Border Ranges National Park

Border Ranges National Park is a lush, subtropical wilderness straddling the New South Wales–Queensland border, part of the Gondwana Rainforests World Heritage Area. It’s a place of ancient, moss-draped forests, dramatic escarpments, and tumbling waterfalls, offering some of the most pristine and biodiverse hiking in the Hunter Valley region.

Highlights & What to See

• Pinnacle Lookout – A short walk leads to a clifftop viewpoint offering sweeping panoramas over the Tweed Valley, Mount Warning, and the volcanic caldera. Best at sunrise or after rain when the valleys are filled with mist.
• Antarctic Beech Trees – Wander through a stand of these ancient, gnarled trees at the Antarctic Beech Picnic Area; some are over 2,000 years old, their bark covered in soft, emerald moss.
• Booyong Walk – A 3.4 km rainforest loop that crosses creeks and passes giant figs and strangler vines. Keep an eye out for satin bowerbirds and the luminous glow of fungi.
• Sheepstation Creek Falls – A moderate 6 km return hike leads to a series of cascades and a deep, cool swimming hole – perfect for a post-walk dip.
• Birdwatching – The park is a haven for birdlife, including the elusive Albert’s lyrebird, paradise riflebird, and regent bowerbird. Bring binoculars and patience.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate a full day to truly absorb the park’s grandeur. Start early with the Pinnacle Lookout at dawn, then spend the morning on the Booyong Walk or the Sheepstation Creek Falls hike. Enjoy a picnic lunch at the Antarctic Beech area, then explore a shorter trail like the Brindle Creek Walk (1.6 km) in the afternoon. If you’re pressed for time, a half-day can cover the lookout and one short walk, but you’ll miss the deeper forest experiences.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Mount Warning (Wollumbin) – The remnant volcanic plug is a challenging sunrise hike with incredible views; book permits in advance.
• Nightcap National Park – Home to the spectacular Protesters Falls and Minyon Falls, plus the ancient Nightcap Oak.
• Lamington National Park – Just over the border in Queensland, with iconic tree-top walks and O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat.
• Byron Bay – A 1.5-hour drive east offers beaches, surf, and a vibrant food scene – a perfect contrast to the deep forest.
• Nimbin – The quirky, counter-culture town is a short detour, known for its colourful history and alternative vibe.

Please check official sources for current details.