Burning Mountain

Burning Mountain, officially known as Mount Wingen, is a natural wonder in the Upper Hunter Valley of New South Wales. This is the only known burning coal seam in Australia, smoldering underground for an estimated 6,000 years. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into geological processes and a unique hiking experience through dry eucalypt forest to the smoking vents. The smell of sulfur and heat emanating from the ground is an unforgettable sensation, making it a must-visit for curious travelers.

Highlights & What to See

• The Burning Coal Seam: Walk the 4 km return track (allow 1.5 hours) to the viewing platform where you can see smoke and feel heat rising from cracks in the earth. Interpretive signs explain the geology.
• Mount Wingen Lookout: Continue a short distance beyond the smoking area for panoramic views of the Hunter Valley and distant mountains.
• Wildflowers and Birdlife: The trail passes through heathland and woodland, with spring wildflowers and birds like the flame robin and superb lyrebird.
• Aboriginal Heritage: The site is culturally significant to the Wanaruah people; respect the area and learn about its traditional importance.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for 2–3 hours, including the return walk and time at the viewing platform. The walk is moderate with some gentle slopes; start early in the morning to avoid the heat and catch better light for photos. Combine with a morning visit to Burning Mountain and an afternoon wine tasting in the Hunter Valley vineyards.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hunter Valley Wine Country: Just 30 minutes south, explore cellar doors at Pokolbin, Lovedale, or Broke for world-class semillon and shiraz.
• Barrington Tops National Park: An hour north, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers ancient rainforests, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
• Wollombi: A historic village with a pub serving hearty meals, plus the Wollombi Valley for scenic drives.
• Singleton: A service town with the Singleton Military Museum and access to the Hunter River for kayaking.

Please check official sources for current details.