Hannam Vale, NSW
21.8 km (2 hrs )
★★★★☆

Coorabakh National Park is located approximately halfway between Taree and Port Macquarie. The national park and adjacent Comboyne State Forest were sculpted by volcanic activity, and include three prominent volcanic plugs that dominate the area - Big Nellie, Flat Nellie and Little Nellie. The national park contains a variety of flora that varies according to where you are in elevation - low shrubs and eucalypt trees on the upper slopes and cool subtropical rainforests with crystal clear streams in the sheltered gullies below.

Getting to the park was an adventure in itself, with my GPS directing me to come via the muddy and slippery 4WD Slaters Road. We eventually came via Waitui Road in the south, a much easier option. We were all very impressed with the beauty of the national park - the spectacular lookouts (Flat Rock and Newbys), as well as the beautiful rainforest, complete with palms. There are facilities at most of the lookouts and picnic areas. We especially liked Starrs Creek, where we had lunch. This picnic area had toilets, picnic tables and an elevated boardwalk beside the crystal clear creek.