Sawn Rocks Walking Track, Mount Kaputar National Park

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Posted 2024-12-20 by Cris ⇒ follow

Mount Kaputar National Park, located west of the country town of Narrabri, spans a diverse landscape that includes forests, woodlands, heathlands, and striking rock outcrops in the Nandewar Range. This beautiful park provides a wide array of activities for nature enthusiasts, such as hiking, camping, cycling, horse riding, and bird watching. One of the highlights is the Sawn Rocks Walking Trail, which offers an easy walk to the breathtaking rock formation known as the Organ Pipes. This unique geological feature is a must-see, showcasing the stunning natural beauty of the park.

Mount Kaputar National Park preserves the remnants of an extensive shield volcano that was active between 17 and 21 million years ago. This beautiful park protects unique volcanic features, flora and fauna, and rich cultural heritage. It is located west of the country town of Narrabri, about 7 hours' drive from Brisbane, 537 km drive.

The park showcases a variety of habitats shaped by its unique geological features, including sheltered gullies, exposed rocky terraces, and varying altitudes. These elements contribute to the park's incredible biodiversity, providing a home for numerous plant and animal species.

The basaltic columns at Sawn Rocks rise majestically to a height of 40 meters, creating a stunning natural spectacle that showcases the power of volcanic activity

Today, Mount Kaputar National Park offers a wealth of experiences for visitors to enjoy. With a network of walking tracks that wind through its stunning landscapes, you can explore the park’s diverse habitats at your own pace. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, there’s something for everyone.

For those looking to immerse themselves in nature, the park provides two unpowered camping areas, perfect for a rustic getaway under the stars. If you prefer a bit more comfort, there are also cosy cabins available for accommodation.

The organ piping formation is best seen from the lookout, which offers a great opportunity for photos. Apparently, the best photos are taken at noon when the light is just right.

With its breathtaking views, rich biodiversity, and a variety of activities, Mount Kaputar National Park is an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or simply soaking in the beauty of the surroundings, this park promises an unforgettable experience.

Sawn Rocks Walking Track

The Sawn Rocks walking track begins at the Sawn Rocks picnic area in Mount Kaputar National Park. This picturesque 1.5-kilometre return trail typically takes about half an hour to complete, though your time may vary depending on your walking speed and how long you choose to linger at the lookout, taking photos or exploring the creek.

Sawn Rocks trail starts at Sawn Rocks picnic area

Classified as a Grade 2 walk by New South Wales National Parks, this easy trail is short and clearly marked, with a well-formed path that requires no prior hiking experience. The initial section leading to the lookout is wheelchair-accessible, allowing everyone to enjoy the stunning views.

There are a few informative signs along the trail

After reaching the lookout, the path continues to the base of the impressive rock formations. Here, you’ll find a metal boardwalk with a few steps that enhance your experience as you get up close to the unique geological features.

The metallic boardwalk section

When Bobbiwaa Creek is flowing abundantly, it creates refreshing pools, providing a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the serene surroundings. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, the Sawn Rocks walking track offers a delightful way to appreciate the natural beauty of Mount Kaputar National Park.

The pools formed by the creek

When Mount Kaputar was a bustling volcano, it erupted, releasing vast amounts of basaltic lava that, over millions of years, slowly eroded away. One of the most striking reminders of this volcanic past is the remarkable Sawn Rocks formation. Here, you can witness the impressive columns known as “organ pipes,” a stunning example of columnar jointing.

The rock formations seen from the base of the creek

These natural wonders not only highlight the park’s geological significance but also invite visitors to reflect on the powerful forces that shaped this remarkable landscape.

What to Bring

Although the Sawn Rocks walking track is short, it's important to be prepared for a comfortable and enjoyable hike. Here’s what you should bring:

Water Bottle: Stay hydrated by bringing a bottle of water, especially if you plan to spend time exploring and taking photos.
Sturdy Shoes: Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes with good grip to navigate the well-formed paths and any uneven terrain.
Hat: A wide-brimmed hat will help protect you from the sun, making your walk more pleasant.

With these essentials, you'll be ready to enjoy the beautiful scenery and unique rock formations along the trail!

A small lizard along the trail

Sawn Rocks picnic area

The Sawn Rocks Walking Trail begins at the Sawn Rocks picnic area in Mount Kaputar National Park, a lovely spot equipped with sheltered tables, benches, and a free gas barbecue, perfect for a relaxing meal amidst nature. From this area, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, making it an ideal place to unwind before or after your hike.

There are great views of the surrounding mountains from Sawn Rock picnic area

Spring is particularly enchanting in the national park, as the landscape bursts to life with vibrant blooms and wildflowers. This colourful display adds an extra layer of beauty to your visit, inviting you to explore the park's diverse flora and immerse yourself in the refreshing sights and scents of the season. Whether you're enjoying a picnic or embarking on the walking trail, Sawn Rocks in springtime offers a truly magical experience in nature.

Plants with delicate seeds

Directions

The Sawn Rocks walking trail lies in the northern section of Mount Kaputar National Park, a hidden gem waiting to be explored. If you’re coming from the town of Narrabri, the journey is a picturesque half-hour drive northeast along Killarney Gap Road, covering approximately 37 kilometres. This route offers great views of the surrounding landscape, setting the stage for the natural beauty that awaits.

This photo was taken when travelling on the Terry Hie Hie Rd. It may be Misopates orontium, a plant from Europe

For those travelling from Moree, the adventure begins with a scenic drive southeast along Terry Hie Hie Road. When you reach Rocky Creek, simply turn right onto Killarney Gap Road. This journey spans about 114 kilometres and takes roughly an hour and a half. As you make your way, you’ll be treated to the sights of the countryside, for miles and miles.

Views from Killarney Gap Rd

Whether you’re coming from Narrabri or Moree, the journey to the Sawn Rocks walking trail is an experience in itself, leading you into Mount Kaputar National Park.

The Town of Narrabri

Narrabri, an important country town in the Narrabri Region of New South Wales, is about a seven-hour drive from Sydney. It is a town in agricultural land, it serves as a perfect gateway to explore the wonders of Mount Kaputar National Park.

As you arrive, make your first stop at the Narrabri Region Visitor Information Centre , located at 103 Tibboreen Street. Here, you'll find brochures, maps, and valuable information about local attractions and activities. One of the highlights of the centre is an engaging display on the region's vital cotton industry, featuring a real cotton picker that visitors can climb aboard—a fun and educational experience for all ages.

Book an accommodation in town to explore Mount Kaputar National Park

If time permits, don’t miss the Historical Walk, a great way to immerse yourself in Narrabri's heritage. This self-guided tour takes you past several heritage-listed buildings, including the Narrabri Old Gaol and Museum, the historic Post Office, and the Narrabri Gaol and Residence, each telling a story of the town’s rich past.

Narrabri also boasts a variety of shops, an Olympic swimming pool, and convenient supermarkets like Coles and Woolworths, making it a vibrant community hub.

Just half an hour east of town lies the Deriah Aboriginal Area, a wonderful opportunity to delve into the culture and heritage of the Gamilaraay people. Here, you can learn about the region's history, discover the uses of local plants, and explore the Gamilaraay language, enriching your understanding of this beautiful land.