Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience the joy of wildlife-spotting and birdwatching on the Rainforest walking track, a 2km return hike near South West Rocks on the North Coast. This Grade 5 trail takes you through rare coastal rainforest and freshwater swamps, home to native animals like swamp wallabies and goannas. Don't forget to wrap up your adventure with a beachside picnic at Gap Beach and enjoy stunning coastal views from Captain Cook's lookout.

Length:

2km

Duration:

1.25 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 0m

Min elevation: 0m

Total Ascent: 0m

Start: Gap Rd

End: Gap Rd

Hat Head National Park

New South Wales

Nearby town: Arakoon

From state capital: 455km

Latitude: -30.90224738

Longitude: 153.0778159

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Hike overview

A delightful stroll through rare coastal rainforest, this short track is a great way to introduce the kids to the joys of wildlife-spotting and birdwatching. Only a short drive from South West Rocks on the North Coast, Rainforest walking track links the northern and southern ends of Gap Beach. Even though there's no directional signage, you'll still find it an easy walk for all ages.
Meandering through scenic rainforest beyond the coastal dunes, you'll pass freshwater swamp areas dotted with paperbarks and swamp mahogany. Don't forget your binoculars, as the unique wetlands attract black swans, egrets and herons. Swamp wallabies, goannas, and red-necked wallabies often drop by for a drink.
Round off your day with a beachside picnic and a swim as you return along Gap Beach. The sweeping coastal views from nearby Captain Cook's lookout, accessed by car, are worth the detour.

Gallery

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Walk map and GPX file
Rainforest Walking Track (2km)

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Hat Head National Park.

To North gap carpark. Rainforest walking track is in the Smoky Cape precinct of Hat Head National Park. To get there:Take Gap Beach Road off Arakoon Road and follow the signs to North Gap carpark Park entry points North gap carpark See on map Parking Parking is available at North Gap carpark.

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.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Crescent Head, Frederickton, Gladstone, Hat Head, Kempsey, Port Macquarie, South West Rocks

About the region

Hat Head National Park on the mid-north coast of NSW near South West Rocks is a natural paradise. Explore the lighthouse, camp by the beach and go fishing and swimming. Hat Head is a national park in New South Wales, Australia, 461.7 kilometres via M1 and Pacific Highway/A1, northeast of Sydney. It lies within the Hastings-Macleay Important Bird Area.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Hat Head National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty 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
Rainforest Walking Track (2km)

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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

Hike overview

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Rainforest Walking Track (2km)