Guy Fawkes River National Park

Plunging into a dramatic gorge carved by the Guy Fawkes River, this wild and remote national park in the New England region of New South Wales is a haven for experienced bushwalkers and nature lovers. Its rugged escarpments, cascading waterfalls, and pockets of ancient Antarctic beech forest create a landscape of raw beauty, far from the crowds. The park is named after the river, which was named by surveyors on 5 November (Guy Fawkes Day) in the 1800s.

Highlights & What to See

• Ebor Falls: A spectacular two-tiered waterfall plunging 100 metres into a gorge – the park's most accessible and photographed attraction, with viewing platforms and picnic areas.
• Guy Fawkes River Gorge: A deep, wild canyon that offers challenging multi-day hikes and stunning views from the escarpment edge, particularly after rain when the river is flowing strongly.
• Chaelundi Falls: A beautiful, less-visited waterfall that requires a short but steep walk – perfect for those seeking solitude and a refreshing swim in the plunge pool.
• Antarctic Beech Forests: Relict stands of these ancient trees (Nothofagus moorei) in the park's higher, wetter areas, creating a mystical, temperate rainforest atmosphere.
• Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for red-necked wallabies, eastern grey kangaroos, and a rich variety of birdlife, including lyrebirds and wedge-tailed eagles.

Suggested Time to Spend

To truly appreciate the park's grandeur, plan at least a full day. This allows time for the short walk to Ebor Falls, a scenic drive along the rim, and a longer walk into the gorge (such as the 6 km return track to Chaelundi Falls). For serious bushwalkers, a 2–3 day overnight hike through the gorge is an unforgettable experience, but requires thorough preparation, navigation skills, and water management. The park is best visited between autumn and spring when temperatures are mild and water flows are reliable.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Dorrigo National Park: A World Heritage-listed Gondwana rainforest with excellent walking tracks, the Skywalk canopy walkway, and the stunning Dorrigo Falls – just a 30-minute drive east.
• New England National Park: Famous for its dramatic escarpment views, alpine heathlands, and the challenging Lyrebird Track – about an hour's drive south.
• Armidale: A charming university city with a vibrant café scene, art galleries, and the excellent New England Regional Art Museum – perfect for restocking supplies and enjoying a good meal.
• Point Lookout: A breathtaking viewpoint within New England National Park offering panoramic vistas over the Bellinger Valley – easily combined with a day trip.
• Waterfall Way: A scenic driving route that links several national parks and waterfalls between Dorrigo and Armidale, ideal for a multi-day self-drive itinerary.

Please check official sources for current details.