Serious adventurers will love Slingsbys trail and Syndicate Ridge track, a challenging pathway across a variety of landscapes - from scenic grassy plains to a breathtaking escarpment and ancient Gondwana rainforest.
The walk begins along Slingsbys trail, stretching 6.5km to Lanes lookout along gently undulating terrain that's also suitable for mountain biking. You'll pass through the grasslands of Killungoondie Plain, which the Gunbaynggirr People once kept clear for hunting and camping by using spot fires. Today, it makes a surprising contrast to the surrounding rainforest, thick and atmospheric.
Eventually, you'll reach high points along the escarpment, including Lanes lookout and Stony Creek lookout, with stunning scenic views on clear days across the surrounding landscape. Bring binoculars for birdwatching, but remember to look down around your feet too as Syndicate Ridge was the site of an innovative logging tramway that operated in the early twentieth century. Remnants of the back-breaking operation can still be seen around the trail.
Syndicate Ridge track from the escarpment is a much steeper and more difficult trail, so hiking experience is recommended. Signage is also limited here, so be sure to carry a compass and map or GPS.
Take a virtual tour of Slingsbys trail and Syndicate Ridge track captured with Google Street View Trekker.
It looks like I don’t have a GPX file for this trail yet. If you have one to share, please email it to me! I’ll verify it against official maps before adding it to help other hikers have a safer, easier experience. Thanks for contributing to a better hiking resource.
Getting there
Closest towns to this walk: Dorrigo, Bellingen, Coffs Harbour, Urunga, Glenreagh
How to get to Dorrigo National Park
To Adams Road. To start the walk along Slingsby trail:Drive 10km north of Dorrigo along Megan RoadTurn onto Slingsby RoadThe trail begins at the end, and finishes at the northern end of Adams Lane, Glennifer. Park entry points Adams Road See on map Slingsbys Road See on map Parking Parking is available at the end of Slingsbys Road and at the end of Adams Lane, Gleniffer. Please do not block any farm gates with your vehicle at either of these locations.
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
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About the region
Dorrigo National Park in the North Coast region
Dorrigo National Park is open daily (except Christmas Day) 9am to 4.30pm but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.
9am to 4.30pm daily. Closed Christmas Day.
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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
Suggest an edit
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.