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Budds Mare to Riverside walking track

Oxley Wild Rivers National Park

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Overview

The moderately challenging Budds Mare to Riverside walking track takes in ancient rainforest and wild rivers of Macleay World Heritage-listed wilderness area.

Distance
7km one-way
Time suggested
2 - 3hrs
Grade
Grade 5
Trip Intention Form

It's a good idea to let someone know where you're going. Fill in a trip intention form to send important details about your trip to your emergency contact.

What to
bring
Drinking water, hat, sunscreen
Please note
  • If organising a car pick up from Riverside picnic area, a permit will need to be issued for the driver through the Walcha NPWS office
  • Remember to take your binoculars if you want to bird watch

A great walk for those looking for a challenging hike through the heart of the World Heritage-listed Macleay wilderness. Don’t forget your binoculars as Budds Mare to Riverside walking track offers a rare opportunity for wildlife spotting and birdwatching in unspoilt bushland.

Following the track through heathlands and tall gums, keep an eye out for crimson rosellas and brush turkeys. Descending steeply the forest closes in and eucalypts give way to a shaded canopy of sassafrass and coachwood. In the moist cool of the ancient rainforest, you might see the vibrant wompoo fruit dove or noisy pitta. Look for the beautiful rock orchids and coloured funghis as you clamber down the mossy rocks.

At Riverside campground, cool off with a refreshing swim in the crystal waters of Apsley River. Take a break under the shade of the she-oaks while you wait for your pickup or, if you’re hungry for more bushwalking, return the same way.

For directions, safety and practical information, see visitor info

 

Google Street View Trekker

Using Google Street View Trekker, we've captured imagery across a range of NSW national parks and attractions. Get a bird's eye view of these incredible landscapes before setting off on your own adventure.

Google Trekker at Cape Byron State Conservation Area. Photo: J Spencer/OEH.

General enquiries

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Park info

  • in Oxley Wild Rivers National Park in the North Coast and Country NSW regions
  • Oxley Wild Rivers National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

  • There are 3 areas in Oxley Wild Rivers National Park where you'll need day use vehicle permits: Halls Peak campground and picnic area, Riverside campground and picnic area, and Youdales Hut campground and picnic area. Day use vehicle permits can be bought online or by calling the National Parks Contact Centre on 1300 072 757. If camping, permit fees are included in the campground fee.

    Contact us for permits
See more visitor info