The Threlfall Walking Track in Oxley Wild Rivers National Park offers a delightful escape for nature lovers seeking a moderate 5.5km (grade 3) adventure. This track winds along the Gara Gorge ridge, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness.
As you explore, you'll encounter remnants of the historic 1894 hydro-electric scheme, following old embankments and granite cuttings. Reach Gara Gorge lookout for a truly awe-inspiring view: rugged landscapes framed by majestic blackbutt and spotted gum trees, with the Gara River flowing below.
The Threlfall Walking Track is a haven for birdwatchers. Keep your eyes peeled for colorful rosellas, lyrebirds flitting through the undergrowth, or king parrots adding a splash of vibrancy to the scene. You might even be lucky enough to spot a koala enjoying a leisurely snack in a gum tree.
After completing the loop, you can choose to return to either the Threlfall picnic area or the nearby Blue Hole picnic area for a well-deserved lunch break. Both locations provide a scenic backdrop to unwind and reflect on your invigorating adventure.
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the
AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Total distance: 5701 m
Max elevation: 948 m
Min elevation: 883 m
Total climbing: 223 m
Total descent: -223 m
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Getting to the trailhead: Oxley Wild Rivers National Park.
The Threlfall Walking Track offers a delightful escape within the Gara Gorge precinct of Oxley Wild Rivers National Park. This moderate 5.5km hike can be accessed from the Threlfall picnic area.
Reaching the trailhead is straightforward. Begin your drive from Armidale and travel along Waterfall Way for about 2 kilometers. Keep an eye out for a left turn onto Castledoyle Road. Follow this road for approximately 15 kilometers. Once you reach Gara Gorge, signs will guide you to the Threlfall picnic area.
The roads leading to the park entrance include both sealed and unsealed sections. Thankfully, upon arrival at the Threlfall picnic area, you’ll find convenient parking available.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: 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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