Sadly, the arch pictured on the cover is no longer standing. It fell down about 10 years ago.
The other good source of walks is the Great North Walk, which comes north through the Watagans, then heads towards the coast at Glenrock, and along the coast north to the harbour. Can do several days on that. There is also a branch from Congewai that goes up to the vineyards.
Depending on how far you want to go, the Watagans has lots of walks, although not many are marked. Some good walks on the northern Hunter Valley, below and on top of Barrington Tops. There are also good opportunities along the coast near Port Stephens, with whales in season.
There are also a few active clubs in the area.
Newcastle Ramblers and Watagan Wanderers are very active clubs and welcome new members. You can often find programs and other information in camping stores around town, or contact via the web sites.
http://www.bushwalking.org.au/newcastleramblers/http://www.bushwalking.org.au/watagan/There are other clubs too:
http://www.bushwalking.org.au/Countryclubs.html#northSCheers
David
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