Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore the enchanting Mooraback walking track, a Grade 2, easy 500m circuit nestled in Werrikimbe National Park, Australia. This brief, scenic stroll through the snow gum forest offers abundant native wildlife sightings, from eastern grey kangaroos to rare birds like the olive whistler. Starting and ending at Mooraback campground, it's an idyllic nature escape for birdwatchers, bushwalkers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Length:

500m

Duration:

15 mins

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 937m

Min elevation: 915m

Total Ascent: 24m

Start: Mooraback campground

End: Mooraback campground

Werrikimbe National Park

New South Wales

Nearby town: Walcha

From state capital: 506km

Latitude: -31.1465977

Longitude: 152.21542060375216

Overview

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Hike overview

Mooraback walking track is in Werrikimbe National Park near Mooraback campground and picnic area. It's a great way to enjoy snow gum forest and see native wildlife. Starting from Mooraback campground, this short 500m loop through the snow gums will delight nature lovers. As you stroll you may be joined by an eastern grey kangaroo or red-necked wallaby. Plenty of forest birds live here too. Eastern yellow robins, scarlet robins, grey and rufous fantails, and white-throated treecreepers are just some of the species you're likely to see. If you're lucky, you might spot rare birds like the olive whistler, rufous scrub-bird and sooty owl.

Camping

Escape the crowds at Mooraback campground, near Walcha, tucked among the snow gums. Explore nearby walking tracks and enjoy the tranquility of this isolated spot. There are 5 campsites that allow you to camp with a tent, camper trailer, or beside your vehicle in a swag.

All campgrounds in NSW national parks require a booking. Check availability and restrictions here.

Trail features

Gallery

Mooraback Walking Track (500m)

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Walk map and GPX file

Mooraback Walking Track (500m)

Total distance: 674 m
Max elevation: 937 m
Min elevation: 915 m
Total climbing: 24 m
Total descent: -24 m

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Werrikimbe National Park.

From Wauchope: Drive towards Beechwood on Beechwood Road. After approximately 6.5km, turn onto Bellangry Road and follow for approximately 18km to Bellangry. After Bellangry, the road is unsealed and becomes known as Hastings Forest Way. Follow Hastings Forest Way for about 30km through the forest to the park boundary, then continue on another 8km to the junction with Cockerawombeeba Road in the eastern precinct of the park. For more information, visit the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service website.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Armidale, Bellbrook, Clybucca, Coonabarabran, Ellenborough, Eungai Creek, Gloucester, Kempsey, Nambucca Heads, Port Macquarie, Walcha

About the region

Werrikimbe National Park, near Port Macquarie and Walcha, offers walks through World Heritage-listed Gondwana rainforest, camping, picnicking, scenic drives and 4WD trails. If you're looking to get away from the crowds and explore pristine wilderness, then Werrikimbe National Park is the place for you.

Part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, it's a unique natural landscape with ancient rainforest, tall eucalypt forests, pristine rivers, cascading waterfalls, rugged escarpment and deep gullies. In spring, the forests and heathland burst with colourful wildflowers. Visit for the day, or spend a few more enjoying the tranquility of secluded campgrounds, walking tracks, and picnic areas. With over 120 bird species, birdwatching is a fantastic activity to enjoy here. As you spy lyrebirds in the rainforest, you'll find a range of other forest birds such as eastern yellow robins and rufous fantails. If you're lucky, you might spot rare bird species like olive whistlers, rufous scrub-birds and sooty owls.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Werrikimbe National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Track grade

Grade 2 (Easy) - A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.

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

Reviews

Mooraback Walking Track (500m)

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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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance