Trail Fast Facts
Brooms Head to Illaroo is an 18km, grade 3 hike in Yuraygir National Park, New South Wales. This hike typically takes 7.5 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
If you love beach hiking then the moderate Brooms Head to Illaroo section of Yuraygir coastal walk is for you. Take in sweeping stretches of golden beaches and protected woodlands of paperbarks. There are scenic coastal views at the southern end of Brooms Head Beach which are ideal for whale watching and dolphin spotting. At low tide, explore Plover Island, which holds great cultural significance for the Yaegl People. Middens and artefacts have been discovered in the area and information about these can be found on the island. Sandon River, around the halfway lunch break mark, is the northernmost point of Solitary Islands Marine Park, which runs south for 75km to Muttonbird Island at Coffs Harbour. The small settlement of Sandon, on the south side of the river, is made up of only about 35 dwellings.
Track Grade
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.
Tips
The route is best walked north to south
For assistance crossing Sandon River, call 0427 220 368 well ahead of time.
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
Help fellow hikers navigate with confidence. Share your GPX or KML file for this trail and help build a more comprehensive resource with precise waypoints and elevation profiles. Your contribution will empower adventurers with details they need for a safer and more enjoyable experience. I meticulously verify every file using official maps and surveys, ensuring the highest level of accuracy and reliability. Submit your file now and become a trailblazer for your fellow outdoor enthusiasts.
Trail Location (trailhead)
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Getting there
To Poinsetia Crescent access. Brooms Head to Illaroo is in the central precinct of Yuraygir National Park. To get there:Turn off Pacific Highway at MacleanFollow the signs to Brooms Head and Sandon River Park entry points Poinsetia Crescent access See on map Parking Parking is available at Brooms Head, Sandon River and Illaroo campground.
Photo gallery
If you have any photos from this hike and are happy to share them, please upload your .jpg files here.
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.
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Explore Safe
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.
Let someone know
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.
Gear to consider
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
Suggest an edit
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!
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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.