Guy Fawkes River National Park

Deep in the rugged New England region of northern NSW, Guy Fawkes River National Park is a wild, untamed landscape of dramatic gorges, cascading waterfalls, and ancient Gondwana rainforest. This is a place for experienced bushwalkers and nature lovers seeking solitude—far from the crowds, the park offers some of the most spectacular canyon scenery in Australia. The air smells of eucalyptus and damp earth, and the sound of the Guy Fawkes River echoing through the gorge is a constant companion.

Highlights & What to See

• Chaelundi Falls and Lookout – A short walk leads to a stunning viewpoint over the falls plunging into the gorge; best after rain.
• Guy Fawkes River Gorge – The centrepiece of the park: a deep, wild canyon carved through ancient rock, visible from several lookouts along the rim.
• Ebor Falls – Just outside the park boundary, these tiered waterfalls drop 100 m into a lush valley; a must-see with easy access.
• Wilderness Bushwalks – Multi-day treks like the Guy Fawkes River Walk (24 km one way) take you through rainforest, across creeks, and into the heart of the gorge. Only for well-prepared hikers.
• Birdwatching and Wildlife – Look for glossy black-cockatoos, superb lyrebirds, and if you're lucky, a platypus in the river pools.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors come for a day trip to see the lookouts and Ebor Falls, which can be done in 2–3 hours. But to truly experience the park's wilderness, plan an overnight or multi-day bushwalk. A weekend allows you to tackle a section of the Guy Fawkes River Walk and camp by the river. The park is remote, so stock up on supplies and fuel before you arrive.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Dorrigo National Park – Part of the Gondwana Rainforests, with easy boardwalks and the famous Dorrigo Skywalk.
• New England National Park – Ancient rainforest and alpine heath with breathtaking views from Point Lookout.
• Waterfall Way – The scenic drive connecting Dorrigo, Ebor, and Guy Fawkes, with numerous waterfalls and picnic spots.
• Armidale – A historic university town with excellent museums, cafes, and accommodation; a good base for exploring the region.
• Cathedral Rock National Park – Granite tors and unique rock formations, great for a half-day walk.

Please check official sources for current details.