Rocky Crossing Walking Trail

Walking trail: Grade 4 | 16km return hike | 6-8 hours 

The Rocky Crossing Walking Trail is a signature experience in the southern section of Barrington Tops National Park. Located in the Williams River precinct near Dungog, this 16km return trail is a "bucket list" hike for nature lovers, offering a deep dive into the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests.

Conditions in the park are generally ideal for walking year long, with the dense rainforest canopy providing significant shade and the Williams River offering a refreshing (though chilly) soundtrack to your journey. We recommend that you check conditions on the National Parks website prior to commencing your journey.

Highlights & Points of Interest

The Rocky Crossing trail is famous for its diverse ecosystem, transitioning from towering Sydney Blue Gums to ancient subtropical rainforest.

• The Williams River: You’ll shadow the river for most of the walk. Keep an eye out for Eastern Water Dragons basking on the mossy rocks and the elusive Platypus in the quieter pools at dawn or dusk.
• Pool of Reflections: Located via a short side-track, this is a must-see. The water is crystal clear and perfectly still, mirroring the surrounding canopy.
• Lion Rock: A unique rock formation along the river that resembles a lion's head.
• The "Rocky Crossing" Finale: The trail ends at a spectacular series of cascades and deep rock pools. It is the perfect spot for a remote picnic before the return leg.
• Giant Strangler Figs: You will pass several massive, centuries-old figs that have completely encased their host trees, creating incredible natural sculptures.

Best Time to Visit

• Autumn & Spring: The most comfortable temperatures for the 16km trek.
• Summer: Great for escaping the heat, as the rainforest is significantly cooler than the surrounding plains. However, be wary of leeches after rain!
• Winter: The rainforest can be very damp and cold; the river flow is often at its most dramatic after winter rains.

Pro-Tips from the locals

• Access: The road to Williams River Picnic Area is unsealed but generally accessible by 2WD. However, if you choose the "Lagoon Pinch" (upper) entrance to save time, a 4WD or high-clearance vehicle is recommended as the road can be steep and rutted.
• Safety: There is no mobile reception on this trail. Always log your trip on the NSW National Parks "Trip Intention" app before you lose signal.

Activities

• Hiking
• Walking
• Photography

Facilities

• Lookouts
• Walking trail - grade 4 - 14km return hike | 5-6 hour return
• Picnic area
• Carpark
• Barbeque