Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience a classic Aussie bushwalk with the 10km Great North trail, a Grade 5 difficulty hike nestled in the stunning Watagans National Park. This iconic trail, part of a historic route from Sydney to Newcastle, offers breath-taking views from Narrow Place lookout, an abundance of birdlife, and a unique overnight option at Barraba Trig campsite. Ideal for experienced hikers, this trail promises a memorable adventure in Australia's great outdoors.

Length:

10km

Duration:

3 hrs

Grade:

Style:

One Way

Max elevation: 0m

Min elevation: 0m

Total Ascent: 0m

Start: 339 Heaton Rd

End: 339 Heaton Rd

Watagans National Park

New South Wales

Nearby town: Quorrobolong

From state capital: 150km

Latitude: -32.96544112

Longitude: 151.3982674

Walk map

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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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Walk map and GPX file

Great North Walk: Watagans Hike (10km)

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Getting there

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

Getting to the trailhead in 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.

Get there with Google Maps

Similar trails nearby

Looking for hikes and trails in Watagans National Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar 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

Reviews

Great North Walk: Watagans Hike (10km)

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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.

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Tips

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file

Great North Walk: Watagans Hike (10km)