The Budds Mare to Riverside walking track in Oxley Wild Rivers National Park offers a challenging 6km (grade 5) adventure through the heart of the World Heritage-listed Macleay wilderness. This track is perfect for those seeking an enjoyable journey that takes roughly 4 hours to complete.
The trail begins with heathlands and tall gums, offering glimpses of vibrant crimson rosellas and elusive brush turkeys. As you descend steeply, the landscape transforms. Eucalypts give way to a cool, shaded canopy formed by sassafras and coachwood trees. This transition marks your entrance into the ancient rainforest, a haven for diverse wildlife.
The moist and cool environment of the rainforest is teeming with life. Keep your eyes peeled for the brightly colored wompoo fruit dove or the distinctive call of the noisy pitta. Watch your step as you clamber down mossy rocks, taking a moment to admire the beautiful rock orchids and colorful fungi clinging to the trees.
Upon reaching your destination, Riverside campground, reward yourself with a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Apsley River. Relax under the shade of the she-oaks as you contemplate your adventure. Here, you have two choices: either take a break and wait for pickup, or, if you're still yearning for a challenge, return the same way you came.
- If organising a car pick up from Riverside picnic area, access is for high clearance, low range 4WD vehicles (no SUVs). There's a gate at the park entrance which can be unlocked by an access code. Access codes will be provided in your booking confirmation email.
- Book online or call the National Parks Contact Centre on 1300 072 757.
- Remember to take your binoculars if you want to bird watch.
Closest towns to this walk: Walcha, Armidale, Uralla, Guyra, Dorrigo
Riverside Campground is in Macleay Gorge precinct of Oxley Wild Rivers National Park. To get there follow Moona Plains Road from Walcha for 50kms. Road quality Check the weather before you set out as the road to Budds Mare campground can become boggy when it rains. Parking Parking is available at Budds Mare campground.
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Grade 5 (Difficult) - Walks for the Most Experienced: Grade 5 represents the most challenging walking tracks on the
AWTGS. These are only recommended for very experienced and fit walkers with specialised skills, including navigation and emergency first aid. Tracks are likely to be very rough, very steep, and unmarked. Walks may be more than 20 kilometers. These challenging walks demand a high level of fitness and experience to navigate difficult terrain, significant elevation changes, and potentially unformed paths.
Immerse Yourself in Wild Beauty: Oxley Wild Rivers National Park. Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, a World Heritage-listed Gondwana rainforest sanctuary near Armidale, stuns visitors with its dramatic gorges, magnificent waterfalls, and rare dry rainforests. Explore scenic drives along the Waterfall Way, or delve deeper with multi-day hikes like the Green Gully walk, offering overnight stays in heritage-listed stockman's huts. For a touch of luxury, stay at East Kunderang Homestead.
Camping, walking, paddling, picnicking, cycling, horse riding – Oxley Wild Rivers National Park caters to every outdoor enthusiast. Hike through diverse landscapes – wet and dry eucalypt forests, grassy woodlands, and heathlands. Keep an eye out for native flora like olive trees, lacebarks, and towering stinging trees.
Dramatic ridges, towering rock formations, and cascading waterfalls create a breathtaking backdrop for your exploration. Gaze upon the majestic Wollomombi Falls, the highest in New South Wales, or spot a wedge-tailed eagle soaring on the thermals.
Make the most of your Oxley Wild Rivers National Park adventure by checking the park website for current conditions, permits, and specific activity details.
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
