Cathedral Rock National Park sits about 65 km east of Armidale, straddling the edge of the New England Tablelands. The park takes its name from a granite formation that rises dramatically from the surrounding heath and forest — a tor of rounded boulders stacked improbably high, with sweeping views east toward the coast and west over the tablelands.
The Cathedral Rock walking track is a 5.4 km loop that climbs through subalpine heath and snow gum woodland to the summit formation. The walk takes two to three hours and is moderately strenuous. In spring the heath blooms with wildflowers; in autumn the views are extraordinary. The park also has excellent birdwatching, including flame robins, diamond firetails, and wedge-tailed eagles soaring over the escarpment.