Barrington Wilderness

Barrington Wilderness, part of the Barrington Tops National Park in New South Wales, is a pristine World Heritage-listed wilderness of ancient rainforests, wild rivers, and dramatic escarpments. A four-hour drive north of Sydney, this is a place for serious nature lovers seeking solitude and raw beauty. The area is a highlight of the Gondwana Rainforests, offering hiking, fishing, and wildlife spotting in a landscape that feels untouched by time.

Highlights & What to See

• Gloucester River – Crystal-clear swimming holes and cascades like the Gloucester River picnic area; perfect for a refreshing dip after a hike.
• Barrington Tops Summit – A challenging drive or hike to the plateau (1,500m) offers panoramic views over the wilderness and, in winter, occasional snow.
• Polblue Swamp – A subalpine wetland with a boardwalk trail, home to unique flora and birdlife, including the endangered brush-tailed rock-wallaby.
• Williams River – Famous for trout fishing and kayaking through lush valleys; the river is a key part of the area's wild river system.
• Mountaineer Trail – A multi-day hike through ancient Antarctic beech forests and along the escarpment, offering a true wilderness experience.

Suggested Time to Spend

Dedicate at least two full days to explore Barrington Wilderness properly. Day one can focus on the lower reaches: swimming in the Gloucester River and short walks like the 1.5km Antarctic Beech Walk. Day two, drive up to the plateau for the summit views and a hike around Polblue Swamp. If you have three days, add a guided wilderness trek or a fishing trip on the Williams River. The area is best visited from spring to autumn; winter can bring snow and road closures, but also stunning frosty landscapes.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Gloucester – A charming country town at the foot of the wilderness, with historic pubs and a gateway feel.
• Dungog – A historic town with a vibrant arts scene and access to the Barrington Tops via the scenic Thunderbolts Way.
• Chichester State Forest – Adjacent forest with excellent mountain biking trails and camping spots along the Allyn River.
• Stroud – A heritage-listed village with antique shops and a friendly pub, ideal for a pit stop on the way to the coast.
• Myall Lakes National Park – A two-hour drive east, offering a completely different landscape of coastal lakes, sand dunes, and water sports.

Please check official sources for current details.