Wollumbin National Park

Rising dramatically from the lush green hills of northern New South Wales, Wollumbin National Park (formerly Mount Warning National Park) is a place of profound natural beauty and deep Aboriginal significance. The park's centrepiece is the ancient volcanic plug of Wollumbin (Mount Warning), the first place on mainland Australia to see the sunrise each day. For Bundjalung people, Wollumbin is a sacred site, and climbing the mountain is discouraged out of respect for its cultural importance. Instead, the park offers a wealth of walks through subtropical rainforest, past cascading waterfalls and panoramic lookouts, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and those seeking a spiritual connection to the land.

Highlights & What to See

• Wollumbin (Mount Warning) Summit Track: A challenging 8.8 km return hike to the summit offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the Tweed Valley, Gold Coast, and beyond. Note: the track is currently closed to the public due to cultural sensitivities and track repairs; check current status before planning.
• Lyrebird Lookout and Goanna Creek Loop: An easier walk through ancient rainforest, where you’re likely to hear the mimicry of superb lyrebirds and spot goannas basking on rocks.
• Breakfast Creek and Tweed Range Scenic Drive: A winding road with several lookout points offering stunning vistas of Wollumbin and the surrounding caldera.
• Protesters Falls: A beautiful waterfall on the Nightcap Range side of the park, accessible via a short walk through lush forest.
• Birdwatching: The park is a haven for birdlife, including the elusive Albert’s lyrebird and the colourful paradise riflebird.

Suggested Time to Spend

If you’re keen on a full-day adventure, arrive early to tackle a longer walk such as the Lyrebird Lookout loop (3-4 hours) or combine several shorter walks. Half a day is enough to explore the scenic drive and a couple of lookouts. For a more relaxed visit, pack a picnic and spend a few hours soaking in the atmosphere. Note that the summit track, if reopened, requires a full day (6-8 hours) and a very early start.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Byron Bay: A 45-minute drive east, with world-class beaches, vibrant markets, and the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse.
• Nimbin: Famous for its alternative lifestyle and colourful main street, about 30 minutes west.
• Tweed Heads and Coolangatta: Twin towns straddling the NSW-QLD border, offering great dining and coastal walks (30 minutes north).
• Nightcap National Park: Adjacent to Wollumbin, home to Minyon Falls and more stunning rainforest walks.
• Murwillumbah: A charming country town with art galleries and the historic Mavis’s Kitchen, perfect for a post-walk lunch.

Please check official sources for current details.