Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 717m
Min elevation: 507m
Total Ascent: 230m
Hike overview
The Fans Horizon walking track offers a brief but steep hike in Warrumbungle National Park, just outside Coonabarabran. This 3.6km, grade 3 walk is a perfect option for bushwalkers looking for a rewarding adventure without committing to a full-day trek. Despite its short length, the hike provides a fascinating glimpse into the park’s iconic volcanic landscape, featuring dramatic rock spires and domes that make the Warrumbungles so unique.
Starting at Pincham carpark, which is conveniently located near Camp Pincham and the Warrumbungle Visitor Centre, the track quickly begins its steep ascent. The trail winds to the right and climbs through a forest of eucalypts, gaining elevation as it makes its way up the mountain. After 1.8km and more than 1000 steps, the path opens out to a stunning lookout atop the sandstone cliffs of Balgatan Mountain. The views from here are truly spectacular, offering a panoramic look at some of the park’s most famous landmarks, including the Breadknife, Belougery Spire, and Crater Bluff. It's the perfect spot to pause, catch your breath, and take in the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
The return journey follows the same track back to Pincham carpark, passing through more natural bushland and sandstone outcrops. As you make your way down, keep an eye on the ground for lizards darting between rocks, and look up to spot crimson rosellas, yellow robins, or bronzewings flitting through the trees. For those visiting in spring, the track comes alive with wildflowers, including flannel flowers, native indigo, blue trumpets, and orchids, adding an extra touch of colour and life to the hike.
Though short, the Fans Horizon walking track offers an excellent introduction to the beauty of the Warrumbungle National Park. If you find yourself wanting to linger a little longer, consider staying at one of the nearby campsites, such as Camp Pincham, Camp Wambelong, or Camp Blackman, and enjoy a night under the stars.
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.
Walk map and GPX file
Max elevation: 717 m
Min elevation: 507 m
Total climbing: 230 m
Total descent: -230 m
Content use
Please don’t copy GPX files or content from this site to AllTrails or other platforms. Each trail has been personally mapped, documented, and refined to support Australia’s bushwalking and hiking community. While some details come from land managers, every listing reflects significant personal effort. This is a free, community-driven initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.
Gallery
Got any photos from this hike? Your photos can help others plan. Share shots from along the trail so fellow hikers know what to expect.
Click to add your photos >>
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Warrumbungle National Park.
The Fans Horizon walk is conveniently located within Warrumbungle National Park, a short drive from the town of Coonabarabran. Accessible by car throughout the year, the well-maintained sealed roads make the journey easy. Simply follow John Renshaw Parkway into the park and look for the turnoff to Pincham Road around 100 meters past the visitor center. Ample parking awaits you at Pincham carpark, where your adventure begins.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
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.
Find a place to stay
Wondering where to stay near this hike? Find accommodation close to the trailhead — hotels, cabins and campgrounds nearby. Click the button to view the interactive map.
Closest towns to this walk: Baradine, Binnaway, Coolah, Coonabarabran, Dunedoo, Gilgandra, Gulargambone, Mendooran
Let someone know
Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Warrumbungle National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
Suggest an edit
Notice something different about this trail? Whether it’s a new feature, a route change, or a closure, share your update so we can keep our info accurate and helpful for fellow hikers.
Click to suggest edits >>
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.
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.






