If you find yourself waaay out in north west NSW, make some time to hike to the summit of Mt Gunderbooka. This 5.7km return hike provides far-reaching views of the surrounding outback and a unique peak experience. 

 

Quick Overview:

Mt Gunderbooka trail is a 5.7 km return, grade 3 hike located in the Gundabooka National Park in New South Wales. The hike should take around 2.5 hours to complete.

 

We acknowledge that this adventure is located on Ngiyambaa and Paakantji Nation, the traditional Country of the Ngiyambaa and Paakantji people who have occupied and cared for this land and water for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them as the Traditional Custodians and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

Mt Gunderbooka is the Highest Point for Miles

Around an hour from the outback town of Bourke, Gundabooka National Park is home to dusty red roads, Aboriginal rock art, and Mt Gunderbooka, a climbable peak on the Gunderbooka Range (yes they’re spelled differently, we’re still trying to find out why).

The hike to the top is along the Valley of the Eagles walking track which starts at Bennetts Gorge Picnic Area and strolls along flat but rocky ground for around 700m before beginning the ascent. 

 

 

The track twists and turns its way up the mountainside and is quite rocky and steep, but if you’re visiting in spring there’ll be plenty of pretty wildflowers to keep your mind off it! 

Once the track reaches the top of the range, follow it along through some bushes and across to the adjacent ridgeline. From here you can cut through to a rocky outcrop and find your own private perch to take in the sweeping view of the surrounding plains. You’re at the highest point for miles after all! 

 

 

Keep watch for Wedge-tailed eagles, they love to nest at this vantage point and there are even tiny eagle signs dotted along the path indicating their usual whereabouts.

 

Mt Gunderbooka Juts Out of the NSW Outback, Amy Fairall, Gundabooka National Park, outback, mountain

 

The hike back follows the same route down the mountainside. Be sure to come with plenty of water and lots of sun protection – the track is very remote (no phone reception out here!) and extremely exposed.

Read more: How To Hike in Hot Weather

 

Mt Gunderbooka Juts Out of the NSW Outback, Amy Fairall, Gundabooka National Park, outback, mountain, friends, hike

Essential Gear

  • Hat
  • Sunscreen
  • Sturdy walking shoes 
  • Plenty of water 
  • Camera for a top of the summit snap

Read more: Remember to leave no trace!

How To Get There

The drive to Bennets Gorge picnic area is 1 hour 10 minutes from Bourke, along Kidman Way and then through Gundabooka National Park. 

All roads in the national park are unsealed and often corrugated but should still be drivable in a 2WD, just take it slow!

Skill Level

Intermediate 

Although not a particularly long walk, the ascent is quite steep, rocky, and exposed, so you’ll need a good fitness level.

Distance Covered / Duration / Elevation Gain

5.7km return / 2.5 hours / 500m