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Smoky Cape Range walking track

North Coast

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Visitor info

All the practical information you need to know about Smoky Cape Range walking track.

Track grading

Features of this track

Distance

5.5km one-way

Time

2 - 3hrs

Quality of markings

Clearly sign posted

Experience required

Some bushwalking experience recommended

Gradient

Short steep hills

Steps

Occasional steps

Quality of path

Rough track, many obstacles

Getting there and parking

Smoky Cape Range walking track starts at Little Bay picnic area in the Trial Bay Gaol precinct of the adjoining Arakoon National Park. To get there:

From South West Rocks:

  • Follow Phillip Drive (it becomes Wilson Street).
  • Turn right onto Gladstone Street which becomes Carri Street.
  • Continue along Carri Street until you reach Little Bay picnic area.
  • Follow the signs to Overshot Dam where the track begins.

Alternatively, if starting from Smoky Cape:

  • On entering Hat Head National Park:
  • Take the South West Rocks Road.
  • Follow the signs to Smoky Cape lighthouse.
  • The walk begins near Smoky Cape picnic area.

Parking

Parking is available at Overshot Dam, the nearby Little Bay picnic area or near Smoky Cape picnic area.

Best times to visit

This park's sweeping beaches are extremely inviting during summer, but its wildlife and walking tracks make it a joy to visit all year round.

Spring

A birdwatcher's delight as the heath shrubland bursts into a kaleidoscope of wild flowers and birds come from all around, listen out for the guttural call of glossy black cockatoos.

Summer

Take a coastal bushwalk to experience wildflower displays amongst the banksias.

Winter

Spot humpback and southern right whales migrating to northern waters between May and July.

Weather, temperature and rainfall

Summer temperature

Average

19°C and 26°C

Highest recorded

41.7°C (1968)

Winter temperature

Average

13°C and 20°C

Lowest recorded

4°C (1997)

Rainfall

Wettest month

March

The area’s highest recorded rainfall in one day

343.7mm

Maps and downloads

Safety messages

Beach safety

Beaches in this park are not patrolled, and can sometimes have strong rips and currents. These beach safety tips will help you and your family stay safe in the water.

Bushwalking safety

If you're keen to head out on a longer walk or a backpack camp, always be prepared. Read these bushwalking safety tips before you set off on a walking adventure in national parks.

Mobile safety

Dial Triple Zero (000) in an emergency. Download the Emergency Plus app before you visit, it helps emergency services locate you using your smartphone's GPS. Please note there is limited mobile phone reception in this park and you’ll need mobile reception to call Triple Zero (000).

Prohibited

Pets

Pets and domestic animals (other than certified assistance animals) are not permitted. Find out which regional parks allow dog walking and see the pets in parks policy for more information.

Smoking

NSW national parks are no smoking areas.

Smoky Cape Range walking track

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Park info