Plan your visit
Plan Your Lamington Visit
Prepare for cooler mountain temperatures, winding access roads, and muddy trails. Plan your transport and trail choices before arriving.
Lamington National Park and O'Reilly's Tree Top Walk
Lamington National Park Road, Canungra
GPS -28.2276, 153.1322
Open directionsGetting there
How to get to the rainforest.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Drive from the Gold Coast via Canungra, taking Lamington National Park Road up the mountain. | 1.5 to 2 hours | Free parking, fuel costs apply | The final 30 kilometers of the road is winding, steep, and narrow. Drive cautiously and look out for wildlife. |
| Tour: Book a guided day tour from the Gold Coast offering hotel pickup. | 7-8 hours (full day) | $90 - $150 AUD | Tours eliminate the stress of mountain driving and often include extras like vineyard stops, a guide, and bird feeding. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The park is open year-round. Spring (September to November) and Autumn (March to May) provide the best hiking weather. Summer is the best time to see the waterfalls, but expect higher humidity and afternoon storms.
What to bring
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The mountain is 5-8°C cooler than the Gold Coast.
Pack a warm jumper or fleece, even in summer.
How the day runs
Suggested ways to spend your day.
A full day exploring the Green Mountains section by car.
- Drive from the Gold Coast
Head via Canungra. Drive cautiously on the final 30 kilometers of steep road.
- Tree Top Walk
Cross the 180-meter canopy walkway before the mid-day crowds arrive.
- Morans Falls Hike
Walk the 4.4km return track for excellent views over the Albert River valley.
- Lunch at O'Reilly's
Grab food at the Mountain Cafe and buy approved birdseed.
- Bird Feeding
Hand-feed wild Crimson Rosellas and King Parrots in designated areas.
- Python Rock Lookout
Take this easy 3.1km return walk through the booyong rainforest.
A stress-free day trip with a local guide and wine tasting.
- Hotel Pickup
Board the tour vehicle from your selected Gold Coast location.
- Tree Top Walk
Explore the suspension bridges and climb the 30-meter observation deck.
- Wild Bird Feeding
Use the included bird feed to attract parrots.
- Vineyard Stop
Visit Canungra Valley Vineyard by a mountain stream on the way down.
Packing for the Mountain
Always pack sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes with good grip. The rainforest trails can be muddy year-round. Bring a lightweight rain jacket, as mountain weather changes rapidly.
Leeches are common in the wet rainforest. Wear long socks or tights, and carry insect repellent or salt to remove them safely. Leave no trace and take all your rubbish with you, as there are no bins on the trails.
Easiest way to do it
Lamington National Park, O'Reilly's & Vineyard Tour
6 h to 7 h 4.9 (147)
- Bird feed to entice the parrots
- Local guide
- Light Snacks & Refreshments
- Pick up from selected Gold Coast locations. Contact local operator directly to arrange pick up.
From$97per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Is the road to O'Reilly's dangerous to drive?
The final 30 kilometers of Lamington National Park Road is narrow, steep, and winding. Drive cautiously, look out for wildlife, and give way to oncoming traffic.
Do you need a 4WD to get to O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat?
No, a 4WD is not required. The road is sealed, but it is winding and narrow. Standard 2WD vehicles can make the trip easily if driven carefully.
Can you drive a motorhome or caravan to Lamington National Park?
It is not recommended to drive large motorhomes or caravans up Lamington National Park Road. The steep grades and very narrow corners make it difficult for long vehicles.