Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience the invigorating Summit walking track, a 3km circuit nestled in Mount Hyland Nature Reserve near Dorrigo, Australia. This Grade 4 hike promises a blend of tranquillity and challenge, featuring steep climbs through a vibrant cool climate rainforest, home to sassafras, mountain walnut, and the lyrical lyrebird. Reach the 1,434m high summit for breathtaking views, then unwind at the Vista Point picnic area. Perfect for seasoned bushwalkers and 4WD enthusiasts.

Length:

3km

Duration:

1.25 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 0m

Min elevation: 0m

Total Ascent: 0m

Start: Old Hardens Rd

End: Old Hardens Rd

Mount Hyland Nature Reserve

New South Wales

Nearby town: Marengo

From state capital: 606km

Latitude: -30.17719737

Longitude: 152.4270066

Overview

Map

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7,549 views

Hike overview

Discover the delights of a cool climate rainforest walk that's bound to revive your senses. Remote and tranquil, Summit walking track in Mount Hyland Nature Reserve is where the mountains meet the sky. This moderate loop track with short steep climbs is a great leg-stretcher on a 4WD tour of this World Heritage-listed wilderness region near Dorrigo.
Following the loop track through a forest of sassafras and mountain walnut, look for the vibrant coloured fungi. You'll see huge banksia trees emerge above the rainforest canopy and hear the mimicking cry of the lyrebird echoing through the forest. In summer, the call of the endangered pouched frog can be heard along the walk.
Upon reaching the summit at a height of 1,434m, soak up the views before making your way back. Descending to Vista Point picnic area, enjoy a well-earned lunch.

Tips

The weather in the area can be extreme and unpredictable, so please ensure you're well-prepared for your visit.
There is limited mobile reception in this reserve
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to go bird watching

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.

Gallery

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Walk map and GPX file
Summit Walking Track (3km)

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Mount Hyland Nature Reserve.

Summit walking track starts at Mount Hyland picnic area within Mount Hyland Nature Reserve. To get there:Via DundurrabinTurn off Armidale/Grafton Road at DundurrabinProceed along Sheepstation Road for 6.3kmTurn left onto Chaelundi Road and proceed for 11.3kmTurn left onto Hardens Road and proceed for 5kmTurn left at the sign for Mount Hyland picnic area and proceed for 1kmVia HernaniTurn off Armidale/Grafton Road at Hernani onto Marengo RoadProceed along Marengo Road for 11.4kmTurn right onto Hardens Road and proceed for 7kmTurn right at the sign for Mount Hyland picnic area and drive for 1km Road quality Check the weather before you set out as the road to Summit walking track can become boggy when it rains. Parking Parking is available at Mount Hyland picnic area, which is at the start of Summit walking track.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Baradine, Binnaway, Coolah, Coonabarabran, Mendooran

About the region

Mount Hyland Nature Reserve is a perfect pit stop on a 4WD driving tour, around Dorrigo and the New England tablelands. Check out the superb views and walking tracks through World Heritage gondwana rainforest. Answer the call of the wild with a World Heritage rainforest experience in Mount Hyland Nature Reserve. The distinctive three peaks of Mount Hyland are the highest point on the New England tablelands and offer breathtaking scenic views across the Dorrigo plateau. It's a popular destination on a 4WD driving tour, offering superb walking, picnic and birdwatching opportunities.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Mount Hyland Nature Reserve? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Track grade

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.

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
Summit Walking Track (3km)

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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

Tips

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Summit Walking Track (3km)