Discover the Magic of Barrington Tops: Where Ancient Forests Meet Alpine Adventure
- Deb Carr
- Jun 3
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 6
If you're yearning for crisp mountain air, lush fern gullies, and ancient forests cloaked in mist, Barrington Tops is calling. Nestled within the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia—a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site—this spectacular high-altitude plateau is one of the most enchanting wilderness destinations in New South Wales. Whether you’re seeking peaceful solitude, a rugged hike, or a scenic base for camping, Barrington Tops National Park offers a remarkable blend of natural beauty and biodiversity.
Where Is Barrington Tops?
Barrington Tops lies inland from the NSW Mid North Coast, roughly halfway between Gloucester and Scone. It forms part of the larger Barrington Coast region, a lush, elevated landscape shaped by volcanic activity and carved over millions of years by creeks and rivers. The drive from Tea Gardens or Forster takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, making it an ideal weekend or short getaway.
What to Do in Barrington Tops
1. Walk Through a Living Fossil Forest
One of the most awe-inspiring experiences in the Tops is wandering through cool temperate rainforests filled with Antarctic beech trees, some estimated to be over 2,000 years old. Try the Polblue Swamp Track or Gloucester Tops Circuit for an accessible loop walk through moss-covered wonderlands.
2. Chase Waterfalls and Lookouts
Barrington Tops hides some dramatic waterfalls within its folds. Gloucester Falls, Lophostemon Falls, and Devils Hole Lookout offer breathtaking views—especially after rain. Take the camera and prepare for some steep but rewarding walks.
3. Stargazing and Alpine Camping
At over 1,500 metres in elevation, the air is crisp and the skies often clear—perfect for stargazing. Polblue campground and Devils Hole campground are two popular alpine spots with basic facilities, picnic areas, and access to scenic trails.
4. See Snow in Winter
Barrington Tops is one of the few places in NSW where you can occasionally see snow. During winter months, especially around Polblue and Mount Barrington, the landscape transforms into a magical alpine scene dusted in white.
5. Explore by 4WD
Many parts of Barrington Tops require a 4WD—particularly the wilder trails and remote river crossings. Adventurous travellers can follow the Barrington Trail or access spots like Wombat Creek and Black Swamp.
Flora, Fauna and Conservation
Barrington Tops is a biodiversity hotspot. You may encounter lyrebirds, wombats, platypus, and even brush-tailed rock-wallabies if you're lucky. The forests are rich in ferns, mosses, and rare orchids. This pristine ecosystem plays a crucial role in protecting native species and ancient plant lineages.
Where to Stay: Barrington Tops Accommodation
While there’s no commercial accommodation inside the national park itself, nearby towns like Gloucester, Dungog, and Moonan Flat offer a range of cabins, eco-lodges, and farmstays. Some travellers prefer to stay in Barrington village for a quieter retreat with easy access to the southern park entrance.
Tips for Visiting Barrington Tops
Always check weather and road conditions. Some access roads are closed seasonally or after heavy rainfall.
Mobile service is limited. Download maps and tell someone your route.
Pack layers. Temperatures can drop quickly, especially at night.
Take only photos, leave only footprints. Help preserve this ancient environment.
Barrington Tops is more than a destination—it’s a step back in time. The serenity, the towering forests, and the fresh mountain streams all invite you to slow down and reconnect. Whether you're a seasoned bushwalker or just looking for a new corner of NSW to explore, this alpine wilderness won’t disappoint.
Photos: Licensed
