Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience the beauty of New South Wales on the Dawson River walking track, a moderate 1.5km circuit hike starting from Brimbin picnic area. This historic trail, once part of the old Port Macquarie bullock route, offers a unique chance to see rare flora like the narrow-leaved red gum and a variety of local bird species, including raptors, waterbirds, and seabirds. Don't forget your binoculars to spot koalas and bird nests in the mangroves!

Length:

1.5km

Duration:

45 mins

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 0m

Min elevation: 0m

Total Ascent: 0m

Start: 420 Old Port Macquarie Rd

End: 420 Old Port Macquarie Rd

Brimbin Nature Reserve

New South Wales

Nearby town: Brimbin

From state capital: 322km

Latitude: -31.84354733

Longitude: 152.4565998

Overview

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Hike overview

Dawson River walking track is a great hike that starts at Brimbin picnic area. Before or after your picnic lunch, take a stroll on this picturesque walking track that follows the line of Dawson River before joining up with the historic bullock route of Old Port Macquarie Road. This road is an important part of New South Wales' colonial heritage.
While walking this track, see if you can find a narrow-leaved red gum, which rarely grows this far north. If you're very lucky, you may even see a koala, as this gum provides important food and habitat to this animal. You'll also pass grey myrtle, swamp oak, water gum and two types of mangrove: grey and river. Take along binoculars and see if you can spot birds as well as nests in the mangroves. Brimbin is home to raptors, waterbirds and woodland birds. Overhead, you may also see seabirds. This walking track provides a great opportunity for birdwatching.

Tips

The weather in the area can be extreme and unpredictable, so please ensure you're well-prepared for your visit.
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to birdwatch

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.

Gallery

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Walk map and GPX file
Dawson River Walking Track (1.5km)

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Brimbin Nature Reserve.

On entering Brimbin Nature Reserve, begin Dawson River walking track from Brimbin picnic area. Parking Parking is available at Brimbin picnic area.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Alstonville, Clunes, Dunoon, Goonellabah, Lismore, Nimbin, Wollongbar

About the region

Brimbin Nature Reserve in the North Coast region
Brimbin Nature Reserve is always open but may have to close at times due to flood events, poor weather or fire danger.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Brimbin Nature Reserve? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

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.

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
Dawson River Walking Track (1.5km)

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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
Dawson River Walking Track (1.5km)