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. Here, ancient Antarctic beech trees and towering palms create a cathedral-like canopy, while lyrebirds scratch the forest floor and Albert’s lyrebirds call from the shadows. The park’s volcanic origins are visible in dramatic cliffs and rocky outcrops, offering hikers a sense of deep time and raw, untamed beauty. It’s a place for those who want to immerse themselves in one of Australia’s most biodiverse landscapes.

Highlights & What to See

• Pinnacle Lookout: A short, steep walk rewards with panoramic views over the Tweed Valley and Mount Warning, especially stunning at sunrise.
• Antarctic Beech Grove: Wander among gnarled, moss-draped beech trees that are living relics from the Gondwana era.
• Sheepstation Creek Circuit: A moderate 6 km loop through rainforest, past cascading creeks and bird-filled clearings.
• Brushes of the Border Walk: A challenging 17 km point-to-point trail connecting Border Ranges to Lamington National Park, offering a multi-day trekker’s dream.
• Birdwatching: Spot regent bowerbirds, paradise riflebirds, and the elusive rufous scrub-bird in this birding hotspot.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend a full day exploring the main highlights, such as the Pinnacle Lookout and a shorter rainforest walk. To truly soak in the atmosphere and tackle a longer hike like the Brushes of the Border, plan for two days with an overnight camp at the Sheepstation Creek campground. The park is best visited from autumn to spring, when temperatures are mild and leeches less active.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Mount Warning National Park: Climb the iconic peak for sunrise views over the caldera, just a 30-minute drive away.
• Lamington National Park: Extend your rainforest immersion with its extensive trail network and tree-top canopy walks.
• Murwillumbah: A charming town with art galleries, the Tweed Regional Museum, and excellent local produce.
• Byron Bay: After the forest, unwind on world-class beaches and explore the vibrant coastal town, about an hour’s drive.

Please check official sources for current details.