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.
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.
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.
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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.
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.
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.
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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.
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.
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
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!
