Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 999m
Min elevation: 942m
Total Ascent: 384m
Hike overview
Experience breathtaking waterfalls and wildlife on the McDirtys Walking Track. This moderately challenging 6km hike in Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, New South Wales, takes roughly 2.5 hours to complete. The McDirtys track rewards you with scenic views of Dangar Falls, a World Heritage-listed wonder. Keep your binoculars handy, as this track is a haven for birdwatchers.
The trail winds along the gorge ridge, offering glimpses of cascading waterfalls and the rugged beauty of the park's northern section from multiple lookouts. Get ready for a refreshing mist at the Dangar Falls lookout, especially after a good downpour.
As you traverse heathlands and dry eucalypt forests, look out for native Australian wildlife. You might spot eastern grey kangaroos lounging in the shade, along with fascinating birds like scrub wrens, treecreepers, and vibrant crimson rosellas.
The panoramic views from the spectacular Rock Wallaby lookout are unforgettable. Here, gaze upon the deep ravines carved by the river and see if you can spot the rare gorge wattle clinging to the cliffs. The McDirtys lookout viewing platform at the end of a ridge is a lovely place to take a break when doing McDirtys walking track. Breathe in the fresh air as you feast your eyes on this World Heritage-listed landscape of rugged ridges and gorges.
Enjoy a packed lunch with a view at any of the lookouts or head back to the Dangar Falls picnic area to refuel after your adventure.
Gallery
Got some great shots from this hike? Upload your photos here to inspire others and show off the beauty of the trail!
Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You can be credited for your contributions, and you can request removal at any time.
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
Max elevation: 999 m
Min elevation: 942 m
Total climbing: 384 m
Total descent: -383 m
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Oxley Wild Rivers National Park.
The McDirtys Walking Track is nestled within the Dangars Gorge precinct of Oxley Wild Rivers National Park.
For those coming from the Armidale Post Office, navigating to the track is straightforward. Simply head south on Faulkner Street. After about a kilometer, turn left onto Kentucky Street and keep an eye out for signs directing you towards Dangar Falls.
Once on Kentucky Street, take a right turn onto Dangarsleigh Road. Follow this scenic route for roughly 8 kilometers. Finally, look out for the sign for Dangar Falls and turn left. Continue on the unsealed road for another 10 kilometers until you reach your destination.
Conveniently, the McDirtys Walking Track starts and ends at the Dangar Falls picnic area. This is also where you’ll find parking available for your adventure.
Closest towns to this walk: Armidale, Bendemeer, Dorrigo, Ebor, Gloucester, Guyra, Tamworth, Uralla, Walcha
About the region
Immerse Yourself in Wild Beauty: Oxley Wild Rivers National Park. Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, a World Heritage-listed Gondwana rainforest sanctuary near Armidale, stuns visitors with its dramatic gorges, magnificent waterfalls, and rare dry rainforests. Explore scenic drives along the Waterfall Way, or delve deeper with multi-day hikes like the Green Gully walk, offering overnight stays in heritage-listed stockman's huts. For a touch of luxury, stay at East Kunderang Homestead.
Camping, walking, paddling, picnicking, cycling, horse riding – Oxley Wild Rivers National Park caters to every outdoor enthusiast. Hike through diverse landscapes – wet and dry eucalypt forests, grassy woodlands, and heathlands. Keep an eye out for native flora like olive trees, lacebarks, and towering stinging trees.
Dramatic ridges, towering rock formations, and cascading waterfalls create a breathtaking backdrop for your exploration. Gaze upon the majestic Wollomombi Falls, the highest in New South Wales, or spot a wedge-tailed eagle soaring on the thermals.
Make the most of your Oxley Wild Rivers National Park adventure by checking the park website for current conditions, permits, and specific activity details.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Oxley Wild Rivers National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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.
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.
7 Reviews on “McDirtys Walking Track (6km)”
Allison Barlin I think we know this one ?