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.
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.
Total distance: 6284 m
Max elevation: 999 m
Min elevation: 942 m
Total climbing: 384 m
Total descent: -383 m
Login to Download GPXGPX files, maps and content are copyright Trail Hiking Australia. Not to be copied, redistributed or uploaded to other platforms including AllTrails.
Before you go, complete a trip intentions form and share it with a trusted contact. Agree on a Late-Back Time and ask them to call 000 (Police) if you have not checked in. A clear trip plan is one of the simplest and most effective safety steps you can take.
Download the hiking preparation and safety checklists before leaving home to help you think through your plans. They help ensure important considerations are not overlooked and support safer decision-making on the trail.
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.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: Armidale, Bendemeer, Dorrigo, Ebor, Gloucester, Guyra, Tamworth, Uralla, Walcha
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.
Looking for more walks in or near Oxley Wild Rivers National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
Favourite
Oxley Wild Rivers National Park
Favourite
Favourite
Oxley Wild Rivers National Park
Favourite
Oxley Wild Rivers National Park
Got any photos from this hike? Your photos can help others plan. Share shots from along the trail so fellow hikers know what to expect.
Click to add your photos >>
Notice something different about this trail? Whether it’s a new feature, a route change, or a closure, share your update so we can keep our info accurate and helpful for fellow hikers.
Click to suggest edits >>
