The Threlfall Walking Track in Oxley Wild Rivers National Park offers a delightful escape for nature lovers seeking a moderate 5.5km (grade 3) adventure. This track winds along the Gara Gorge ridge, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness.
As you explore, you'll encounter remnants of the historic 1894 hydro-electric scheme, following old embankments and granite cuttings. Reach Gara Gorge lookout for a truly awe-inspiring vista: rugged landscapes framed by majestic blackbutt and spotted gum trees, with the Gara River flowing below.
The Threlfall Walking Track is a haven for birdwatchers. Keep your eyes peeled for colorful rosellas, lyrebirds flitting through the undergrowth, or king parrots adding a splash of vibrancy to the scene. You might even be lucky enough to spot a koala enjoying a leisurely snack in a gum tree.
After completing the loop, you can choose to return to either the Threlfall picnic area or the nearby Blue Hole picnic area for a well-deserved lunch break. Both locations provide a scenic backdrop to unwind and reflect on your invigorating 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: 5701 m
Max elevation: 948 m
Min elevation: 883 m
Total climbing: 223 m
Total descent: -223 m
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The Threlfall Walking Track offers a delightful escape within the Gara Gorge precinct of Oxley Wild Rivers National Park. This moderate 5.5km hike can be accessed from the Threlfall picnic area.
Reaching the trailhead is straightforward. Begin your drive from Armidale and travel along Waterfall Way for about 2 kilometers. Keep an eye out for a left turn onto Castledoyle Road. Follow this road for approximately 15 kilometers. Once you reach Gara Gorge, signs will guide you to the Threlfall picnic area.
The roads leading to the park entrance include both sealed and unsealed sections. Thankfully, upon arrival at the Threlfall picnic area, you'll find convenient parking available.
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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.
