Best trails in Hat Head National Park

An enjoyable trail through the Hat Head National Park located on the north coast of New South Wales - not too far from the town of Kempsey. This looped route begins from the parking area at the end of Ledge Street in Hat Head. Enjoy following the coastline as you make a loop around the peninsular. A great mix of estuary and wetlands with stunning views to top it all off!

A beautiful walk through Hat Head National Park, located not too far from South West Rocks, in northern New South Wales. The trail runs from Smokey Cape Campground up and along the coast to Trial Bay Gaol and back. Along the way, you will go great views of the coast, beaches and forest plus there some steep sections that are a little more testing (especially the climb up Little Smokey Hill) but totally worth it.

This is a fantastic grade 3 walk along the coastline of Hat Head National Park that passes by O'Connors Beach which is perfect for a dip on your way back to the car park at The Gap. The majority of the trail is exposed to wind and sun so come prepared for the elements. The terrain is rocky in places and follows undulations in the coast and headlands. The trail is well-worn and easy to follow and is suitable for the whole family, as you can always cut it short and return to the car park from...

This track connects beaches and remarkable views through Arakoon and Hat Head National Parks. Be prepared for some steep ascents right out of the gate, as you quickly gain elevation up past Little Smoky before traversing rocky and undulating terrain to Smoky Cape where you have tremendous views over the sea and of the Smoky Bay Lighthouse. This trail is a must do for anyone in the area, with glistening coastlines, deserted beaches, and rainforest all packed into this stretch of coast.

Head out on an adventure to find one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches on the coast. This steep bushwalk takes you down through lush coastal rainforest to the pristine sands of Gap Beach. Because getting there is a bit of a challenge, you might even have the whole place to yourself! This hike through Hat Head National Park is a real treat, especially in spring when the track is lined with spectacular wildflowers.

This walk offers some of the most spectacular coastal views in the region, taking you from the beautiful North Smokey Beach up to the Green Island Lookout. From the lookout, you'll be treated to breathtaking panoramas south over Green Island and the coastline of Hat Head National Park. The track is short and steep, but the incredible scenery makes it a truly rewarding climb before a steady descent via Smoky Cape Walking Track.

An adventurous coastal trail within Hat Head National Park on the east coast of New South Wales between Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie. This looped route begins and ends from Captain Cook Lookout at the end of Lighthouse Road, where parking is available. The beach side of this trail can be difficult to follow in some places as it is very overgrown. Blue paint markers can be found on the Cobble beach to Smoky leg, but previous to this there are hardly any markers at all. Wear long pants and...

A beautiful walk through the Hat Head National Park in north eastern New South Wales, located not too far from South West Rocks. This out and back route begins and ends from the parking area on Gap Road just off Arakoon Road. From here you'll follow a nice walking track through the forest and up to the Smokey House Lighthouse and back again. Enjoy the views from the lighthouse before returning via the same route.

This moderate to hard walk in Hat Head National Park, in between Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie, NSW. Begin the walk from the Overshot Dam where there is parking available. The trail traverses a range of plant communities and is great for bird watching. There are great vantage points for whale watching as well. Enjoy a picnic lunch and swim before climbing back out.

A coastal walk running between Trial Bay Gaol to Smokey Cape Campground. Along the way, you will go great views of the coast, beaches and forest plus there some steep sections that are a little more testing but totally worth it. The route gets trickier as you get closer to Skokey Cape Campground so be sure to follow the signs or GPs. Worth packing a picnic lunch and bathers to make the most of Gap Beach.