Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience a 1.5km, easy-grade bushwalk at Border Loop, nestled in the heart of a World Heritage-listed rainforest within the scenic Tweed Range. This circuit track offers spectacular views of Gradys Creek valley and the historic Border Loop railway line. Keep an eye out for koalas as you traverse through the lush canopy, learning about ancient rainforest plants via informative track-side signs. Perfect for a picnic or a barbecue lunch, this hike is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.

Length:

1.5km

Duration:

45 mins

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 0m

Min elevation: 0m

Total Ascent: 0m

Start: Border Loop Rd

End: Border Loop Rd

Border Ranges National Park

New South Wales

Nearby town: Cougal

From state capital: 782km

Latitude: -28.34789963

Longitude: 152.9647649

Overview

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Hike overview

Take a break from touring the Tweed Range scenic drive and stop in at Border loop.
The circuit track leaves from Border loop lookout and picnic area, taking you on a short walk through a canopy of World Heritage-listed rainforest. This forest supports a population of koalas, so make sure you look high into the canopy for a glimpse of an Australian icon. If you're interested in finding out more about the ancient rainforest plants, be sure to check out the track-side signs as you walk.
When you come to the end of the track, spend some time taking in views of Gradys Creek valley and the historic Border loop railway line that tunnels through the McPherson range from Border loop lookout. It's a great place for a barbecue or picnic lunch.

Tips

You'll find picnic and barbecue facilities at Border loop lookout where the walk commences
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to birdwatch

Visit NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for more information on this trail.

The longitude and latitude of the start and end points are approximately only and should not be used for navigation purposes. Please contact me if you know the correct coordinates.

Track grade

Grade 2 (Easy) - A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.

Walk map and GPX file
Border Loop Walk (1.5km)

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Gallery

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Border Ranges National Park.

To Border Loop picnic area. Border Loop walk starts at Border loop lookout, near Cougal.From NSW: Turn off Summerland Way onto Gradys Creek Road and drive for 19km until you reach the Border loop lookout.From QLD: Turn off the Mount Lindesay Highway at Rathdowney into Running Creek Road. Travel 35km until you reach the Border Loop lookout. Park entry points Border Loop picnic area See on map Parking Parking is available at Border loop lookout

Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

Border Ranges National Park in the North Coast region
Border Ranges National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

Find a place to stay

Find Accommodation

Wondering where to stay near this hike? Find accommodation close to the trailhead — hotels, cabins and campgrounds nearby. Click the button to view the interactive map.

Closest towns to this walk: Bonalbo, Kyogle, Lismore, Mount Warning, Murwillumbah, Nimbin, Rathdowney, Richmond Range, Stokers Siding, Tumbulgum, Uki, Woodenbong

Let someone know

Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Border Ranges National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.

Packing checklists

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.

Reviews
Border Loop Walk (1.5km)

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Acknowledgement of Country

Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Tips

Track grade

Walk map and GPX file
Border Loop Walk (1.5km)