Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore the ancient wonders of the Woolpack Rocks in Cathedral Rock National Park, New South Wales, a comfortable drive from the nearby town of Ebor. This 8km return hike, graded as a hard level 4, offers a captivating journey through geological time, where you'll marvel at 270 million-year-old boulders perched 1400m above sea level. Starting at 796 Guyra Rd and ending at Biscuit Creek, this hike rewards bushwalkers with spectacular panoramic views, made all the more rewarding by an easy climb to the summit.

Length:

8km

Duration:

4 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 0m

Min elevation: 0m

Total Ascent: 0m

Start: 796 Guyra Rd

End: Biscuit Creek

Cathedral Rock National Park

New South Wales

Nearby town: Ebor

From state capital: 556km

Latitude: -30.398379

Longitude: 152.261863

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Hike overview

Woolpack Rocks shouldn't be overlooked just because the national park wasn't named after them. Easily accessible from Native Dog campground, this feature is a geological wonder in its own right.
As you walk towards the Woolpack Rocks, their size and shape capture your gaze. You can tell they're ancient - in fact, they're around 270 million years old. You can also see some of the dykes created at the same time when molten rock pushed into deep pockets within the earth's crust; you're walking along a timeline.
The well-weathered boulders are 1400m above sea level, yet clambering to the summit is even easier than at Cathedral Rock. So, you're getting a great scenic view for the price of a prehistoric walk and an easy climb.

Tips

The weather in this area can be extreme and unpredictable, so please ensure you're well-prepared for your visit.
There is limited mobile reception in this park.
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to birdwatch

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.

Gallery

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Walk map and GPX file
Woolpack Rocks Hike (8km)

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Cathedral Rock National Park.

Woolpack Rocks starts at Native Dog campground in the north section of Cathedral Rock National Park. To get there:Take Guyra Road north for 10km from the Waterfall Way intersection (3km west of Ebor).From Guyra Road, turn left and follow a short gravel road into Native Dog campground. Parking Parking is available at Native Dog campground.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Armidale, Dorrigo, Ebor, Glen Innes, Guyra, Wollomombi

About the region

Cathedral Rock National Park in the Country NSW region
Cathedral Rock National Park is always open, but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Cathedral Rock National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Track grade

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.

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

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Woolpack Rocks Hike (8km)

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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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Tips

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Woolpack Rocks Hike (8km)