List of Bushwalks in O'Reilly

Environment

Starting from Lamington National Park Road, O’Reilly, this return walk takes you to a hollow tree of impressive height width, where people used to sit under and name their wishes. Located behind the O’Reilly Rainforest Retreat, this walk features a timber suspension bridge built by Peter O’Reilly and Peter Main(local engineer). The said bridge takes you through a gully of tree ferns in the dense rainforest. You'll have the option to take a detour and visit Mick's Tower along the way. Standing 18 metres above the ground, this metal tower has informative signposts about the flora at the top. Birdwatching can be fruitful from the tower and along the track, with the chance to different types of rosellas, whipbirds, catbirds and many more species. Don’t miss out on the land mullets(Australia's largest skink) and red-necked pademelons along the track as well. After you make it to the hollowed tree, turn left and head south to make it to the ‘Glowworm Gully’. This place is home to a magical light show at night as the glowworms light up the creekside area. Although, keep in mind that unguided access is not allowed after dusk. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

The Wishing Tree

1.7 km return

40 min to 1 h 15 min

Cafe

Environment

Starting across the car park on Lamington National Park Road, O’Reilly, this walk takes you to the Python Rock Lookout and back via the same-titled singular track, exploring the woodland of Lamington National Park along the way. Expect a peaceful and undemanding walk opening up to a lookout which provides you stunning views over southern Lamington, including Mount Razorback in the distance. The path up to the lookout is clear, shaded and quite suitable for kids. Allow time to take in the exceptional views, and maybe bring some snacks to have a scenic picnic in nature. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Python Rock Lookout

3 km return

45 min to 1 h 30 min

Environment

Starting across the car park on Lamington National Park Road, O’Reilly, this return walk takes you to the Pat’s Bluff viewpoint, optionally visiting Python Lookout along the way. This track is moderately steep and requires some rock scrambling, but the spectacular views alone is worth the hassle for many. Besides the view, the place is quite suitable for an afternoon picnic that can be stepped up with a warm, picturesque sunset. You can scramble up the boulders until you get an unimpeded 180 degree view over the land. Keep in mind that dogs are not allowed in Lamington National Park. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Pat's Bluff

4.2 km return

1 h 30 min to 2 h 15 min

1 h 30 min to 2 h 15 min

Environment

Starting from the car park of O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat, O’Reilly, this walk takes you to the Morans Falls Lookouts and back, exploring the rainforests of Lamington National Park. As you appreciate the serene ambiance and the beauty of the waterfall amidst the forest, remember to keep an ear out for the singing birds. The views from the waterfall lookouts are quite refreshing, but keep your head up whilst making your way to them. You’ll be able to get some pretty views of the valley. The drive-up is also quite scenic, with wallabies hopping around on the sides of the road. The canopy protects you well from the sun, but also makes the track a bit more chilly so dress accordingly. Come early to avoid the crowd and have a more remote experience. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Morans Falls Track

5.7 km return

2 h 30 min to 3 h 30 min

2 h 30 min to 3 h 30 min

Environment

Box Forest Waterfall Circuit

Box Forest Waterfall Circuit

10 km circuit

4 h to 6 h

Starting from Lamington National Park Road, O’Reilly, this walk takes you on a circuit in the heart of Lamington National Park mostly via the Box Forest Circuit Track, visiting the iconic Elabana Falls, Box Log Falls, and the Picnic Rock area. As you start hiking through the beautiful forest containing 1000+ year old trees, you’ll be welcomed by the harmonic birdsong. Then, you’ll hear the soothing sound of water gushing down as the refreshing air around the cascades fill into your lungs. The lovely waterfalls hidden amidst the dense forest are exceptionally beautiful after rain as they are at their strongest. The Picnic Rock near Elabana Falls is a great spot to have a little picnic -hence the name- and swim(depending on the conditions). You may be able to spot some Lamington Crayfish, the spiny blue crayfish also known as ‘Yabby’ amongst Australians. The Box Log Falls are also worth stopping by as the setting of this little waterfall is quite picturesque, even more so than Elabana Falls according to some. The circuit itself other than the falls goes through a scenic forest that’s teeming with wildlife, teasing you with easterly views along the way. Although it’s best to view the falls after some decent rain, leeches become more abundant in such conditions. Wear long sleeves and pants to make this less of a problem. Keep in mind that you may run into some red-bellied black snakes as well, especially in warmer months. The track can be muddy in sections, and some rock scrambling/hopping may be required to reach the base of the falls. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

West Canungra Creek Waterfall Circuit

West Canungra Creek Waterfall Circuit

12.8 km circuit

5 h to 7 h 30 min

Starting from Lamington National Park Road, O’Reilly, this circuit walk explores the dense forest alongside Canungra Creek via multiple tracks, visiting multiple waterfalls and swimming holes along the way. Prepare to be here all day as you’ll want to enjoy the cool waters of Canungra along with the pure beauty of the scenery around. You’ll cross creeks, walk along ridges, and visit lovely picnic spots as you make your way through the exquisite trees of Lamington. You can expect to spot some ‘yabbies’(Australian term) here, a species of crayfish known as spiny blue crayfish. Besides the interesting wildlife, the track gives you glimpses of the picturesque hinterland as well. Although it’s best to view the waterfalls after some decent rain, leeches become more abundant in such conditions. Wear long sleeves and pants to make this less of a problem. Keep in mind that you may run into different snake species as well, especially in warmer months. The track can be muddy in sections, and rock scrambling/hopping may be required to reach some of the falls. Hiking poles may come in handy. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

Stairway Falls and Yerrahla(Blue Pool)

Stairway Falls and Yerrahla(Blue Pool)

13.9 km return

5 h 30 min to 8 h

Starting from Lamington National Park Road, O’Reilly, this walk takes you to the Stairway Falls and back, visiting Yerralahla Rock Pool(Blue Pool) and some waterfalls along the way. Don’t forget to pack your swimmers for this one as you’ll pass by multiple swimming holes only to find more at the end. You will have the option to swim above or below the gorgeous waterfall, but the experience will be serene and satisfactory regardless. Enjoy the cool & refreshing waters of Canungra Creek as you savor the lovely scenery around you. If lucky, you can spot some ‘yabbies’(Australian term) here, a species of crayfish known as spiny blue crayfish. Other than that, remember to stop every once in a while to observe what the rainforest has to offer. Keep in mind that you may run into snakes along/near the track, especially in warmer months. Expect to get wet at least to the ankle when preparing, and keep an eye out for eels in the water. The track involves a fair bit of rock hopping. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Swim

Environment

Toolona Creek Waterfall Loop

Toolona Creek Waterfall Loop

15.7 km circuit

5 h 30 min, 8 h 30 min to 2 days

15.7 km

Circuit

Walk

5 h 30 min, 8 h 30 min to 2 days

Starting from Lamington National Park Road, O’Reilly, this walk takes you on a circuit in the lush rainforest of Lamington National Park, visiting multiple waterfalls and lookouts along the way. One of the best waterfall hikes in Queensland, this track features 3 gorgeous falls, visiting the Box Log Falls with a side trip and potentially making it 4. Expect to be dazzled by the amazing scenery around you as you hike along and through the Toolona Creek. If lucky, you may spot a Lamington Crayfish(spiny blue crayfish) that is native to this area. Besides the wet section, the long but gentle Border Track features exceptional Antarctic Beech Trees. And by any chance you get some mist, the trip becomes a mysterious and scenic adventure. You can spend the night at the Bithongabel Campsite along the track and make this a multi-day trip. The waterfalls are best viewed after rain, but this leads to more muddy sections and leeches. Wear long pants and waterproof ankle-support hiking boots to enjoy the hike better. Trekking poles may come in handy as well. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

5 h 30 min, 8 h to 2 days

Albert River Circuit

20.3 km circuit

5 h 30 min, 8 h to 2 days

Starting from Lamington National Park Road, O’Reilly, this circuit walk takes you deep into the lush rainforests of Lamington park, navigating partly along Albert River and visiting multiple waterfalls and lookouts. Expect to be amazed by the stunning view of the waterfalls and the interchanging vegetation throughout the track. Although the track is roughly 20 kilometres long, it may not feel like it as the tracks are gentle and undulating. When you’re near water, keep an eye out for the native Lamington crayfish, also known as the blue spiny crayfish due to its vibrant blue coloured shell. Other wildlife you can run into in the area are king parrots and dingoes. You’ll be going through some ancient Antarctic Beech trees along with other interesting rainforest plant species. The Echo Point camp site midway is meters away from the same-titled lookout, where you can get exceptional panoramic views to the south. During the day, you’ll be able to see many mountains and hills including Mount Warning, whereas the night offers you an exceptional opportunity for stargazing. Decent(preferably waterproof) hiking boots and gaiters are recommended against the muddy and leechy conditions. Keep an eye out for snakes. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

Starting from Lamington National Park Road, O’Reilly, this walk takes you to the Binna Burra Mountain Lodge Campsite via the Border Track, visiting many lookouts and waterfalls along the way. Embark on a 20km+ journey through the interchanging vegetation of Lamington National Park that is full of views and refreshing landmarks. The singular well-signposted and shaded track combined with the forgiving gradient makes this walk suitable for more. Keep an eye out for the gorgeous antarctic beech trees near Mount Wanungara. The lookouts provide different points of view over the land, with some letting you see all the way to the Gold Coast. There are cafes and accommodation options on both ends, so you can make this into a multi-day return walk as well. There is also the Mount Bithongabel Campsite along the track, giving you an option to split the journey up. Good hiking shoes are recommended as some parts of the track are rocky and muddy. Look out for snakes in warmer months. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Border Track

20.9 km oneway

5 h, 8 h to 2 days

Environment