Discover World Heritage Gondwana Rainforest on Carabeen walk, in Werrikimbe National Park. This short, family-friendly walk loops past majestic yellow carabeen trees, near Walcha. Starting from Cobcroft picnic area, this loop walk is a beautiful self-guided tour of Werrikimbe National Park's ancient rainforest diversity, suitable for all ages.
Listen for lyrebirds' mimicking calls as you stroll through tall open groves of New England blackbutt and eucalypts. Then dip into cool gullies where blue gums tower over an understorey of tree ferns. Scattered throughout are yellow carabeen trees, that give this track its name. Slow growing, yet often the forest's highest trees, their large, wide root buttresses straddle the forest floor and can extend 2-5m up the trunk.
Come in spring to see carabeen trees burst into flower with creamy white blossoms. It's also a great time to see wildflowers throughout the park, and spot the birds they attract. After your walk enjoy lunch at the picnic area. If you're feeling adventurous, Carabeen walk is easily combined with the longer Mesa trail, an ambitious 8hr hike for fit hikers.
Keen to explore more? Pitch your tent at Mooraback campground, among snow gum woodland. You'll wake refreshed and ready to discover more of the Mid North Coast hinterland, including neighbouring Oxley Wild Rivers National Park.
Camping
Escape the crowds at Mooraback campground, near Walcha, tucked among the snow gums. Explore nearby walking tracks and enjoy the tranquility of this isolated spot. There are 5 campsites that allow you to camp with a tent, camper trailer, or beside your vehicle in a swag.
All campgrounds in NSW national parks require a booking. Check availability and restrictions here.
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the
AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Total distance: 1901 m
Max elevation: 1097 m
Min elevation: 1049 m
Total climbing: 56 m
Total descent: -56 m
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From Wauchope: Drive towards Beechwood on Beechwood Road. After approximately 6.5km, turn onto Bellangry Road and follow for approximately 18km to Bellangry. After Bellangry, the road is unsealed and becomes known as Hastings Forest Way. Follow Hastings Forest Way for about 30km through the forest to the park boundary, then continue on another 8km to the junction with Cockerawombeeba Road in the eastern precinct of the park. For more information, visit the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service website.
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Werrikimbe National Park, near Port Macquarie and Walcha, offers walks through World Heritage-listed Gondwana rainforest, camping, picnicking, scenic drives and 4WD trails. If you're looking to get away from the crowds and explore pristine wilderness, then Werrikimbe National Park is the place for you.
Part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, it's a unique natural landscape with ancient rainforest, tall eucalypt forests, pristine rivers, cascading waterfalls, rugged escarpment and deep gullies. In spring, the forests and heathland burst with colourful wildflowers. Visit for the day, or spend a few more enjoying the tranquility of secluded campgrounds, walking tracks, and picnic areas. With over 120 bird species, birdwatching is a fantastic activity to enjoy here. As you spy lyrebirds in the rainforest, you'll find a range of other forest birds such as eastern yellow robins and rufous fantails. If you're lucky, you might spot rare bird species like olive whistlers, rufous scrub-birds and sooty owls.
Looking for things to do in Werrikimbe National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
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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.
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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
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