It might not get the same attention as the Blue Mountains or Royal National Park, but Barrington Tops easily holds its own as one of New South Wales’ most striking landscapes. Enveloped by ancient rainforests, this alpine gem boasts a pristine mix of walking trails, serene flowing rivers, plentiful wildlife, scenic camping spots, and untouched wilderness. And if you’re visiting in winter, you don’t need to temper your expectations — it all looks even more breathtaking under a light dusting of snow. Plus, you’ll love the lack of crowds in the cooler months. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting the beautiful Barrington Tops National Park this winter.
Why you should visit Barrington Tops National Park in winter
While it’s a popular spot among nature lovers in warmer weather, winter brings a different kind of magic, and those who brave the cold are rewarded with a lovely snow-dusted escape that feels worlds away.
Barrington Tops forms part of the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests and climbs dramatically to more than 1,500 metres above sea level. Shaped by ancient volcanic activity, it’s home to some of Australia’s largest pockets of cool temperate rainforest. While it’s beautiful year-round, winter reveals a wild, rugged beauty that you can enjoy without jostling for space. Frost-laced trees, icy streams, winter hikes, and the rare thrill of snow in a subtropical country only add to the vibe.
Does it snow in Barrington Tops National Park?
Yes — it’s one of the few places in NSW where you can see snow most winters. Thanks to its elevation, Barrington Tops sees a few light snowfalls each year, usually between June and August. While it’s never guaranteed, the higher parts of the park, like Polblue Picnic Area and Devils Hole lookout, are your best bet for a snowy adventure. Remember to check NSW National Parks before heading out, and follow the Barrington Tops Snow Chasers group on Facebook for updates.
The best winter walks and lookouts
Winter is one of the best times to explore Barrington Tops on foot, just remember to bundle up before you head out to enjoy the moody, misty beauty of the park.
The Gloucester Tops Circuit is a standout, combining waterfalls, snow gums, and open woodland into a scenic 7km loop. For something gentler, try the Polblue Swamp Track is a 2.5km loop through frost-kissed snow gums and lush forests — you can even spot wombats and kangaroos on this trail. The Blue Gum Loop Track winds through cool temperate rainforest and glassy swimming holes, often wrapped up in winter fog in the cooler months. If you’re after panoramic views, hike through towering snow gums to Careys Peak Lookout, one of the highest points in the park. Experienced hikers will love the Corker Trail — a steep, 20km return track that climbs through rugged bushland to the plateau.
Where to camp or stay in winter
There are eight campgrounds scattered throughout Barrington Tops, offering something for every kind of traveller. You can drive straight up to Gloucester River and Polblue and pitch a tent or roll in with a camper trailer or caravan. On the other hand, Devils Hole sits at over 1,400 metres and is surrounded by snow gums, making it one of the highest — and most atmospheric — campgrounds in the park. Prefer something off the beaten track? Gummi Falls, Junction Pools and Wombat Creek are only accessible via 4WD or on foot, offering a truly remote and wild experience for those happy to rough it. Read more about Barrington Tops National Park and find accommodation options here.
How to get there
Barrington Tops is a protected national park, around a 4-hour drive north of Sydney, or about three hours from Newcastle. You can also take the train from Sydney to Dungog or Gloucester, with the journey taking between 3.5 and 4.5 hours, depending on your route. Do note that some roads within the park may close during winter, so it’s best to check the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service website for alerts before you head out.