In short
- The Tree Top Walk and national park entry are completely free.
- Donations are appreciated to help maintain the suspension bridges.
- Guided day tours from the Gold Coast start from $90 AUD.
In this article
Many visitors expect an entrance fee for Australia's first canopy walkway. However, the O'Reillys tree top walk price and tickets situation is simple: it costs nothing. You can drive up the mountain and explore the 180-meter suspended walkway without spending a cent. If you prefer not to drive, you can pay for an optional guided tour instead.
Is the Tree Top Walk really free?
Yes, access to the nine suspension bridges and the 30-meter observation deck is free.
You do not have to pay a gate fee to enter Lamington National Park. The Tree Top Walk is maintained through the generosity of visitors. There is a donation box near the start of the walk. Any money you contribute helps preserve the bridges, which sit 16 meters above the rainforest floor.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
No, you do not need tickets or reservations for the Tree Top Walk.
You can simply arrive and walk straight onto the track. The canopy walk is open year-round. Since no bookings are required, it is wise to arrive early in the morning. This helps you beat the day-tripper crowds and gives you the best chance to spot birds.
How much does bird feeding cost?
The experience is free, but you must buy approved seed from the gift shop.
Feeding wildlife in the national park is heavily restricted. You are only allowed to feed approved seed to the birds in designated areas near O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat. Buying this seed supports the retreat and keeps the local Crimson Rosellas and King Parrots healthy.
How much do guided day tours cost?
Guided day tours from the Gold Coast typically cost between $90 and $150 AUD.
Tour prices vary depending on the operator and what is included. Prices change over time. Most tours cover your transport and provide a guide. Some include extras like bird feed or stops at local vineyards. Booking a tour eliminates the stress of driving the steep, narrow mountain road.
| Travel Method | Cost | Travel Time | Includes Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-Drive | Free (fuel costs apply) | 1.5 to 2 hours | No |
| Guided Day Tour | From $90 AUD | 7-8 hours (full day) | Yes |
Are there parking fees at Lamington National Park?
No, parking at the Green Mountains section is completely free.
You can park your car at the designated lots near O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat without a permit. The parking area serves as the starting point for the Tree Top Walk and other trails like the Morans Falls hike. Spaces fill up quickly on weekends.
What optional activities cost money?
While the park is free, food, guided tours, and souvenirs cost money.
If you want to buy lunch, you can eat at the Mountain Cafe located at O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat. You will also pay for any items from the gift shop, including birdseed. Aside from these optional purchases, your day out in the Gondwana Rainforest costs only the fuel to get there.
Questions travellers ask
Is O'Reilly's Tree Top Walk free?
Yes, access to the Tree Top Walk and Lamington National Park is completely free. Donations are accepted to help maintain the walkway.
Can you drive a motorhome or caravan to Lamington National Park?
The final 30 kilometers of Lamington National Park Road are winding, steep, and narrow. Large vehicles may struggle on these sections.
Where can I feed the birds at O'Reilly's?
You can feed birds at designated areas near O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat. You must only use approved seed purchased from the gift shop.
