Best Bushwalks on the NSW North Coast – From Hawks Nest to Tweed

Discover the best bushwalks on the NSW North Coast which is home to some of the most diverse and beautiful bushwalking trails in Australia. From the gentle seaside boardwalks of the Mid North Coast to the wild coastal treks of the Northern Rivers, there’s a walk for every type of explorer. Whether you’re here for a short scenic stroll or an epic multi-day hike, this guide takes you from Tea Gardens to Tweed, showcasing the region’s must-do bushwalks.

Mid North Coast Bushwalks

(Tea Gardens to Coffs Harbour)

Yacaaba Headland Walk – Hawks Nest

Yacaaba Headland walk is a challenging hike with panoramic views over Port Stephens, Tea Gardens, Hawks Nest, Broughton Island, and the Myall Lakes system. The steep climb is rewarded with one of the best coastal vistas on the Mid North Coast.

The trail starts off gently, winding through coastal scrub and open forest. However, as you climb, it turns steep and rocky. There are no steps—only a natural incline that can be slippery with loose stones. It's crucial to wear durable shoes and carry water, particularly in warmer conditions. You may need to cross fallen trees.

In winter and early spring, humpback whales can frequently be seen from the cliffs as they travel along the coastline, enhancing the excitement of your journey.

Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk – Port Macquarie

An accessible 1.3 km loop through remnant coastal rainforest, with interpretive signage and a café. Sea Acres Rainforest Centre is perfect for families and nature lovers looking for an easy but immersive walk. There are plenty of photo opportunities from beautiful flora to cheeky fauna. After the walk visit the beautiful gift shop and have lunch or morning tea at the cafe.

Middle Brother Lookout

Camden Haven - A Variety of Walks

A relaxed coastal track between North Haven and Grants Head. Expect heathland wildflowers, sea breezes, and elevated lookouts. Dog-friendly in sections.

Kattang Nature Reserve offers the Flower Bowl Circuit and Perpendicular Point walks. These simple trails provide breathtaking views and stunning wildflowers during late winter and spring. This location also boasts the finest whale watching spots in the region. 

Adjacent to the village of Laurieton is Dooragan National Park, home to the Laurieton Track. This challenging hike is typically done one way, with transportation arranged either at the summit or back in Laurieton. Up at North Head. Middle Brother National Park in New South Wales features a variety of bushwalks, including trails leading to lookouts with picturesque views. The park is renowned for its rainforest, waterfalls, and swimming spots. It is situated on the mid-north coast, close to Laurieton.

Crystal Falls Dorrigo National Park

Dorrigo National Park – Red Cedar Falls & Rosewood Creek Loop

Dorrigo Nationak Park is a rainforest wonderland featuring giant trees, creeks, and one of the park’s highest waterfalls. This 10 km loop is ideal for keen hikers.

Dorrigo National Park, nestled on the Northern Tablelands of New South Wales, is a lush haven for bushwalkers seeking both serenity and adventure. Part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, the park is renowned for its ancient subtropical rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and rich biodiversity. Walking trails vary from short, gentle circuits like the Skywalk and Cedar Falls walks to longer, more challenging treks such as the Dome and Rosewood Creek tracks. Along the trails, walkers are often greeted by towering Coachwood and Antarctic Beech trees, the occasional lyrebird scurrying through the undergrowth, and a symphony of native bird calls echoing through the canopy. The park’s well-maintained paths, boardwalks, and lookouts make it accessible for both novice hikers and seasoned nature enthusiasts.

Beyond the rainforest itself, bush walks in Dorrigo offer a unique window into the region’s geological and ecological history. Trails like the Tristania and Crystal Shower Falls walks allow visitors to experience ancient basalt cliffs, hidden creeks, and fern-filled gullies that have remained virtually untouched for millennia. For those with a curious eye, the park also provides glimpses of rare wildlife, including the powerful owl and the red-legged pademelon, as well as an impressive variety of native orchids that bloom seasonally.

Rain, mist, or sun, each walk presents a different mood—whether it’s the gentle spray of a waterfall cooling your face or the golden light filtering through the canopy at dusk. Bushwalking in Dorrigo National Park is more than a stroll; it’s a full immersion into a living rainforest, connecting walkers to the timeless rhythms of nature.

Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve – Coffs Harbour

A short, steep walk with 360-degree views of the harbour and the Solitary Islands. Muttonbird Island Coffs Harbour is a great whale-watching spot from May to November.

Best Time to Visit Muttonbird Island

The best time to visit Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve is between September and April, when the weather is typically pleasant and the muttonbirds are very active. The peak of the muttonbirds' breeding season occurs from late October to March, offering excellent chances for wildlife observation.

Best Bushwalks on the NSW North Coast - Northern Rivers Bushwalks

(Yamba to Tweed)

Yuraygir Coastal Walk – Angourie to Red Rock

The Yuraygir Coastal Walk is one of NSW’s most spectacular multi-day hikes, stretching 65 km along pristine beaches, coastal heathlands, and lush forests. Perfect for nature lovers, this trail offers remote beaches, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking viewpoints.

While many hikers tackle the full route over several days, sections between Angourie, Wooli, Minnie Water, and Red Rock are ideal for day walks, making it accessible for all fitness levels. Along the way, you might spot dolphins, sea eagles, and native birdlife, while seasonal wildflowers add vibrant colours to the coastal landscape.

Camping is available at designated sites, or you can explore nearby towns for cosy stays, making the walk flexible and beginner-friendly. Whether you’re after a multi-day adventure or a peaceful day hike, the Yuraygir Coastal Walk is a true escape into untouched NSW coastal wilderness.

Nearby accommodation and services: Wooli, Minnie Water, and Red Rock offer lodges, cottages, and camping options for walkers seeking a comfortable stopover.

Minyon Falls Walking Track – Nightcap National Park

Descend through lush, ancient rainforest to reach the base of Minyon Falls, a stunning 100-metre waterfall that cascades into a tranquil pool below. The main track offers a moderate walk through towering trees, ferns, and moss-covered rocks, giving a true sense of the park’s timeless beauty.

For a shorter, easier experience, the lookout track provides breathtaking panoramic views of the falls and surrounding valleys without the steep descent. Wildlife is abundant along the trail, from colourful birds to native marsupials, making this a rewarding walk for nature lovers of all ages.

Grampians Walk

The Pinnacle walk is one of the most celebrated hikes in the Grampians, offering stunning views that make the effort worthwhile. The trail winds through diverse landscapes, including rocky outcrops, fern-filled gullies, and native bushland, before opening up to the dramatic vantage point of the Pinnacle lookout. From here, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views over Halls Gap, the surrounding valleys, and the rugged peaks that define the Grampians.

Suitable for most moderately fit walkers, this trail combines adventure, natural beauty, and unforgettable scenery in one memorable hike.

Cape Byron Walking Track – Byron Bay

The Cape Byron walking track is a scenic coastal loop that takes you from the town’s main beach to the iconic lighthouse at Australia’s most easterly point. Along the trail, you’ll pass through pockets of subtropical rainforest, open clifftops, and rugged coastline, each offering unique vistas of the ocean and surrounding landscapes.

Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including seabirds, dolphins, and whales during migration season. The track is well-maintained and suitable for most fitness levels, making it a rewarding way to experience the natural beauty and dramatic scenery of Byron Bay.

Tips for Bushwalking on the NSW North Coast

• Best Time to Walk: Autumn and spring for mild temperatures; winter for whale watching.

• What to Bring: Water, snacks, sun protection, sturdy shoes, and a camera.

• Safety: Some tracks are unpatrolled and remote. Check conditions before setting out and be mindful of tides for coastal walks.

From the wild headlands of Hawks Nest to the lush rainforest valleys of the Northern Rivers, the NSW North Coast offers walking experiences you’ll remember long after your trip. Use this guide to plan your bushwalking adventures – and explore everything in between along this stunning stretch from Tea Gardens to Tweed.

Bushwalking Essentials for the NSW North Coast

Exploring the NSW North Coast’s trails is even more enjoyable when you’re prepared. Whether you’re tackling a short rainforest stroll or a full-day hike, the right gear can make all the difference.

Daypack & Hydration: A lightweight daypack with space for snacks, water, and a rain jacket is a must. Consider one with a built-in hydration bladder for easy access to water. See top-rated daypacks here.

Footwear: Comfortable, supportive shoes will help you enjoy the walk without sore feet. Lightweight hiking boots or trail shoes with good grip are ideal for both coastal and rainforest tracks.

Sun & Weather Protection: North Coast weather can change quickly. Pack a wide-brim hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a compact rain jacket.

Navigation & Safety: Many trails are well-marked, but a small compass or GPS device is useful for longer hikes. Always carry a basic first aid kit and let someone know your plans. View hiking safety gear.

Optional Extras: A lightweight tripod or clip-on phone lens is perfect for capturing panoramic views without carrying heavy camera gear. Explore photography accessories.