The best walks and hikes in Border Ranges National Park
4.7
(63)
704
hikers
8
hikes
Hiking in Border Ranges National Park offers access to World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests, characterized by ancient subtropical, cool temperate, and warm temperate rainforests. The park is situated on the rim of a vast volcanic caldera, resulting in spectacular scarps, rugged ridges, and deep gorges. This geological history contributes to a diverse landscape featuring waterfalls, creeks, and panoramic viewpoints, providing varied hiking experiences across its protected natural areas.
Best hiking trails in Border Ranges National Park
- The most popular hiking route is Brushbox Falls Lookout loop from Pay station, a 4.0 miles (6.4 km) trail that takes 1 hour 55 minutes to complete, leading through rainforest to a lookout.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Bar Mountain Lookout loop from The Bar Mountain, an easy 2.4 miles (3.9 km) path. This route immerses hikers in ancient Antarctic beech trees and dense rainforest, offering views from the highest point on the caldera.
- Local hikers also love the Larapinta Falls via Christmas Creek South Branch Walking Track, a 5.8 miles (9.3 km) trail leading through rainforest and past waterfalls, often completed in about 3 hours 11 minutes.
- Hiking in Border Ranges National Park is defined by ancient rainforests, volcanic caldera landscapes, and numerous waterfalls and creeks. The network offers options for various ability levels, including easy strolls and more challenging ascents.
- The routes in Border Ranges National Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 70 reviews. More than 800 hikers have used komoot to explore Border Ranges National Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
5.0
(2)
14
hikers
6.42km
01:55
200m
200m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
8
hikers
3.86km
01:21
220m
220m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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9
hikers
9.28km
03:11
310m
310m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(3)
73
hikers
12.9km
07:28
1,130m
1,130m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
3
hikers
14.2km
07:10
1,100m
1,100m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Tips from the Community
Peasants Ridge is a steep ridgeline climb along Mount Barney’s southern slope. It is a rough forest route along the ridge, so expect to encounter roots and loose rock along the way. It intersects at a midpoint between Mount Barney's eastern and western peaks, making it a good ascent route, or descent route depending on how you plan your hike. Especially approaching the peak, there is a good amount of scrambling and loose rock so take it slow and watch your footing.
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This remote saddle campsite is located right below Mount Barney’s summit, between the eastern and western peaks. There are no facilities here, but it is a good staging point for an early summit. It is also a good distance as a turn around point for an out-and-back hike along the ridge.
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This trailhead serves as the primary access point to Mount Barney and Yellow Pinch. There is a small trailhead parking area at the gate at the end of Upper Logan Road. At the start of the trail, you follow packed gravel along an old management road, which eventually branches off into routes for South East Ridge, Mezzanine Ridge and Peasants Ridge.
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Upper Logan Road is the main access route into the southern side of Mount Barney National Park, leading toward key trailheads for routes like the South East Ridge. The road transitions from sealed to unsealed as it moves further into the valley, passing through rural farmland and open countryside. It’s commonly used as a starting point for hikes in the area, with informal parking near access tracks.
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At 1,351 metres, Mount Barney East Peak is the highest point of Mount Barney and one of the most prominent peaks in the Scenic Rim. The summit is reached via steep, unmarked routes such as the South East Ridge, with the final approach involving exposed rock and scrambling. From the top, views extend across the surrounding ranges, valleys, and national park, with little shelter from wind or weather. Conditions can change quickly, particularly with cloud moving across the summit.
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The South East Ridge is a steep summit route to East Peak, typically taking 7 to 9 hours return. It’s shorter than the South Ridge but significantly steeper, with sustained climbing, rock scrambling, and exposed sections along the ridge. The route includes narrow sections and rock slabs near the summit, with steep drop-offs nearby, and can become slippery in wet conditions. Some directional markers are present, but route-finding is still required. Please note that due to the steep terrain and exposure, this route is not recommended for descent.
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Larapinta Falls is a beautiful, tall waterfall along Christmas Creek, dropping about 30 metres over a rocky cliff into a clear pool below. The main flow falls in a narrow vertical stream, with lighter side cascades spreading across the cliff, especially after rain. The surrounding rock walls are covered in ferns, moss, and dense subtropical vegetation, and is a fantastic spot to take in the scenery and capture a few memorable photos.
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Jim Westray’s Grave marks the resting place of a victim of the 1937 Stinson plane crash, one of Australia’s most well-known aviation survival stories. After surviving the crash, Westray left the wreckage to seek help but later died near Christmas Creek, where local bushman Bernard O’Reilly found him. He was buried close to where he died, in this peaceful palm grove beside the creek, adding a quiet historical point of interest along the track.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when hiking in Border Ranges National Park?
Border Ranges National Park is characterized by its dramatic volcanic landscapes and ancient rainforests. You'll encounter rugged ridges, deep gorges, and spectacular scarps formed by the erosion of a vast ancient volcano. Trails often lead through dense subtropical, cool temperate, and warm temperate rainforests, with features like waterfalls and sparkling creeks.
Are there any easy or family-friendly hiking trails in Border Ranges National Park?
Yes, the park offers several easy trails suitable for families. For instance, the Bar Mountain Lookout loop from The Bar Mountain is an easy 3.9 km path that takes you through ancient Antarctic beech trees. The Red Cedar Loop, starting from Brindle Creek Picnic Area, is another easy 750m walk to a massive ancient red cedar tree. The park has 2 easy routes listed on komoot.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Border Ranges National Park?
Generally, dogs are not permitted on walking tracks or in wilderness areas within NSW national parks, including Border Ranges National Park, to protect the native wildlife and natural environment. It's always best to check the official park regulations before your visit.
Are there any waterfalls to see while hiking in the park?
Yes, Border Ranges National Park is known for its pristine rainforests with waterfalls plunging into deep gorges and sparkling creeks. The Brushbox Falls Lookout loop from Pay station is an easy 6.4 km trail that leads directly to a lookout over Brushbox Falls. The Brindle Creek Walking Track also features a waterfall along its course.
What are the best viewpoints in Border Ranges National Park?
Many lookouts within the park offer unparalleled panoramic views. The Pinnacle Lookout provides sweeping views of the park, coastline, crater escarpment, and the iconic Mount Warning (Wollumbin). Blackbutts Lookout, situated high on the caldera rim, also offers extensive views of the caldera and Mount Warning.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Border Ranges National Park?
The park's rainforests offer a cooler, shadier environment, making it pleasant for hiking year-round. However, the region can experience significant rainfall, especially during the warmer months. For comfortable hiking conditions and clearer views, the cooler, drier months (typically autumn and winter) are often recommended.
Are there any circular hiking routes available?
Yes, several trails in Border Ranges National Park are designed as loops. Examples include the Brushbox Falls Lookout loop from Pay station and the Bar Mountain Lookout loop from The Bar Mountain. These loops allow you to experience diverse scenery without retracing your steps.
What kind of wildlife might I see in Border Ranges National Park?
Border Ranges National Park is a biodiversity hotspot, home to over 170 bird species, including rare ones like the Albert's lyrebird and regent bowerbird. You might also spot other wildlife such as koalas, wallabies, possums, and pademelons, especially in the dense rainforest areas like Brindle Creek.
Is there an entry fee for Border Ranges National Park?
Yes, Border Ranges National Park requires an entry fee per vehicle. You can purchase a day pass or an annual pass. It's advisable to check the official NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service website for the most current fee information and any permit requirements.
What do other hikers enjoy most about Border Ranges National Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 60 reviews. Reviewers often praise the immersive experience of hiking through ancient World Heritage-listed rainforests, the dramatic volcanic landscapes, and the spectacular panoramic views, particularly of Mount Warning.
Are there any facilities like parking or public transport access for the trails?
The park has designated parking areas at various trailheads and lookouts, such as the Bar Mountain picnic area and Brindle Creek Picnic Area. However, public transport access to Border Ranges National Park is very limited, so it's generally recommended to access the park by private vehicle. The Tweed Range Scenic Drive provides access to many points of interest.
How many hiking trails are available in Border Ranges National Park?
Komoot currently lists several hiking routes in Border Ranges National Park, offering a mix of easy and more challenging options. In total, there are 5 routes documented on komoot, with 2 rated as easy and 3 as difficult.
Most popular routes in Border Ranges National Park
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