This 42-Kilometre Walking Trail on the NSW North Coast Weaves Through Ancient Rainforest, Volcanic Mountains and Spectacular Waterfalls

Traversing three parks in the Tweed Byron Hinterland, the Gidjuum Gulganyi Walk spotlights the region's incredible biodiversity and cultural significance.
Nik Addams
Published on April 16, 2025

In literally huge news for keen hikers, a spectacular new walking trail has been unveiled on the NSW North Coast. The Gidjuum Gulganyi Walk weaves a spectacular 42-kilometre path through the ancient Gondwanan rainforest and volcanic landscapes of the Tweed Byron Hinterland, and it's ready to be explored right now.

Located on Widjabul Wia-bal and Minjungbal Country, part of the Bundjalung Nation, the walk connects Mount Jerusalem National Park and Nightcap National Park via the Whian Whian State Conservation Area, and is the latest addition to NSW's growing collection of Great Walks. 'Gidjuum Gulganyi' translates to 'old people's track', a name chosen by the land's Traditional Owners to honour the cultural significance of this route, which follows paths walked by their ancestors for thousands of years.

Scrub Tree Walking Track, R Brand

The four-day, three-night walk offers hikers a chance to explore plunging waterfalls and towering trees, as well as take in sweeping views of the Tweed caldera mountains. Across the three different parks the walking trail traverses, walkers will also be able to encounter the region's incredible biodiversity, including rare and unique species of flora, as well as creation sites, ceremonial areas, traditional pathways and campgrounds that are connected through the Dreaming. The walk ends at the dramatic Minyon Falls, a 100-metre-tall cascade formed by the ancient Tweed Volcano.

The trail also boasts three newly built campgrounds, each fitted out with 11 elevated sleeping platforms — you can BYO gear and book a camping package, or opt for a guided experience that delves deeper into the region's flora, fauna and rich Indigenous heritage. There's also a shuttle service available for transfers from nearby towns and airports.

Peates Mountain Track, R Brand

Not quite ready for the full 42 kilometres? No problem. You can tackle one of the many shorter side trails and sections, with options for a range of fitness levels.

The Gidjuum Gulganyi Walk — delivered by NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) — is part of the $7.34 million Tweed Byron Hinterland Trails Project, which aims to showcase the ancient landscape of and encourage more nature-based tourism to the region. It's the sixth NSW Great Walk to open in the past two years, and a worthy new addition to the list.

Yelgun Kyoomgun campground, D Parsons

Unicorn Falls Walking Track, R Brand

Scrub Creek Walking Track, D Parsons

Minyon Falls, D Parsons

For more information or to book, head to the NPWS website.

Top image: D Parsons.

Published on April 16, 2025 by Nik Addams
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