Trail Fast Facts
Powder Magazine walking track is a 1.1km, grade 3 hike in Arakoon National Park, New South Wales. This hike typically takes 45 minutes to complete.
Hike Overview
Powder Magazine track is an excellent short walk to the historic powder magazines on the headland at Arakoon National Park on the North Coast. Only one of the constructions still stands, but you can still admire the work of early Australian stone masons and whilst taking in the inspiring views.
Detouring from the easy Monument Hill walking track, the track leads through casuarinas, banksias and craggy old bloodwoods. Crossing small brides through moist gullies of tea tree and palms, you'll catch glimpses of Trial Bay and perhaps a majestic sea-eagle cruising the coast.
The medium track meanders through a patch of cool rainforest with large glossy vines before meeting up with the Bridle trail. Cool off with a refreshing swim at Trial Bay or enjoy a refreshing drink at Trial Bay Restaurant.
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.
Map and GPX file
Help fellow hikers navigate with confidence. Share your GPX or KML file for this trail and help build a more comprehensive resource with precise waypoints and elevation profiles. Your contribution will empower adventurers with details they need for a safer and more enjoyable experience. I meticulously verify every file using official maps and surveys, ensuring the highest level of accuracy and reliability. Submit your file now and become a trailblazer for your fellow outdoor enthusiasts.
Trail Location (trailhead)
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Getting there
To Trial Bay Gaol carpark. Powder Magazine walking track starts at Trial Bay Gaol in the Trial Bay Gaol precinct of Arakoon National Park.From South West Rocks:Follow Phillip DriveTurn left onto Cardwell StreetContinue along Cardwell Street until you reach Trial Bay GoalThe walk begins 200m back up Cardwell Street Park entry points Trial Bay Gaol carpark See on map Parking Parking is available at Trial Bay Gaol, including designated bus parking.
Visit NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for more information on this trail.
The longitude and latitude of the start and end points are approximately only and should not be used for navigation purposes. Please contact me if you know the correct coordinates.
Photo gallery
If you have any photos from this hike and are happy to share them, please upload your .jpg files here.
Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
About the region
The idyllic Arakoon National Park on the NSW mid north coast is home to the historic Trial Bay Gaol and is a wonderful place for a daytrip to explore Australian history or for a family camping holiday. There are great picnic and camping spots by the tranquil Trial Bay, and the area is surrounded by rocky foreshores and sandy beaches.
Similar trails nearby
Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Let someone know
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
Suggest an edit
Trail changed? New features discovered? Has the route changed? Trail permanently closed? Help fellow hikers by suggesting edits! Click above to update route descriptions, GPX file, trail features (like boardwalks), or access conditions (like parking availability). Help me keep the trails info fresh!
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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.