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This mega multi-day hike is the most challenging of the NSW Great Walks

The Green Gully Track is a magical 4-5 day hiking trail in the NSW northern tablelands – with sleepover stops in old stockman huts

Winnie Stubbs
Written by
Winnie Stubbs
Travel and News Editor, APAC
NSW National Parks and Wildlife
Photograph: Supplied | NSW National Parks and Wildlife
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Experienced hikers of Sydney, assemble. If you’ve completed the state’s accessible hikes and you’re ready to level up, we’ve got thoughts. The Green Gully Track is one of the NSW Great Walks – and this is one that feels properly remote in the best possible way. Deep in the northern tablelands, it's a multi-day journey through deep gorge country and wild river valleys in Oxley Wild Rivers National Park. More than six hours' drive from Sydney, it’s a proper “get-away-from-it-all” experience that rewards experienced hikers with solitude, scenery and a real sense of wilderness immersion. It’s also one of the most unique Great Walks in the state because you don’t camp – you stay in old heritage stockman huts along the way. Keen? This one is a hike for the experienced among us, but if you're up for it, read on.

RELATED READ: This overnight hike just outside of Sydney is perfect for entry-level hikers

Where is the Green Gully Track?

It sits in Oxley Wild Rivers National Park on the NSW northern tablelands, roughly between Walcha and Port Macquarie. The walk threads through the dramatic Apsley–Macleay gorge system, one of the largest gorge networks in Australia.

How long is the Green Gully Track?

The track is a 65-kilometre loop, starting and finishing at Cedar Creek Cottage (near Yarrowitch).

How long does the Green Gully Track take?

Most walkers take four to five days to complete it, usually spending four days and five nights on the track.

Is the Green Gully Track difficult?

Yes – it’s rated Grade 5, which is NSW National Parks’ highest difficulty level. Expect steep climbs, rough terrain, river crossings and long days on your feet. It’s designed for experienced bushwalkers who are comfortable navigating remote terrain and carrying multi-day packs.

Green Gully Track
Photograph: Supplied | NSW National Parks and Wildlife

Where can you stay near the Green Gully Track?

On the track itself, you stay in pre-booked heritage stockman huts (no camping tents needed), each equipped with basic facilities like beds and cooking areas. Off-track, the nearest towns with accommodation are Walcha and Armidale, both a drive away from the park access point.

stockmans hut
Photograph: Supplied | NSW National Parks and Wildlife

 

How do you get to the Green Gully Track?

You access it via Cedar Creek Cottage in Oxley Wild Rivers National Park. After booking, you receive access details for the locked gate and directions to the start point. Most people drive in from Walcha (about 2 hours) or Port Macquarie (about 2.5 hours).

You can learn more, plan and book over here.

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