluff Mountain before your final ascent. The initial straight path transforms into a zigzagging route, becoming less defined as you traverse rocky outcrops and pockets of stunted trees and big grass trees. Keep your eyes peeled for birds of prey soaring on the air currents above the cliff.
Finally, you'll reach the rocky summit of Bluff Mountain. Here, savor a well-deserved lunch while you soak in the awe-inspiring views. Take in Mount Exmouth, Tonduron Spire, and the thick lava flows of Mount Naman. This is also the park's only vantage point offering a glimpse of the mysterious Bluff Pyramid and the vastness of the western plains.
When it's time to descend, retrace your steps back to the main track. Pass Ogma Gap campground before following the West Spirey Creek track back to Pincham carpark, where your adventure began.
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.
- Bluff Mountain walking track is very long with steep sections and some loose rock. You’ll need a high level of fitness.
- This challenging hike suits walkers with a sense of adventure who like to tackle steep and technical terrain
- Bring at least 2L of water and some snacks with you on this strenuous hike. Drinking water is not available and water is scarce in this park.
- To break up the walk you can camp overnight at Balor Hut or Dows campgrounds which are located along this route.
- Visit Warrumbungle National Park Visitor Centre before you set out to register your name for the walk, pick up a free trail map and get detailed route information and advice.
Total distance: 15873 m
Max elevation: 1186 m
Min elevation: 507 m
Total climbing: 984 m
Total descent: -984 m
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Bluff Mountain Walking Track is conveniently located within Warrumbungle National Park, a short drive from the town of Coonabarabran. Accessible by car throughout the year, the well-maintained sealed roads make the journey easy. Simply follow John Renshaw Parkway into the park and look for the turnoff to Pincham Road around 100 meters past the visitor center. Ample parking awaits you at Pincham carpark, where your adventure begins.
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Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
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.
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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.
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
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
Trail changed? New features discovered? Has the route changed? Trail permanently closed? Help fellow hikers by suggesting edits! Click above to update route descriptions, GPX file, trail features (like boardwalks), or access conditions (like parking availability). Help me keep the trails info fresh!
