Hike at a Glance
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Hike overview
Great North walk is a much-loved, iconic bushwalk that was created in order to celebrate the Bicentennial year of 1988. It travels all the way from Sydney to Newcastle, following through not only Watagans National Park, but also Jilliby State Conservation Area and Brisbane Water National Park. Walkers can opt to enjoy short sections of it or do the entire thing in around 14 days.
The section that falls within the Watagans travels along Georges Road in the northern section of the park. Here, you can enjoy astonishing views to the north from Narrow Place lookout out over Quorrobolong to Ellalong, Cessnock and Kurri Kurri and a section of bushland alive with wonderful birdlife. The walk is best suited to experienced hikers.
A nearby campsite on private property, known as Barraba Trig, is available to walkers. Just be sure to bring your own firewood.
Tips
It's a good idea to put sunscreen on before you set out and remember to take a hat
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to go birdwatching
If you're bushwalking in this park, it's a good idea to bring a topographic map and compass, or a GPS.
Check the weather before you set out as Georges Road can become slippery when it rains
The weather in this area can be extreme and unpredictable, so please ensure you're well-prepared for your visit.
This park is in a remote location, so please ensure you're well-prepared, bring appropriate clothing and equipment and advise a family member or friend of your travel plans.
You're encouraged to bring gas or fuel stoves, especially in summer during the fire season.
The walking opportunities in this park are suitable for experienced bushwalkers who are comfortable undertaking self-reliant hiking
There is limited mobile reception in this park
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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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.
Walk map and GPX file
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Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Watagans National Park.
To Heaton Road access. Great North walk is on Georges Road in the northern precinct of Watagans National Park. To get there:Take Mount Faulk Road for approximately 8km from the park boundaryTurn left onto Georges Road Park entry points Heaton Road access See on map Watagan Forest HQ See on map Parking Parking is limited, as Georges Road is a narrow road. The most appropriate access is via walking the broader Great North walk.
Closest towns to this walk: Aberdare, Cessnock, Cooranbong, Greta, Kurri Kurri, Laguna, Lake Munmorah, Morisset, Mount View, Mount Vincent, Mulbring, Stonebrook, Westlake, Wollombi, Wyee, Wyong
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Watagans 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
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.