Waves, waterfalls and wildlife: The best walks on the Mid North Coast

Whether you’re looking for a walk along the coastline, an uphill challenge to a worthy view or an inland venture to a waterfall, the Mid North Coast has plenty on offer.

Our top picks cover the ancient rainforests of Dorrigo, Hat Head headlands with roos and epic views, North Brother mountain for the more adventurous, and more.

Enjoy videos of the tracks mentioned throughout the article to get a feel for what’s in store.

And if we missed something, let us know by sending an email to [email protected]

🟡 Scout Falls, Orara Valley

Located in Sherwood Nature Reserve in the Orara Valley is a stunning waterfall with a deep natural swimming hole by the name of Scout Falls. 

While it is a short walk through bushland to reach the water, it’s a fairly rugged trail. Expect to traverse rocks and navigate creeks to get there.

The walking track and waterfalls are about a 40-minute drive from Coffs Harbour and the access road is unsealed. 

@midnorthcoaster

This waterfall oasis is worth the walk #coffsharbour #australia #nsw #hiking #waterfall #retreat

🟡 Red Cedar Falls, Dorrigo

There are a number of hikes in Dorrigo National Park, from short walks to three-hour returns.

We love the Red Cedar Falls Track – about two hours (2.2km) return from Rosewood Creek Track. 

It’s a steep descent down and back, but the falls at the bottom are worth the climb, and the towering trees and healthy forest is something spectacular.

🟡 Monument Walk, Arakoon

Start this walk from Trial Bay Gaol or Little Bay in Arakoon National Park near South West Rocks and enjoy views of both bays from the top of the hill. There’s also a great viewpoint looking down on the historic gaol and, of course, the chance to visit the monument built as a tribute to German internees who died at the gaol during WW1.

While unsealed, the track is well-kept and fairly easy with some elevation. You can detour from the Monument track onto the Powder Magazine track for even more history of the place.

During migration this is a great walk to spot whales. All year-round you’ll likely stroll alongside kangaroos and see plenty of birdlife. 

@midnorthcoaster

And the answer is…#australia #nsw #midnorthcoast

🟡 Connors Walking Track, Hat Head

Starting at Gap Street, this is another coastal walk along headlands and beaches where resident roos take in the views.

A popular whale watching spot in the winter and bird-watching paradise in the warmer months – along with wildflowers lining the track.

One way, this walk is just under 4km, with options to stop and swim in the ocean.

🟡 Five Headlands, Crescent Head

This headland track in Crescent Head is the first phase of the Five Headlands Coastal Experiences connecting four national parks and five headlands on the Mid North Coast.

The Crescent Head trail links the water tower on Skyline Crescent to the northern end of Goolawah Beach – known locally as Back Beach – and is about a 30-minute round trip.

The walking track opened in 2025 so it’s in top condition. 

Enjoy ocean views, the smell of natives and the sound of birdcalls. There’s a monument on this track if you want to stop and learn a bit of history about the place.

Take swimming gear and reward yourself with a dip before tackling the climb back up to the tower. Note: the beach at the bottom is unpatrolled. 

@midnorthcoaster

🔊Sound on for serenity. The newly opened track in Crescent Head is the first phase of the Five Headlands Coastal Experience — connecting f... See more

🟡 The Coastal Walk, Port Macquarie

Did you know you can walk all the way from Town Beach foreshore in Port Macquarie to the lighthouse? It’s a 9km walk one way, winding along the coastline via Town Beach, Rocky Beach lookout, Nobby’s Beach and Harry’s lookout into the forest of Sea Acres National Park. 

The walk ends at Tacking Point Lighthouse with several historical sites and seaside scenery along the way, as well as viewing platforms, picnic facilities and plenty of places to swim of course.

@midnorthcoaster

We asked people in Port Macquarie about their favourite walks in the area. #australia #midnorthcoast #portmacquarie #beachwalks

🟡 Bundageree Walking Track, Bundagen

The Bundageree Walking Track is a 3km (one way) trail that takes you through the rainforest of Bongil Bongil National Park and spits you out on Bundagen Headland. 

The track hugs the coastline so you get to take in a mix of  waves and wildlife along the way.

While this walk can take two to three hours, it’s a family-friendly option with a flat and well-shaded track for an easy hike.

@midnorthcoaster

Come walk the Bundageree track in Bongil Bongil National Park 🥾#australia #midnorthcoast #nationalparkwalksNSW

🟡 North Brother Mountain, Laurieton

For a more challenging walk, try the North Brother Mountain trek. Start in the town of Laurieton and climb the Dooragan Summit for the well-renowned views from the picnic area on North Brother Mountain.

The 3km track (one way) is easily accessible from town, taking you from the bustle to the bush – well, forest – in no time. 

Hike through towering blackbutt and eucalyptus forest to get to the stunning coastal views.

🟡 Diamond Head loop walk, Crowdy Bay

This coastal loop walk in Crowdy Bay National Park shows off forest, beaches and the sparkling rock faces that give Diamond Head its name.

Start at Diamond Head campground to link up with the headland and forest walking track that will take you through paperbarks and swamp mahogany. You’ll come to Kylie’s lookout for beautiful ocean views.

Keep an eye on the rock cliff faces with quartz crystals that glint in the sunlight.

The headland offers panoramic views of Perpendicular Point and Crowdy Head, with the Three Brothers mountains in the background. 

🟡 One Mile Beach, Forster

Start at Bennetts Head lookout for the sights of surrounding cliffs and expansive ocean. There’s a rainforest boardwalk, or simply stroll the white sandy beach and back. Stop to take in the huge sand dune popular with energetic kids, photographers, and view hunters. 

One Mile Beach is patrolled during the holidays and weekends and has a park and picnic facilities so you can bring the whole family. And keep an eye out for dolphins regularly spotted sharing waves with swimmers and surfers.

We hope you enjoyed our guide to hikes on the Mid North Coast. Make sure you check out our other monthly what’s on coverage for events including family-friendly activities and live music happening across the region.