Hike at a Glance
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Hike overview
Discover the delights of a cool climate rainforest walk that's bound to revive your senses. Remote and tranquil, Summit walking track in Mount Hyland Nature Reserve is where the mountains meet the sky. This moderate loop track with short steep climbs is a great leg-stretcher on a 4WD tour of this World Heritage-listed wilderness region near Dorrigo.
Following the loop track through a forest of sassafras and mountain walnut, look for the vibrant coloured fungi. You'll see huge banksia trees emerge above the rainforest canopy and hear the mimicking cry of the lyrebird echoing through the forest. In summer, the call of the endangered pouched frog can be heard along the walk.
Upon reaching the summit at a height of 1,434m, soak up the views before making your way back. Descending to Vista Point picnic area, enjoy a well-earned lunch.
Tips
The weather in the area can be extreme and unpredictable, so please ensure you're well-prepared for your visit.
There is limited mobile reception in this reserve
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to go bird watching
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.
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.
Walk map and GPX file
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Content use
Please don’t copy GPX files or content from this site to AllTrails or other platforms. Each trail has been personally mapped, documented, and refined to support Australia’s bushwalking and hiking community. While some details come from land managers, every listing reflects significant personal effort. This is a free, community-driven initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.
Gallery
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Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Mount Hyland Nature Reserve.
Summit walking track starts at Mount Hyland picnic area within Mount Hyland Nature Reserve. To get there:Via DundurrabinTurn off Armidale/Grafton Road at DundurrabinProceed along Sheepstation Road for 6.3kmTurn left onto Chaelundi Road and proceed for 11.3kmTurn left onto Hardens Road and proceed for 5kmTurn left at the sign for Mount Hyland picnic area and proceed for 1kmVia HernaniTurn off Armidale/Grafton Road at Hernani onto Marengo RoadProceed along Marengo Road for 11.4kmTurn right onto Hardens Road and proceed for 7kmTurn right at the sign for Mount Hyland picnic area and drive for 1km Road quality Check the weather before you set out as the road to Summit walking track can become boggy when it rains. Parking Parking is available at Mount Hyland picnic area, which is at the start of Summit walking track.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
About the region
Mount Hyland Nature Reserve is a perfect pit stop on a 4WD driving tour, around Dorrigo and the New England tablelands. Check out the superb views and walking tracks through World Heritage gondwana rainforest. Answer the call of the wild with a World Heritage rainforest experience in Mount Hyland Nature Reserve. The distinctive three peaks of Mount Hyland are the highest point on the New England tablelands and offer breathtaking scenic views across the Dorrigo plateau. It's a popular destination on a 4WD driving tour, offering superb walking, picnic and birdwatching opportunities.
Find a place to stay
Wondering where to stay near this hike? Find accommodation close to the trailhead — hotels, cabins and campgrounds nearby. Click the button to view the interactive map.
Closest towns to this walk: Baradine, Binnaway, Coolah, Coonabarabran, Mendooran
Let someone know
Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Mount Hyland Nature Reserve? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
Suggest an edit
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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.
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.






