Gibraltar Range National Park

Gibraltar Range National Park is a rugged wilderness of granite outcrops, ancient rainforests, and cascading waterfalls in northern NSW. It's a paradise for hikers and nature lovers, offering some of the state's most spectacular scenery without the crowds of more famous parks. The park is part of the Gondwana Rainforests World Heritage Area, meaning you'll walk among trees that have stood for millennia. Whether you're tackling the challenging Gibraltar Track or simply soaking in the views from a lookout, this is a place that rewards those who venture off the beaten path.

Highlights & What to See

• Gibraltar Track: A 31-km one-way hike that's one of NSW's great walks, taking you through towering eucalypts, cool temperate rainforest, and past the massive granite tors that give the park its name. It's a multi-day trek, but shorter day walks like the Dandahra Crags track offer similar thrills.
• Mulligans Hut: A historic stockman's hut that provides a glimpse into the area's pioneering past. It's a popular camping spot and a great base for exploring the nearby creeks and waterfalls.
• Dandahra Falls and Little Dandahra Creek: After rain, these waterfalls are a sight to behold, plunging over granite cliffs into clear pools. The walk to the falls is relatively easy and rewards with swimming holes in summer.
• Granite Tors: The park's iconic rock formations are perfect for scrambling and photography. The view from the top of the tors stretches for miles over the wild, forested landscape.
• Birdwatching and Wildlife: Keep an eye out for lyrebirds, wallabies, and even the elusive platypus in the park's creeks. The diversity of habitats means you're likely to spot something special.

Suggested Time to Spend

If you're just passing through, a half-day visit allows you to tackle a short walk like Dandahra Crags and enjoy a picnic. For a more immersive experience, plan a full day to hike a section of the Gibraltar Track and explore the waterfalls. Serious hikers should set aside two to three days to complete the entire Gibraltar Track, camping overnight. The park is best visited from autumn to spring, as summer can be hot and leech-infested after rain.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Washpool National Park: Adjacent to Gibraltar Range, this World Heritage-listed park is home to the largest remaining stand of coachwood rainforest in NSW. The short walk to the Washpool Lookout is a must.
• Glen Innes: This historic town is the gateway to the New England region, known for its Celtic heritage, sapphire fossicking, and the Australian Standing Stones monument.
• Gwydir River: Perfect for canoeing and fishing, the river runs through the park's northern boundary. You can also camp at the Gwydir River campground for a true wilderness experience.
• Nymboida River: A popular spot for white-water rafting and kayaking, especially after rains. The river is about an hour's drive from the park.
• Port Stephens: While a couple of hours away, the coast offers a complete change of pace with dolphin watching, sand dunes, and beautiful beaches—ideal for a multi-day road trip.

Please check official sources for current details.