Historic Nightcap walking track is a 18km, grade 4 One Way hike located in the Whian Whian State Conservation Area, NSW. The hike should take approximately 1-2 days to complete.

Summary

Head along Historic Nightcap walking track to experience a World Heritage rainforest with breathtaking escarpment views across Nightcap National Park. This 18km track is popular with experienced walkers looking for a remote wilderness adventure. With the option to camp overnight at Rummery Park campground, west to east is the easiest way to take this scenic walk, but you can easily start at either end of the track. During the 1800s and 1900s, sections of Historic Nightcap walking track were traversed by travellers and postal workers making their way between Lismore and Murwillumbah. There’s plenty to see along the way, so remember to pack your camera and capture shots of rock orchids brightening the path, and wildlife such as the long-nosed potoroo, brush turkey and Albert’s lyrebird, who call the area home.

About the Region

Whian Whian State Conservation Area in the North Coast region
Whian Whian State Conservation Area is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather.

Getting There

Historic Nightcap walking track is in the western precinct of Nightcap National Park. To get there: From Nimbin:Take Sibley Street and drive past Nimbin Bowling ClubTurn onto Gungas Street and continue for 1.5km, then turn right onto Tuntable Falls Road – signposted ‘Mount Nardi’.Travel a further 4.2km, past Upper Tuntable Falls Road intersection, where the road turns onto Newton Drive.Continue for approximately 4.8km to the park entrance, and another 1km to Mount Nardi carpark.From the eastern park entrance (via Rosebank):Take Minyon Drive, past Minyon Falls picnic area, over the causeway.Continue along Minyon Drive until you reach the Peates Mountain Road intersectionTurn right onto Peates Mountain Road – the track is approximately 100m to the north (approximately 4km).From the southern park entrance on Nightcap Range Road (via Dunoon):Continue north up Nightcap Range Road to the top of the rangeTurn left onto Peates Mountain Road – the track is approximately 100m north (approximately 5km). Parking Parking is available at Mount Nardi carpark.

Tips

It’s advisable to contact the local NPWS office when planning an overnight or extended walk to get the best information on the track, weather conditions and possible closures.
Check the weather before you set out as the road to Historic Nightcap walking track can become boggy when it rains.
It’s a good idea to bring a topographic map and compass, or a GPS.
The weather in the area can be extreme and unpredictable, so please ensure you’re well-prepared for your visit.
This walking track is in a remote location; bring appropriate clothing and equipment, and advise a family member or friend of your travel plans.
This walking track is suitable for experienced bushwalkers who are comfortable undertaking self-reliant hiking.
Groups of 3-5 people are recommended, with at least one experienced bushwalker in the group.
A Personal Locator Beacon is advisable, but should only be used in a life-threatening situation.
There are camping facilities at Rummery Park.
It’s a good idea to pack sunscreen and remember to take a hat.
You’re encouraged to bring gas or fuel stoves, especially in summer during the fire season.

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.