NSW’s newest hike is a 4-day walk through ancient volcano lands

The walk blends culture with rainforest views.

A grand new 39-kilometre walk through the lush hinterland of northern New South Wales is set to breathe new life into the region for nature lovers and cultural travellers alike. The Gidjuum Gulganyi Walk, which means Old People’s Track in the language of the Widjabul Wia-bal People, is tentatively scheduled to open next week as one of the newest major walking experiences in the state – part of a $450 million investment in visitor infrastructure across NSW national parks.

Traversing ancient Bundjalung Country through Mount Jerusalem and Nightcap National Parks and the Whian Whian State Conservation Area, the four-day, three-night walk offers a deep immersion in rainforest, eucalypt forest, cascading creeks and clifftop lookouts. The trail follows the rim of an ancient shield volcano and culminates at the spectacular Minyon Falls.

But what sets this walk apart isn’t just the scenery – it’s the experience. Designed for experienced bushwalkers and those seeking a more adventurous escape, the walk includes three designated campsites with timber camping platforms, shelters, toilets and drinking water tanks. Suited for both self-guided and fully guided walkers, with selective commercial licenses being offered for multi-day packages, the Gidjuum Gulganyi Walk has been designed to be as enriching as it is sustainable.

Pass by Hell Hole Creek in the Tweed. (Image: Dean Trezise)

Formerly referred to as the Tweed Byron Hinterland Walk, the trail has been developed in close partnership with the Widjabul Wia-bal and Minjungbal People, who have inhabited and cared for this land for thousands of years. The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service says opportunities for local Aboriginal-guided experiences will be a key focus.

Optional side tracks include a short hike to Unicorn Falls and further trail linkages to surrounding villages and rail trails are in the works. The aim is to further stimulate regional economies in the Tweed, Lismore and Byron local government areas.

Unicorn Falls should be added to your list. (Image: Dean Trezise)

With sweeping views of Wollumbin (Mount Warning), the ancient Gondwanan rainforest and peaceful creek crossings, the Gidjuum Gulganyi Walk is poised to become one of Australia’s most meaningful and memorable bushwalking experiences.