The Gloucester Tops circuit in Barrington Tops National Park offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the park's diverse landscapes in a single, rewarding 8-kilometer loop hike. This moderate, grade 4 circuit is ideal for those seeking a shorter day walk and encompasses three popular and scenic trails.
Starting from the Gloucester Falls picnic area, you'll embark on the Gloucester Falls walking track. As you traverse open snow gum woodland, the path leads to Andrew Laurie lookout, perched on the edge of the escarpment. Here, breathtaking views unfold before you. Continuing along the Gloucester Falls walking track, you'll reach another lookout offering panoramic vistas of the picturesque Gloucester Falls cascading down the plateau.
Following the River walking track, you'll delve into sub-alpine woodland, keeping an eye out for swamp wallabies and grey kangaroos that frequent this area. During summer months, the trail transforms into a vibrant display of wildflowers, with bluebells, rice flowers, and billy buttons adding a touch of colour.
The final leg of the circuit joins the Antarctic Beech Forest walking track, where a cool temperate rainforest awaits. Towering Antarctic beech trees dominate the canopy, casting dappled light onto a carpet of tree ferns and a moss-laden forest floor.
As you explore each section of the circuit, remember that you're traversing a significant part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia. This ancient landscape, millions of years old, plays a vital role in protecting rare and threatened species and maintaining essential natural resources.
- Be weather aware: Review the forecast before your visit, as wet weather can affect road access to Gloucester River and Gloucester Tops.
- Enhance your wildlife spotting: Bring binoculars to identify the park's abundant birdlife.
Total distance: 7496 m
Max elevation: 1240 m
Min elevation: 1128 m
Total climbing: 304 m
Total descent: -304 m
Download file:
Gloucester-Tops-Circuit.gpx
Accessing the Gloucester Tops circuit is straightforward and suitable for most vehicles. Situated within the Gloucester Tops precinct of Barrington Tops National Park, the circuit begins conveniently at the Gloucester Falls picnic area.
Travelers coming from Bucketts Way, located between Gloucester and Stroud, can turn onto Gloucester Tops Road and follow it until reaching the Gloucester River. Continue past the river for roughly 40 minutes, then look out for the left turn that leads to the Gloucester Tops picnic area. From there, a short drive further left takes you to the Gloucester Falls picnic area, where parking is available and your exploration commences.
While the official starting point is the Gloucester Falls picnic area, the beauty of this loop is that you can technically begin the circuit from any of the three included trails: the Antarctic Beech Forest walking track, the Gloucester River walking track, or the Gloucester Tops picnic area itself.
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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.
The Barrington Tops National Park offers a diverse range of experiences for every visitor. Immerse yourself in the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests, teeming with ancient walking trails, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking lookouts. Explore the park's extensive network of walking tracks, catering to all levels, from gentle strolls to challenging overnight hikes. Scenic picnic areas and cycling trails provide perfect options for day trips.
Carved by ancient volcanic flows, the park boasts one of mainland Australia's largest temperate rainforests. Rising from near sea level to over 1,500 metres, it encompasses diverse habitats teeming with birdlife and animals. Camping enthusiasts can find designated spots for an unforgettable evening under the stars.
For those seeking adventure, options abound. Kayak across serene waters, challenge yourself with abseiling, or explore the terrain on a mountain bike. At the foothills, Chichester State Forest offers stunning scenery along the Allyn River, with campsites even welcoming your canine companions.
Beyond the park, discover the charming towns of Dungog and Gloucester. Gloucester, nicknamed the "basecamp for Barrington Tops," provides a welcoming gateway to your Gondwana adventures. Enjoy a refreshing dip in Ladies Well on a hot day, or venture further for hiking and picnicking opportunities in nearby Mount Royal National Park. Trout fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines in the Gloucester River between October and June.
Barrington Tops National Park, a magnificent region near the Hunter Valley and Upper Hunter, is easily accessible. Just a few hours' drive north of Sydney or a short trip from Newcastle and Port Stephens, this World Heritage wonder awaits exploration.
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
