This hike is classified as Grade 4 (Hard) primarily due to its distance exceeding 20km. The terrain itself is relatively easy and suitable for most abilities. However, the long distance requires a good level of fitness and preparation. Feel free to turn back at any point for a shorter adventure.
Prepare to see all Wallingat National Park has to offer in one easy drive. The 25km loop that is Wallingat Forest drive takes you through the thick forest, the snow-white trunks of gum trees towering over you, and underneath the vast leaves of the cabbage palm shading the road. The route takes in all the major sites of the park, including Wallingat River picnic area, where you can stop for a swim. Be sure to bring an esky full of sandwiches and barbecue essentials so you can relax at Sugar Creek picnic area.
You'll see birds swooping low throughout the drive, wallabies bounding across your path, and maybe even a goanna basking in the sun - so be sure to drive with care. This is an unsealed road, so plan your trip well - wet weather makes it unsuitable for 2WD vehicles. If you're feeling energetic, you can go mountain biking or horse riding along the circuit. Any way you enjoy this route, take your time, relax and enjoy.
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.
This is a narrow road, two-way, and shared by cars, bikes, hikers and horse-riders, so caution is urged on this route.
The road network contains a number of timber bridges, some of which have limited load carrying capacity. The main bridge over Boggy Creek on Sugar Creek Road has a load limit of 3 tonnes.
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to bird watch
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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Leave a trip plan
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.
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Wallingat National Park.
To Sugar Creek Road. On entering Wallingat National Park, start at either Sugar Creek Road or Thomas Road. Park entry points Sugar Creek Road See on map Thomas Road See on map Parking Parking is available at the picnic areas and campgrounds on the drive. Parking on campgrounds is for campers only.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Accommodation nearby
Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: Forster, Gloucester, Hallidays Point, Nabiac, Old Bar, Pacific Palms, Seal Rocks, Smiths Lake, Taree, Tuncurry, Wingham
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