Experience breathtaking waterfalls and wildlife on the McDirtys Walking Track. This moderately challenging 6km hike in Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, New South Wales, takes roughly 2.5 hours to complete. The McDirtys track rewards you with scenic vistas of Dangar Falls, a World Heritage-listed wonder. Keep your binoculars handy, as this track is a haven for birdwatchers.
The trail winds along the gorge ridge, offering glimpses of cascading waterfalls and the rugged beauty of the park's northern section from multiple lookouts. Get ready for a refreshing mist at the Dangar Falls lookout, especially after a good downpour.
As you traverse heathlands and dry eucalypt forests, look out for native Australian wildlife. You might spot eastern grey kangaroos lounging in the shade, along with fascinating birds like scrub wrens, treecreepers, and vibrant crimson rosellas.
The panoramic views from the spectacular Rock Wallaby lookout are unforgettable. Here, gaze upon the deep ravines carved by the river and see if you can spot the rare gorge wattle clinging to the cliffs. The McDirtys lookout viewing platform at the end of a ridge is a lovely place to take a break when doing McDirtys walking track. Breathe in the fresh air as you feast your eyes on this World Heritage-listed landscape of rugged ridges and gorges.
Enjoy a packed lunch with a view at any of the lookouts or head back to the Dangar Falls picnic area to refuel after your adventure.
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: 6284 m
Max elevation: 999 m
Min elevation: 942 m
Total climbing: 384 m
Total descent: -383 m
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The McDirtys Walking Track is nestled within the Dangars Gorge precinct of Oxley Wild Rivers National Park.
For those coming from the Armidale Post Office, navigating to the track is straightforward. Simply head south on Faulkner Street. After about a kilometer, turn left onto Kentucky Street and keep an eye out for signs directing you towards Dangar Falls.
Once on Kentucky Street, take a right turn onto Dangarsleigh Road. Follow this scenic route for roughly 8 kilometers. Finally, look out for the sign for Dangar Falls and turn left. Continue on the unsealed road for another 10 kilometers until you reach your destination.
Conveniently, the McDirtys Walking Track starts and ends at the Dangar Falls picnic area. This is also where you'll find parking available for your adventure.
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
Immerse Yourself in Wild Beauty: Oxley Wild Rivers National Park. Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, a World Heritage-listed Gondwana rainforest sanctuary near Armidale, stuns visitors with its dramatic gorges, magnificent waterfalls, and rare dry rainforests. Explore scenic drives along the Waterfall Way, or delve deeper with multi-day hikes like the Green Gully walk, offering overnight stays in heritage-listed stockman's huts. For a touch of luxury, stay at East Kunderang Homestead.
Camping, walking, paddling, picnicking, cycling, horse riding – Oxley Wild Rivers National Park caters to every outdoor enthusiast. Hike through diverse landscapes – wet and dry eucalypt forests, grassy woodlands, and heathlands. Keep an eye out for native flora like olive trees, lacebarks, and towering stinging trees.
Dramatic ridges, towering rock formations, and cascading waterfalls create a breathtaking backdrop for your exploration. Gaze upon the majestic Wollomombi Falls, the highest in New South Wales, or spot a wedge-tailed eagle soaring on the thermals.
Make the most of your Oxley Wild Rivers National Park adventure by checking the park website for current conditions, permits, and specific activity details.
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
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.
3 Reviews on “McDirtys Walking Track (6km)”
Allison Barlin I think we know this one ?