Coolah Tops National Park

Perched on the Great Dividing Range in northern New South Wales, Coolah Tops National Park is a cool-climate haven of tall eucalypt forests, volcanic peaks, and dramatic escarpments. This lesser-known gem offers a genuine wilderness experience with superb bushwalking, birdwatching, and camping beneath star-studded skies — a perfect detour for self-drive travellers exploring the New England region.

Highlights & What to See

• Grassy Creek Falls: A short walk leads to this beautiful cascade tumbling over volcanic rock, best after rain.
• The Breadknife: A striking, narrow volcanic dyke that rises like a blade from the forest — a photographer's dream.
• Breeza Lookout: Sweeping views over the Liverpool Plains and distant Warrumbungle Ranges; ideal for sunset.
• Coolah Tops Rainforest Walk: A gentle loop through cool temperate rainforest with ancient tree ferns and mossy boulders.
• Birdlife: Spot superb lyrebirds, satin bowerbirds, and crimson rosellas in this bird-rich park.
• Camping at The Pines: Basic campgrounds nestled among towering mountain gum and snow gum woodlands.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate a full day to explore the park's highlights, including a few short walks and a picnic. For a more immersive experience, stay overnight at one of the campgrounds — this allows you to tackle longer trails like the Coolah Tops Walk (12 km return) and enjoy the tranquillity of the forest at dawn and dusk. Two days is ideal if you want to combine hiking with wildlife watching and stargazing.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Warrumbungle National Park: Australia's first Dark Sky Park, with spectacular volcanic peaks and excellent hiking.
• Liverpool Plains: Vast agricultural landscapes and charming small towns like Quirindi and Werris Creek.
• Coolah Town: A friendly country town with historic pubs, a heritage museum, and the 'Dog on the Tuckerbox' statue.
• Pilliga Forest: A vast dry forest with Aboriginal rock art, sandstone caves, and the Pilliga Scrub.
• Tamworth: The country music capital, about 90 minutes east, with galleries, parks, and the Big Golden Guitar.

Please check official sources for current details.