Lamington National Park

Lamington National Park is a lush, subtropical wilderness in the Scenic Rim region of Queensland, a World Heritage-listed haven for rainforest lovers and hikers. Its ancient Gondwanan forests, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic lookouts offer a serene escape from the coast, with well-maintained trails that reveal the park's rich biodiversity and stunning vistas.

Highlights & What to See

• Tree Top Walk – A 180-metre elevated walkway through the canopy at O'Reilly's, offering bird's-eye views of the rainforest and a chance to spot rare birds like the regent bowerbird.
• Morans Falls – A spectacular 80-metre waterfall reached via a 4.5 km return walk, with a lookout that provides a classic photo opportunity over the valley.
• Border Track – This challenging 21.4 km one-way trail follows the Queensland-New South Wales border, rewarding hikers with dramatic escarpment views and a sense of remote wilderness.
• Binna Burra – A historic mountain lodge and gateway to the park's eastern section, with access to the scenic Caves Circuit and the iconic Ships Stern lookout.
• Green Mountains Section – The most popular entry point, home to O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat, walking trails, and the chance to see glow-worms at night.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate at least a full day to experience the park's highlights, ideally two if you're keen on longer hikes. Start early from either O'Reilly's or Binna Burra to make the most of the morning light and cooler temperatures. For a relaxed pace, a day trip from the Gold Coast or Brisbane is feasible, but overnighting at one of the lodges or camping grounds allows you to explore deeper trails and enjoy the dawn chorus.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Springbrook National Park – Another World Heritage rainforest with dramatic waterfalls and the Natural Bridge, about 45 minutes south.
• Mount Warning – The remnant core of an ancient volcano, offering a sunrise summit hike with sweeping coastal views, an hour's drive away.
• Gold Coast Hinterland – Quaint towns like Tamborine Mountain and Canungra, perfect for wineries, galleries, and boutique shopping.
• Byron Bay – Iconic surf beaches and a vibrant coastal town, about 1.5 hours east via the Pacific Highway.

Please check official sources for current details.