Trail summary
Hike overview
The Breadknife and Grand High Tops walk in Warrumbungle National Park is widely regarded as one of the best hikes in New South Wales, offering hikers a chance to experience the park’s dramatic volcanic landscape up close. This iconic trail is well known for its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife. The track starts by following Spirey Creek and then steadily climbs, providing close-up views of some of the park’s most famous rock formations, including Belougery Spire, Bress Peak, and Crater Bluff.
As you make your way up, you’ll pass the Balor Hut campground – a great spot for a rest and a picnic while soaking in one of the best panoramas in the state. The Grand High Tops lookout, perched at a lofty height, offers sweeping views of the ancient volcanic terrain below. From here, continue towards Western High Tops and Ogma Gap campground, with a detour past Dows Camp to take in the impressive sight of Bluff Mountain. To complete the 14.5km loop, follow the West Spirey track back to the Pincham carpark. If you prefer a shorter route, the 12.5km return option via Dagda Shortcut offers a quicker way back to the carpark.
In spring, this walk is a real treat for nature lovers, with vibrant wildflowers such as purple hoveas, white daisies, yellow wattles, and orange pea flowers in full bloom. It’s also a prime spot for birdwatchers – keep an eye out for wedge-tailed eagles soaring above the cliffs and listen for the screech of peregrine falcons as they fly by. Whether you're drawn to the striking rock formations or the rich birdlife, the Breadknife and Grand High Tops walk is a must-do for anyone exploring Warrumbungle National Park.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 968 m
Min elevation: 507 m
Total climbing: 738 m
Total descent: -738 m
Getting there
Closest towns to this walk: Coonabarabran, Binnaway, Baradine, Gulargambone, Mendooran
Breadknife and Grand High Tops walk is in the Pincham carpark precinct of Warrumbungle National Park. To get there from Coonabarabran, follow John Renshaw Parkway into Warrumbungle National ParkTurn left into Pincham Road approximately 100m past the Visitor Centre turnoff and continue to the end. Park entry points Camp Pincham carpark See on map Parking Parking is available at Camp Pincham carpark.
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
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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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.