Lamington National Park

Lamington National Park is a lush, subtropical wilderness in the Green Mountains of Queensland, not the Hunter Valley. However, if you're exploring the Hunter Valley, you might consider a detour to this UNESCO World Heritage-listed park for its ancient rainforests, dramatic waterfalls, and exceptional birdlife. It's about a 10-hour drive north, so best combined with a longer East Coast itinerary. The park offers a network of well-maintained walking trails, from easy boardwalks to challenging full-day hikes, all showcasing the region's stunning biodiversity.

Highlights & What to See

• Tree Top Walk: A 200-metre-long canopy boardwalk that gives you a bird's-eye view of the rainforest, with interpretive signs about the ecosystem.
• Morans Falls: A 4km return walk leads to a lookout over a cascading waterfall and the surrounding valleys – best visited after rain.
• O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat: A historic lodge offering guided birdwatching tours, Segway rides, and a chance to see the rare Albert's lyrebird.
• Border Track: A challenging 21km hike that follows the New South Wales-Queensland border through ancient Antarctic beech forests and past panoramic lookouts.
• Birdwatching: The park is a haven for birders, with over 160 species including the colourful regent bowerbird and the noisy pitta.

Suggested Time to Spend

Dedicate at least a full day to Lamington National Park to experience one or two short walks and the Tree Top Walk. For serious hikers, two days allow you to tackle the Border Track and explore more remote sections. Overnight stays at O'Reilly's or Binna Burra add a magical dawn chorus experience.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Springbrook National Park: Another Gondwana Rainforest park with spectacular waterfalls and glowworm caves.
• Gold Coast Hinterland: The lush green hills and quaint villages like Tamborine Mountain offer craft breweries and art galleries.
• Byron Bay: A coastal counterpoint to the rainforest, known for its surf, lighthouse, and laid-back vibe.
• Hunter Valley Wine Region: If you're basing yourself in the Hunter, combine with a road trip through the New England region to reach Lamington.

Please check official sources for current details.