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.
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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.
It’s a good idea to let someone know where you’re going. Fill in a trip intention form to send important details about your trip to your emergency contact. If you are lost or require help and have phone reception, call 000 and ask for police. The international standard emergency number is 112, if you dial this number in Australia you will be treated exactly the same as a 000 call. If you believe your life is at risk, activate your personal locator beacon (PLB), then make your position visible to rescue teams and keep warm and dry.
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.
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