The Western circuit at Sundown National Park veers off from the Permanent track near The Broadwater camping area and heads away from the river to open high ground. Woodland birds such as spiny-cheeked, yellow-faced and fuscous honeyeaters and golden whistlers favour this area near the western boundary of the park. Take in expansive views up the valley into the park as well as to the south and west. Descend back to the camping area via open flats where eastern grey kangaroos graze.
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: 4796 m
Max elevation: 495 m
Min elevation: 398 m
Total climbing: 126 m
Total descent: -126 m
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The Western circuit is in Sundown National Park, 250km (3€“4hrs drive) south-west of Brisbane via Stanthorpe, and 70km north-west of Tenterfield. The track begins at The Broadwater camping area at the southern end of the park. Access to The Broadwater camping area is suitable for conventional vehicle. From Stanthorpe drive along 76km of bitumen road via Texas Road (62km) and Glenlyon Dam Road (14km), followed by 4km of good gravel road (Permanents Road) to the park entrance. From Tenterfield in New South Wales, travel north 5km along the New England Highway then west along the Bruxner Highway 52km to Mingoola. Turn right and travel 12km to the park turn-off. From the park entrance, drive about 1.5km to The Broadwater camping area. The Western circuit branches off the Permanent Waterhole track, 20m from the trail head.
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Sundown National Park, is a rugged wilderness area with spectacular steep-sided gorges, sharp ridges and peaks of over 1,000m that rise above the Severn River. The vegetation is mainly woodland consisting of box, ironbark and cypress trees, river red gums and river oaks along the river, stringybark and yellow box trees dominate forest in some high eastern areas and pockets of dry vine scrub are found in sheltered gorges. More than 150 species of birds have been recorded in the park, making it the perfect location for birdwatching enthusiasts.
The Sundown area has a history of early selection and subdivision in the late 1800s, followed by extensive clearing for grazing and fine wool production. Tin, copper and arsenic were also mined in the area from the 1870s. Pastoral relics and old surface diggings remain.
Sundown is a great place to get away from it all. Visitors must be self-sufficient as few facilities are provided.
Find out more here.
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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.
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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
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