Trail Fast Facts
Sturt's tree walk is a 7km, grade 5 hike in Sturt National Park, New South Wales. This hike typically takes 4 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
In 1844, Captain Charles Sturt led the Central Australia Expedition from the streets of Adelaide, then along the Murray and Darling rivers before heading where no European had been before. The objective was to find the sea which Sturt and his supporters believed lay in the heart of Australia.
On his journey, Sturt left calling cards in the form of an S and an arrow, indicating that he had been there and the direction of travel. Sturt's Tree walk in Sturt National Park offers a unique opportunity to view a piece of Australian history; one of the trees marked by Charles Sturt all those years ago.
The walk takes you across Lake Pinaroo, so you can only walk when the lakebed is dry. If you can't take the walk because the lake is full, don't worry, you're still in for one of nature's treats. The lake is a vital habitat for countless waterbirds and waders as well as a range of mammals and reptiles, so you're bound to enjoy your visit to this internationally recognised wetland.
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.
Tips
The walk across Lake Pinaroo is about 3km, with access via the Wells walk which is a 4km loop.
The landscape around Lake Pinaroo changes through the seasons. In times of plenty, when the lake is full, Sturt's Tree Walk is not accessible.
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to birdwatch and don't forget your camera.
Check the weather before you set out as roads within Sturt National Park may be closed during wet weather.
This park is in a remote location, please ensure you are thoroughly prepared, bring appropriate clothing and equipment and advise a family member or friend of your travel plans.
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.
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
The walk starts half way along the Wells walk which starts at Fort Grey campground. Parking Parking is available at Fort Grey campground
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.
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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.