Warumbungle National Park

Warumbungle National Park, a rugged volcanic landscape in northern New South Wales, offers a dramatic contrast to the outback plains that surround it. This park is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers, with ancient volcanic plugs, dense forests, and a rich array of wildlife. The striking silhouette of the Breadknife, a 90-metre-high volcanic dyke, is the park's iconic landmark. Warumbungle is a place of quiet solitude and raw natural beauty, ideal for those seeking a multi-day bushwalking adventure or a peaceful escape into the wild.

Highlights & What to See

• The Breadknife: This spectacular volcanic dyke is the park's most famous feature. A challenging hike from the campground leads to the base of this razor-thin rock formation, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness.
• Mount Exmouth: The highest peak in the park, standing at 1206 metres. The summit hike is a strenuous but rewarding full-day walk, providing panoramic views of the Warrumbungle Range and beyond.
• Belougery Split Rock: A lesser-known but equally impressive volcanic plug. The walk to this split rock offers a more secluded experience and great birdwatching opportunities.
• Dark Sky Park: Warumbungle is Australia's first Dark Sky Park, making it a premier spot for stargazing. On clear nights, the Milky Way stretches across the sky with astonishing clarity.
• Wildlife Encounters: Keep an eye out for eastern grey kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, and a variety of bird species, including the superb lyrebird and glossy black cockatoo.

Suggested Time to Spend

To truly experience the park, plan at least two full days. One day can be dedicated to the Breadknife and Mount Exmouth hikes, while a second day allows for exploring the shorter trails around the campgrounds and stargazing at night. If you're short on time, a day trip from Coonabarabran can cover a walk to the Breadknife lookout and a visit to the visitor centre.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Coonabarabran: The gateway town to the park, known as the 'Astronomy Capital of Australia'. Visit the Siding Spring Observatory for a fascinating insight into the universe.
• Pilliga Forest: A vast semi-arid forest to the west, offering scenic drives, birdwatching, and the unique Pilliga Sandstone Caves.
• Coolah Tops National Park: A high-altitude park with cool temperate rainforest and excellent walking trails, about an hour's drive east.
• Liverpool Plains: A fertile agricultural region with charming country towns and the stunning Liverpool Range backdrop.

Please check official sources for current details.