The Honeysuckle Forest track in Barrington Tops National Park provides a delightful short loop walk, perfect for visitors seeking a taste of the park's natural beauty. This easy 1-kilometer circuit, suitable for most fitness levels, starts and finishes at the Honeysuckle picnic area, located west of Gloucester.
The track winds through a majestic Antarctic beech forest, where towering trees stand adorned with soft tree ferns. Keep an eye out for the unique beech orchid clinging to the upper branches. The mossy trunks, particularly striking in misty conditions, add to the enchanting atmosphere. As you continue, the rainforest transitions into open woodland dominated by brown barrel trees. Here, the understory comes alive with tall mountain banksia, also known as honeysuckle.
After your invigorating walk, the crisp mountain air might entice you to enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch amidst this scenic setting. If you're yearning for more expansive views, consider venturing further to Thunderbolts lookout and Devils Hole lookout walk and picnic area. The Honeysuckle Forest track offers a charming introduction to the diverse landscapes waiting to be explored within Barrington Tops National Park.
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.
- Be Sun Safe: Apply sunscreen liberally before you set out and wear a hat for protection throughout the walk.
- Birdwatching Enthusiasts: Pack your binoculars to identify the park's abundant birdlife.
- Navigation: Consider bringing a topographic map, compass, and a GPS device for safe navigation during your explorations in the park.
- Weather Conditions: Be aware that road access to Honeysuckle Forest track can be affected by snow and ice, particularly in winter. Check the weather forecast before you go.
- Trail Closures: Trail closures due to weather events or fire hazards can occur. For the latest information, contact the Gloucester National Parks and Wildlife Service office on 02 6538 5300.
Total distance: 757 m
Max elevation: 1333 m
Min elevation: 1310 m
Total climbing: 30 m
Total descent: -30 m
Download
No Records Found
Sorry, no records were found. Please adjust your search criteria and try again.
Maps failed to load
Sorry, unable to load the Maps API.
Accessing the Honeysuckle Forest track is straightforward. Situated within the Polblue and Devils Hole precinct of Barrington Tops National Park, the trailhead lies at the Honeysuckle picnic area. For those travelling from Gloucester, take Thunderbolts Way, which transitions into Scone Road and eventually Barrington Tops Forest Road. Keep an eye out for the Honeysuckle picnic area on your left shortly after entering the park's northern entrance.
If departing from Scone, head out on Hunter Road. Turn right onto Moonan Brook Road followed by a left turn onto Barrington Tops Forest Road. The picnic area awaits you on your right, approximately 6 kilometers past Devils Hole. Luckily, parking is available right at the trailhead, allowing you to conveniently begin your exploration of the enchanting Honeysuckle Forest.
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.
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.
Favourite
Barrington Tops National Park
Favourite
Barrington Tops National Park
Favourite
Barrington Tops National Park
Favourite
Barrington Tops National Park
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.
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.
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
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!
