The Basin Campsite to Heaton Gap

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Time 4 Days
One way 60.5 km One way
Climb 3206 m
Grade 4 Hard track
Car
no_pets
This four day walk starts at the Basin Campsite, in the Olney State Forest, and follows the Great North Walk, heading north. The walk passes through to the Watagan State Forest and into the Congewai Valley, continuing east into the Watagan National Park and all the way through to Heaton Gap. The three campsites can be found along the ridgeline before dropping down into the Congewai Valley, at the Barraba campsite, and at the Watagan Forestry H.Q campsite on the corner of Watagan and Bakers Roads in the Watagan National Park.
Basin campsite with open clearing and picnic tables Wollombi creek Gully track following the Great North Walk path up from valley following the ridge Flora Reserve Ridge rest area view from path up Mt Warramalong Fire tower on top of Mt Warrawolong following the dirt roads Watagan creek GNW campsite Crossing paddock from Watagan Creek Road Crossing Watagan Creek Crossing the paddock fence Winding up the side of the valley Flat Rock Lookout View from Flat Rock Lookout following the dirt roads Flatrock com tower Track down to the Congewai Following the edge of a property Almost through a slow down warning sign for cars Watch out for the locals the congewai west track head scattered gum trees lining the road more views from the road the congewai east track head property's service trail track up to the top of the main ridge coming down to Georges road Old Loggers Hut nearing the Berraba campsite Barraba campsite Styles climbing over private property fence Georges road 125r lookout track intersection view from 125r lookout clearing Georges road dry weather roads only! lookout on side of road following the dirt roads Watagan Forestry HQ campsite winding around to the lookouts Hunter Lookout Bakers road View from bushtrack track heading under a long rock overhang winding through the watagans path heading up out of the gully end of Hammonds road looking out across the valley tree growing up the rock face out of place wooden fence on the great north walk Heaton lookout Heaton communications tower heading down from the communications tower view from heaton gap lookout Track above Heaton Gap winding down the ridge Watagan Forest Motel

Basin Campsite

Basin Campsite
This large campsite sits by Wollombi Brook on the Great North Walk[1] and is accessible by car. The campsite provides a range of facilities such as a pit toilet[2], picnic tables and chairs[3], wood BBQs[4] and fireplaces[5]. Water is usually available from the water tank[6] or the nearby creek[7] - treat before use.

(0km) Basin Campsite → Int of GNW tracks AND Lyrebird Trail

distance 2.2 km time 54 mins climb 180m descent -129m Moderate track
From the Basin campsite[8][9], this walk follows 'The Great North walk' sign, gently uphill [10][11], initially keeping the campsite on your right. The walk continues through tall open forest[12][13] for about 300m, until coming to a saddle[14], with a GNW arrow marker[15] (pointing ahead) and a 'The Basin Camping Area' sign[16] (Rock Lilly Trail, on the left).
Continue straight: From the intersection at the edge of the saddle[17][18][19], this walk follows the GNW arrow east and gently downhill. The track leads downhill to come close to Wollombi Brook (on your left), where the track gently undulates as it leads into the dense vine and mossy forest for about 1.2km. Then over the next 700m or so, the track leads past a few sandstone caves[20][21] and crosses a few small creeks to come to a signposted three-way intersection[22][23] with 'The Great North Walk' and the 'Lyrebird Trail' track, where a sign points back to 'Basin Camping Area'[24].

(2km) Int of GNW AND Lyrebird trail → Int of Murrays Forest Road and the Fire Tower trail

distance 8.7 km time 3 hrs 5 mins climb 531m descent -225m Hard track
Turn sharp right: From the intersection[25], this walk follows 'The Great North Walk' sign[26] steeply up the timber steps. The walk continues up, using a series of timber[27] and rock steps[28]) for about 140m. The walk then continues along the side of the hill for about 700m, until a climbing steeply again to an intersection with a trail[29]. Here the walk crosses the trail and follows another short track that bends right to come to an intersection[30] back at the trail (a little further uphill).
Turn left: From the intersection[31][32][33], this walk follows the GNW arrow marker moderately steeply up[34] along the eroded management trail. The walk continues through the forest for about 400m, become less steep as it climbs[35], until coming to a T-intersection[36][37] with a trail in a small clearing[38].
Turn right: From the intersection[39][40], this walk follows the dirt road, away from the face of 'The Great North Walk' sign[41]. The walk continues through forest (ignoring side roads[42][43] as it leads over a gently rise for about 400m, then comes to a T-intersection[44][45], with Walkers Ridge Road[46], marked with another 'The Great North Walk' sign[47].
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk heads east along Walkers Ridge Road over a hill, coming down the other side to the intersection with Kingtree Ridge Road.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the road along the ridge to the 'Y' intersection with Pig and Sow Ridge Road, marked with a Great North Walk arrow.
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk heads north along Walkers Ridge Road until coming to the intersection with Murrays Forest Road.
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk heads north-west along Murrays Forest Road, following the Great North Walk arrow down the hill then back up the other side, winding to the top and on to the intersection with the Fire Tower trail. Now Turn right to rejoin the main walk .

(2km) Int of GNW tracks & Lyrebird Trail → Wollombi Brook Pool

distance 280 m time 7 mins climb 19m descent -27m Hard track
Continue straight: From the intersection[48][49], this walk follows the 'Lyrebird Trail' & 'The Great North Walk' sign [50], north along the track whilst keeping the valley to your left. The walk leads through the dense forest[51] for about 250m, until crossing a mossy creek with many small boulders[52]. This creek may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain. On the other side of this side creek, the walk comes to the edge of the delightful Wollombi Brook Pool[53][54] (on the left, at the junction of this side creek and Wollombi Brook).

Wollombi Brook Pool

Wollombi Brook Pool
The Wollombi Brook pool is located where two creeks come together and is a deep pool surrounded by moist cool forest. On a hot day, this spot would make an ideal resting spot or place for a cooling swim.

(2km) Wollombi Brook Pool → Int of GNW track & Pig and Sow Ridge Rd

distance 3.6 km time 1 hr 23 mins climb 256m descent -65m Hard track
Turn right: From Wollombi Brook Pool[55][56], this walk follows GNW arrow post north-east steeply uphill[57], initially keeping the main pool behind and to the left. The walk zigzags up through dense forest[58], up a series of timber[59] and rock steps[60] and past some large rock walls for about 500m, until coming to the the wide and flat area at the end of the dirt Wild Boar Road[61].
Continue straight: From the end of Wild Boar Road[62][63] (aka Piglet Point Road), this walk follows the dirt road fairly gently uphill[64][65] to the north. The roads leads distinctly uphill for about 500m, and then gently undulates along the ridge through forest[66] for about 2.5km. Here the walk comes to a clear and signposted four-way intersection[67][68] with 'Walkers Ridge Road' route and 'The Great North Walk' track.

(6km) Int of GNW track & Pig and Sow Ridge Rd → End of Kangaroo Point Road

distance 970 m time 29 mins climb 91m descent -108m Hard track
Continue straight: From the intersection[69], this walk follows 'The Great North Walk' sign[70] north along the track that heads moderately steeply downhill. The walk continues through forest[71](with occasional timber[72] and rock steps[73]) for about 500m, to cross the usually small Wollombi Brook[74]. Then the walk climbs moderately steeply uphill[75] for about 400m, until coming to the end of the dirt Kangaroo Point Road[76][77].

(7km) End of Kangaroo Point Road → Int of Kangaroo Point & Murrays Forest Road

distance 1.3 km time 34 mins climb 146m descent -9m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the end of Kangaroo Point Road[78], this walk follows the GNW arrow post north, gently uphill along Kangaroo Point Road[79]. The walk continues through forest (with the road gradually widening[80]) for about 1.3km, until coming to a signposted four-way intersection[81] with Murrays Forest Road[82] (and a wide trail[83] directly ahead).

(8km) Int of Kangaroo Point & Murrays Forest Road → Int of Murrays Forest Road & GNW track

distance 140 m time 2 mins climb 2m descent -1m Moderate track
Turn right: From the intersection[84], this walk follows the dirt Murray Forest Road north-east, gently uphill[85] and directly away from the face of the 'Kangaroo Pt' sign[86]. After about 150m, this walk comes to a signposted three-way intersection[87] with the 'Great North Walk' trail (on your left).

(8km) Int of Murrays Forest Road and the Great North Walk → Int of Great North Walk and Bar trail

distance 880 m time 19 mins climb 14m descent -93m Hard track
Turn left : From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[88] north along the dirt road for about 20m to another intersection with a 'The Great North Walk' sign[89]. Here the walk veers right (following the sign) up along the track until it flattens out and winds down to the top of a ridgeline. The track then follows this ridgeline through an open wooded forest[90] for about 300m, to find an unsignposted area that has been used as a campsite[91], at the end of a mostly flat section.
Continue straight: From the rest area[92], this walk follows the track down along the ridge line. The track winds steeply down into a saddle, where the track flattens out to lead through thicker green forest to the intersection with the narrow Bar Trail[93][94].

(9km) Int of Great North Walk and Bar trail → Int of Bar trail and Warrawolong Road

distance 860 m time 18 mins climb 27m descent -54m Moderate track
Veer right: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[95] north-east along the narrow, overgrown trail[96]. The trail begins to widen and after about 800m, this walk turns left to follow a 'The Great North Walk' sign[97] down for about 20m to an intersection[98] with the wide dirt Warrawolong Road.

(10km) Int of Bar trail and Warrawolong Road → Int of Turners and Warrawolong Roads

distance 360 m time 7 mins climb 8m descent -12m Moderate track
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the GNW arrow post[99] north, gently down along the the dirt road for about 400m to find the intersection with the dirt Turners Road, just past the 'Mt Warrawolong' sign[100].

(11km) Int of Turners and Warrawolong Roads → Mt Warrawolong Fire Tower

distance 2 km time 56 mins climb 245m descent -31m Moderate track
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk heads north-west down along the dirt road[101], initially keeping the 'Mt Warrawolong' sign[102] on your left and keeping the valley on your right. The road leads gently downhill along the side of the hill for just over 300m to come to a Y-intersection[103] with the Mt Warrawolong trail (on your left).
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk heads uphill along the upper trail[104] past the 'Authorised Vehicles Only' sign[105]. After about 200m, the walk heads around a locked gate[106] then continues moderately steeply uphill, winding up the hill[107] for about 1.5km to come to a large flat clearing[108] and the tall fire tower[109] at the top of Mt Warrawolong[110]. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Veer left.

Mt Warrawolong

Mt Warrawolong
At 642m above sea level, Mt Warrawolong is the highest point of the Great North Walk.

(11km) Int of Turners and Warrawolong Roads → Signposted Rest Area

distance 2.3 km time 53 mins climb 40m descent -267m Hard track
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'The Great North Walk' sign[111], (away from face of the 'Mt Warrawolong' sign[112]) to head east along the dirt Turners Road. After about 150m, this walk turn left at another 'The Great North Walk' sign[113] to follow the trail as it gently undulates along the top of the ridge for just over 1km. Here the trail begins to wind downhill, becoming steeper as it goes, for about 1.1km to head around a rock road block[114] and find the signposted rest area, where a 'Sydney Cove' sign[115] points back up the trail.

Watagan Creek Campsite

Watagan Creek Campsite
This is a Great North Walk signposted campsite, with plenty of room for a few tents but providing minimal facilities ie. no water, toilets or tables. There is, however, a bench and room for a fire.

(13km) Signposted Rest Area → Int of GNW track & Watagan Creek Road(southside)

distance 100 m time 3 mins climb 1m descent -25m Moderate track
Turn right: From the rest area[116], this walk follows 'Newcastle' sign[117] gently downhill[118] towards the valley, along the narrow track. The track leads downhill for almost 100m, coming to a T-intersection[119] with the dirt Watagan Creek Road[120], marked with a 'Great North Walk' sign[121] pointing back uphill.

(13km) Int of GNW track & Watagan Creek Road(eastside) → Int of GNW track & Watagan Creek Road (westside)

distance 40 m time 1 mins climb 0m descent -2m Easy track
Veer left: From the intersection[122], this walk follows the GNW arrow along the dirt Watagans Creek Road over the small rise[123], while keeping the main valley to your right. The road soon come to an intersection[124], marked with a GNW arrowpost with a track and paddock gate[125] (with 'Laguna' sign[126]) on the right.

(13km) Int of GNW track & Watagan Creek Road (westside) → Great North Walk Paddock Gate

distance 190 m time 4 mins climb 0m descent -31m Moderate track
Veer right: From the intersection[127], this walk follows the GNW arrow post down the short but steep road embankment, and passes through the paddock gate[128] (with a 'Laguna' sign[129] on it). The walk continues gently downhill[130] across farmland for about 200m, until coming to, and heading through, a paddock gate[131] with a 'Great North Walk' sign (and a yellow electric fence box[132]).

(13km) Great North Walk Paddock Gate → End of Langans Road

distance 1.3 km time 44 mins climb 243m descent -10m Hard track
Continue straight: From the paddock gate[133] (with the yellow electric fence box[134]), this walk follows GNW arrow down the moderately steep grassy bank[135] towards the creek. After about 10m, the walk crosses the creek[136], usually just over ankle deep. This creek maybe impassible after rain. The walk continues following GNW arrow markers[137] along the fence for about 100m, passing through two more paddock gates[138]), until heading through another paddock gate[139] with a 'Please Shut Gate' sign[140], just before the forest.
Continue straight: From the paddock gate[141] in the Watagan Valley[142], this walk follows the track moderately steeply uphill[143]. The walk heads through the wooded forest, up a series of timber[144] and rock steps[145] as the track winds up the hill. About 1km after leaving the open farmland, this track leads to an intersection with the turning area at the end of the dirt Langans Road[146].

(15km) End of Langans Rd → Walkers Rest Area

distance 2.2 km time 47 mins climb 129m descent -28m Moderate track
Turn right: From the turning area at the end of Langans Road[147], this walk follows the GNW arrow post[148] gently uphill along the dirt road[149]. The walk continues generally uphill for about 800m and comes to a three-way intersection[150] with the signposted 'Cabans Road'[151] (on the right).
Continue straight: From the intersection[152], this walk follows the GNW arrow post north-west along the dirt[153] road, initially keeping Cabans Road[154] on your right. The walk continues, gently undulating up along the top of the ridge for about 1.4km, until coming to the signposted 'Walkers Rest Area'[155].

Great North Walk Campsite

Great North Walk Campsite
This neat little signposted[156] campsite consists of a brick fireplace[157] with a couple of basic wooden seats[158] and some room for a few tents. There is no water available at this campsite.

End of day 1

This is the planned overnight stay for the end of day 1, happy camping.

(17km) Walkers Rest Area → Flat Rock Lookout

distance 350 m time 8 mins climb 12m descent -25m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the 'Walkers Rest Area'[159], this walk follows the trail west, initially keeping the rest area on your left. The walk continues to gently undulate for about 250m, until coming to the unfenced signposted 'Flat Rock Lookout'[160] (on your right).

Flat Rock Lookout

Flat Rock Lookout
Flat Rock Lookout is a natural rock platform that offers magnificent views across the Congewai Valley to the east and north. There are, however, no fences or safety railings at the lookout, so walkers will need to exercise extra caution.

(17km) Flat Rock Lookout → Congewai Communications Tower

distance 4 km time 1 hr 25 mins climb 182m descent -142m Moderate track
Continue straight: From 'Flat Rock Lookout'[161], this walk follows the trail north west, initially keeping the lookout[162] on your right. The walk continues, undulating gently for about 800m, to find a three-way intersection[163] with 'Langans Road'[164] (on the left). Here, this walk turns right and continues for about 3km (ignoring many side trails) to find a significant and wide intersection[165] with 'Cedar Ridge Road'[166]. The walk veers right to walk along the dirt road for about 40m to find a large 'The Great North Walk' sign pointing back to 'Sydney Cove'[167].

(21km) Congewai Communications Tower Management Trail → Paddock Gate

distance 3 km time 1 hr 11 mins climb 71m descent -373m Hard track
Continue straight: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Congewai Valley' arrow on the large 'Great North Walk' sign up hill along the trail, following the ridge line for about 100m to the end of the trail, beisde the Congewai Communication Tower[168]. This walk now follows the track and GNW arrow marker[169], keeping the tower and metal fence on your left. Near the end of the fence, this walk follows the GNW arrow right and steeply downhill[170]. Then the walk continues steeply downhill (rocky[171] and eroded[172] in places) for about 900m, to find a level section[173] of track (where the track[174] bends right). The walk then continues undulating moderately steeply (mostley downhill) for about 1.5km, to find an intersection[175] with a GNW arrow post[176]. The walk then continues, gently uphill for about 150m, across the open farm land to a paddock gate[177] (with a fence[178] on your right).

(24km) Paddock Gate → Int of GNW track AND sealed rd

distance 690 m time 13 mins climb 5m descent -48m Hard track
Continue straight: From here, walk through the paddock gate[179], this walk follows the trail gently uphill, while following the fence on your right. The walk continues, undulating gently for about 450m, then crosses a small creek[180]. Then the walk continues for about 60m and crosses a stile[181] at a closed gate[182]. The walk then continues for about 200m until coming to an intersection[183] with a sealed road.

(25km) Int of GNW AND Eglinford La → Lonely Goat Olives

distance 930 m time 22 mins climb 76m descent -18m Moderate track
Turn left: From the intersection, this walk heads steeply uphill following the sealed Eglinford La to the west. The road leads steeply uphill[184] for about 180m to the top of the rise, where the road becomes dirt[185]. Over the next 500m, this walk stays on the dirt road as it leads down across a gully[186] beside farmland to head uphill again to the timber fence[187] and signposted entrance to 'Ffynnon Garw' AND 'Lonely Goat Olives'[188]. Turn left here and follow the driveway[189] for almost 300m to find the large workshop building[190]. There is a bell to attract your hosts' attention. The accommodation is over the small rise on the left. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Veer left.

Lonely Goat Olives

Lonely Goat Olives
Lonely Goat Olives is a tranquil country cottage in Congewai Valley, about 900m from the GNW. The cottage has two separate bedrooms[191][192], both with en-suites[193]. The bedrooms open on to a veranda[194] with views over the gorgeous valley and the Tuscan style olive groves[195]. The cottage has an outdoor BBQ kitchen[196] and both rooms have a satellite TV, Wi-Fi Internet access, bar fridge[197], toaster and kettle. Rooms are from $202 a night including breakfast, meal packs are also available. A two night min. stay is normal, but chat with Keith about mid-week and other options. Your friendly host is also happy to pick you up or drop you off at Watagan Creek Rd for about $75. Ph 02 4998 1693

(25km) Int of GNW track & sealed road → Congewai Valley west trackhead

distance 930 m time 16 mins climb 7m descent -30m Moderate track
Veer right: From the intersection[198], follows the GNW arrow marker[199] gently downhill along the sealed road[200]. The road becomes unsealed after about 50m as the dirt road then undulates gently through farmland[201] for about 900m to a T-intersection[202] with Congewai Valley Road[203] at the Congewai Valley west trackhead[204], just past the cattle grate.

(26km) Congewai Valley west trackhead → Congewai Valley east trackhead

distance 5.2 km time 1 hr 28 mins climb 71m descent -60m Easy track
Turn right: From the Congewai Valley west trackhead[205], this walk follows 'Barraba Trig' sign south along the unsealed road[206]. The walk continues (undulating gently) for about 4.4km (part of the road is sealed[207]), to cross a timber bridge[208]. Here the walk continues through farmland[209] for about 500m, to a signposted intersection[210], at the Congewai Valley east trackhead, where a sign points back to 'Congewai Valley'[211] and where there is a stile[212] (on the left) (and some wetlands on the right).

(31km) Congewai Valley east trackhead → Property Gate

distance 760 m time 17 mins climb 54m descent -12m Hard track
Turn left: From the Congewai Valley east trackhead[213], this walk follows the 'Newcastle' sign[214] over the stile[215]. Here the walk follows the track gently uphill[216] through the open forest, leaving the Congewai Valley Road behind. After about 500m, this walk comes to a stile[217] (with farmland[218] and a fence on the left).
Continue straight: From here[219], this walk climbs over the fence using the stile and follows the track gently uphill[220], keeping the more open farmland[221] on your left. The walk continues for about 300m to an intersection with a wide dirt trail, just before a vehicular gate[222], marked with a GNW arrow post.

(32km) Property Gate → Crawford Tank AND Hut

distance 180 m time 5 mins climb 21m descent 0m Easy track
Turn right: From the intersection, this walk follows the 'Drinking Water' sign[223] up along the wide trail, away from the gate. The trail leads gently uphill for about 150m before coming to a large clearing[224] with a hut[225] and water tank[226]. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Veer right.

Crawford Tank & Hut

Crawford Tank & Hut
This clearing is home to a water tank[227] and hut[228] on the 'Brown Muir' farm. The water tank[229] was installed by LPMA in 2011 for walkers undertaking the Great North Walk. This farm and property have been in the owner's family since original land grants. You are welcome to camp here and use the hut as shelter. The hut is a simple structure with an earth floor[230], some tables[231], seating and some beds[232], although best to sleep in your tent. There is an old pit toilet on the side of the clearing[233]. A sign reminds visitors not to light fires[234], this is a fuel stove only area. Wave and say hello to the owners Jill and Martin if you see them.

(32km) Property Gate → Int on GNW bushtrack

distance 1.2 km time 31 mins climb 125m descent -1m Hard track
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk follows the wide trail gently downhill and through the gate[235], and into the signposted 'Edwin Crawford Conservation Area'. The trail bends right, then starts to lead gently uphill[236] for about 1.2km, until coming to a faint three-way intersection[237] with a track[238] (on the right), marked with a couple of GNW arrow posts[239].

(33km) Int on GNW bushtrack → Int of Georges Rd & GNW bushtrack

distance 1.7 km time 52 mins climb 239m descent -36m Hard track
Turn left: From the intersection[240], this walk follows the GNW arrow post uphill[241][242]. After about 700m, the track becomes narrower and much steeper as it climbs up to, then follows, the main ridge line. After about 600m of mostly steep climbing, the track then leads more gently uphill[243], enjoying the views through trees (on the right). The walk continues gently up this section for another 400m, then heads over a small rise and comes down to a T-intersection[244] with the dirt Georges Road marked with a 'Great North Walk' sign.

(35km) Int of Georges Rd AND GNW track → Old Loggers Hut

distance 130 m time 2 mins climb 0m descent -8m Moderate track
Turn right: From the intersection[245], this walk follows the GNW arrow marker gently downhill[246] along the dirt road. After 80m, this walk passes a small dam[247] and comes to an old tin hut[248] (on the left).

Old Loggers Hut

Old Loggers Hut
This Old Hut found beside Georges Rd, is in a state of disrepair. The corrugated iron[249] and wooden[250] hut has a dirt floor[251] and a simple fire place. The hut's condition is poor and would not provide suitable shelter. Just south of the hut is a small dam[252]. The hut was once used by loggers harvesting timber from these hills
[253]Book
See point 2
Page:138
Click to search for book on Google

(35km) Old Loggers Hut → Georges Rd rest area

distance 300 m time 5 mins climb 2m descent -2m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the old loggers hut[254], this walk follows the dirt road north-east along the top of the ridge, initially keeping the hut to your left. After about 300m, the trail leads to a large clearing with great views on the left, Georges Road rest area[255][256].

Georges Road Rest Area

Georges Road Rest Area
This campsite is located above Wallaby Gully, off Georges Road. The clearing has a scattering of trees[257], and has awesome views of Wallaby Gully[258]. There is room for a few tents and small campfire[259].

(35km) Georges Rd rest area → Barraba Campsite

distance 320 m time 6 mins climb 13m descent -3m Moderate track
Continue straight: From Georges Road rest area[260], this walk follows the dirt road gently uphill[261], initially keeping the rest area on your left. The walk continues for about 200m until coming to a three-way intersection[262], marked with a GNW arrow marker.
Continue straight: From the intersection[263], this walk follows the 'Barraba Trig Rest Area' sign[264] north-east, gently uphill along the trail[265]. Following a few GNW arrow markers over about 90m, this trail then comes to a large flat clearing[266][267] signposted as 'Barraba campsite'[268], with some lovely large grass trees[269].

Barraba Campsite

Barraba Campsite
Barraba campsite[270], near Georges Road on the Great North Walk, is quiet rest area where campers can stay the night and set up a campfire[271]. The small, semi-secluded campsite is surrounded by lovely large grass trees[272]. The campsite has a 'Walker register' book so you can note your intentions. The campsite has no facilities or water.

End of day 2

This is the planned overnight stay for the end of day 2, happy camping.

(35km) Barraba Campsite → Barbara Lowes gate

distance 770 m time 16 mins climb 4m descent -94m Hard track
Continue straight: From the Barraba campsite, this walk follows the 'Newcastle' sign[273] east, downhill along the grassy trail. After about 220m, the walk heads past the 'Barraba Trig Rest Area' sign[274] (pointing back uphill) to then climb the fence using the stile[275] (beside the gate[276]).
Continue straight: From the locked gate[277], this walk heads downhill along the wide dirt trail, directly away from the 'Barraba Trig' sign[278]. The trail leads down for about 400m, moderately steeply for a while. As the trail mostly flattens out, the walk climbs over another fence beside a locked gate[279] using the stile[280]. The walk continues down along this trail for almost 200m to pass 'The Barbara Lowes Conservation area' sign[281]. Here, the walk climbs over the fence using the stile[282] beside the vehicular gate[283]. There are filtered valley views to your left[284].

(36km) The Barbara Lowes gate → Saddle Rest Area

distance 1 km time 27 mins climb 74m descent -70m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the locked gate[285], this walk follows the trail gently downhill[286], while keeping the views on your left (and ignoring the trail on your left). This walk undulates gently up and down the side of the hill for about 1 km, until coming to a saddle[287], with views on the left and dam[288] on the right.

Saddle Rest Area

Saddle Rest Area
This rest area consists of a clearing[289] on a saddle, with a small dam nearby[290]. There is space for a number of tents and access to water after rain (treat before use).

(37km) Saddle Rest Area → Int of Georges Rd AND Watagans National Park boundary gate

distance 730 m time 17 mins climb 36m descent -57m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the saddle, this walk follows the trail gently uphill, initially keeping the views on your left and fire dam on your right. The walk continues with the cliffs[291] on your right for just shy of 300m then after another 400m, just past the 'Private Property/Walkers Only' sign[292], this walk heads over the fence using a stile[293] beside the gate. There are wide valley views[294] from here, and a clearing on the left[295].

Great North Walk Rest Area

Great North Walk Rest Area
Located on George Road, this rest area is situated by a steep, unfenced drop[296] with spectacular views[297]. There is space for a few tents and a small campfire[298], there are no facilities or water here.

(38km) Int of Georges Rd AND Watagans National Park boundary gate → Top of the 125r Lookout trail

distance 1.3 km time 33 mins climb 99m descent -53m Hard track
Continue straight: From the locked gate[299], this walk follows the dirt Georges Road moderately steeply downhill[300] at first, keeping the views[301] on your left. The walk undulates, moderately steeply in a couple of places, winding around the side of a few hills for about 1km, and then heads around a sharp left-hand bend (passing a faint roadside clearing[302], on the right). The walk continues for another 500m along the dirt road to come to a three-way intersection, with 125r trail and '125r Lookout' sign[303] (on the right).

(39km) Top of the 125r Lookout trail → 125r Lookout Rest Area

distance 860 m time 17 mins climb 15m descent -50m Moderate track
Veer right: From the intersection[304], this walk follows the '125r Lookout' sign[305] south gently downhill[306] along the grassy trail. The walk continues through forest[307] for about 900m, until coming to the end of the road[308] and an unfenced lookout with wide valley views[309]. At the end of this side trip, retrace your steps back to the main walk then Turn right.

125r Lookout

125r Lookout
The 125r Lookout, in the Watagan National Park, is located on a track off Georges Road[310]. This unfenced clearing[311] is on a cliff edge and has broad views o over the surrounding valleys[312][313]. This small clearing has been used as a campsite[314].

(39km) Top of the 125r Lookout trail → Northern rest area

distance 1.3 km time 31 mins climb 76m descent -68m Moderate track
Veer left: From the intersection[315], this walk follows the GNW arrow marker east along Georges Road as it first bends left, initially keeping the 125r Lookout track on your right. After about 400m, the road leads down and across a flat saddle, then leads moderately steeply up[316] for about 400m, where the trail mostly flattens out then comes to the top of the hill. There are views[317] from the unfenced cliff here, on the left.

Great North Walk Rest Area

Great North Walk Rest Area
This is a small rest area on the side of Georges Road, providing room to rest up and for a small campfire. There are also some nice views through the trees but be careful as this rest area is near a steep drop.

(40km) Northern rest area → Narrow Place Lookout

distance 1.5 km time 33 mins climb 57m descent -90m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the rest area, this walk follows the dirt George Road east, initially keeping the views on your left. The road gently undulates along the ridge for about 1.5km, coming to the unsignposted Narrow Place Lookout[318], where there is a short metal post fence[319] and wide valley (on the left).

Narrow Place Lookout

Narrow Place Lookout
Narrow Place Lookout is perched high on an partially-fenced[320] cliff and provides great views north over the farmland and bush towards Cessnock[321]. The lookout is beside a dirt road and a fairly large clearing[322].

(42km) Narrow Place Lookout → Int of Georges AND Heaton Rds

distance 4.8 km time 1 hr 32 mins climb 134m descent -153m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the Narrow Place lookout[323], this walk follows Georges Road east gently downhill[324], initially keeping the views to your left. The road leads through forest for about 1.8km, ignoring a few smaller side trails until coming to a three-way intersection[325] (with the Congewai Creek track, on the right), marked with a GNW arrow post[326].
Continue straight: From the intersection[327][328], this walk follows the GNW arrow post east along the dirt Georges Road as it leads gently downhill[329], initially keeping the main valley to your left. The road leads along the ridge among the tall trees, past a few small clearings and side tracks for about 2.2km to pass a gate and timber fence[330] (on your left). The walk continues along this main road for another 600m, coming to a T-intersection[331] with the dirt Heaton Road, marked with a 'Watagans National Park' sign[332].

(47km) Int of Georges & Heaton Rds → Forestry H.Q campsite

distance 1.2 km time 25 mins climb 60m descent -7m Moderate track
Veer right: From the intersection[333], this walk follows the 'The Great North Walk' sign gently uphill along the dirt Heaton Rd[334]. The road leads up along the ridge through the tall forest for about 1.1km, until coming to a Y-intersection[335] with Bakers Rd and a large sign with many names[336].
Veer left: From the intersection[337], this walk follows the 'Hunters Lookout' sign[338] gently uphill along Bakers Road[339]. The walk continues along this road for a bit over 150m, coming to a three-way intersection[340], just in front of the signposted 'Watagan Headquarters' campsite[341].

Watagan Headquarters

Watagan Headquarters
Watagan Headsquarters campsite[342] (aka Forestry HQ) is located in the Heaton State Forest, beside Bakers Rd, near Heaton Rd. This campsite has wood fired barbecues[343], picnic tables[344] and a garbage bin[345]. The large, flat, cleared area[346] allows plenty of room to pitch a tent. In 2010, a series of vandalism attacks occurred on the water tank, so there is no longer water available.

End of day 3

This is the planned overnight stay for the end of day 3, happy camping.

(48km) Forestry H.Q campsite → Hunter Lookout picnic area

distance 1.6 km time 27 mins climb 21m descent -38m Moderate track
Turn left : From the intersection (Forestry H.Q. campsite)[347], this walk follows Bakers Road gently downhill[348], while keeping the GNW arrow marker on your right[349] and the large 'Great North Walk' sign[350] on your left. The walk continues, undulating gently for about 900m until coming to a three-way intersection with Rocky Creek Road[351] (on the right).
Continue straight: From the intersection[352], this walk follows Bakers Road north and gently uphill, while keeping Rocky Creek Road (no signpost) on your right. The walk continues, undulating gently for about 400m until coming to a three-way intersection with Glen Road[353] (on the right).
Continue straight: From the intersection[354], this walk follows Bakers Road gently uphill[355], while keeping Glen Road on your right. The walk continues, undulating gently for about 250m until coming to Hunter Lookout picnic area[356] (on the left).
Veer left: From the intersection, this walk heads off the road and up the hill following the Hunter Lookout picnic area sign, past the wooden gate and the public toilet, to the picnic area area and the lookout.

Hunter Lookout

Hunter Lookout
Hunter Lookout[357] can be found on Bakers Road, along the Great North Walk. This fenced lookout has everything you will need snack-stop, including toilets[358], picnic tables, chairs and wood-fired barbecues[359]. This lookout has fantastic views[360] over much of the Hunter region[361]. In 2010, a series of vandalism attacks occurred on the water tank, so water is no longer available at Hunter Lookout.

(50km) Hunter Lookout picnic area → Macleans Lookout

distance 700 m time 16 mins climb 39m descent -38m Moderate track
Continue straight: From the picnic area, this walk heads north, past the metal gate to the intersection of Bakers Road.
Veer left: From the Hunter Lookout picnic area[362] (on Bakers Road), this walk follows Bakers Road north and gently downhill[363], while keeping Hunter Lookout on your left. The walk continues for about 400m until coming to a Y-intersection[364] (Bakers Road loop).
Continue straight: From the intersection[365] (Bakers Road Loop), this walk follows the track gently uphill[366], while keeping the other end of Bakers Road Loop to your right, gently downhill. The walk follows the road for about 130m until coming to Macleans Lookout[367].

Mcleans Lookout

Mcleans Lookout
McLeans Lookout[368] offers magnificent views of the valleys[369] in Heaton State Forest. Located on Bakers Road, this fenced lookout also has picnic facilities including tables with seats[370] and open grassy areas.

(50km) Maclean Lookout → Int of GNW track & a wide track

distance 490 m time 12 mins climb 7m descent -74m Hard track
Veer right: From Mcleans Lookout[371], this walk follows Bakers Road gently downhill, while keeping Macleans Lookout behind you on your left. The walk continues for about 80m until coming to a three-way intersection[372] with a wide track and GNW arrow marker (on the left).
Continue straight: From the intersection[373], this walk follows the trail gently downhill[374], while keeping the 'Heaton Lookout' sign on your right. The walk continues (becoming moderately steep downhill) for about 280m until coming to a three-way intersection[375] with a track on the left.

(51km) Int of GNW track AND a wide track → Int of GNW track AND Glen Road

distance 170 m time 5 mins climb 19m descent -12m Hard track
Turn sharp right: From the intersection[376], this walk follows the track moderately steeply downhill[377], while keeping the GNW arrow marker on your left. The walk continues (descending moderately steeply into[378] and out[379] of a gully) for about 150m, until coming to a three-way intersection, Glen Road[380].

(51km) Int of GNW track & Glen Road → Int of GNW track & a wide bushtrack

distance 130 m time 4 mins climb 12m descent -8m Hard track
Turn left: From the intersection[381], this walk follows the track gently downhill[382], while keeping the 'Glenn Rd' sign[383] on your right. The walk continues through forest[384] for about 120m, until coming to a three-way intersection[385] with a track and GNW arrow marker (on the left).

(51km) Int of GNW track & a wide bushtrack → Int of GNW track & a narrow road

distance 720 m time 21 mins climb 75m descent -59m Hard track
Turn left : From the intersection[386], this walk follows the GNW arrow marker[387] moderately steeply down along the track[388]. The walk continues for about 100m, to find a forested mossy creek[389] where the track bend right and continues close to the creek[390] for about 70m to then bend left and crossing the creek. The walk now follows the track undulating gently for about 280m before finding a large rock overhang[391]. The walk then continues moderately steeply uphill[392] for about 200m until coming to a T-intersection[393] with a wide trail and GNW arrow marker[394].

(52km) Int of GNW track & a wide track → Int of GNW track and Fosters Road south

distance 340 m time 8 mins climb 30m descent -17m Moderate track
Turn right: From the intersection[395], this walk follows 'Watagan Forest Road' sign[396] uphill[397] along the trail for about 200m to a three-way intersection[398], with another 'Watagan Forest Road' sign[399] (on your left).
Continue straight: From the intersection[400], this walk follows the wide track gently downhill, while keeping the 'Macleans Lookout 2km' sign[401] on your right. The walk continues for about 140m to a three-way intersection[402], with Fosters Road on your right and 'Fosters Road' sign[403] on your left.

(52km) Int of GNW track and Fosters Road south → Creek Crossing

distance 920 m time 32 mins climb 79m descent -203m Hard track
Continue straight: From the intersection[404], this walk follows the GNW arrow post down along the wide old trail[405], passing the 'Fosters Road' sign[406] on your left. The walk continues for about 100m, where the wide track then leads moderately steeply downhill[407] for about 150m more. The walk then crosses a gully[408] and heads up[409] over another rise for about 70m to where the track narrows then bends left at a GNW arrow post. About 180m past the post, the walk crosses a gully[410] then heads up the other side, past a termite mound[411] to an unfenced cliff with distance valley views[412]. Here the track bends right and leads up a short distance to a dirt road[413]. The walk turns left and follows the road down for just a few metres to the 'Hammonds Road' sign, where the 'MacLean Lookout' arrow[414] points back along the road.
Continue straight: From the intersection[415], this walk follows the 'Heaton Lookout' sign[416] downhill along the road a few metres, then veers left to follow the GNW arrow down the old trail[417]. The walk leads fairly steeply down for about 180m then passes around a timber barrier[418]. Here the track narrows and continues more steeply downhill[419] through forest for about 250m to a gully and creek crossing[420] (with many fallen dead trees[421]).

(53km) Creek Crossing → Int of GNW track and Barniers Road

distance 2 km time 58 mins climb 236m descent -79m Hard track
Continue straight: This walk crosses the creek[422] and follows the track, while keeping the valley on your left. The walk follows the track steeply up for a short distance, then follows along the base of a cliff[423] for about 120m to pass through a long sandstone cave[424]. The rocky track leads steeply down through the dense rainforest for 700m, following a series of GNW arrow posts to the bottom of the gully beside Wallis Creek[425].
Continue straight: From here, the walk crosses Wallis Creek[426], and follows the GNW arrows south gently uphill along the track. The walk continues (crossing over a tree trunk[427] with carved steps) and after about 500m, comes to a creek and a tree trunk with a directional arrow carving[428]. Then the walk follows the track[429] for about 130m (crossing the creek a number[430] of times) to find the track leaving the creek[431]. The track is followed moderately steeply uphill[432] through forest for about 400m, until coming to a level four-way intersection[433] with a 'Barniers Road/Mt Faulk Road' sign on your right.

(55km) Int of GNW track and Barniers Road → Int of GNW track and Heaton Lookout

distance 1.2 km time 29 mins climb 58m descent -115m Hard track
Continue straight: From the intersection[434], this walk follows the GNW arrow east, directly away from the face of the 'Barniers Road' sign[435]. The walk continues along the old trail for about 450m to find an intersection[436] with a track (on the right). Here the walk turns right, following the 'The Great North Walk' sign[437] moderately steeply down the narrow track[438] for about 220m and then crosses a creek[439]. The walk continues moderately steeply uphill[440] around another gully and after about 500m, comes to a T-intersection[441] with Heaton trail and Heaton Lookout[442] directly ahead.

Heaton Lookout

Heaton Lookout
Heaton Lookout[443] is one of the larger lookouts located on Heaton Road. This fenced lookout faces south-east. There are wood fired barbecues[444], picnic tables[445] and a pit toilet[446]. Heaton Lookout is a great place to stop for a snack, and the amazing view[447] feels like a bonus. This lookout was named after Richard Heaton, a timber cutter who came to Australia as a convict. There is a water tank here, due to vandalism in the area this is not a reliable water source.

(56km) Heaton Lookout. → Heaton Communications Tower

distance 2.4 km time 54 mins climb 144m descent -54m Moderate track
Turn left: From 'Heaton Lookout'[449], this walk follows the 'Heaton Gap' sign[450] gently uphill along the dirt Heaton Rd[451], past the toilet[452]. After about 250m, the road leads past the 'Heaton Loop Trail' side track[453], then about 250m later (staying left at the Y-intersection) the road passes another section of the same signposted track[454] as the road bends left, enjoying the views over the clearing (on your right). The road now leads gently uphill[455] for about 1.7km, ignoring a series of side tracks until coming to a clear three-way intersection[456] just past the brick building[457] and fenced communication tower[458] (on the right, and a small dam on the left).

(59km) Heaton Communications Tower → Heaton Gap Lookout

distance 620 m time 13 mins climb 3m descent -69m Moderate track
Turn right: From the intersection[459], this walk follows the GNW arrow marker[460] off the main road, heading east along the wide trail, initially keeping the fenced tower[461] on your right. The trail follows the power lines[462]. The unsignposted and unfenced clearing[463] has wide, uninterrupted views to the south.

Heaton Gap Lookout

Heaton Gap Lookout
Heaton Gap lookout is a fantastic spot to stop and catch your breath in Heaton State Forest. This unfenced lookout[464] offers exhilarating views over the valleys towards Tuggerah Lake and Lake Macquarie[465]. this unsignposted view, as with many features in the area, was named after Richard Heaton, a timber cutter who came to Australia as a convict. More info.

(59km) Heaton Gap Lookout → Int of GNW and Freemans Drive tracks

distance 860 m time 22 mins climb 1m descent -190m Hard track
Continue straight: From Heaton Gap Lookout[467], this walk follows the track east, moderately steeply downhill, initially keeping the view from Heaton Gap Lookout[468] on your right. After about 60m, the track leads to a timber platform with more views[469], underneath the power lines. The walk continues past some handrailing for about 20m to come to the 'Great North Walk Walker Register' post[470]. After noting your intentions, the walk continues steeply downhill[471] with stone and timber steps[472] and sections for handrail for about 200m, past the rock boulders and grass trees where the track widens into a narrow grassy trail. Here the walk follows this trail and the power lines downhill, steeply[473] in places, for about 600m, until coming to a level unsignposted three-way intersection[474] with the Freemans Drive trail[475] (on the right).

(60km) Int of GNW track and Freemans Drive trail → Heaton Gap Track Head

distance 360 m time 10 mins climb 5m descent -82m Hard track
Veer left: From the intersection[476], this walk follows the GNW arrow post and power lines[477] steeply downhill[478] along the trail. The walk continues for about 180m to find a three-way intersection[479], with a GNW arrow marker on the right (where the power line trail bends left). The walk turns right, leaving the power lines and following the GNW arrow marker steeply down a narrower forested track[480]. The track winds down some timber steps, towards the sound of traffic for about 160m then down a timber staircase[481] to the edge of Freemans Drive. Here the walk crosses Freemans Drive[482] (busy road, please be careful to look and listen for traffic) and comes to the Watagan Forest Motel[483], petrol station (on the left), picnic area[484] and signposted 'Heaton Gap Track Head'[485] (on the right).

Watagan Forest Motel

Watagan Forest Motel
Watagan Forest Motel[486] is located on Branxton-Toronto Road. This retro-style motel is located right on the Great North Walk. The motel offers six rooms[487] for around $99 per night - each with a double bed[488] (four rooms also have twin singles), a television[489], bathroom with shower[490], air conditioning[491], and breakfast included. Room service is available. Adjoining the motel is a service station[492], which also offers dining room meals as well as a small grocery selection (bread, milk, bottled water, rice, pasta, etc), open until 8:30pm daily. A rest area is situated next to the motel, with covered picnic tables and garbage bins[493]. For further information, phone (02)4938 0149.

Maps for the The Basin Campsite to Heaton Gap walk

You can download the PDF for this walk to print a map.
These maps below cover the walk and the wider area around the walk, they are worth carrying for safety reasons.

Wollombi1:25 000 Map Series91323S WOLLOMBINSW-91323S
Quorrobolong1:25 000 Map Series91322S QUORROBOLONGNSW-91322S
Murrays Run1:25 000 Map Series91314N MURRAYS RUNNSW-91314N
Morisset1:25 000 Map Series91311N MORISSETNSW-91311N
Wollombi1:50 000 Map Series91323 WOLLOMBICW-91323
Cessnock1:50 000 Map Series91322 CESSNOCKCW-91322
Cessnock1:100 000 Map Series9132 CESSNOCK9132
Gosford1:100 000 Map Series9131 GOSFORD9131

Cross sectional view of the The Basin Campsite to Heaton Gap bushwalking track

Terrain profile for The Basin Campsite to Heaton Gap

Analysis and summary of the altitude variation on the The Basin Campsite to Heaton Gap

Altitude analysis for The Basin Campsite to Heaton Gap

Overview of this walks grade – based on the AS 2156.1 – 2001

Under this standard, a walk is graded based on the most difficult section of the walk.

Length60.5 km
Time4 Days
.




Grade 4/6



Hard track		AS 2156.1GradientVery steep (4/6)
Quality of trackRough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely (4/6)
SignsMinimal directional signs (4/6)
Experience RequiredModerate level of bushwalking experience recommended (4/6)
WeatherForecast, unforecast storms and severe weather may impact on navigation and safety (4/6)
InfrastructureLimited facilities (such as cliffs not fenced, significant creeks not bridged) (4/6)

Some more details of this walks Grading

Here is a bit more details explaining grading looking at sections of the walk

Gradient

27km of this walk has short steep hills and another 18km is very steep. Whilst another 15km has gentle hills with occasional steps and the remaining 40m is flat with no steps.

Quality of track

27km of this walk follows a clear and well formed track or trail and another 22km follows a formed track, with some branches and other obstacles. Whilst another 6km follows a smooth and hardened path and the remaining 4.7km follows a rough track, where fallen trees and other obstacles are likely.

Signs

51km of this walk has directional signs at most intersection and another 6km is clearly signposted. The remaining (3.7km) has minimal directional signs.

Experience Required

29km of this walk requires some bushwalking experience and another 28km requires no previous bushwalking experience. The remaining (2.8km) requires a leader a with moderate level of bushwalking experience.

weather

59km of this walk is not usually affected by severe weather events (that would unexpectedly impact safety and navigation) and another 1.7km is affected by storms that may impact your navigation and safety. The remaining (230m) is affected by forecast, unforecast storms and severe weather events that may impact on navigation and safety.

Infrastructure

38km of this walk has limited facilities (such as not all cliffs fenced) and another 17km is close to useful facilities (such as fenced cliffs and seats). The remaining (5km) has limited facilities (such as cliffs not fenced, significant creeks not bridged).

Similar walks

A list of walks that share part of the track with the The Basin Campsite to Heaton Gap walk.

Hunter Lookout to Glen road loop

2.5 km Circuit, 1 Hr

Hunter Lookout to Glen road loop

This loop walk starts from the Hunter Lookout picnic area. The walk provides great views across the valley and winds around the edge of the ridge line, passing Macleans lookout, also with great views. The walk continues along a short section of the Great North Walk, through an open forest to the en

Total climbing: 138m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Watagan Creek Road to Flat Rock

4.1 km One way, 2 hrs

Watagan Creek Road to Flat Rock

This walk starts on Watagan Creek Road and soon crosses the lovely Watagan Creek. From this point, the walk leaves the Watagan valley and climbs steeply up the bush track through forest. The walk then travels on dirt road, passing a campsite and rest area, before arriving soon afterwards at the un

Total climbing: 384m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Heaton Lookout to Heaton Gap

4.3 km One way, 2 hrs

Heaton Lookout to Heaton Gap

This section of the Great North Walk start from grand views at Heaton Lookout in Heaton state forest and leads to the picnic area and motel at Heaton Gap. The first section of this walk follows the dirt road to a communication tower before passing another lookout and expansive valley views. Here you

Total climbing: 153m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Georges Road Rest Area to 125r Lookout

4.4 km Return, 3 hrs 30 mins

Georges Road Rest Area to 125r Lookout

This return walk starts from a nice rest area on Georges Road and follows the road along the ridge, passing several great lookout points across the valley, to the quiet little 125r lookout, which provides a nice open clearing that just screams lunch time. Please note that Watagan and Georges Roads a

Total climbing: 209m

Grade 3
  • Car

Moderate track

Hunter Lookout and Great North Walk loop

5.6 km Circuit, 2 hrs 30 mins

Hunter Lookout and Great North Walk loop

This loop track starts from the Hunter Lookout picnic area and follows the Great North Walk around the edge of the ridge via the Macleans Lookout, Rocky Creek gully and the cliffs around the eastern edge of the ridge. This walk provides great views across the valley and much of the Hunter to the no

Total climbing: 336m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Watagan Headquarters to Heaton Lookout

8.1 km One way, 4 hrs

Watagan Headquarters to Heaton Lookout

This scenic walk includes dramatic lookouts and time spent in moist cool forest. The walk initially travels on dirt road past Hunter and MacLean’s Lookout, before descending into the Wallis Creek catchment. Here the walk traverses underneath many cliffs before crossing Wallis Creek and arriving at

Total climbing: 571m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Cedar Brush to Basin Campsite

9.7 km One way, 4 hrs 30 mins

Cedar Brush to Basin Campsite

This section of the Great North Walk makes a good walk to a comfortable campsite, with the section along the Lyrebird Trail by the Wollombi Brook being particularly recommended. From the Cedar Brush track head, the walk winds up into the Olney State Forest through bushland (crossing over two moist

Total climbing: 590m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Cedar Brush track head to the Basin Campsite

9.7 km One way, 4 hrs

Cedar Brush track head to the Basin Campsite

This section of the Great North Walk starts from the Cedar Brush track head and winds up into the Olney State Forest, following bushtracks and service trails down into the Wollombi Brook gully. From here, the walk heads south along the Lyre Bird trail to the Basin Campsite. The Basin Campsite provi

Total climbing: 590m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Watagan Forestry HQ campsite to Heaton Gap

12.5 km One way, 6 hrs

Watagan Forestry HQ campsite to Heaton Gap

This walk starts from the Watagan Forestry HQ campsite and follows the Great North Walk through the Watagan State Forest. The walk then heads out to Heaton lookout and down the long descent into Heaton Gap, passing several more fantastic lookouts and picnic areas on the way. The walk finishes at He

Total climbing: 729m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus

Hard track

Watagan Creek Road to Congewai Valley Track Head (West)

12.6 km One way, 5 hrs 30 mins

Watagan Creek Road to Congewai Valley Track Head (West)

This section of the Great North Walk starts from the Watagan Creek Road and winds north across the valley and up into the Watagan State Forest, following the ridge lines around the Flatrock Lookout and down into the Congewai Valley before finishing at the track head at Congewai Valley Road. There ar

Total climbing: 649m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Basin Campsite to Watagan Creek Road

13 km One way, 6 hrs

Basin Campsite to Watagan Creek Road

This section of the Great North Walk starts from the Basin campsite in the Olney State Forest and winds north into the Watagans, via the Warrawolong Flora Reserve. This walk also offers a side trip from Turners Road up to the top of Mt Warrawolong, which is the highest point along the Great North Wa

Total climbing: 784m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Basin campsite to Watagan Valley

13 km One way, 6 hrs

Basin campsite to Watagan Valley

This varied walk travels north through the Watagans. Leaving the Basin campsite behind, the walk traverses the Wollombi Brook via the Lyrebird trail. The Wollombi Brook Pool is a great spot to stop (and take a swim) on a hot day. From the pool, the walk climbs into the Warrawolong Flora Reserve us

Total climbing: 784m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Flat Rock to Congewai Valley East Track Head

13.8 km One way, 5 hrs

Flat Rock to Congewai Valley East Track Head

Starting from the grand views of Flat Rock Lookout high on the range, you will walk down into the Congewai Valley below. On the first section of this walk, you will explore a little used dirt road to the Congewai Communication Tower. From here you follow a series of tracks that wind down, steeply i

Total climbing: 336m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Congewai Track Head (East) to Watagan Headquarters

17.2 km One way, 7 hrs

Congewai Track Head (East) to Watagan Headquarters

This full day walk starts from the Congewai valley trackhead (east) and follows the Great North Walk up into the Watagan National Park. Winding east along Georges road for the most part, this walk also passes many great lookouts and gives the option of a side trip down to the 125r lookout, which pro

Total climbing: 973m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Watagan Creek Road to Congewai Valley East Track Head

17.8 km One way, 7 hrs

Watagan Creek Road to Congewai Valley East Track Head

This section of the Great North Walk starts from Watagan Creek Road and heads north, up the side of the valley then along the dirt roads to the Congewai communications tower. From the tower, you follow a bush track and wind down into the valley, through some farmland and along to the Congewai west

Total climbing: 720m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Congewai East Track Head to Watagan Forest Motel via Forestry HQ Campsite

29.7 km One way, 2 Days

Congewai East Track Head to Watagan Forest Motel via Forestry HQ Campsite

This section of the Great North Walk starts from the Congewai Valley east track head and heads north up into the Watagan National Park, climbing up to the ridgeline and following the management trails and bush tracks heading east all the way to the Forestry HQ campsite. On day two, the walk continue

Total climbing: 1702m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Yarramalong to Watagan Creek via Basin Campsite

33.7 km One way, 2 Days

Yarramalong to Watagan Creek via Basin Campsite

This section of the Great North Walk starts from the Yarramalong general store and follows the roads to the Cedar Brush track head. From here the walk heads north through the Olney State Forest to the Basin Campsite. On day two, the walk continues north, through the State Forest, to Mt Warrawolong,

Total climbing: 1615m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus

Hard track

Somersby to the Basin Campsite

47.4 km One way, 3 Days

Somersby to the Basin Campsite

This three day walk starts at the Somersby General Store and follows the Great North Walk, heading north, into the the Jilliby State Conservation Area where the first nights campsite is at Stringy Bark Point. The walk continues north, out of the Conservation Area, to Yarramalong for the second night

Total climbing: 2032m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus

Hard track

Other Nearby walks

A list of walks that start near the The Basin Campsite to Heaton Gap walk.

Muirs Rainforest Circuit Walk

1.9 km Circuit, 2 hrs 30 mins

Muirs Rainforest Circuit Walk

This walk spends time ambling through beautiful rainforest and is an excellent choice on a hot day. This walk descends into rainforest on a narrow track, with the track becoming indistinct midway through the walk. A recommended walk through attractive forest.

Total climbing: 160m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Muirs Rainforest Walk

1.5 km Return, 1 Hr

Muirs Rainforest Walk

This is a good walk on a hot day. This walk leaves Muirs Lookout and descends through healthy blackbutt and blue gum forest to find a moist rainforest of ferns and mosses. A quiet sit and picnic within the rainforest would be lovely. This walk returns the same way you have come.

Total climbing: 130m

Grade 3
  • Car

Moderate track

Abbotts Falls Walking Track

7.3 km Circuit, 3 hrs

Abbotts Falls Walking Track

This circuit takes you through both dry and moist forest, using a combination of walking trails and wider tracks. The side trip to the dammed pool is recommended, to see the deep Aboriginal carved grooves by the pool. This walk travels through open forest with wild flowers (in season) to descend i

Total climbing: 329m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Pines Circuit Walk

1.7 km Circuit, 45 mins

Pines Circuit Walk

This short walk takes you into the moist forest around Dora Creek and is recommended. The walk visits a small waterfall and dammed pool then travels through forest, visiting the large open Pines picnic area before returning to the starting point. The section of this walk near Dora Creek is particu

Total climbing: 56m

Grade 3
  • Car

Moderate track

Greta road to Cedar Brush track head

17 km One way, 6 hrs 30 mins

Greta road to Cedar Brush track head

This walk follows the Great North Walk from Greta road to the Cedar Brush track head, via the Bumble Hill Dray track and the Yarramalong General Store. While most of this walk is on the road, it does provide a good, mostly level bushwalk and a great stroll along a quiet country road, through a pleas

Total climbing: 547m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Yarramalong to Cedar Brush

11 km One way, 3 hrs 30 mins

Yarramalong to Cedar Brush

Starting at the quaint Yarramalong township, this walk follows a couple of rural roads to the Cedar Brush Trackhead. This is the longest road stretch on the Great North Walk. Some people see this is a road slog and either grab a lift or power walk it, others see it as an opportunity to stroll throu

Total climbing: 241m

Grade 2
  • Car
  • Bus

Easy track

Bumble Hill Dray track (Greta Rd to Forest Road to Yarramalong)

5.6 km One way, 2 hrs 45 mins

Bumble Hill Dray track (Greta Rd to Forest Road to Yarramalong)

This section of the Great North Walk explores a section of the historic Bumble Hill Dray track. You will walk along the edge of ridge mostly through an open dry eucalypt forests and occasionally through moist ferny gullies as well as alongside the base of a tall rock wall. Bumble Hill Dray track was

Total climbing: 277m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus

Hard track

Forest Road to Yarramalong

8.1 km One way, 3 hrs 30 mins

Forest Road to Yarramalong

This section of the Great North Walk explores the rural area of Kulnura as you walk along the roads before heading along the historic Bumble Hill Dray track. This track leads you along the edge of ridge mostly through an open dry eucalypt forests and occasionally through moist ferny gullies as well

Total climbing: 336m

Grade 4
  • Car
  • Bus

Hard track

Monkey Face Cliff Walk

406 m Return, 30 mins

Monkey Face Cliff Walk

This short but steep walk to the base of an attractive cliff is worthwhile. The walk travels through open forest with gum trees and Xanthorhoea trees to eventually follow timber steps steeply to the base of the Monkey Face cliff. This cliff is used by rock climbers and abseiling parties, so be awa

Total climbing: 65m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Monkey Face Circuit

1.3 km Circuit, 45 mins

Monkey Face Circuit

This short and scenic walk offers two lookouts and a forest walk. Gap Creek viewpoint gives views of dense forest, while the Monkey Face viewpoint gives views of forested farmland in the Gap Creek valley. The short forest walk between these two viewpoints is amongst large rocks and offers views of

Total climbing: 74m

Grade 3
  • Car

Moderate track

Gap Creek Falls Walk

1.5 km Return, 1 Hr

Gap Creek Falls Walk

This walk leads to one of the best waterfalls in the Hunter area and is highly recommended. The walk travels through dense rainforest, before descending to an inspiring amphitheatre of rock with the dramatic Gap Creek Falls. Spend some time looking around the base of the falls, particularly behind

Total climbing: 162m

Grade 3
  • Car

Moderate track

Gap Creek Rainforest Walk

1.7 km Return, 1 Hr

Gap Creek Rainforest Walk

This walk takes you deep into moist rainforest and is well worthwhile. The walk is mostly flat and travels through a varied and healthy rainforest, with strangler fig vines, large older trees and lots of wildlife. If you are lucky, you could find the protected yabbies in the creek at the end of the

Total climbing: 111m

Grade 4
  • Car

Hard track

Plan your trip to and from the walk here

The The Basin Campsite to Heaton Gap walk starts at the Basin Campsite (gps: -33.104008, 151.23088)

car Car. There is free parking available.<br /> (get details)

The The Basin Campsite to Heaton Gap ends at the Heaton Gap Track Head (gps: -32.965275, 151.47939)

car Car. There is free parking available.<br /> (get details)

Weather Forecast

This walk starts in the Hunter weather district.

Current Alerts

Park Information

Olney State Forest

Only State Forest is a section of mostly native bushland just South of Watagan State forest and National parks

Watagan State Forest

Watagan State Forest is a large section of mostly native bushland west of Lake Macquarie.

Watagans National Park

Heaton State Forest

Boardering Watagan national Park, Heaton State forest is home to many great lookouts. There sre many highpoints with cliff edges giving great views across the Hunter valley and Lake Macquarie.

Corrabare State Forest

Corrabare State Forest is a large section of mostly native bushland west of Lake Macquarie.

Awaba State Forest

A large parcel of land west of the northern end of lake Macquarie, Awaba state forest lines the side of part of the Sydney - newcastle freeway. The park is home to mostly native forest

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