Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 495m
Min elevation: 398m
Total Ascent: 126m
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.
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Walk map and GPX file
Max elevation: 495 m
Min elevation: 398 m
Total climbing: 126 m
Total descent: -126 m
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Sundown National Park.
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.
Closest towns to this walk: Applethorpe, Ballandean, Goondiwindi, Inglewood, Pozieres, Stanthorpe, Tenterfield, Texas, Thulimbah, Wallangarra, Warwick
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.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Sundown National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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.
Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
Packing checklists
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
Let someone know
Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure
Suggest an edit
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
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.