Immerse yourself in the serenity of Lamington National Park on the West Canungra Creek Circuit, a 13.9km grade 4 hike suitable for experienced walkers. This adventure, taking roughly 5.5 hours to complete, unfolds within the park's Green Mountains section, approximately 110 kilometers south of Brisbane.
The journey commences at the Green Mountains Day-Use Area. Follow the Border Track for approximately 600 meters before branching onto the dedicated West Canungra Creek Circuit track. As you descend, take in the beauty of Darraboola Falls and the lush rainforest teeming with red cedar (Toona ciliata) trees. The path eventually leads you to West Canungra Creek and the idyllic Yerralahla pools.
Prepare to spend a significant portion of the hike following the creek itself. Numerous creek crossings await, requiring careful navigation by stepping from rock to rock across water-worn boulders. Keep your eyes peeled for fascinating wildlife – eels and fish glide through the clear waters, while the vibrant blue Lamington spiny crayfish adds a splash of color. Be cautious of snakes basking on sun-warmed rocks, and during overcast summer days, you might even spot a perfectly camouflaged Border Ranges leaf-tailed gecko clinging to a tree trunk. This unique gecko is endemic to the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, with fossilized ancestors dating back over 20 million years discovered in nearby Riversleigh's World Heritage-listed Australian Fossil Mammal sites.
The circuit eventually merges with the Box Forest Circuit, guiding you back to the Green Mountains Day-Use Area after roughly 14 kilometers. Important safety information: creek crossings can be challenging, especially after rainfall, and the track may become unclear in some sections. Be sure to follow the designated orange directional arrows for navigation and check current track conditions with park rangers before setting off. Remember, eels inhabit the creek and can bite if threatened, so exercise caution around the water.
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Total distance: 13420 m
Max elevation: 958 m
Min elevation: 525 m
Total climbing: 788 m
Total descent: -788 m
Getting to the trailhead: Lamington National Park.
Accessing the West Canungra Creek Circuit is straightforward. Located within Lamington National Park’s Green Mountains section, approximately 110 kilometers south of Brisbane, the circuit commences at the Green Mountains Day-Use Area. This area is conveniently situated at the conclusion of Lamington National Park Road, just 5.7 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.
Closest towns to this walk: 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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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.
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.
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.
Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure
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.
9 Reviews on “West Canungra Creek Circuit Hike (13.9km)”
Sam Esposito
Smith Jo Jo no idea. Didn’t get that far lol.
That actually sounds like perfect time to 6 hrs. For a full day.
The West Canungra Circuit is currently closed due to track damage. There are heaps more awesome walks in Lamington … just not this one at the moment. The Border Track, Toolona Circuit, Box Circuit and Albert River Circuits are all Grade 4’s and open.
Van Jewel Radu Alexis Leilani Nyree April ?
Well that looks like something we should do
YES!!! I’m keen??
Yesss I’m up for it??
David OBrien of interest to you?