Singleton
Singleton
Driving

Smiths Lake to Singleton

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Smiths Lake to Singleton covers approximately 165 kilometers through the scenic Hunter Valley region. You will primarily travel via the Pacific Highway and turn onto the Golden Highway at Hexham. This route takes roughly 2 hours depending on traffic near Newcastle. It is a popular inland route for locals moving between the coast and the coalfields. Expect a mix of dual-carriageway and single-lane regional roads.

Total Distance: 165 km driving distance; 115 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving is the only practical mode, taking 2 hours via the Pacific and Golden Highways.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective method at approximately 35 AUD in fuel.
Compare Smiths Lake to Singleton Routes
Driving
Direct
Duration
2 hours
Avg Price
30-40 AUD
Operator
Personal Vehicle
Route
Pacific Highway to A15 and Golden Highway B84.

Avoid peak hour traffic in Newcastle by using the M1 Motorway bypass.

Travel Tips
  • Fuel Stops
    Refuel in Raymond Terrace before heading inland as prices increase toward Singleton.
  • Traffic Alerts
    Check Live Traffic NSW for roadworks on the Pacific Highway.
  • Rest Breaks
    Take a break at the Hexham rest area to avoid driver fatigue.
  • Navigation
    Download offline maps as mobile reception can be patchy near the Barrington Tops.
  • Timing
    Depart before 7 AM to avoid heavy industrial traffic near the Newcastle port.
Safety Tips
  • Wildlife
    Be cautious of kangaroos at dawn and dusk on the Golden Highway.
  • Heavy Vehicles
    Maintain distance from coal trucks which are frequent on this route.
  • Road Conditions
    Watch for loose gravel on the shoulders of the B84 highway.
  • Weather
    Check for fog warnings in the Hunter Valley during winter mornings.
People Also Ask
  • Is there a train to Singleton?
    Yes, but you must drive to Newcastle or Maitland first to catch the Hunter Line train.
  • How long is the drive?
    The drive typically takes 2 hours under normal traffic conditions.
  • Are there tolls?
    No, this specific route via the Pacific and Golden Highways does not involve toll roads.
  • Is the road sealed?
    Yes, the entire route consists of high-quality sealed bitumen roads.
  • Where can I eat?
    Raymond Terrace offers several fast-food outlets and cafes along the highway.
Quick Info
  • From Smiths Lake, New South Wales, Australia
  • To Singleton, New South Wales, Australia
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

Autumn months from March to May offer mild temperatures and clear driving conditions.

Things to Do in Singleton
1
Singleton Sundial
Visit the world's largest sundial located in the town center. It serves as a unique landmark for local history.
2
Hunter Valley Gardens
Located a short drive from Singleton, these gardens feature themed displays. It is a premier horticultural attraction in the region.
3
Singleton Museum
Explore the local history of the Hunter Valley. The museum houses artifacts from early colonial settlement.
4
Rose Point Park
Enjoy a picnic by the Hunter River. The park offers walking tracks and playground facilities for families.
Tags
Smiths Lake to Singleton drive Pacific Highway route Golden Highway travel Singleton transport driving from Smiths Lake NSW road trip Hunter Valley route Smiths Lake travel guide