Lamington National Park is one of Queensland’s most famous and beautiful national parks, renowned for its stunning scenery and excellent walking tracks. Located in the Gold Coast hinterland, this area offers a range of walking trails that showcase the beauty of the sub-tropical rainforest and the stunning views of the surrounding region. This post will highlight some of the best Lamington National Park walks and provide tips for hiking in this beautiful area.
The Best Lamington National Park Walks
Lamington National Park has an extensive network of walking tracks, ranging from short walks to multi-day treks. The following are some of the best walks in the area:
- Border Track: The Border Track is a 21.4 km track that runs along the Queensland/New South Wales border. It is the most famous walking trail in the park and offers spectacular views of the Numinbah Valley and Mount Warning. The walk consists of graded tracks, and there are several lookouts that provide spectacular views.
- Box Forest Circuit: This 10.9 km walk is one of the park’s most popular walks, and it passes through ancient Antarctic beech forest and sub-tropical rainforest. The track branches off the Border Track and provides an excellent opportunity to experience the park’s diverse flora and fauna.
- Toolona Creek Circuit: This 17.4 km walk passes through the rainforest canopy and features several creek crossings, including a rock hop across Toolona Creek. The walk consists of graded tracks and offers spectacular views of the rainforest and several waterfalls.
- Coomera Circuit: This 17.4 km walk passes through some of the park’s most beautiful scenery, including Elabana Falls, Moran’s Falls, and the stunning Coomera Falls. The walk consists of graded tracks and offers an excellent opportunity to experience the park’s diverse flora and fauna.
- Python Rock Track: This 4.4 km walk is a short walk that offers spectacular views of the Gold Coast Hinterland. The walk starts from the Lamington National Park Road and takes you through open forest and ancient trees to the lookout at Python Rock.
Tips for Hiking in Lamington National Park
Hiking in Lamington National Park requires preparation and planning. Here are some tips to make your hiking experience more enjoyable:
- Plan ahead: Research the walking tracks and plan your route before you go. Consider your fitness level, the time of day, and the weather conditions. Check the Queensland National Parks website for up-to-date information on track conditions and closures.
- Wear appropriate clothing and footwear: Wear comfortable hiking shoes or boots, and dress appropriately for the weather. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
- Bring enough water and food: Bring enough water and food for the duration of your walk. There are picnic areas throughout the park where you can stop for a break or have lunch.
- Respect the environment: Lamington National Park is a World Heritage area, and it is essential to respect the environment. Take your rubbish with you and stay on the track to avoid damaging the flora and fauna.
Nature and Wildlife in Lamington National Park
Lamington National Park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including ancient Antarctic beech trees and cool subtropical rainforest. The park is also home to many bird species, including the loud ringing call of the eastern whipbird, which can be heard throughout the park.
There are several wildlife spotting opportunities in Lamington National Park, including the Glow Worm Gully and the Lost World. The Coomera Falls Lookout and the Balancing Rock provide excellent views of the surrounding area and are favorite spots for visitors.
Exploring the Green Mountains Section of Lamington National Park
The Green Mountains Section of Lamington National Park is one of the park’s most popular areas, known for its subtropical rainforest, spectacular waterfalls, and stunning views. The section is located on the Lamington Plateau, and it is home to several walking trails, including the famous Border Track, which stretches for 21.4km from Binna Burra to O’Reilly’s.
One of the best ways to explore the Green Mountains Section is by taking a walk along the Border Track. The trail passes through several different environments, including open forest, temperate forest, and Antarctic beech forest. The track branches off at several points, providing access to other walking trails, including the Toolona Creek Circuit, Coomera Circuit, and Box Forest Circuit.
Another popular walk in the Green Mountains Section is the Tree Top Walk, which takes visitors through the rainforest canopy. The walk consists of a series of suspension bridges that are suspended between the trees, providing stunning views of the forest floor below.
For those looking for a shorter walk, the Python Rock Track is an excellent choice. The 2.4km track passes through subtropical rainforest and includes several creek crossings, rock hopping, and a climb to Python Rock. The lookout at the top provides spectacular views of the Numinbah Valley and Mount Warning in New South Wales.
Conclusion: Lamington National Park Walks
Lamington National Park is a beautiful and diverse national park that offers some of the best hiking and walking tracks in Australia. From short walks to multi-day treks, there is something for everyone in this stunning park.
If you are looking for a day trip from the Gold Coast or Brisbane, Lamington National Park is an excellent choice. The park is easily accessible from both cities, and there are several accommodation options, including O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat and Binna Burra Mountain Lodge.
Whether you are a seasoned hiker or just looking for a short walk, Lamington National Park has something to offer. The park’s diverse flora and fauna, spectacular views, and ancient trees make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
So, put on your hiking boots, pack your backpack, and head to Lamington National Park for an unforgettable hiking experience. Don’t forget to plan ahead, respect the environment, and enjoy the beauty of this stunning national park.
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