Brokenback Range

Rising dramatically from the valley floor, the Brokenback Range is the rugged backbone of the Hunter Valley wine region. This ancient escarpment, cloaked in eucalypt forests and bisected by deep gullies, offers a striking contrast to the manicured vineyards below. For travellers seeking a dose of nature between wine tastings, the range provides some of the most rewarding bushwalks and panoramic viewpoints in the area. The air smells of eucalyptus, and the only sounds are birdsong and the rustle of leaves – a perfect palate cleanser for a self-drive itinerary.

Highlights & What to See

• Pikes Gully Walking Track – A moderate 2.5 km loop that winds through a serene gully of towering gums and ferny undergrowth, with a seasonal creek crossing. Look for lyrebirds scratching in the leaf litter.
• Hunter Lookout – A short, wheelchair-accessible walk leads to a platform with sweeping views over the Brokenback Range and the patchwork of vineyards stretching towards the distant Barrington Tops.
• Yengo National Park – Adjacent to the range, this park protects Aboriginal rock art sites and the wild Yengo wilderness. The drive along the gravel Yango Creek Road is an adventure in itself.
• Wollombi Brook – A picturesque picnic spot at the base of the range, where you can cool off in the clear, shallow waters after a hike.
• Sunset from the Ridge – For photographers, the golden hour light on the sandstone cliffs is magical. The best vantage is from the end of the Old North Road trail.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors allocate half a day to the Brokenback Range, combining a morning walk (2–3 hours) with a leisurely picnic lunch. If you're keen on exploring the adjacent Yengo National Park or tackling longer trails like the 10 km Mount Yengo walk, plan a full day. The range is best visited from autumn to spring, as summer can be very hot and leeches are active after rain. Start early to catch the cool morning air and the best light.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Pokolbin – The heart of Hunter Valley wine country, with dozens of cellar doors, restaurants and the Hunter Valley Gardens just a 15-minute drive from the range.
• Cessnock – The main service town for the region, offering accommodation, supermarkets and the Cessnock Regional Art Gallery.
• Wollombi – A historic village with a charming pub, antique shops and the famous Wollombi Tavern, known for its folk music sessions.
• Broke – A quiet village at the northern edge of the wine region, with a handful of boutique wineries and access to the Broke Road wine trail.
• Barrington Tops National Park – About an hour's drive north, this World Heritage-listed wilderness offers cool temperate rainforest, alpine plateaus and excellent hiking.

Please check official sources for current details.