Barrington Tops Wilderness

Barrington Tops Wilderness is a rugged, ancient plateau in the Hunter Region of New South Wales, a World Heritage-listed wilderness that feels a world away from the coastal crowds. Here, subalpine snow gums and Antarctic beech forests meet wild rivers and thundering waterfalls. This is a place for serious bushwalkers, 4WD enthusiasts, and anyone who craves raw, untamed nature. The air is crisp, the silence profound, and the starry skies simply phenomenal.

Highlights & What to See

• Gloucester River & Gloucester Falls – A stunning swimming hole and cascading waterfall, perfect for a refreshing dip after a hike. The surrounding rainforest is lush and alive with birdlife.
• Polblue Swamp & Snowgums – A high-altitude boardwalk through a subalpine swamp, with twisted snow gums and panoramic views. In winter, expect frost and occasional snow.
• Mount Barrington & Careys Peak – The highest points on the plateau, offering 360-degree views over the wilderness and, on clear days, all the way to the coast. The walk to Careys Peak is relatively short but steep.
• Williams River & Rocky Crossing – A remote section of the wilderness with pristine pools and ancient rainforest. Accessible by 4WD or a long hike, it’s a true backcountry experience.
• Barrington Tops National Park – The heart of the wilderness, with walking trails ranging from short loops to multi-day treks. Keep an eye out for wombats, lyrebirds, and the elusive platypus.

Suggested Time to Spend

To truly experience Barrington Tops, plan for at least two to three days. Day-trippers can hit the highlights like Gloucester Falls and Polblue Swamp, but the wilderness reveals its magic when you slow down. Spend one night camping or in a wilderness lodge, allowing time for a longer hike like the Barrington Trail or a 4WD exploration of the plateau’s remote corners. If you’re a dedicated bushwalker, set aside four to five days for a full traverse of the park.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Gloucester – A charming country town at the foot of the range, with historic pubs, a farm-gate produce scene, and access to the Bucketts Way scenic drive.
• Dungog – Australia’s smallest town to host a film festival, Dungog is a heritage gem with great coffee and the gateway to the Williams River.
• Hunter Valley Wine Country – An hour’s drive south, the Hunter is perfect for a post-wilderness indulgence: cellar doors, fine dining, and hot-air ballooning over the vineyards.
• Myall Lakes National Park – A coastal contrast of shimmering lakes and beaches, ideal for kayaking, fishing, and camping under the paperbarks.
• Chichester State Forest – Adjacent to Barrington Tops, this forest offers excellent mountain biking, swimming holes, and the historic Chichester Dam.

Please check official sources for current details.