Smoky Cape walking track is a 2.2km, grade 5 hike located in Hat Head National Park, New South Wales. The hike should take around 1 hour to complete.
Hike overview
Experience one of the largest remnants of unique littoral rainforest on the NSW coast on this moderately challenging hike. Smoky Cape walking track forms part of the longer Little Bay to Smoky Cape walk in the northern precinct of Hat Head National Park.
The track starts at Captain Cook's lookout, where you can take in the spectacular views along the coast. Leading along ridges and down gullies behind North Smoky Beach, you'll meander through dense rainforest of cabbage tree palms and lush ferns. Keep an eye out for epiphytic orchids and swallow-tailed butterflies. Swamp wallabies and red-necked wallabies are often seen darting through the undergrowth.
Stop for a picnic break along the way and soak up the tranquil setting. If you're not ready to turn back, the optional Green Island walking track is excellent for birdwatching.
Route and GPX file
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Trail location
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Getting there
To Captain Cook carpark. Smoky Cape walking track starts at Captain Cook's lookout in the Smoky Cape precinct of Hat Head National Park. To get there:Take Arakoon Road from South West RocksTurn into Lighthouse Road and follow the signs to Smoky Cape LighthouseThe walk begins near Captain Cook's lookout Park entry points Captain Cook carpark See on map South Gap carpark See on map Parking Parking is available at Captain Cook's lookout.
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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Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
About the region
Hat Head National Park on the mid-north coast of NSW near South West Rocks is a natural paradise. Explore the lighthouse, camp by the beach and go fishing and swimming. Hat Head is a national park in New South Wales, Australia, 461.7 kilometres via M1 and Pacific Highway/A1, northeast of Sydney. It lies within the Hastings-Macleay Important Bird Area.
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Explore Safe
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.
Let someone know
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
Gear to consider
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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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.