Every year, Inverell pulses with the steady footsteps of adventurers during the Great Northern Walking Festival, a hands-on celebration of the region’s rugged landscapes and inviting trails. Spanning multiple routes, the festival offers options ranging from gentle 5-kilometer strolls around town parks to the more demanding 20-kilometer treks along well-marked tracks weaving through forests and over ridges. These trails climb elevations up to 400 meters, rewarding hikers with expansive views of the rolling Northern Tablelands.

The paths thread through eucalyptus groves that sigh with every breeze, while rivers dare you to pause and soak in their relentless flow. Terrain varies from compact dirt to rocky outcrops, demanding sturdy footwear and steady footing. The forest canopy casts intermittent shadows, tempering the sun's direct glare during warmer months.

Planning your walk means preparing for variable conditions: adequate hydration is essential, as water sources along the trails are limited and unpredictable. Good trail shoes with grip will help you navigate loose gravel and occasional steps carved into the hillside. Mornings are cooler and less crowded, offering a quieter communion with the landscape, while afternoons provide warmer light perfect for photography but demand sun protection.

The festival’s atmosphere threads adventurous spirit with practical camaraderie. You’ll find well-organized checkpoints staffed by locals sharing insights about the region’s flora, fauna, and history. This festival is about engaging with a landscape fiercely itself—not to conquer but to respect and understand.

Whether you’re tackling the longest trail or enjoying a casual walk, expect moments when the wind speaks through the branches and the earth beneath your boots marks your progress with firm resolve. Inverell’s Great Northern Walking Festival invites you to step into a rhythm that is both invigorating and enduring—a chance to measure your pace against the patient pulse of nature.