The Araucaria Lookout Track in Lamington National Park, Queensland, is a 17.8km, grade 4 adventure that unfolds across diverse landscapes. This loop trail, typically completed in 7 hours, offers a glimpse into ancient history alongside breathtaking natural beauty.
The journey begins by branching off from the Border Track and Mount Hobwee Circuit. As you ascend moss-covered steps through lush rainforest, keep an eye out for the vibrant display of rock orchids adorning Orchid Bower lookout in spring. This scenic point rewards you with captivating views of the Mount Warning caldera.
Continuing onward, the track winds its way down towards Araucaria Lookout. Along the path, admire some of the park's most impressive dry-stone rockwork. Araucaria Lookout itself is named after the majestic hoop pines (Araucaria cunninghamii) that rise majestically above the surrounding canopy. These ancient sentinels are living reminders of the Jurassic Age, standing tall for over 180 million years.
From the lookout, soak in the panoramic views. The scenic Springbrook Range unfolds before you, alongside the dramatic Mount Warning caldera. As you complete the loop around the summit, traverse open heath dotted with even more rock orchids, adding another layer of charm to this captivating hike.
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: 17660 m
Max elevation: 998 m
Min elevation: 807 m
Total climbing: 800 m
Total descent: -800 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.
Accessing the Araucaria Lookout Track requires driving to Lamington National Park, approximately 110km south of Brisbane. Once within the park, follow Binna Burra Road for 3.5km from the entrance until you reach the Binna Burra upper day-use area. Here, you can park your vehicle and begin your adventure. From the day-use area, follow the well-established Border Track for roughly 5.4km. Be sure to look out for signage indicating the turnoff for the Araucaria Lookout Track, marking the official commencement 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: © Lesley Hutley
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