Trail Fast Facts
Griffiths walking track is an 8km, grade 3 hike in Barren Grounds Nature Reserve, New South Wales. This hike typically takes 3.5 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
Start Griffiths walking track at Barren Grounds picnic area and before you know it, you'll be standing at Illawarra lookout taking in the spectacular views. Your journey then takes you through the diverse vegetation of Barren Grounds - heathland, woodland, rainforest. In spring, you'll be treated to the vibrant display of wildflowers, and in winter, large yellow swamp banksias in bloom. On the heath, you're most likely to come across honeyeaters and southern emu wrens. And, if you're lucky, you might even spot a ground parrot or bristlebird.
The walk continues across to the dramatic cliffs lining Kangaroo Valley, with view of the coastline beyond. Then, after a climb up to Saddleback Trig, it's time to take a break, enjoy the surrounding views and a snack. From there, the track continues to one of the highlights of this walk, a lovely naturally formed stone bridge across Lamonds Creek. After crossing the bridge, continue along the trail back to Barren Grounds picnic area.
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.
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 birdwatch
There is no drinking water available in this area, so it's a good idea to bring your own.
The weather in this area can be extreme and unpredictable, so please ensure you're well-prepared for your visit.
The walking opportunities in this park are suitable for experienced bushwalkers who are comfortable undertaking self-reliant hiking
There is limited/no 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.
Map and GPX file
Help fellow hikers navigate with confidence. Share your GPX or KML file for this trail and help build a more comprehensive resource with precise waypoints and elevation profiles. Your contribution will empower adventurers with details they need for a safer and more enjoyable experience. I meticulously verify every file using official maps and surveys, ensuring the highest level of accuracy and reliability. Submit your file now and become a trailblazer for your fellow outdoor enthusiasts.
Trail Location (trailhead)
Sorry, no records were found. Please adjust your search criteria and try again.
Sorry, unable to load the Maps API.
Getting there
Griffiths walking track is at the northern end of Barren Grounds Nature Reserve. To get there:Continue on the road from the reserve entrance for approximately 1kmGriffiths walking track starts from Barren Grounds picnic area at the end of the road Parking Parking is available at Barren Grounds picnic area.
Photo gallery
If you have any photos from this hike and are happy to share them, please upload your .jpg files here.
Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
About the region
Barren Grounds Nature Reserve in the South Coast region
Barren Grounds Nature Reserve is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.
9am to 5pm daily. Closed Christmas Day.
Similar trails nearby
Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Let someone know
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
Suggest an edit
Trail changed? New features discovered? Has the route changed? Trail permanently closed? Help fellow hikers by suggesting edits! Click above to update route descriptions, GPX file, trail features (like boardwalks), or access conditions (like parking availability). Help me keep the trails info fresh!
Weather
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.