Barrington Tops National Park

Rising dramatically from the subtropical lowlands to cool, ancient rainforests and wild alpine plateaus, Barrington Tops National Park is a World Heritage-listed wilderness that feels a world away from the coast. Part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, this immense park offers a stunning diversity of landscapes – from cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear rivers to snow-dusted peaks in winter. It’s a paradise for hikers, campers, and anyone seeking raw, untamed nature just a few hours’ drive from Port Macquarie.

Highlights & What to See

• Gloucester River & Gloucester Falls: A series of spectacular waterfalls and deep swimming holes, perfect for a refreshing dip after a bushwalk. The walk to Gloucester Falls is short but rewarding.
• Polblue Swamp & Plateau: A high-altitude wetland with a boardwalk trail that offers panoramic views across the alpine meadows – especially beautiful in spring when wildflowers bloom.
• Mount Barrington & The Pinnacle: For experienced hikers, the summit walks provide breathtaking 360-degree views over the park and out to the coast on clear days.
• Gondwana Rainforest Walks: Explore ancient Antarctic beech forests and moss-draped tree ferns on trails like the Antarctic Beech Walk near the park’s southern entrance.
• Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for wombats, wallabies, lyrebirds, and even the elusive platypus in the park’s pristine rivers.

Suggested Time to Spend

To truly experience Barrington Tops, plan for at least a full day, but two days is ideal – one to explore the lower rainforests and waterfalls, and another to drive up to the plateau for longer hikes. If you’re camping or staying in a nearby cabin, a weekend allows you to tackle a multi-day trek like the Barrington Trail. The park is accessible year-round, but winter can bring snow and icy roads, while summer is lush and green with occasional thunderstorms.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie: The coastal hub offers beautiful beaches, the Koala Hospital, and a lively waterfront dining scene – a perfect contrast to the mountain wilderness.
• Gloucester: A charming rural town at the foot of the Bucketts Mountains, with great cafés and access to the park’s southern entrance.
• Maitland & the Hunter Valley: Just a couple of hours south, the Hunter Valley’s wineries, restaurants, and historic villages make for a sophisticated detour.
• Myall Lakes National Park: A stunning water-based park with massive lakes, sand dunes, and excellent kayaking and fishing opportunities, about an hour east.
• Dungog: A historic timber town with a beautiful main street and gateway to the Chichester State Forest, offering more hiking and swimming spots.

Please check official sources for current details.