The Salisbury Waters walking track in Oxley Wild Rivers National Park offers a rewarding 16km (grade 4) challenge for those seeking breathtaking scenery and a taste of gorge bushwalking. This long day trek, taking roughly 7 hours to complete, is a fantastic way to explore the park's heart.
The track begins and ends at Dangars Falls picnic area. Prepare for a challenging yet scenic journey, rewarded with stunning lookouts showcasing the dramatic gorge country. Keep your eyes peeled for diverse wildlife and birdlife along the way. Look out for scrub wrens and white-throated tree creepers flitting amongst the dry gums and heath.
Optional detours from the McDirtys walking track lead to Mihi Falls and Sarum Lookout, offering picture-perfect backdrops for a well-deserved picnic lunch. As you descend, be awestruck by the unique dry rainforest blanketing the lower slopes. Finally, reach the refreshing reward – a crystal-clear pool nestled within the gorge, perfect for a cool swim after your trek. Soak in the breathtaking views from below before tackling the challenging 8km ascent back to Dangars Falls picnic area.
- Planning is crucial for this remote hike with no mobile reception.
- Allow ample time, factoring in the 8km descent, any detours, and the strenuous climb back up.
- Remember, safety is paramount. Be prepared and enjoy the adventure.
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Total distance: 17320 m
Max elevation: 1002 m
Min elevation: 511 m
Total climbing: 1008 m
Total descent: -1008 m
Getting to the trailhead: Oxley Wild Rivers National Park.
The Salisbury Waters walking track is located within the Dangars Gorge precinct of Oxley Wild Rivers National Park. This scenic location makes it a perfect destination for exploring the park’s diverse landscapes.
For those driving from Armidale Post Office, navigating to the trailhead is straightforward. Simply head south on Faulkner Street. After traveling for roughly 1 kilometer, turn left onto Kentucky Street. Continue on this road for approximately 8 kilometers. Be sure to watch for the turnoff onto Dangarsleigh Road.
Take a right turn onto Dangarsleigh Road and follow it for a short distance until you see the turnoff for Dangars Falls Road. Remember, this is an unsealed road, so be prepared for slower travel. Continue on Dangars Falls Road for roughly 10 kilometers until you reach Dangars Falls.
The Salisbury Waters walking track conveniently begins and ends at the Dangars Falls picnic area. This is also where you’ll find parking available for your challenging hike. Remember, as the road leading to the trailhead is unsealed, checking the weather forecast before your trip is highly recommended.
Closest towns to this walk: Armidale, Bendemeer, Dorrigo, Ebor, Gloucester, Guyra, Tamworth, Uralla, Walcha
Immerse Yourself in Wild Beauty: Oxley Wild Rivers National Park. Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, a World Heritage-listed Gondwana rainforest sanctuary near Armidale, stuns visitors with its dramatic gorges, magnificent waterfalls, and rare dry rainforests. Explore scenic drives along the Waterfall Way, or delve deeper with multi-day hikes like the Green Gully walk, offering overnight stays in heritage-listed stockman's huts. For a touch of luxury, stay at East Kunderang Homestead.
Camping, walking, paddling, picnicking, cycling, horse riding – Oxley Wild Rivers National Park caters to every outdoor enthusiast. Hike through diverse landscapes – wet and dry eucalypt forests, grassy woodlands, and heathlands. Keep an eye out for native flora like olive trees, lacebarks, and towering stinging trees.
Dramatic ridges, towering rock formations, and cascading waterfalls create a breathtaking backdrop for your exploration. Gaze upon the majestic Wollomombi Falls, the highest in New South Wales, or spot a wedge-tailed eagle soaring on the thermals.
Make the most of your Oxley Wild Rivers National Park adventure by checking the park website for current conditions, permits, and specific activity details.
Looking for more walks in or near Oxley Wild Rivers 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.
3 Reviews on “Salisbury Waters Walking Track (17km)”
Great walk.