Mawson Trail

Stretching 200 kilometres through the heart of the Hunter Valley, the Mawson Trail is a multi-day hiking and mountain-biking route that strings together national parks, state forests, and historic villages. Originally a route used by Aboriginal people and later by cedar-cutters, the trail offers a genuine backcountry experience far from the tasting rooms. You’ll traverse sandstone escarpments, cross creeks, and sleep under stars in remote campgrounds. It’s a rugged, self-reliant adventure for those who want to earn their wine-country views.

Highlights & What to See

• Yengo National Park – Ancient Aboriginal rock engravings and dramatic wilderness; the trail’s southern gateway.
• Dharug National Park – Dense eucalypt forests and the historic Great North Road, a convict-built marvel.
• Wollemi National Park – Deep gorges and the world’s oldest pine species, the Wollemi pine.
• Lost City – A spectacular sandstone labyrinth near the trail’s midpoint, best explored on a side-trip.
• Historic villages – St Albans and Wisemans Ferry offer pub meals, river crossings, and a glimpse of pioneer life.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most walkers allow 10–14 days to complete the entire trail, while cyclists can do it in 5–7 days. If you’re short on time, tackle a 3–4 day section between St Albans and Wollombi – it packs in the best scenery and avoids the longest road sections. Plan your water drops carefully, as reliable sources are scarce in summer.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hunter Valley Wine Country – Reward your effort with cellar-door tastings and gourmet dining in Pokolbin and Lovedale.
• Broken Bay & the Hawkesbury River – Kayak or cruise through the drowned river valley at the trail’s southern end.
• Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park – Aboriginal rock art and stunning harbour views, a short drive from the finish.
• Newcastle – Surf beaches, a revitalised waterfront, and craft breweries, two hours north of the trailhead.

Please check official sources for current details.