Trail summary

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Quick overview: Explore the 4.5km Western circuit at Sundown National Park, a moderate Grade 3 hike offering expansive vistas of the park's valley and surrounding areas. Starting at The Broadwater camping area, this trail takes you through open high ground, a favourite spot for woodland birds and grazing eastern grey kangaroos. This hike, near the main town, is a must for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.

Length: 4.5km

Duration: 1.5 hrs

Grade 3 (Moderate)

Style: Circuit

Start: Broadwater camping area

End: Broadwater camping area

Location: Sundown National Park

State: Queensland

Nearby town: Sundown

From state capital: 299km

Latitude: -28.91547076

Longitude: 151.58642649650577

Hike Overview

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Hike overview

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.

Map and GPX file

Western Circuit Walk (4.5km)

Total distance: 4796 m
Max elevation: 495 m
Min elevation: 398 m
Total climbing: 126 m
Total descent: -126 m

Download file: Western%20Circuit.gpx

Getting there

Western Circuit Walk (4.5km)

The Western circuit is in Sundown National Park, 250km (34hrs 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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Track grade

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.

About the region

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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Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.

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Western Circuit Walk (4.5km)

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Gear to consider

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe

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Acknowledgement of Country

Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.

Trail summary

Hike overview

Map and GPX file

Western Circuit Walk (4.5km)