Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience an enjoyable hike on the Cathedral Rock track, a challenging 6km circuit near Barokee campground in the New England Tablelands. This Grade 5 trail offers panoramic views from the summit, navigable by 'rock-hopping' over 200 meters of stacked boulders. Traverse through sub-alpine woodland and a valley filled with manna gums. Ideal for sunrise or sunset treks, remember to pack a camera, raincoat, warm clothing, and a flask of coffee to celebrate at the peak.

Length:

6km

Duration:

3.5 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 1537m

Min elevation: 1380m

Total Ascent: 236m

Start: Barokee campground

End: Barokee campground

Cathedral Rock National Park

New South Wales

Nearby town: Armidale

From state capital: 562km

Latitude: -30.443396895087048

Longitude: 152.25115299732178

Overview

Map

Gallery

Weather

Similar

Region

2,771 views

Hike overview

The Cathedral Rock track, near Barokee campground, offers an exhilarating challenge and breathtaking panoramas across the New England Tablelands. Ascend to the summit and claim your natural throne, perched atop 200 meters of stacked boulders – a true ruler's view.

The track is easily accessed from Barokee campground. Follow the clockwise circuit through sub-alpine woodland until you reach the summit turnoff. Prepare for some serious "rock-hopping" – the next 400 meters involve clambering over boulders and navigating crevices.

On your return journey, the circuit winds through a protected valley teeming with manna gums. For an unforgettable experience, intrepid hikers can tackle the climb at sunrise or sunset, headlamps blazing. Don't forget to pack your camera to capture the stunning views, a raincoat and warm clothes for changing weather, and a celebratory flask of coffee to enjoy at the peak.

Tips

Please be aware that boulders along this walk will be slippery when wet
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to birdwatch

Gallery

Got some great shots from this hike? Upload your photos here to inspire others and show off the beauty of the trail!

Click to view form >>

Submitting your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You can be credited for your contributions, and you can request removal at any time.

Walk map and GPX file
Cathedral Rock Track (6km)

Total distance: 5522 m
Max elevation: 1537 m
Min elevation: 1380 m
Total climbing: 236 m
Total descent: -236 m

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Cathedral Rock National Park.

The adventure to Cathedral Rock kicks off at Barokee Campground, nestled comfortably within the heart of Cathedral Rock National Park. To get there, you’ll start your journey on Waterfall Way. Head west from Ebor for roughly 5 kilometers, keeping your eyes peeled for the turnoff onto Round Mountain Road. After taking this turn, follow the scenic yet narrow gravel road for 8 kilometers. Your destination, Barokee Campground, will be on your right-hand side.

Don’t forget, mountain weather can be unpredictable. It’s always a good idea to check the forecast before you set out. The road leading to Cathedral Rock can become boggy after rainfall, so a quick peek at the weather report can help you plan accordingly and ensure a smooth journey.

Once you arrive at Barokee Campground, you’ll be happy to find that parking is readily available.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Armidale, Dorrigo, Ebor, Glen Innes, Guyra, Wollomombi

About the region

Camp, walk, birdwatch and enjoy scenic views with great picnic spots at Cathedral Rock National Park, just east of Armidale and west of Dorrigo on the New England Tablelands.

Rock-hopping isn’t just for the wallaroos at Cathedral Rock National Park. Hike to the park’s main boulder piles of Woolpack Rocks and Cathedral Rock and scramble to their summits. Then enjoy the superb views across the wilderness landscape of dry eucalypt forest and granite outcrops. The park’s rock formations are particularly photogenic in late-afternoon light or mist.

Take short walks from the campgrounds, or do a long hike between them. For an exhilarating challenge, you can carry your pack for the 10.4km Barokee to Native Dog Creek walk, camp at the other end, and retrace your steps later.

Whether you’re visiting the park for a picnic lunch or camping for a few days, there are plenty of birdwatching opportunities. The screech of the glossy black cockatoo lets you know there’s a flock overhead. You may be fortunate enough to spot the endangered turquoise parrot, and remember to look out for the wedge-tailed eagle silently circling the granite tors.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Cathedral Rock National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Track grade

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.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.

Packing checklists

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.

Let someone know

Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure

Reviews
Cathedral Rock Track (6km)

Leave a Review. Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

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.

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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Tips

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Cathedral Rock Track (6km)