Head along Historic Nightcap walking track to experience a World Heritage rainforest with breathtaking escarpment views across Nightcap National Park. This 18km track is popular with experienced walkers looking for a remote wilderness adventure. With the option to camp overnight at Rummery Park campground, west to east is the easiest way to take this scenic walk, but you can easily start at either end of the track. During the 1800s and 1900s, sections of Historic Nightcap walking track were traversed by travellers and postal workers making their way between Lismore and Murwillumbah. There's plenty to see along the way, so remember to pack your camera and capture shots of rock orchids brightening the path, and wildlife such as the long-nosed potoroo, brush turkey and Albert's lyrebird, who call the area home.
It's advisable to contact the local NPWS office when planning an overnight or extended walk to get the best information on the track, weather conditions and possible closures.
Check the weather before you set out as the road to Historic Nightcap walking track can become boggy when it rains.
It's a good idea to bring a topographic map and compass, or a GPS.
The weather in the area can be extreme and unpredictable, so please ensure you're well-prepared for your visit.
This walking track is in a remote location; bring appropriate clothing and equipment, and advise a family member or friend of your travel plans.
This walking track is suitable for experienced bushwalkers who are comfortable undertaking self-reliant hiking.
Groups of 3-5 people are recommended, with at least one experienced bushwalker in the group.
A Personal Locator Beacon is advisable, but should only be used in a life-threatening situation.
There are camping facilities at Rummery Park.
It's a good idea to pack sunscreen and remember to take a hat.
You're encouraged to bring gas or fuel stoves, especially in summer during the fire season.
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.
Looks like I don’t have a GPX file for this trail yet. If you have one you’d be willing to share, please email it to me so we can help other hikers have a safer, easier time out there. I’ll double-check each file to make sure it aligns with official tracks and topo maps before adding it to this hike. Thanks so much for helping build an even better hiking resource.
Historic Nightcap walking track is in the western precinct of Nightcap National Park. To get there: From Nimbin:Take Sibley Street and drive past Nimbin Bowling ClubTurn onto Gungas Street and continue for 1.5km, then turn right onto Tuntable Falls Road - signposted 'Mount Nardi'.Travel a further 4.2km, past Upper Tuntable Falls Road intersection, where the road turns onto Newton Drive.Continue for approximately 4.8km to the park entrance, and another 1km to Mount Nardi carpark.From the eastern park entrance (via Rosebank):Take Minyon Drive, past Minyon Falls picnic area, over the causeway.Continue along Minyon Drive until you reach the Peates Mountain Road intersectionTurn right onto Peates Mountain Road - the track is approximately 100m to the north (approximately 4km).From the southern park entrance on Nightcap Range Road (via Dunoon):Continue north up Nightcap Range Road to the top of the rangeTurn left onto Peates Mountain Road - the track is approximately 100m north (approximately 5km). Parking Parking is available at Mount Nardi carpark.
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
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.
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
3 Reviews on “Historic Nightcap Walking Track (18km)”
The road from rummery Park to peats Mt is closed to traffic so allow time to walk that section too