The Tiara Walking Track in Oxley Wild Rivers National Park is a rewarding 5km (grade 4) adventure for those seeking breathtaking views and a taste of the park's diverse landscapes. This moderately challenging hike takes roughly 2.5 hours to complete and is a fantastic introduction to the park's natural wonders.
The adventure begins at the Tia Falls picnic area, a convenient starting point. Your initial challenge involves crossing the Tia River, where you might be lucky enough to spot a platypus paddling in the crystal-clear water.
Following the western ridge, the trail transitions through a variety of ecosystems. Lush grassy woodlands and dry gum forests offer a glimpse into the park's diverse vegetation. Keep your eyes peeled – you might be fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of a koala perched in the branches of a gum tree, or a brush-tailed rock wallaby nestled amongst the rocky outcrops.
As you delve deeper, the landscape transforms into a fascinating dry rainforest. Here, delicate rock orchids cling to the trunks of the scentless rosewood and native olive trees, adding a touch of beauty to this unique habitat.
An optional detour leads you to Tiara View lookout, offering a breathtaking panorama across the river-gouged valleys. The main track continues, eventually culminating at the Tiara Lookout. Here, take a moment to reward yourself with the most spectacular views – a view of dramatic gorge country that will leave you speechless.
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.
Total distance: 4872 m
Max elevation: 1061 m
Min elevation: 1000 m
Total climbing: 243 m
Total descent: -243 m
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Before you go, complete a trip intentions form and share it with a trusted contact. Agree on a Late-Back Time and ask them to call 000 (Police) if you have not checked in. A clear trip plan is one of the simplest and most effective safety steps you can take.
Download the hiking preparation and safety checklists before leaving home to help you think through your plans. They help ensure important considerations are not overlooked and support safer decision-making on the trail.
Getting to the trailhead: Oxley Wild Rivers National Park.
The Tiara Walking Track is situated within the Tia Falls precinct of Oxley Wild Rivers National Park. This convenient location makes it an accessible option for those traveling along the Oxley Highway.
If you’re driving from Walcha, follow the Oxley Highway. Be sure to keep an eye out for the turn-off to Tia Falls, which is located approximately 19 kilometers past the Apsley Gorge turn-off. The road leading to the trailhead is unsealed, so the distance is listed as 7 kilometers, though it may take slightly longer to traverse.
Weather conditions can significantly impact the road leading to the Tiara Walking Track. It’s crucial to check the forecast before you set out, as the road can become boggy after rainfall.
Parking is available at the designated Tia Falls lookout and picnic area. This eliminates the hassle of searching for parking after your scenic drive and allows you to seamlessly begin your adventure on the Tiara Walking Track.
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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