Wednesday, Apr 12, 2006 at 09:16
Styx River
State Forest
Rugged scenery, fast icy rivers and alpine forests make Styx River
State Forest a diverse and stunningly beautiful area to visit for camping, walking and day trips.
Styx River
State Forest is located on the
New England Tablelands, east of Armidale. Reaching to 1400 metres above sea level and crashing down to only 200 metres, this forest offers endless
views across the Tablelands as
well as a large variety of trees and landscapes to enjoy.
Colourful stringybarks dominate the high misty areas, while tall, smooth-barked gums such as white gum and
blue gum feature in the lower forests. Between the steep ridges can be found narrow strips of rainforest containing trees such as Antarctic beech, yellow carabeen and red cedar, particularly within the forest's flora
reserves.
The forest covers a staggering 29,000 hectares and is an important source of timber and employment for the community, as
well as offering some very special
places for visitors.
Styx River Forest Way winds through 30 kilometres of forest from
Point Lookout, passing many of the area's beautiful vistas including glimpses of Georges Creek Valley and the headwaters of the Macleay River. Popular vantage points such as the Beech
Lookout make it easier to relax and take in the view.
The sheer power of the area's wild rivers are a contrast to the silence of the forest, particularly at Styx Falls, where cold mountain water plunges into the deep, rocky chasm below.
People wanting to spend more time in the forest have several camping areas to choose from, including the popular and tranquil Wattle Flat camping and picnic area. This
camping area was named after the wattles which can be seen flowering in early spring along the banks of the river. The area offers tables, barbecues and toilets.
Nearby Farewell Flat also offers facilities for camping along the river, while Pantons Point and Hyatts Flat provide more secluded spots without the amenities to remind you of civilisation.
Styx River Forest is close to a number of other natural attractions including several National parks and a trout hatchery.
For more information about
recreation at Styx River, please contact State Forests'
Walcha office on 067 77 2511, or Cumberland State Forests information centre in
Sydney on 02 9871 3377.
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