This iconic Warrumbungle National Park walk is famous for its wildlife and vistas of rugged volcanic landscape. Breadknife and Grand High Tops walk is the jewel in the glistening crown and is must do for bush walkers who love a challenge with their scenery. The track follows Spirey Creek before climbing steeply to give close encounters with iconic formations such as Belougery Spire, Bress Peak and Crater Bluff.
Passing Balor Hut campground on your way up, stop for a picnic and take in one of the best panoramas in NSW. After the breathtaking Grand High Tops summit, continue on towards Western High Tops and Ogma Gap campground, you'll pass Dows Camp on the way for a look at the impressive Bluff Mountain. To complete the 14.5km loop, follow West Spirey track back to Pincham carpark.
Alternatively, you can take a shorter 12.5km return to Pincham carpark via Dagda Shortcut.
In spring, walkers will be treated to a wildflower display of purple hoveas, white daisy bushes, yellow wattles and orange pea flowers. A haven for birdwatchers, be sure to look for wedge-tailed eagles soaring high above the cliffs and listen out for the screech of peregrine falcons.
Grade 4 (Hard) -
Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the
AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
Total distance: 13384 m
Max elevation: 968 m
Min elevation: 507 m
Total climbing: 738 m
Total descent: -738 m
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Breadknife and Grand High Tops walk is in the Pincham carpark precinct of Warrumbungle National Park. To get there from Coonabarabran, follow John Renshaw Parkway into Warrumbungle National ParkTurn left into Pincham Road approximately 100m past the Visitor Centre turnoff and continue to the end. Park entry points Camp Pincham carpark See on map Parking Parking is available at Camp Pincham carpark.
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Millions of years ago, a mighty shield volcano sculpted the jagged peaks of Warrumbungle National Park. Today, these ancient formations rise majestically from eucalyptus-dotted plains, creating a landscape unlike any other in New South Wales.
As Australia's first Dark Sky Park, Warrumbungle boasts pristine skies untouched by light pollution. Here, the Milky Way stretches across the heavens, revealing a dazzling display of stars, planets, and distant galaxies. Whether you're a seasoned astronomer or a curious beginner, Warrumbungle offers unforgettable stargazing experiences.
Lace up your boots and explore a network of walking tracks. Hike the iconic Breadknife and Grand High Tops Walk for breathtaking close-up views of the park's most recognizable rock formations. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for camping, birdwatching, and capturing stunning photographs of the dramatic scenery.
While wildfires impacted the park in 2013, the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has meticulously restored walking tracks, campgrounds, and visitor facilities. Start your adventure at the Warrumbungle Visitor Centre, where you can gather park information or purchase a star chart to navigate the night sky.
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What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
