Trail summary
Hike overview
If you love oxygen-rich rainforests, then you've got to try Booyong walking track from Sheepstation Creek campground or Forest Tops campground. This long walk is a perfect introduction to the lush world of Border Ranges National Park in northern NSW. Retracing the historic steps of the old loggers, you'll pass thick forests of majestic booyong trees. Look for the birds nest ferns and lilies that grow from the old stumps; a reminder of nature's ability to restore and reclaim.
The dense canopy makes this a great place for birdwatching, so bring your binoculars. Here, you might see the regent bowerbird or the vibrant green catbird with its mournful call. If you're lucky, you might get a glimpse of the black-breasted button-quail, only found in this area.
And if you're feeling extra energetic, be sure take a detour onto the picturesque Rosewood loop.
Take a virtual tour of Booyong walking track captured with Google Street View Trekker.
Tips
This one way track can be undertaken from either Sheepstation Creek or Forest Tops campgrounds
Ensure you are equipped for the return trip or else organise a pickup from either end
In order to help protect the delicate balance in the rainforest, ensure you wipe off sunscreen or other creams before you go swimming; they can harm or even kill the local frog communities.
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.
Map and GPX file
Looks like I don’t have a GPX file for this trail yet. If you have one you’d be willing to share, please email it to me so we can help other hikers have a safer, easier time out there. I’ll double-check each file to make sure it aligns with official tracks and topo maps before adding it to this hike. Thanks so much for helping build an even better hiking resource.
Getting there
Closest towns to this walk: Murwillumbah, Kyogle, Rathdowney, Nimbin, Lismore
Booyong walking track is in the Sheepstation Creek precinct of Border Ranges National Park. To get there:From Lismore, head north-west and follow signs to Kyogle for approximately 40km.From Kyogle, follow the Murwillumbah road for 30km north to Barkers Vale.Enter the eastern precinct of the park along the Tweed Range Scenic DriveFollow the signs to Sheepstation Creek or Forest Tops campgrounds Road quality Check the weather before you set out as the road to Booyong walking track can become boggy when it rains. Parking Parking is available at either Sheepstation Creek campground or Forest Tops campground.
Photo gallery
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
Track grade
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
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.
Suggest an edit
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in Border Ranges National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
Let someone know
Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
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.