The Albert River Circuit is a challenging 21km, grade 4 hike in Lamington National Park, Queensland. This loop trail, typically completed in 7 hours, offers a diverse landscape ranging from ancient forests to scenic lookouts.
The circuit begins by deviating from the Border Track and descending through forests dominated by Antarctic beech trees. Lush rainforest surrounds you as you reach Echo Falls, a cascading waterfall nestled within a tranquil gully. Take a moment to appreciate the crystal-clear mountain water tumbling down the rocks.
Prepare for an ascent as the trail follows a branch of the Albert River upstream towards Echo Point lookout. Here, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views. Take in the grandeur of the McPherson Range, stretching from Mount Wupawn to Mount Durigan. To the south lies the Tweed Range. These peaks were all once part of the eroded caldera surrounding Mount Warning, a former volcanic plug. The Bundjalang people, the traditional owners of the land, call this mighty peak "Wollumbin," which translates to "cloud-catcher."
The journey continues eastward along the Queensland-New South Wales border until you reach Cominan lookout. From here, the circuit turns northwest, eventually rejoining the Border Track. If you embark on this hike in September, you'll be treated to a delightful display of beech orchids (Dendrobium falcorostrum) in bloom. Their delicate flowers create a charming contrast against the massive tree trunks they cling to.
Grade 4 (Hard) -
Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the
AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
Total distance: 20719 m
Max elevation: 1147 m
Min elevation: 871 m
Total climbing: 1070 m
Total descent: -1070 m
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Download the hiking preparation and safety checklists before leaving home to help you think through your plans. They help ensure important considerations are not overlooked and support safer decision-making on the trail.
Getting to the trailhead: Lamington National Park.
To reach the Albert River Circuit trailhead, follow Lamington National Park Road for 5.7km from the park entrance until you arrive at the Green Mountains day-use area. Here, you can leave your car and proceed along the Border Track for approximately 5km. Look out for signage for the Albert River Circuit turnoff, which will mark the official beginning of your trek.
Lamington National Park consists of two distinct areas: Green Mountains and Binna Burra. Green Mountains lies on the western side of the Lamington Plateau, while Binna Burra encompasses the eastern section.
Reaching Green Mountains: If travelling from the Gold Coast, drive approximately 40 kilometres to Canungra via Nerang. From the north, take exit 34 on the Pacific Motorway to Beenleigh, followed by route 92 to Tamborine and route 90 to Canungra. The final 36 kilometres from Canungra to Green Mountains is a winding and often narrow bitumen road. Allow at least 50 minutes for this journey and drive with caution. This route is unsuitable for large recreational vehicles (longer than 4 metres) and vehicles towing caravans or camper trailers.
Reaching Binna Burra: Allow approximately 70 minutes for the drive from Broadbeach to Binna Burra. Travel 38 kilometres to Beechmont via Nerang. Coming from the north, take exit 69 on the Pacific Motorway and follow signage westward towards Lamington National Park (Binna Burra section). The last 1.8 kilometres of the drive is particularly narrow and winding.
Public transport: Public transport is not available within the park. Taxis and ride-sharing services may also be difficult to obtain for pick-up from Lamington National Park.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: Beaudesert, Beechmont, Binna Burra, Canungra, Mount Barney, Mount Tamborine, Nerang, North Tamborine, O'Reilly's, Tamborine Mountain, Warwick, Willow Vale, Wongawallan, Wonglepong
Immerse yourself in the captivating World Heritage rainforests of Lamington National Park, established in 1915 and spanning over 21,176 hectares. Located in south-east Queensland, close to Gold Coast, the park is part of the McPherson Range within the Scenic Rim mountain chain.
Lamington's extensive network of walking tracks caters to all abilities, from leisurely strolls to challenging hikes that delve deep into the heart of the rainforest. These tracks wind through lush valleys, past ancient trees and cascading waterfalls, leading you to dramatic lookouts offering panoramic views across the Gold Coast, south-east Queensland and even into northern New South Wales.
The park's significance extends beyond its beauty. Lamington is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, renowned for its diverse ecosystems. Here you'll find some of the world's most extensive subtropical rainforests, warm temperate rainforests and the most northerly reaches of cool temperate Antarctic beech forests. This unique environment provides a vital habitat for a multitude of plant and animal life, including many threatened and endemic species.
Looking for more walks in or near Lamington National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Main image: Nicholas Hill © Queensland Government
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