Barrington Tops

Barrington Tops is a sprawling wilderness of ancient rainforests, wild rivers, and subalpine plateaus, offering one of New South Wales' most untamed and rewarding escapes. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed Gondwana rainforest is a paradise for hikers, wildlife-spotters, and anyone craving pure, silent nature. Just a couple of hours' drive north of Newcastle, it feels a world away from the coast.

Highlights & What to See

• Gloucester River & Gloucester Falls: Crystal-clear pools and cascading falls perfect for a refreshing dip after a bushwalk.
• Polblue Swamp & Plateau: A surreal, high-altitude grassland dotted with snow gums and tarns, ideal for a gentle stroll or picnic.
• Mount Barrington summit: A challenging but rewarding hike with panoramic views over the entire plateau and down to the coast.
• Junction Pools: Secluded swimming holes where the Barrington and Williams rivers meet, surrounded by lush ferns.
• Gondwana Rainforest walks: Explore ancient Antarctic beech and sassafras trees on trails like the Antarctic Beech Walk near the Barrington Tops Forest Road.

Suggested Time to Spend

Give yourself at least two full days to properly experience Barrington Tops. The drive from the coast takes a couple of hours, and the winding gravel roads on the plateau demand careful driving. Spend one day exploring the southern section (Gloucester River, Polblue) and another on the northern side (Junction Pools, Mount Barrington). If you're short on time, a long day trip from Port Stephens is possible but you'll only scratch the surface – better to stay overnight in the area.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Stephens: The stunning port with its beaches and dolphins is a natural base for a trip to the Tops.
• Gloucester: A charming country town at the foothills, with historic pubs and the dramatic Bucketts mountain range.
• Dungog: A historic village with lovely heritage buildings and the gateway to the northern side of the park.
• Chichester State Forest: Adjacent wilderness with more waterfalls and camping spots for the adventurous.

Please check official sources for current details.