Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience the breathtaking wilderness of New England Tableland on a 33km, Grade 5 bushwalk that descends over 1000m towards the headwaters of Bellinger River. This challenging multi-day hike features diverse terrain, river crossings, and serene camping spots. From Wrights lookout's stunning views to the historic farmhouses along the old farm trail, this hike offers a unique blend of nature and history. Don't forget your water-friendly footwear and consider extending your adventure with a canoe or kayak journey from Cool Creek Crossing.

Length:

33km

Duration:

2-3 days

Grade:

Style:

One Way

Max elevation: 1361m

Min elevation: 107m

Total Ascent: 1853m

Start: Robinsons Knob Trail

End: Robinsons Knob Trail

New England National Park

New South Wales

Nearby town: Brinerville

From state capital: 553km

Latitude: -30.50279624

Longitude: 152.3888146877289

2,058 Total views

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Weather

Safety advice

This park is in a remote location and weather can be unpredictable. Please come well-prepared and tell a family member or friend about your travel plans.

Hike overview

Descending over 1,000m from the edge of New England Tableland to the headwaters of Bellinger River, this multi-day walk invites experienced bush walkers on a journey through diverse wilderness. Best done over three days, this challenging walk follows the trail up to Wrights lookout. Enjoy the spectacular views before continuing along Snowy Range, then down to Sunday Creek.

The next stage involves creek-walking and river crossings, so make sure you're equipped with the right footwear. There are lots of opportunities for swimming and serene camping along the way. Once you reach the valley floor, you'll wander along an old farm trail over grassy river flats, passing historic farmhouses and stockyards to remind you of the farming heritage here.

The 33km walk finishes on Darkwood Road, but you can also extend your adventure by canoeing or kayaking down the river from Cool Creek Crossing.

Tips

Avoid doing the walk during periods of heavy rainfall and high river levels.

Visit NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for more information on this trail.

Map and GPX file

New England Wilderness Walk (33km)

GPX file supplied by Jacob Hofkamp

Total distance: 39376 m
Max elevation: 1361 m
Min elevation: 107 m
Total climbing: 1853 m
Total descent: -3097 m

Download file: CoffsTrails-Walk-New-England-Wilderness-Walk.gpx

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Getting there

Closest towns to this walk: Armidale, Dorrigo, Ebor, Guyra, Inverell, Uralla, Walcha, Wollomombi

Getting to the trailhead in New England National Park.

To Darkwood Road. On entering New England National Park:Continue approximately 200m along Point Lookout RoadTake the first right turn to Robinsons Knob trailNew England Wilderness walk starts from the carpark Park entry points Darkwood Road See on map Robinsons Knob trail carpark See on map Parking Parking is available at the Robinsons Knob trail carpark, where New England Wilderness walk starts.

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

Located in the Northern Tablelands of NSW, New England National Park is a place of spectacular beauty and pristine wilderness. Part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, it offers visitors an unforgettable holiday experience or a peaceful weekend getaway.

Discover the ancient world sealed in Gondwana rainforest, wander through snow gum forests dotted with crimson rosellas, and see breathtaking views from the Great Escarpment on one of the many walking tracks. Walks range from an easy 200m stroll to multi-day hikes through remote wilderness.

Experience sensational sunrises and breathtaking views stretching over forested valleys all the way to the coast from Point lookout. Pack a picnic and spend a few hours admiring the spectacular view before you.

Similar trails nearby

Looking for hikes and trails in New England National Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.

Track grade

Grade 5 (Difficult) - Walks for the Most Experienced: Grade 5 represents the most challenging walking tracks on the AWTGS. These are only recommended for very experienced and fit walkers with specialised skills, including navigation and emergency first aid. Tracks are likely to be very rough, very steep, and unmarked. Walks may be more than 20 kilometers. These challenging walks demand a high level of fitness and experience to navigate difficult terrain, significant elevation changes, and potentially unformed paths.

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

New England Wilderness Walk (33km)

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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.

Hike at a Glance

Safety advice

Hike overview

Tips

Map and GPX file

New England Wilderness Walk (33km)