List of Bushwalks in Lamington National Park

Environment

Starting across the car park on Lamington National Park Road, O’Reilly, this walk takes you to the Python Rock Lookout and back via the same-titled singular track, exploring the woodland of Lamington National Park along the way. Expect a peaceful and undemanding walk opening up to a lookout which provides you stunning views over southern Lamington, including Mount Razorback in the distance. The path up to the lookout is clear, shaded and quite suitable for kids. Allow time to take in the exceptional views, and maybe bring some snacks to have a scenic picnic in nature. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Python Rock Lookout

3 km return

45 min to 1 h 30 min

Environment

Tullawallal Lookout Circuit

Tullawallal Lookout Circuit

3.7 km circuit

1 h 15 min to 2 h

Starting from the car park at the end of Binna Burra Road, QLD, this circuit walk takes you through the dense subtropical rainforests of Lamington National Park, visiting Tullawallal Lookout midway through the track. If you’re looking for a nice walk through the forest that’s not too demanding and offers peace, this walk is definitely for you. With interchanging habitats and some ancient tree species, it can make for a great family education trip as well. There’s a memorial plaque on the track erected in honor of Gus Kouskos, a beloved overseer that had an exceptional talent for making friends with wild animals. Keep in mind that you can run into snakes sunning themselves or wandering about, so it’s good to keep children in control. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Cafe

Environment

Starting from Binna Burra Road, Beechmont, this return walk takes you down to the gorgeous swimming hole called Gwongoorool Pool, located along Coomera River. Sitting amidst humongous trees, this picturesque swimhole looks very tempting considering the crystal clear water and the peaceful setting. The water may be cold, but every good thing has a catch. Besides, it’s not much of a catch as the water temperature leads to less visitors, meaning you can make this your private pool if you’re lucky. The eels in the water are generally harmless, but keep in mind that they can bite if agitated. The steep rock steps may not physically push you whilst descending, but you’ll surely feel your calves on the way back. Make sure you have enough juice in you to get back up. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Gwongoorool Pool

4.2 km return

2 h 30 min to 4 h

Swim

Environment

Starting across the car park on Lamington National Park Road, O’Reilly, this return walk takes you to the Pat’s Bluff viewpoint, optionally visiting Python Lookout along the way. This track is moderately steep and requires some rock scrambling, but the spectacular views alone is worth the hassle for many. Besides the view, the place is quite suitable for an afternoon picnic that can be stepped up with a warm, picturesque sunset. You can scramble up the boulders until you get an unimpeded 180 degree view over the land. Keep in mind that dogs are not allowed in Lamington National Park. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Pat's Bluff

4.2 km return

1 h 30 min to 2 h 15 min

1 h 30 min to 2 h 15 min

Environment

Starting near the information centre on Binna Burra Road, Beechmont, this return walk takes you through the scenic rainforest to visit the caves of Lamington National Park. As you’re walking through the dense forest teeming with wildlife, you’ll be met by the Kweebani Cave. The Yugambeh people who lived here before used to cook their prey here, thus named it ‘Kweebani’, meaning ‘I cook’. As you explore the Gold Coast hinterland, keep an eye out for various bird species such as the Eastern Bristlebird and the Australian Logrunner. Even if you don’t have the chance to spot a rare bird, the sight of a fluffy koala wandering about can still make your day. Expect to see impressive views over the Hinze Dam and the mountain ranges as well. Look out for snakes sunning themselves, and keep children in control just in case. Keep in mind that this trip involves a lot of steps Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Kweebani Cave

5.5 km return

2 h to 4 h

Caves

Environment

Starting from the car park of O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat, O’Reilly, this walk takes you to the Morans Falls Lookouts and back, exploring the rainforests of Lamington National Park. As you appreciate the serene ambiance and the beauty of the waterfall amidst the forest, remember to keep an ear out for the singing birds. The views from the waterfall lookouts are quite refreshing, but keep your head up whilst making your way to them. You’ll be able to get some pretty views of the valley. The drive-up is also quite scenic, with wallabies hopping around on the sides of the road. The canopy protects you well from the sun, but also makes the track a bit more chilly so dress accordingly. Come early to avoid the crowd and have a more remote experience. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Morans Falls Track

5.7 km return

2 h 30 min to 3 h 30 min

2 h 30 min to 3 h 30 min

Environment

Starting from Christmas Creek Road, Lamington, this walk takes you to Larapinta Falls, following Christmas Creek and exploring the dense rainforest of Lamington National Park. An absolutely stunning waterfall over 30 metres high, Larapinta Falls truly feels out of this world. Don’t be shy, take a dip in this epic setting as you listen to the hypnotizing sound of the gushing water. Even though there are other waterfalls on your way here, none of them can prepare you for this beauty. As you’re making your way through the forest, keep an ear out for the tunes of different bird species and try to single them out. You’ll also pass by Westray's Grave, where you can read about the unlucky death of the englishman. Be careful whilst rock hopping as the rocks can become extremely slippery when wet. If you get lost, try to realign with the creek and look for the pink tape on the trees. Bring lots of water and snacks. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Larapinta Falls Track

8 km return

5 h to 8 h

Larapinta Falls Track

Environment

6 h 30 min, 9 h to 2 days

The Stinson Wreckage

9.1 km return

6 h 30 min, 9 h to 2 days

Starting from Christmas Creek Road, Lamington, this return hike takes you to the Stinson Crash Site, visiting Westray’s Grave midway through. The walk also features lots of creek crossings along with a couple of waterfalls, and involves a decent amount of rock scrambling/hopping. In February 1937 a Stinson Model A airliner disappeared after taking off from Brisbane. It had set course for Sydney, but was nowhere to be found as the people of Australia remained shocked. The news made it to Lamington after a week, and Herb O'Reilly told his brother Bernard about it, along with where he thought it could be. Bernard climbed to the summit of Mount Throakban after spending a long night in the dense rainforest, and luckily spotted a burnt tree in the distance. He hastily made his way to the area in 3 hours, and heard a ‘Cooee’(a shout originated in Australia to attract attention) that alarmed him. He found Joe Binstead and John Proud, surprisingly alive after 10 days of being stranded. Four other men were there, lying dead on the ground. The surviving two told Bernard that Jim Westray - the englishman which was also on the plane with them - had gone to get help. Bernard left the men to seek aid. As he was making his way along Christmas Creek, he unfortunately found James Guthrie Westray’s lifeless body. He had fallen over a waterfall. He was buried by Christmas Creek, and the memorial commemorating him is still there to this day. Explore the gorgeous scenery as you delve into the saddening story of these people. The journey may be challenging, but the experience is well worth the hassle. Keep in mind that you can stay at the campsite near the wreckage and make this a multiday hike. Grippy trekking shoes are a must. Long sleeves and pants may also come in handy, as the track can be overgrown in parts. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

Box Forest Waterfall Circuit

Box Forest Waterfall Circuit

10 km circuit

4 h to 6 h

Starting from Lamington National Park Road, O’Reilly, this walk takes you on a circuit in the heart of Lamington National Park mostly via the Box Forest Circuit Track, visiting the iconic Elabana Falls, Box Log Falls, and the Picnic Rock area. As you start hiking through the beautiful forest containing 1000+ year old trees, you’ll be welcomed by the harmonic birdsong. Then, you’ll hear the soothing sound of water gushing down as the refreshing air around the cascades fill into your lungs. The lovely waterfalls hidden amidst the dense forest are exceptionally beautiful after rain as they are at their strongest. The Picnic Rock near Elabana Falls is a great spot to have a little picnic -hence the name- and swim(depending on the conditions). You may be able to spot some Lamington Crayfish, the spiny blue crayfish also known as ‘Yabby’ amongst Australians. The Box Log Falls are also worth stopping by as the setting of this little waterfall is quite picturesque, even more so than Elabana Falls according to some. The circuit itself other than the falls goes through a scenic forest that’s teeming with wildlife, teasing you with easterly views along the way. Although it’s best to view the falls after some decent rain, leeches become more abundant in such conditions. Wear long sleeves and pants to make this less of a problem. Keep in mind that you may run into some red-bellied black snakes as well, especially in warmer months. The track can be muddy in sections, and some rock scrambling/hopping may be required to reach the base of the falls. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

West Canungra Creek Waterfall Circuit

West Canungra Creek Waterfall Circuit

12.8 km circuit

5 h to 7 h 30 min

Starting from Lamington National Park Road, O’Reilly, this circuit walk explores the dense forest alongside Canungra Creek via multiple tracks, visiting multiple waterfalls and swimming holes along the way. Prepare to be here all day as you’ll want to enjoy the cool waters of Canungra along with the pure beauty of the scenery around. You’ll cross creeks, walk along ridges, and visit lovely picnic spots as you make your way through the exquisite trees of Lamington. You can expect to spot some ‘yabbies’(Australian term) here, a species of crayfish known as spiny blue crayfish. Besides the interesting wildlife, the track gives you glimpses of the picturesque hinterland as well. Although it’s best to view the waterfalls after some decent rain, leeches become more abundant in such conditions. Wear long sleeves and pants to make this less of a problem. Keep in mind that you may run into different snake species as well, especially in warmer months. The track can be muddy in sections, and rock scrambling/hopping may be required to reach some of the falls. Hiking poles may come in handy. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

Stairway Falls and Yerrahla(Blue Pool)

Stairway Falls and Yerrahla(Blue Pool)

13.9 km return

5 h 30 min to 8 h

Starting from Lamington National Park Road, O’Reilly, this walk takes you to the Stairway Falls and back, visiting Yerralahla Rock Pool(Blue Pool) and some waterfalls along the way. Don’t forget to pack your swimmers for this one as you’ll pass by multiple swimming holes only to find more at the end. You will have the option to swim above or below the gorgeous waterfall, but the experience will be serene and satisfactory regardless. Enjoy the cool & refreshing waters of Canungra Creek as you savor the lovely scenery around you. If lucky, you can spot some ‘yabbies’(Australian term) here, a species of crayfish known as spiny blue crayfish. Other than that, remember to stop every once in a while to observe what the rainforest has to offer. Keep in mind that you may run into snakes along/near the track, especially in warmer months. Expect to get wet at least to the ankle when preparing, and keep an eye out for eels in the water. The track involves a fair bit of rock hopping. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Swim

Environment

Toolona Creek Waterfall Loop

Toolona Creek Waterfall Loop

15.7 km circuit

5 h 30 min, 8 h 30 min to 2 days

15.7 km

Circuit

Walk

5 h 30 min, 8 h 30 min to 2 days

Starting from Lamington National Park Road, O’Reilly, this walk takes you on a circuit in the lush rainforest of Lamington National Park, visiting multiple waterfalls and lookouts along the way. One of the best waterfall hikes in Queensland, this track features 3 gorgeous falls, visiting the Box Log Falls with a side trip and potentially making it 4. Expect to be dazzled by the amazing scenery around you as you hike along and through the Toolona Creek. If lucky, you may spot a Lamington Crayfish(spiny blue crayfish) that is native to this area. Besides the wet section, the long but gentle Border Track features exceptional Antarctic Beech Trees. And by any chance you get some mist, the trip becomes a mysterious and scenic adventure. You can spend the night at the Bithongabel Campsite along the track and make this a multi-day trip. The waterfalls are best viewed after rain, but this leads to more muddy sections and leeches. Wear long pants and waterproof ankle-support hiking boots to enjoy the hike better. Trekking poles may come in handy as well. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

Coomera Waterfall Circuit

Coomera Waterfall Circuit

16.1 km circuit

5 h 30 min to 8 h 30 min

16.1 km

Circuit

Walk

5 h 30 min to 8 h 30 min

Starting from the car park at the end of Binna Burra Road, QLD, this walk takes you on a circuit visiting multiple waterfalls and lookouts, including Coomera and Joalah(meaning Haunt of the Lyrebird). Follow the strong Coomera River as you enjoy the lovely cascades and waterfalls making your way up the gorge. Try to spot some ray-finned fishes in the water as there are 22 different species present in Lamington National. This area is also part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, and features a dense subtropical rainforest along with some interesting fungi. As the constant birdsong suggests, it can be fruitful to birdwatch on this track. 246 species of birds reside in the park including the near threatened black-breasted button-quail. Don’t forget to bring swimmers and a towel to cool off in the swimming holes. The currents are strong so do not try to swim in dangerous areas. There are plenty of spots to sit down and have a little picnic whilst enjoying the refreshing ambience around the falls. Grippy footwear will come in handy on the slippery parts of the hike. Keep in mind that the creek crossings can flood after/during heavy rain and become dangerous, so check the forecast and water level beforehand to avoid unpleasant outcomes. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

4 h 30 min, 10 h 30 min to 2 days

Ships Stern Circuit

17 km circuit

4 h 30 min, 10 h 30 min to 2 days

Run

2 h 30 min to 4 h

Starting from Binna Burra Road, Binna Burra, this walk takes you on a circuit in the lush rainforests and open eucalypt woodlands of Lamington National Park, visiting the summit of Ships Stern Mountain along with plenty of lookouts, waterfalls and caves spread throughout the trip. This track has almost everything you can get from a hike. Lovely waterfalls hidden in the dense rainforest, breathtaking views along the ridges of various mountains and the interesting wildlife inhabiting the area. Notice the change in vegetation as you explore different sections of the woodland. By coming early, you’ll have enough time to visit every landmark and not miss out on anything. Also, you can spend the night at the Nagarigoon Clearing Campsite near the same-titled waterfall and make this a multi-day trip. With undulating tracks that are well-signposted, this circuit deservedly makes into lots of ‘Top 10’ lists. The waterfalls are best experienced after some decent rainfall, but that also means an increased number of leeches. Remember to keep an eye out for snakes. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

Binna Burra to Woonoongoora

Binna Burra to Woonoongoora

19.8 km oneway

6 h to 8 h

Starting from the Binna Burra Mountain Lodge Campsite, Beechmont, this track takes you to Woonoongoora walkers’ camp via the second section of the Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk, crossing Nixon Creek and Waterfall Creek along the way. This scenic journey through the vast valleys and dense woodlands of Queensland also has a feeling of remoteness to it, even though you walk on paved roads for a bit. The said valleys include Waterfall Creek Valley and Kurraragin Valley. You’ll be able to see the white (rhyolite) cliffs, Burma cedars, rose gums and much more along the way. Both trailheads have a place for you to stay, yet the Binna Burra end has more amenities including hotel rooms and a restaurant. Many walkers have rated this track “demanding yet worthwhile” so don’t expect a stroll in the woods. Keep in mind that there may be horse riders on parts of the track, so keep an ear out. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

5 h 30 min, 8 h to 2 days

Albert River Circuit

20.3 km circuit

5 h 30 min, 8 h to 2 days

Starting from Lamington National Park Road, O’Reilly, this circuit walk takes you deep into the lush rainforests of Lamington park, navigating partly along Albert River and visiting multiple waterfalls and lookouts. Expect to be amazed by the stunning view of the waterfalls and the interchanging vegetation throughout the track. Although the track is roughly 20 kilometres long, it may not feel like it as the tracks are gentle and undulating. When you’re near water, keep an eye out for the native Lamington crayfish, also known as the blue spiny crayfish due to its vibrant blue coloured shell. Other wildlife you can run into in the area are king parrots and dingoes. You’ll be going through some ancient Antarctic Beech trees along with other interesting rainforest plant species. The Echo Point camp site midway is meters away from the same-titled lookout, where you can get exceptional panoramic views to the south. During the day, you’ll be able to see many mountains and hills including Mount Warning, whereas the night offers you an exceptional opportunity for stargazing. Decent(preferably waterproof) hiking boots and gaiters are recommended against the muddy and leechy conditions. Keep an eye out for snakes. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

Starting from Lamington National Park Road, O’Reilly, this walk takes you to the Binna Burra Mountain Lodge Campsite via the Border Track, visiting many lookouts and waterfalls along the way. Embark on a 20km+ journey through the interchanging vegetation of Lamington National Park that is full of views and refreshing landmarks. The singular well-signposted and shaded track combined with the forgiving gradient makes this walk suitable for more. Keep an eye out for the gorgeous antarctic beech trees near Mount Wanungara. The lookouts provide different points of view over the land, with some letting you see all the way to the Gold Coast. There are cafes and accommodation options on both ends, so you can make this into a multi-day return walk as well. There is also the Mount Bithongabel Campsite along the track, giving you an option to split the journey up. Good hiking shoes are recommended as some parts of the track are rocky and muddy. Look out for snakes in warmer months. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Border Track

20.9 km oneway

5 h, 8 h to 2 days

Environment