Pieries Peak walking track provides visitors with the opportunity to hike from Youngville campground to a lookout that offers expansive views of the Hunter Valley and Lake Saint Clair. This 3-kilometre, grade 4 hike in Mount Royal National Park, New South Wales, typically takes approximately 1.25 hours to complete.
The trail features a steep ascent from Youngville campground to the peak located directly to the south. It follows a narrow, rocky ridge with steep sides, presenting a challenge for those who are unaccustomed to rugged terrain. Hikers are encouraged to bring refreshments to enjoy at the summit while taking in the impressive scenery.
Along the way, the track traverses various ecosystems, including patches of snow grass, shrubland, temperate rainforest, and open wet sclerophyll forest. Birdwatching is highly rewarding, with opportunities to observe species such as the olive whistler, wonga pigeon, and wompoo fruit-dove in the rainforest areas. Other birds, including brush turkeys, superb lyrebirds, honeyeaters, and flycatchers, may also be spotted. Seasonal visitors like dollar birds and channel-billed cuckoos can enhance the experience.
During winter, it is advisable to dress warmly, as the peak can become extremely cold when westerly winds are present.
- The weather in this area can be extreme and unpredictable, so please ensure you’re well-prepared for your visit.
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Total distance: 3401 m
Max elevation: 944 m
Min elevation: 855 m
Total climbing: 164 m
Total descent: -178 m
Getting to the trailhead: Mount Royal National Park.
To reach the trailhead for Pieries Peak walking track, enter Mount Royal National Park and continue along Mount Royal Road until reaching Youngville campground. The trackhead is located at the back of the campground. Parking is available at Youngville campground, providing convenient access for visitors.
Closest towns to this walk: Broke, Bulga, Cessnock, Mount View, Rouchel, Singleton, Wollombi
Mount Royal National Park is situated in a World Heritage-listed Gondwana rainforest, near Barrington Tops National Park. This park features a rich natural environment, showcasing a diverse array of flora and fauna. As part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, it is home to various bird and animal species that have remained remarkably similar to their fossilised ancestors. Notably, the park hosts several threatened and vulnerable wildlife species, including the Hastings River mouse, parma wallaby, rufous scrub-bird, paradise riflebird, and the glossy black-cockatoo.
Youngville campground serves as an ideal base for visitors wishing to explore the park. From this location, a network of challenging walking tracks leads to stunning rock formations, such as Pieries Peak, making sturdy hiking boots essential. The park is characterised by a variety of forest and vegetation types, including shrubland, tall open forest, wet eucalypt forest, mid-altitude grassy forest, and lush rainforest.
The park offers unique experiences throughout the year. Spring is an excellent time to hike to Pieries Peak, providing rewarding views of the landscape. In summer, visitors can enjoy a shaded barbecue at the Youngville picnic area, while winter brings the blooming of orchids, making a walk to Carrow Brook particularly enjoyable.
For those planning a visit, driving directions from Singleton are straightforward. Travelling north on the New England Highway, turn right onto Bridgeman Road at Dunolly. After approximately 15 kilometres, veer left into Mount Royal Road at Carrowbrook and continue along this unsealed road for about 7 kilometres to reach the park’s entry points.
Mount Royal National Park offers numerous opportunities for camping, hiking, and picnicking, catering to outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Looking for more walks in or near Mount Royal National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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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.
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.
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.
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
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.
