Within the mountainous Northern Tablelands, high above Clarence River Valley, a very special track links Gibraltar Range and Washpool National Parks. Gibraltar-Washpool World Heritage walk passes through dramatic and ever-changing natural environments with numerous side track options for further exploration.
Dry eucalypt forests, set amidst ridges and granite tors, are surrounded by sub-alpine swamp. Lush rainforests hold the largest tract of coachwood trees in the world. Waterfalls plummet from a lacework of streams and wild rivers.
In the 1880s, tin mining took place around Grassy Creek and remains of an ore crusher can still be seen along the eastern side of this waterway. O'Hara's Rock marks the spot where, in 1873, a grazier by that name camped and tried to figure out a faster stock route over Gibraltar Range. Wades Mill, at Boundary Falls campground, dates back to historic logging days.
You can add any or all of the 13 adjoining walks and routes along the way and increase your walking adventure to up to 100km.
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Total distance: 49560 m
Max elevation: 1152 m
Min elevation: 806 m
Total climbing: 1626 m
Total descent: -1625 m
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.
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Gibraltar Range National Park.
To Anvil Rock carpark. There are three places at which to begin the walk:To reach Mulligans Campground, drive 94km west from Grafton or 68km east from Glen Innes along the Gwydir Highway.To reach Boundary Falls Campground, drive 102km west from Grafton or 60 km east from Glen Innes along the Gwydir Highway.To reach Bellbird Campground, drive 89km west from Grafton or 73 km east from Glen Innes along the Gwydir Highway. Park entry points Anvil Rock carpark See on map Washpool National Park access See on map Parking Parking is available at Gibraltar-Washpool World Heritage walk at Mulligans picnic area, Boundary Falls picnic area (Gibraltar National Park) and Coombadjha campground (Washpool National Park).
Closest towns to this walk: Armidale, Ashford, Baryulgil, Dalmorton, Deepwater, Ebor, Emmaville, Ewingar, Glen Innes, Guyra, Inverell, Mount Mitchell, Tenterfield, Tingha
About the region
Gibraltar Range National Park in the North Coast and Country NSW regions
Gibraltar Range National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather, road damage, or high fire danger.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Gibraltar Range National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Track grade
Grade 4 (Hard) -
Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the
AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
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
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.
3 Reviews on “Gibraltar-Washpool World Heritage Walk (45km)”
I walked this 45km circuit in an anti-clockwise direction, starting from Mulligans Campground. Glad I did because the last day 3, 19km leg from Boundary Falls back to Mulligans CG was the trip highlight. Also, quite a level section following two different creeks. The first 2 days of hiking going in that anti-clockwise direction from Mulligans CG is a bit of a foot slog on NP fire trails. Bellbird CG is a pleasant area to stay. Boundary Falls CG is more suitable to caravans than pitching a tent as the campsites are as hard as the clay at Roland Garros.
Gina Scott Gary Scott
My favorites parks.
This looks good William Rennes