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Breadknife and Grand High Tops Walk in Warrumbungle National Park, New South Wales

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Posted 2025-01-01 by Cris ⇒ follow

Warrumbungle National Park is a heritage-listed treasure located near the town of Coonabarabran in New South Wales. This stunning national park is renowned for its unique lava formations, remnants of ancient volcanic activity, and diverse birdlife. Among its most famous features is The Breadknife, an impressive dike that reaches nearly 90 meters in height. The Breadknife and Grand High Tops Walk is considered one of the best trails in New South Wales, offering breathtaking views of these iconic volcanic structures. Hikers are treated to a remarkable landscape that showcases the park's geological wonders while immersing themselves in its rich natural beauty.

Warrumbungle National Park is approximately an eight-and-a-half-hour drive from Brisbane, taking you through Goondiwindi and Narrabri, covering around 730 kilometres. If you're coming from Sydney, the journey is about six hours and spans 515 kilometres via Newcastle.

This national park holds the distinction of being Australia’s first Dark Sky Park, making it an exceptional destination for stargazing, thanks to its minimal light pollution.

Visitors to Warrumbungle can enjoy a range of activities, including camping, hiking, birdwatching, and astronomy. One of the highlights is the Breadknife and Grand High Tops trail, which offers the chance to walk in one of the country's most breathtaking landscapes.

The breathtaking views of the Breadknife in Warrumbungle National Park

For those looking for guidance, the Warrumbungle Visitor Centre is an excellent resource for maps and information about the park's many activities. Located at 4261 John Renshaw Parkway, it’s the perfect starting point for your adventure. Remember, when entering the park by car, there is an entry fee to access this stunning natural wonder.

Trail Notes
The Breadknife and Grand High Tops walk is a spectacular 14.5-kilometer loop that typically takes 5 to 6 hours to complete. Classified as Grade 4 by the New South Wales Parks and Wildlife Service, this hike features steep gradients and numerous steps, so some bushwalking experience is recommended. The trail is well-marked, but be mindful of the many intersecting paths along the way.

There are infinite photo opportunities on the trail

Your adventure begins at the Camp Pincham Carpark, where parking is available. This area serves as the starting point for several hikes, including the Fans Horizon walking track, which ascends to a lookout offering panoramic views of the Breadknife, Belougery Spire, and Crater Bluff. You can also hike to Febar Tor and Macha Tor Lookouts before returning to the carpark.

The Breadknife and Grand High tops Circuit hike and a few other hikes start at Pincham carpark

Before you set off, take a moment to read the informative signs at Pincham Carpark and snap some photos of the maps provided. The trail showcases stunning views of volcanic remnants, with breathtaking scenery throughout your journey.

There are interesting informative signs about the past volcanic of the area and maps of the trails

The trail follows Spirey Creek along a well-maintained and paved path before climbing to Spirey View, where you’ll be rewarded with amazing panoramas of the park’s unique volcanic formations.

The unique volcanic formations at Spirey View Lookout

In spring the bushes bloom with many native beautiful flowers

Thysanotus tuberous is a native flower with a striking mauve colour. The flowers open early in the morning and by afternoon they withered. It is commonly known as a fringe lily

As you hike, you’ll come across Wilson’s Rest, a perfect spot for a small break, allowing you to enjoy a snack while soaking in the views.

Wilson's Rest views

Further along, you’ll reach Balor Hut campground, built by Carl Daw in 1969. Originally constructed to accommodate workers during track construction, the hut has since been restored and is maintained by the Coonabarabran Bush Walking Group. It’s available for booking through the Park Visitor Centre, but be sure to leave it clean, carry out all rubbish, extinguish all fires, and conserve water.

Balor Hut

The views at Balor Hut

Detail of the trail along a wall of rock

There are many sets of steps on the trail

An interesting rock formation with a hole

After taking in the breathtaking views from the summit, you’ll continue on the trail back to Pincham Carpark. Along the way, there are two additional camping sites: Dows and Ogma Gap campgrounds, perfect for those wanting to extend their adventure in this stunning national park.

Views from the summit

A pied currawong comes to say hello on the summit

Camping Sites on the Trail
If you're planning to spend the night along the trail, you have three options to choose from. Make sure to make your bookings on the official website of the New South Wales National Park.

First, there's Balor Hut , a historical structure built between 1958 and 1962 during the construction of the park's walking track network. Balor Hut is one of five huts originally built along the Grand High Tops, and it's the last one still standing, offering a glimpse into the park's history.

For those seeking a more rugged experience, two basic walk-in campgrounds await: Ogma Gap Campground and Dows Campground Dows camp located along the Breadknife and Grand High Tops trails. These sites provide a perfect escape for experienced bushwalkers looking to immerse themselves in the stunning volcanic landscape of Warrumbungle National Park.

Remember, you must be self-sufficient and well-prepared for your adventure. Bring all necessary supplies, including drinking water, food, warm clothing, a torch, and a personal locator beacon to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Dows campground is a walking remote camping area

What to Bring
This hike typically takes about 6 hours, so it's essential to be well-prepared. Be sure to pack enough water and nutritious snacks to keep your energy up throughout the journey.

Consider bringing a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) for safety - you can also hire one for free at the Warrumbungle Visitor Centre. Dress in appropriate hiking clothes, and don't forget to bring a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. With the right gear and preparations, you’ll be set to enjoy this incredible adventure in Warrumbungle National Park!

Enjoying the views on the summit

Starting Point
The walk begins at Pincham Carpark, located near Camp Pincham at the end of Pincham Road, just off John Renshaw Parkway. If you're travelling from the town of Coonabarabran, it’s a half-hour drive west, covering a distance of 34 kilometres. This convenient access point makes it easy to start your adventure in the stunning Warrumbungle National Park.

Snap and Share
At Pincham Carpark, you'll find a sign inviting visitors and hikers to take photos from a specific location in the park. Simply place your camera on top of the sign to capture the perfect shot, and then share your photos on the designated website:
www.environment.nsw.gov.au/WarrambunglesSnap

It's worth noting that in January 2013, a devastating fire swept through much of the park, affecting precious wildlife, including koalas. However, the park is gradually recovering, and your contributions can help build a valuable database to monitor changes in vegetation over different days, seasons, and years. Your participation in this initiative not only enhances your experience but also aids in the ongoing conservation efforts of Warrumbungle National Park.

If you look closely at the sign there are two photos, one was taken in January 2013 and the other one was taken in October 2014

Alfred Pincham

Pincham is named after Alfred Pincham, who once leased land north of the Warrumbungle area for grazing. This land featured significant geological formations, including the Breadknife and Belougery Spire. In 1953, he relinquished his lease to allow the area to be designated as Warrumbungle National Park.

Actinotus helianthi is commonly known as the flannel flower, a native flowering plant. Despite the resemblance to a daisy, it belongs to the same family of the carrot

After his original house burned down in the 1940s, Pincham built Strathmore, a homestead that has withstood both floods and fires. Strathmore served as temporary accommodation for staff, visiting scientists, and other experts working in the park.

This rich history adds to the cultural significance of Warrumbungle National Park, enhancing the experience for all who visit.

The razorback is in the proximity of the Breadknife

Heritage Significance of Warrumbungle National Park
Warrumbungle National Park was added to the National Heritage List in 2006, recognizing its significant geological and biological values. The park features a stunning landscape shaped by an ancient volcano, which has eroded over millions of years. It is home to over 520 species of native plants and 311 species of native animals, serving as a refuge for the endangered brush-tailed rockwallaby.

This plaque on the rock along the trail near Wilson's rest area, commemorates the first works the Warrumbungle National Park trust. Carl Dowe played an important role in the construction of the walking track system which commenced in 1958

Manmade steps on the trail

The park also contains heritage items of local and regional significance, such as the Tara Woolshed, Strathmore Homestead, and walking tracks dating back to the 1950s. Additionally, Warrumbungle National Park is rich in Aboriginal heritage, featuring rock shelters and sites that hold cultural significance for the Gamilaraay and Weilwan Aboriginal peoples. This blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage makes Warrumbungle a vital destination for both conservation and education.

The Dark Side of Warrambungles
Warrumbungle National Park was declared Australia's first Dark Sky Park in 2016, a designation that recognizes its exceptional quality of starry nights and its commitment to preserving the natural night sky. This status highlights the park's low levels of light pollution, making it an ideal location for stargazing and astronomical observation.

The Dark Sky Park initiative aims to promote awareness of the importance of dark skies for both the environment and human health. It also encourages visitors to engage in activities such as night sky tours and astronomical events, enhancing their appreciation of the cosmos.

The park's unique landscape, combined with its clear skies, provides an excellent backdrop for viewing celestial phenomena, making it a popular destination for astronomers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Along the roads in Coonabarabran Region you come across many of this type of signs that are part of a Large Virtual Solar System Drive

Siding Spring Observatory
After your invigorating hikes in Warrumbungle National Park, take a scenic drive along John Renshaw Parkway, which transitions into Timor Road. At the intersection, turn left onto Observatory Road to reach the Siding Spring Observatory Visitor Centre . Here, you can book a guided tour to delve into the fascinating world of telescopes and their crucial role in astronomical research. Nestled atop Mount Woora at 1,165 meters above sea level, the observatory benefits from low humidity and high elevation, offering breathtaking views of the Milky Way.

The Siding Spring Observatory, located in Warrumbungle National Park, is renowned for its exceptional astronomical research capabilities, thanks to its high elevation and minimal light pollution. As Australia’s largest optical telescope facility, it plays a crucial role in advancing our understanding of the universe, making it a key destination for both scientists and stargazers alike.

Inside the visitor centre, you'll discover captivating exhibits on planets, galaxies, and celestial bodies. There is a display on tektites, which formed during meteorite impacts, showcasing the dynamic history of our universe.

Part of the telescope structure

The Warrumbungle region is also rich in Aboriginal history, with archaeological evidence suggesting that Indigenous people have inhabited the area for at least 20,000 years. Their Dreaming stories, ceremonies, and art indicate that they may have been among the world’s earliest astronomers. Known to Aboriginal communities as a place for teaching, gathering, and ceremony, the Warrumbungles feature traditional travel routes that navigate by their distinctive peaks.

The views of the Warrumbungles from the telescope area

The night sky holds significant importance for Aboriginal people, serving both practical and spiritual purposes. Australia’s harsh and variable environment meant that certain resources were not always available, prompting some Aboriginal communities to migrate seasonally in search of sustenance. This deep connection to the land and sky continues to shape their cultural practices and understanding of the universe.

The Town of Coonabarabran
Coonabarabran is a charming country town that serves as an ideal base for exploring the stunning Warrumbungle National Park. Just a half-hour drive—34 kilometres—away, the Warrumbungle Visitor Centre awaits, accessible via Timor Road. This scenic route offers captivating views of the mountains, delightful private homes adorned with whimsical mailboxes, and even a few installations that represent a virtual solar system.

This stove was located along Timor Road, and the owner shared that he had just bought it and stored it in his garage when the devastating 2013 bushfire swept through and engulfed the entire structure. Despite the destruction, the stove has become a symbol of resilience and a reminder of the challenges faced during that catastrophic event

Many whimsical mailboxes along Timor Road

Old wheels have been used to make a fence along Timor Road

Often referred to as the capital of Australian astronomy, Coonabarabran is celebrated for its exceptionally dark skies and low humidity, making it a haven for stargazers. The region boasts several observatories, with the Siding Spring Observatory open to the public, featuring a cozy coffee shop and a selection of souvenirs.

Siding Spring Observatory

Jupiter is the largest planet in our Solar System; remarkably the giant does not have a solid surface being made mainly of gas hydrogen and helium

Though small, Coonabarabran offers a variety of accommodations, a testament to its history as a stopover for travellers heading from the west to the coast. We chose to stay at John Oxley Caravan Park , which we highly recommended. Our cabin was a delightful retreat, fully air-conditioned and complete with a spacious lounge area, a kitchen equipped with a fridge, microwave, and kettle, and—most impressively—a real stove. Yes, the kind where you can roast, bake, or simply pop in a pizza for a quick meal. With two bedrooms featuring queen beds, an inside bathroom, and a charming deck perfect for enjoying an evening drink, it was great.

An aspect of John Oxley Caravan Park

For those seeking variety, the Imperial Hotel provides accommodations for solo travellers and families, along with dining options.

The Imperial Hotel is a quite an imposing building just near the main roundabout in town

Big trucks are a common sight in the town of Coonabarabran. Here a truck is just making its way at the Coonabarabran War Memorial Clock Tower roundabout. The Imperial Hotel is in the background

The town also features a Woolworths and an IGA , ensuring that you can easily find food and supplies during your stay.

An interesting painting on Coonabarabran Times, just near Woolworth in Dalgarno Street

Colourful art on a wall of the Coonabarabran Hotel, Dalgarno Street

Crystal Kingdom houses one of the world's most unique mineral collections, featuring the 'Minerals of the Warrumbungles.' Discover rare and vibrant Zeolite Crystals and learn about the area's history as home to two ancient volcanoes. Knowledgeable staff are on hand to explain the fascinating origins of these extinct volcanoes.

Outside Crystal Kingdom

With over 500 local minerals and fossils on display, the exhibition also provides insights into their origins and uses, complete with informative fact sheets. You can explore fossils dating back 300 million years up to the Australian Megafauna. For jewellery lovers and collectors, the crystal shop offers quality gemstone jewellery, crystals, and fossils. Guided group tours are also available. Crystal Kingdome is at 16 Chappell Avenue, Coonabarabran NSW 2357.

It's notable that Coonabarabran's population has seen growth over recent years. According to the 2016 Census, the town had a population of 3,290 people. By the 2021 Census, this number had increased to 3,477, reflecting a positive trend in the community's size and development.

Coonabarabran Visitors Centre

Make sure to visit the Coonabarabran Visitors Centre , Newell Hwy, Coonabarabran NSW 2357, in the south part of the town. There is a great ray of maps, informative brochures, souvenirs and books, local works of art and Indigenous history.

The Information Visitor Centre is an excellent starting point for explorations

Coonabarabran and the surrounding region showcase the World’s Largest Virtual Solar System Drive. The scaled version of our solar system is made up of a three-dimensional planet model attached to a billboard sign. The planets and distances between each other have been scaled to create a cosmic journey. The sun is represented by the giant 37-metre Anglo Australian Observatory dome nestled in the spectacular Warrumbungle National Park.

Earth is the 3rd closest planet to the Sun. It is common thinking that our planet should be called Water since the majority of this element

The Information Centre hosts the Australian Museum Megafauna which showcases a skeleton of Diproton. the largest marsupial ever to have lived. It is often compared to a giant-sized wombat. The remains of the Diprotodon were found in the creek bed of Cox's Creek near Tambar Springs in 1979.

Diproton, photo from https://australian.museum/learn/australia-over-time/extinct-animals/diprotodon-optatum/

Inside, visitors can find a wide array of maps, informative brochures, souvenirs, and books, alongside local artworks and insights into Indigenous history. Just outside the centre, a board provides details on local bird species and a trail map for avid birdwatchers eager to explore the diverse avian life in the area.

Inside the Information Centre there are brochures and maps available about bird trails

Coonabarabran and its surroundings are also home to the World’s Largest Virtual Solar System Drive. This fascinating installation features three-dimensional models of the planets mounted on billboards, scaled to represent the vast distances of our solar system. The sun is symbolized by the impressive 37-meter dome of the Anglo-Australian Observatory, nestled within the stunning landscape of Warrumbungle National Park.

Siding Spring Observatory, located near Coonabarabran, New South Wales, is affiliated with the Research School of Astronomy & Astrophysics at the Australian National University. The observatory is home to the Anglo-Australian Telescope, along with a variety of other telescopes owned by ANU, the University of New South Wales, and various other institutions. This state-of-the-art facility plays a vital role in astronomical research and public engagement, making it a key destination for both scientists and stargazers alike

While visiting the Information Centre, be sure to inquire about the scenic drives, particularly the Coonabarabran - Baradine - Warrumbungle drive gives the opportunity to travellers to explore the Warrumbungle Region, visiting historical places and enjoying great views.

The many roads which connect Coonabarabran to the other towns offer travellers a chance to explore the rich history and breathtaking views of the Warrumbungle Region, making it an unforgettable journey.