The Lamington National Park offers a diverse walking experience along the Python Rock track. Stepping off Lamington National Park Road, you'll be enveloped by a lush, closed rainforest canopy. Curved buttress roots rise from the forest floor, while towering booyong and fig trees dominate the landscape. Look closely and you'll spot colourful lichens and mosses adorning the forest floor, tree trunks, and rocks. As the track progresses, the scenery changes, transitioning into an open eucalypt forest. Here, fire-adapted flora like grass trees, hakeas, and various wildflowers thrive.
Keep an eye out for informative signage along the track that identifies the unique characteristics of the various tree species. The highlight of the hike undoubtedly arrives at the Python Rock lookout. Here, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Morans Falls cascading down the valley, Castle Crag adding a dramatic touch to the landscape, and Mount Razorback stretching out in the distance. Take a moment to appreciate the millions of years of erosion that have sculpted the valley and formed the intricate escarpments.
Keen listeners might be lucky enough to hear the distinctive "popping" call of the masked mountain frog (Kyarranus loveridgei) on wet or moist days during late spring and summer. These ancient frogs are part of the Gondwanan family, known as southern frogs, and add another layer of interest to this diverse natural environment.
Total distance: 3029 m
Max elevation: 912 m
Min elevation: 812 m
Total climbing: 148 m
Total descent: -148 m
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Located within Lamington National Park's Green Mountains section, approximately 110 kilometers south of Brisbane, the track commences at the Python Rock and Morans Falls trailhead. This trailhead is conveniently situated on Lamington National Park Road, just a short distance of 4.9 kilometers from the park entrance.
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.
Main image: Maxime Coquard © Tourism and Events Queensland
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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.
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 vistas 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.
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.
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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.
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
