Immerse yourself in the timeless wonder of the warm temperate forests of Washpool National Park, near Glen Innes. This moderately challenging loop offers the rare opportunity to experience the ancient stands of World Heritage Gondwana Rainforest. Leading from Coombadjha campground, it's an ideal hike for experienced walkers who enjoy birdwatching and wildlife spotting in pristine wilderness.
Winding through gentle hills, this clearly sign posted walking track leads to one of the largest stands of coachwood forest in NSW. You'll see picturesque waterfalls and spectacular views, with a chance to spot rainforest locals such as satin bower birds and lyrebirds.
Summit Creek is a great spot for a break and the beautiful surrounds make for some superb nature photography. Picnic along the way or head back for a barbecue lunch at the campground, where you might be tempted to camp overnight.
There is limited mobile reception in this park
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to go birdwatching
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.
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.
Do you have a GPX file for this hike? Feel free to email it to me so I can add it to this hikes info.
Click to add your file >>
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
Got any photos from this hike? Your photos can help others plan. Share shots from along the trail so fellow hikers know what to expect.
Click to add your photos >>
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Gibraltar Range National Park.
Washpool Walk is in the Coombadjha precinct of Washpool National Park. To get there:The entrance to Washpool National Park is 75km east of Glen Innes and 85km west of Grafton on the Gwydir Highway.Drive down Coachwood Drive for 3km to Coombadjha campground, where the walk begins. Parking Parking is available at Coombadjha campground.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
About the region
Gibraltar Range National Park in the North Coast and Country NSW regions
Gibraltar Range National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather, road damage, or high fire danger.
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: Armidale, Ashford, Baryulgil, Dalmorton, Deepwater, Ebor, Emmaville, Ewingar, Glen Innes, Guyra, Inverell, Mount Mitchell, Tenterfield, Tingha
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 Gibraltar Range National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
Favourite
Gibraltar Range National Park
Favourite
Gibraltar Range National Park
Favourite
Torrington State Conservation Area
Favourite
Torrington State Conservation Area
Suggest an edit
Notice something different about this trail? Whether it’s a new feature, a route change, or a closure, share your update so we can keep our info accurate and helpful for fellow hikers.
Click to suggest edits >>
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.