SPOT 1 – DANGAR FALLS

Accessible via Coramba road and only a quick eight minute drive away is the incredible Dangar Falls. Dangar Falls is a volcanic crater with a tube that plunges into unforeseeable depth, creating a large water hole. Fun fact: these falls actually have two water holes! One down the bottom that is easily accessible through a long flight of stairs and another up the top. There is a picnic area and playground up the top of Dangar Falls meaning you can easily spend a good chunk of your day swimming, eating and exploring!

SPOT 2 – COACHWOOD FALLS

Make tracks to Red Cedar Falls and you’ll discover a stunning swimming hole at Coachwood Falls close by. Part of the Never Never area of the Dorrigo National Park, this particular spot is a photographer and nature lover’s dream. The trek itself is an adventure but we promise it is worth it! The swimming hole here is crystal clear and deep enough to swim in. Located deep in the rainforest along the Rosewood River, you’ll likely never want to leave.

SPOT 3 – SCOUTS FALL, SHERWOOD NATURE RESERVE

If you’re willing to go for a bit of a drive, Scouts Falls swimming holes is a must do if you’re searching for fresh waterholes. Located in Middle Creek, these falls are hidden within an unbelievably picturesque location in Sherwood Nature Reserve. Take your pick between a smaller plunge pool with a trickling cascade or venture deeper into the reserve to find a deeper pool directly underneath the falls. After a dip in these parts, you’re sure to be feeling refreshed and super relaxed. 

SPOT 4 – NEVER NEVER CREEK & PROMISED LANDS

Within Glennifer nature reserve and the Tuckers Knob state forest, you’ll stumble across a series of magical swimming holes called ‘The Promised Lands’, which is just as enchanting as it sounds! There are two options to get here via Lookout Mountain Retreat, so be sure to check out Google maps to guide you. There are many little spots to park and go for a dip with one area having a Tarzan type vibe with rope swings, tall moss covered trees, and rainforest wherever you turn! This off-the-beaten-track swimming hole is glorified by locals and visitors alike, just be sure to get in early in the summertime! Spots don’t last very long in a glorious place like this.

It’s worth remembering that if you’re heading off on any trek in the Dorrigo National Park, it’s a good idea to let the team here at Lookout Mountain Retreat know or you can fill out an online intention form of your hike as mobile reception will be poor. Don’t forget to take plenty of drinking water when hiking, particularly in the warmer weather.

Event wise, Dorrigo tends to quiet down in December as everyone gears up for the silly season instead. When you’re not exploring Dorrigo’s natural beauty, come along and stroll the main street for a spot of shopping. Pop into Dorrigo Sweets and check out their range of hard to find sweets from yesteryear. Find beautiful gifts for friends and family in Miss Wink and the Red Cedar Emporium with their unique range of homewares, gifts and more. For unique jewellery, stop by Opal & Amber for a gift idea you can’t go wrong with!

There’s no denying that Dorrigo is also famous for it’s amazingly fresh produce and you’ll be able to peruse the Dorrigo Community Markets held the first Saturday of each month. If you only live a short drive from Dorrigo, be sure to pack a cold bag and take some of our delicious produce home with you! If you have a farming or agricultural background, then you might be interested in the 2019 All Breeds Dairy Heifer Show held December 7th.

Feeling crafty? Come along to the Christmas Wreath Workshop held on December 7th 2019. Hosted at the Red Cedar Emporium, join them for an evening of creativity, laughs and a few bubbles as you make your own stunning wreath to take home. See just how talented the Dorrigo folk are during our next Made in Dorrigo markets held December 14th. Everything at this market is of a high quality that is lovingly and skillfully made by artists and artisans and is guaranteed to be grown, manufactured or produced in the 2453 post code.

For music lovers, the new year sees multi award winning singer/songwriter Craig Stewart present ‘Neil Diamond- The Man, The Music’ at the Dorrigo Memorial RSL. This is a superb 2.5-hour show combining the songs and stories of Neil Diamond with incredible imagery, numerous interviews and behind-the-scenes stories of how some of Neil’s most-loved songs came to be. The Brother Brothers play January 4^th at the Dorrigo Old Gazette Theatre and are two identical twins who use minimal instrumentation, heartfelt lyricism, and harmonies so natural they seem to blend into one beautiful voice.

Golf lovers will love the chance to hit the greens and support a good cause for the Dorrigo Hospital Charity 4 Person Ambrose held Sunday, February 16. Bookings are essential and can be made at the Dorrigo post office, hospital or the Dorrigo Golf Club where the event will be held.

Whether you want to explore, shop, relax or play, Dorrigo truly has something on offer for everyone. Be sure to check out our Special Offers and take advantage of our great deals before they expire January 31^st.

DAY 1 – EXPLORING DORRIGO

Dorrigo maintains a magical feel all year round so feel free to visit us outside of Summer too. No matter the season, the Dorrigo Hinterland is always a lovely topic of conversation and an even better place to go exploring nature with the fam. If you and your family are looking for an affordable yet breathtaking place to stay, Lookout Mountain Retreat has a Family Suite that would be ideal for you. Equipped with a lounge suite, TV, free wifi, small kitchenette, reverse cycle air conditioning, parking directly outside and enough beds for you all. Whilst it does have pretty much everything you may need if you were to stay indoors, we know kids will love the sweeping hills and rolling grass plains that lay just outside your room. Ideal for letting the kids run around and burn off that extra energy before bed.

On Day 1 of your itinerary, pack water, snacks and anything else you may need to keep the kids busy on the car ride and get ready for a day nestled within the Dorrigo Hinterland. The Dorrigo National Park is a fun and educational experience for kids and adults alike. Before embarking on the stunning nature walk, ponder around the interactive Rainforest Centre and watch as the kids immerse themselves in all things rainforest and wildlife. The round trip of Crystal Falls is ideal for a family hike with kids aged 6 upwards and takes around 2 hours in total to complete. It is an ideal length to keep the kids interested (with the stunning Crystal Showers Waterfall as your reward) yet will tire them out for a good night’s sleep later!

After exploring the national park, you’ll probably be pretty peckish and ready for a hearty lunch. Take a load off at the National Park’s Canopy Café and peruse the stunning flora and fauna surrounding the area. Or, with a packed picnic in tow, take a short 2-minute drive to the Glade Picnic Area to have lunch. Following lunch, explore the stunning surrounds of the area and visit some not-to-miss lookouts like Griffiths Lookout and Dangar Falls. Be sure to pack your swimmers if visiting in the warmer months as Dangar Falls makes a great spot to swim and cool off!

If you’re visiting around October, another potential activity suitable for kids of all ages is the Dorrigo Folk & Bluegrass Festival! This 3 day festival is jam packed with unbelievable music talent, creative artists and kid’s workshops. Be warned. Accommodation around this time fills fast as this festival is a popular Dorrigo event so book early to avoid disappointment.

DAY 2 – BIRD WATCHING  

There’s no denying that Dorrigo National Park is the perfect spot for nature lovers and is an ideal location to spot all (or at least some) of the 150 species of birds residing in the area. The first spot to visit is the Skywalk, which is accessible from the visitor centre at the National Park. Keep an eye out for the circling Grey Goshawk, or if you’re fortunate enough, you may even catch a glimpse of the Topknot pigeons bustling amongst the treetops. Another family friendly walk is the elevated Walk with the Birds boardwalk. This stroll begins at the Glade picnic area and guides you above the forest floor just above the canopy. The kids will be extremely excited when they catch sight of the colourful Paradise Riflebird or the growing family of Brushturkeys scurrying through the canopy floor. Whilst you’re keeping an eye out, be sure to keep an ear out for the extremely vocal Australian Logrunner and the famous Lyrebirds!

Enjoy a well-earned lunch back at the Glade picnic area before embarking on the Satinbird Stroll for the afternoon. Again, this stroll begins at the Glade picnic area before taking you into a particular part of the forest that is celebrated for its extensive selection of plant life. The kids will be amazed at the various mosses, ferns and fascinating fungi that call this rainforest home.

DAY 3 – WANDERING IN DORRIGO

For a small, historical town, Dorrigo certainly has plenty of things to do to keep you all busy! For a more relaxed day, why not take the kids for a steady and scenic bike ride throughout the town? Enjoy the fresh air, peruse the historical architecture and stunning farm side views and meet some new farm friends along the way. For a little end-of-the-day treat, take the kids to Dorrigo’s speciality Sweet Shop located on Hickory Street. This traditional little candy hub offers lollies and sweets of all sorts, and will certainly paint a big smile on the kids’ faces!

Ready to come stay and explore Dorrigo with your little family? Book your stay now. Jump online or give us a call on 02 6657 2511. Subscribe to our newsletter and get 10% off your breakfast bill!

Lookout Mountain Retreat has been refurbished to offer its clientele absolute comfort and style at an inexpensive price. The Retreat has 26 well-equipped suites in a variety of layouts, however there are also several rooms available that are wheelchair friendly and accessible and/or suitable for anyone with mobility issues. The Retreat ensures that any body can experience the stunning views of pastoral land and the expansive Dorrigo highland!

Since June 2015, Dorrigo National Park, alongside Kamay Botany Bay and Kosciuszko National Parks, has provided a TrailRider service enabling all-terrain wheelchair access for visitors. This great innovation offers new opportunities for those with mobility restrictions to properly experience the magic of these National Parks for themselves alongside their family and friends! TrailRider’s are free to hire in NSW National Parks, however bookings are preferred and you will need to provide at least 2 able guides for the day and a helmet. A TrailRider is very easy to manoeuvre as it has handles at both the front and back allowing for guides to safely direct the chair on walking tracks that aren’t specifically designed for wheelchair’s.  These TrailRiders can also be taken up and down stairs (albeit very carefully as the tracks can be slippery after a downfall).

Preferred hire time is either from 9am to 12:30pm, or in the afternoon block at 12:30-4pm. TrailRiders can be hired from the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre Monday to Friday from 9am-4pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 9:30am-4pm. However, all day hire is also possible. For all enquiries and bookings, please contact Dorrigo.rainforestcentre@environment.nsw.gov.au, visit the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre or contact them on (02) 6657 2309.

If you’d like to hear firsthand of a family’s TrailRider experience at Dorrigo National Park, click here! For further information and guidance regarding how the TrailRider works, be sure to contact NPWS at parks.accessibility@environment.nsw.gov.au.

Spring is a busy time of year for Dorrigo and folk music fans will be looking forward to Dorrigo’s Folk & Bluegrass Festival happening October 25th – 27th. For those who would love to learn more, you might like to attend the Old Time Music School happening October 23rd – 25th. This music school provides opportunities for learning and playing alongside award winning old time musicians.

Spring is also a great time to shed that excess Winter weight and for those wanting to improve their health and wellbeing, our Spring Cleanse Health Retreat in November might be perfect for you. This will be a perfect opportunity to detox, destress and learn lifelong techniques to help you relax and recharge.

Also on in November is the exciting Dorrigo Agricultural Show! The primary focus of the Agricultural Show is to serve as a showcase for the talents of the residents, local organisations and Dorrigo’s youth. The Dorrigo Show will be a great day out for the whole family.

Love the outdoors? Spring is a great time to explore the great outdoors before the temperatures rise. Cycle, fish or hike. For the keen photographers, pack your camera and explore our top photography spots in Dorrigo to get a postcard worthy shot to show all your friends!

Don’t forget the Dorrigo Community Markets are on the first Saturday of each month, rain, hail or shine. Here you’ll find a range of products and services from the Dorrigo Plateau and surrounding areas including fresh local foods, arts and crafts, tea and coffee and light food held in a convivial country atmosphere.

For the brides-to-be, Spring is a beautiful time to get married here in Dorrigo. The weather is ideal, the views are spectacular and there’s so much for your guests to do while out this way. Be sure to download our FREE wedding guide and see how we can make your special day a memorable one!

The Waterfall Way Café is open from Tuesday to Sunday 8:00am-2:00pm and Saturday evenings from 6:00pm. With our focus on fresh seasonal cuisine that largely comes from our flourishing onsite vegetable garden, come in and see what delicious specials we have available.

Want to make a last minute getaway to Lookout Mountain Retreat this Spring? Give us a call on 02 6657 2511 or click here to see our availability online.

Interesting Spots

Whether it be the clearest of days or a cloudy day, Dorrigo consistently offers dreamlike views and a delightful atmosphere. The historical little town of Dorrigo can be a beautiful area to capture in itself, however the surrounding areas lend themselves to a perfect photograph. Stretching 185km inland from the coast, Waterfall Way is home to some of Australia’s most remarkable waterfalls and national parks. Newell Falls and Sherrard Falls can be viewed from the roadside along the Dorrigo mountain, however by pulling over onto one of the shoulders, you can properly photograph the falls in all their glory.  Spots such as Red Cedar Falls, Dangar Falls, Bangalore Falls and Ebor Falls are all surrounded and accessible by breathtaking hiking trails that can be as challenging or relaxing as you’d like them to be! Interestingly, Ebor Falls was given the name ‘great falls’ by the Gumbaynggirr people because of it’s photogenic nature! Visit any (or all) of these falls and capture their magic from an up close and personal perspective!

If you’d rather view the falls from above, there are a variety of viewpoints that will allow you to capture just that. Dangar Falls from above is one of the most unique photographs you could take, and this is achievable if you visit the platform lookout beside the picnic area. From here, you will be able to capture the falls and the plunge pool below and get an impressive view of the agricultural and dairy farmland surrounding the falls. It truly is an all-encompassing photography experience!

Dorrigo is riddled with impressive lookouts showcasing the naturally rich landscapes of the hinterland. Accessible via Waterfall Way and located just 2km from Lookout Mountain Retreat, Griffith Lookout provides a stunning view and backdrop for photos. It spectacularly presents the wilderness of the Great Dividing Range, the Pacific Ocean in the east and the surrounding vast farmlands. Whether you’d like to capture grazing cattle, diverse birdlife, oceanic views or mountainous valleys, this lookout is sure to tick your boxes!

A few areas of interest include the Skywalk located at Dorrigo National Park, Point Lookout and Cathedral Rock located in Guy Fawkes River National Park. Skywalk Lookout offers views of deep mountain ranges, a birdseye perspective of Dorrigo National Park and even the Pacific Ocean! One of the most photogenic and magical spots within the National Park is Crystal Shower Falls. Whether you’re viewing these falls from the roped bridge parallel to the falls or from underneath, the photos are guaranteed to be magnificent.  

Some Tips

If you’re looking to photograph the many landscapes of Dorrigo, be sure to wear resilient hiking boots and protective clothing as some of the best spots are only accessible via walking tracks. Be sure to take an extra SD card and a lot of water to ensure you can get the most out of your photography expedition! All of the above sites are quite stunning at night, and there are several campgrounds you can stay at to capture the magnificence of these areas from dusk to dawn.

The best part of photographing Dorrigo is there are no bad shots! There’s beautiful shots to be had at any time of day. Wake up early for a sunrise popping up from the coastline or go out in the afternoon and capture one of our stunning sunsets. You can’t go wrong!

DAY ONE: EXPLORING DORRIGO

North Dorrigo undoubtedly lends itself to picturesque cycling adventures and for this reason, it is the most favourable territory. Whilst the level of experience required for the various loops wavers, the routes are generally all accessible and achievable for intrepid and leisurely riders alike (bar a few!). Today you will be enjoying a relatively short ride beginning at the Lookout Mountain Retreat on Maynard’s Plain’s Road. This route is ideal for a peaceful yet active family outing or for solo cyclists. In fact, if you are embarking on this track alone, you can make it as strenuous or challenging as you like. From this road, you’ll take Mountain Top Road and follow it for 3 to 4 kilometres. You’ll observe the sweeping beauty of the Dorrigo Plateau and stunning countryside. This ride is short and sweet yet it offers one of the most scenic views of the region. Both of these roads are generally very quiet and unoccupied, however, if you’re travelling with young children, be sure to keep an eye out as the corners can be dangerous.

Find a grassy spot and enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking the deepening valleys. Make your way back to Lookout Mountain Retreat.

DAY TWO: TYRINGHAM

For the first half of the day you will be exploring an assortment of cycling tracks which all stem from Tyringham Road. The loops on offer from this road can be considerably challenging or equally as relaxed – this is entirely up to the cyclist’s discretion. The Tyringham Road area has a similar elevation to Dorrigo and thus satisfies very similar conditions. While either direction you decide to take at the intersection is beautifully scenic and mildly challenging, for this ride you will turn left at the intersection and ride into Dorrigo. This road can be quite busy so be sure to keep an eye out for oncoming traffic. Prepare to be amazed by the uninterrupted mountainous valleys and rolling gorges.

Lunch at The Heritage Hotel Dorrigo is highly recommended.

You’ll spend the afternoon exploring another pleasant route extending from Tyringham road. This route begins at Tyringham Rd and loops to Ellesmere Rd and then concludes at Bostobrick. This tarred track is incredibly picturesque and is embedded within the naturally adorned countryside of Dorrigo. If you’re an intrepid rider, you can easily extend this ride by heading west towards Armidale or east towards Grafton (however, this ride is definitely only fit for those serious cyclists with a few backup tubes).

DAY THREE: WHISKY CREEK
From Lookout Mountain Retreat, follow Waterfall way.

(If you’re an intrepid rider, feel free to carefully cycle this first leg. It is roughly 20 kilometres until the next turn. If you want a more relaxed and less dangerous ride, drive this first leg and park at Tyringham Street).

From Waterfall Way, turn left onto Tyringham Street and then a subsequent left onto Whisky Creek. Whisky Creek road runs until the edge of the escarpment and is an estimated 17-20 kilometre ride. However, if you do not wish to ride this far, it is possible to turn around after the desired amount of kilometres has been reached.  From Whisky Creek, you’ll take a left onto Shepherds Road and follow it for 10-15 kilometres back to Dorrigo. This ride is enveloped within the countryside plateau of Dorrigo, and serves to showcase the agricultural prosperity of the region.

Enjoy a picnic lunch or a bite to eat at one of the quaint country cafes.

For the afternoon, you can take the family and immerse yourselves in the serenity of the Dorrigo Falls and beautiful, northern countryside. It’s a 1.8km ride from the city centre of Dorrigo to the picturesque Dangar Falls. This is a relatively easy ride therefore you’ll be able to properly enjoy the scenery without feeling too breathless or sore (hopefully). This afternoon is designed for you to relax and enjoy – you deserve it after the last few days!

The countryside and townscape will be stunningly presented to you throughout this ride. You’ll see grazing cattle, crystalised water falling from unimaginable heights and just a glimpse of the nature that crafts Dorrigo.

Alternative for more experienced cyclists:

For the more experienced cyclists, there is a road track from Dorrigo to Megan and then to Ulong. This ride takes roughly 3 hours and 50 mins (one way) via the Coramba Rd and Slingsby Rd. If you’re used to coastal riding, consider not completing the entire loop because it is ascending and very challenging.

Spots of Interest

Some trout dams within NSW remain open to fishing throughout the entire year, and these are called ‘General Trout Dams’. Some general trout areas include the Bemboka River, the Goodradigbee River and the Lachlan River. However, the annual closure on trout fishing is on the 11^th of June 2019 and the reopening will be the October long weekend beginning Saturday the 5^th. These dates are pertinent as the closure in-between allows for Brown and Rainbow Trout to breed uninterruptedly.

Dorrigo is the most eastern part of the New England Trout Fishery which is the northernmost in Australia. This area satisfies a great trout stock and is well worth visiting. The Dorrigo Trout Hatchery is located on the Point Lookout Road which branches off the Armidale Road south of Ebor. Being one of only two facilities in NSW, this hatchery has bred and released millions of trout hatchings and is an ideal spot to start!

Located 80km east of Armidale and 120km inland from Coffs Harbour, the small town of Ebor is renowned for sustaining an ideal habitat for trout. The streams stretching throughout Ebor are usually full of persistent Rainbow Trout, Wily Trout and Brown Trout. It truly is trout galore! The Dorrigo-Ebor Freshwater Fishing Association (DEFFA) is responsible for the consistent restocking of trout within the waters of the Dorrigo plateau, and they operate under some pretty strict fishery guidelines. Assuming you have your recreational fishing license, if you wish to then fish for trout in private streams, you must seek permission from the landowner through a visitation or a letter. Public access is available at majority of bridges crossing streams and at travelling stock routes that surround the streams.

Some necessities

Whilst a relatively inexpensive activity, there are a few items that are essential if you are fishing for trout. If you are fishing in general trout areas, there are various methods that are accepted. These include one attended rod and line with no more than two hooks attached and a landing net. In Dorrigo and surrounding areas, it is best to purchase live bait from the hatchery and/or artificial flies and lures to attract those hard-pulling trout. Also, be sure to wear protective clothing as the trout can put up a fight in and out of water!

Something for the kids

Kids can cast too! If you have children aged 8-14 years, they are invited to learn how to fish carefully and responsibly in a safe environment. The Dutton Trout Hatchery hosts a variety of workshops and they are conducted by experienced volunteers from the NSW fishing industry. At only $40 per child, attendees can receive four hours of information regarding techniques, bag and size limits and fish handling practices. Visit https://www.dorrigo.com/event/kids-fishing-workshop-at-dutton-trout-hatchery/.

Day One: Lyrebird, Satinbird & Bird Boardwalk Adventure
Approximate Duration: 3 hours

Depart the Mountain Retreat around 8:30am to arrive at the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre around 9am.

If you are interested in getting to know the wonderful birdlife and nature surrounding the Dorrigo Rainforest, there are a few easy avenues you can use to explore this. Beginning at the Rainforest Centre, the Lyrebird Link Track is an ideal introduction to the sub-tropical rainforest. It is only a short stroll from the Centre, however it will provide you with a taste of what is to come. This track takes roughly half an hour to an hour to complete, and it is a lovely place to start your exploration of the World Heritage listed rainforests of Dorrigo. The Lyrebird track will expose you to Giant Stinging Trees (sounds intimidating, although they won’t hurt you), Birds Nest Ferns and Lawyer Cane Palms. The track contains a variety of information placards so you will not be deprived of any important info!

Following this track, make your way to the Glade Picnic Area which is 1km from the Rainforest Centre.

Next is the Walk with the Birds boardwalk: a 200 metre return stroll on a barrier-free elevated boardwalk stretching across the flourishing Rainforest canopy. This walk is ideal for people of all ages and abilities (so no need to stress about not being able to handle any steeper inclines!). To access this boardwalk, you begin at the Glade Picnic Area which is one kilometre from the Rainforest Centre. Positioned at the mid levels of the Rainforest, this walk will offer you an exclusive display of unique flowers, seeds and will also showcase the lower treetops of the canopy (which are otherwise unseen if you’re on the ground! How’s that?). Keep your eyes peeled for such treats as the courting spectacle of the paradise rifle bird, and the intriguing mound-building by the male bush turkey!

The Satinbird Stroll can be easily accessed from the Walk with the Birds boardwalk down into the forest, and it loops back to the Glade Picnic Area. This walk will offer you a more profound experience of the sub-tropical rainforest with its assembly of plant species, vines, epiphytes and buttressed roots. Once back at the Glade Picnic area, you may observe the Australian Bush Turkey, Eastern Yellow Robin, White-browed Scrubwen and Bassian Thrush (and that’s just at the picnic area!). Whilst enjoying lunch at the picnic area, let the birdlife come to you.

Day Two: Dangar Falls
Approximate Duration: 2-3 hours

Today you’ll continue to observe some of the most phenomenal, nocturnal birds of the plateau. Dangar Falls is located 2km north of Dorrigo on the Coramba Road, and just a short 9-minute transit from Lookout Mountain Retreat. These falls offer breathtaking views extending over the deep ravines and gorges of the northern side of the Oxley Wild Rivers National Park. You’ll venture down a short walkway through luscious greenery which leads down to the base of the falls. The lower falls are nothing short of spectacular, however the scenery is just the beginning. Usually circling around the rocky riverbed are Golden Whistlers, Grey Shrike Thrushes, and dainty Red-browed Finch.

Lunch by the falls

For the intrepid or just the adventurous type, McDirty’s Walking Track is an energetic trek combining wildlife, waterfalls and birdwatching. This track is surrounded by heathlands and dry gums, and is home to a plethora of beautiful birds including the sociable Treekeeper bird and the crimson Rosella. This track is particularly gorgeous if you walk it straight after a heavy downpour as it you will be spritzed by a crystal clear mist which is sure to add to the enchantment of the experience.

Day Three: Ebor Falls & Point Lookout
Approximate Duration: 3-4 hours

The commute between Lookout Mountain Retreat and Ebor Falls is a short and sweet 45 minutes. The drier and vast countryside of Ebor lends itself to an incredibly pleasant day out. Today calls for a delicious packed lunch, binoculars and all your best picnic accessories!

Ebor Falls National Park includes three primary viewing platforms: upper falls, lower falls and valley view. Regardless of which platform you’re on, you’ll get the stunning view of Guy Fawkes River nested within the rugged gorge country.  The birdwatching opportunities in this area are virtually endless for adults and children alike, as each of the walking tracks along the escarpment edge are relatively easy. You are more than likely to catch a glimpse of the heroic wedge-tailed eagle soaring above the grassy woodlands, or birdlife less common in the coastal regions such as the Red-browed Tree Creeper and White-eared Honeyeater. While the area in its entirety is a great spot to simply ponder around admiring the beauty of the falls (whilst keeping your eyes peeled for the local feathered beauties), the lower falls picnic area is said to be the best for birdwatching. Although, this is 110% up to your discretion!

Enjoy a picnic lunch on the grassy mountainside of the falls

This afternoon you will venture through to Point Lookout which leads to a stunning view of the forested ranges to the coast. It’s around a 20-minute drive from the Falls. In the warmer months, keep your eyes peeled for the Flame Robin. The colder months entice the male Superb Lyrebirds who are known to showcase their loveliness.  To add just that little more magic to this area, often echoing throughout this area is the melodic flute call accompanied by a wide range of mimicry of other birds. Prepare for almost all of your senses to be satisfied!

You can then chose to return to Lookout Mountain Retreat or continue your adventure with the Cathedral Rock Hike, which is a 1.5-2.5 hour hike.

Cathedral Rock Hike Option

Come the afternoon, you’ll depart Dorrigo Lookout Mountain Retreat around 1:30pm to arrive at Cathedral Rock National Park at 2:30pm. This hike is just as enjoyable as it is challenging, and it lasts for roughly 1.5-2.5 hours depending on your fitness level. This Grade 5 hike is a 6km loop easily accessible from the Barokee Campground.  Follow the circuit clockwise and hike through sub-alpine woodland to summit turnoff.

Cathedral Rock is perched on 200m of stacked boulders and offers the hiker a natural throne to observe from. The term ‘rock-hopping’ is wildly appropriate for this particular hike as that will be exactly what you will be doing throughout majority of the hike. Ensure that you take care scrambling over the boulders and straddle crevices as boulders can be slippery and hazardous. On your return back to the campground, be sure to follow the circuit around through a protected valley of manna gums. Birdwatching is also a favourite pastime activity on this hike – so ensure you’ve packed a pair of resilient binoculars.

For the intrepid type, bring a headlamp and complete the hike at sunrise or sunset. The view is spectacular so be sure to pack a camera alongside your raincoat, warm clothes and flasks full of a hot beverage of your choice.

Return to Lookout Mountain Retreat for your evening relaxation.

Resources:

http://birdlife.org.au/images/uploads/branches/documents/NN-birds_flyer_bellingendorrigo_0.pdf

https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/lookouts/ebor-falls

https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/picnic-areas/dangars-falls-picnic-area

Conveniently, Dorrigo National Park provides its guests with a choice between two predominant circuits: walks around Never Never Picnic Area and walks around Dorrigo Rainforest Centre. Both circuits are surrounded by beautiful flora and fauna; however, if you’d rather enjoy a brisk nature walk rather than a high intensity hike, Dorrigo National Park certainly accommodates for both.

Day One: Rosewood Creek & Red Cedar Falls Trek

Approximate Duration: 5-6 hours

It is no secret that majority of hikers want to be challenged, but in a picturesque environment where the reward strongly outweighs anything else. There are four different walking tracks which range from 2.2km to 6.4km, and these tracks can either be linked together to amount to one long, challenging hike or enjoyed separately. This is a 3 day itinerary to enable you to soak up the natural wonders of Dorrigo Rainforest in the timeliest manner. So, pack a few litres of water, healthy snacks and your best walking shoes, and enjoy the view!

Arrive by car to Never Never Picnic Area, Dorrigo, around 9:30am.
This takes approximately 23 minutes via car. 

Today you’ll begin with The Rosewood Creek Track. This is a 5.5km circuit and takes an estimated 2 hours to complete, and is accessible from Never Never Picnic Area. This is a gentle grade and slowly inclined circuit, and exhibits the warm-temperate rainforest of Coachwood, crabapple and sassafras en-route to Coachwood falls. Whilst you can venture back on this same track, there is also a link to the Blackbutt Track which is 6.4km one way.

Return back to the Picnic Area to enjoy a BBQ lunch at around 12pm.
(Alternatively, you can pack lunch to eat on the way if you would prefer to not return to the picnic area and thus make the hike shorter)

Following lunch and some well needed hydration, you’ll enjoy a relatively relaxed stroll to the highest falls in the Dorrigo National Park. Stemming from the Rosewood Creek Track is the Red Cedar Falls Track which is a 2.2km return from Rosewood and lasts for an estimated 2 hours. This track showcases the highest falls in the park accessible from the car park. The only catch is that it is a very steep climb down and back, although the destination will make it all worthwhile.

DayTwo: Blackbutt Track & Casuarina Falls

Approximate Duration: 6 hours

Arrive at the carpark inside the park boundary at around 7:30am.
Take a packed lunch today and plenty of water.

The Blackbutt Track is the longest of the tracks as it takes an estimated 3 hours to complete. It is best walked by beginning at the carpark just inside the park boundary, and walking over to Never Never Picnic Area. This hike is embedded within a beautiful, old growth forest. It is riddled with moist gullies alternate with wooded spurs which is home to gigantic tallowwood, Blackbutt and Brushbox trees soaring to more than 30 metres. This hike is 4km return by road back to the carpark area, however there is a convenient link to the Casuarina Falls Circuit. It is best if you pack a few nutritious snacks and sandwiches to eat on the way. Whilst it may be evident: yes – this track requires a decent amount of energy! And water!

Stop for lunch at 1:30pm along the Blackbutt Track.

You’ll spend the afternoon embarking on a pleasant walk called the Casuarina Falls Circuit. This circuit is only accessible via Rosewood Creek Track and the link to Blackbutt Track, and it is 4.8km return lasting at roughly 2 hours. You’ll be met with exclusive, breathtaking views of McGraths hump and Dorrigo Mountain unfolding from the top of the falls. If you’re ready to call it a day, to return from this track you simply follow the Blackbutt Track alongside Sassafras Creek to return back to Never Never Picnic area.

Return back to the National Park carpark and head back to the Lookout Mountain Retreat for a very well-earned nap.

Day Three: The Wonga Walk & Crystal Shower Falls
With optional: Cathedral Rock Hike

Approximate Duration: Morning Trek 4 hours
Cathedral Rock Option: 4-5 hours with travel time

Arrive at the Glade Picnic Area at around 8am.

Because it’s your last day of pondering through the depths of Dorrigo, you’ll end with a challenging yet spectacular hike called The Wonga Walk. Morning tea can be enjoyed at either one of the falls, so be sure to pack something nutritious and fresh, plus water! 

If you’re determined to experience all the wonders of the sub-tropical rainforest, The Wonga Walk will certainly ensure this. This walk is a 5.8km circuit from the Glade Picnic Area (2.5 hours) or a 6.6km circuit from the Rainforest Centre (2-3 hours, depending on your pace).

Today, you’ll be walking this circuit from the Glade Picnic Area.

This track is sealed the entire way by the tall, lush forest. Whilst there are several steeper grades and boulder crossings along this track, you’ll be met with the beautiful Crystal Shower Falls, Tristania Falls, colourful fungi, spectacular 300 year-old trees, and magnificent strangler figs. If you don’t wish to walk the entire Wonga track, there is a suspension bridge which carries walkers across the valley in front of the Crystal Falls, and a turn-off track leading behind the falls into a water-worn cavern. It is truly magical and should not be missed! This track follows terraces formed by successive flows of basalt, exposed by erosion on the edge of the escarpment. After walking the Wonga, you’ll be very knowledgeable about the dynamic rainforest ecology and the incredible origins of the Dorrigo Rainforest.

Return to Lookout Mountain Retreat for lunch or refreshments before you depart for the afternoon adventure!

Cathedral Rock Hike Option

Come the afternoon, you’ll depart Lookout Mountain Retreat around 1:30pm to arrive at Cathedral Rock National Park at 2:30pm.

This hike is just as enjoyable as it is challenging, and it lasts for roughly 1.5-2.5 hours depending on your fitness level. This Grade 5 hike is a 6km loop easily accessible from the Barokee Campground.  Follow the circuit clockwise and hike through sub-alpine woodland to summit turnoff.

Cathedral Rock is perched on 200m of stacked boulders, and offers the hiker a natural throne to observe from. The term ‘rock-hopping’ is wildly appropriate for this particular hike as that will be exactly what you will be doing throughout majority of the hike. Ensure that you take care scrambling over the boulders and straddle crevices as boulders can be slippery and hazardous. On your return back to the campground, be sure to follow the circuit around through a protected valley of manna gums. Birdwatching is also a favourite pastime activity on this hike – so ensure you’ve packed a pair of resilient binoculars.

For the intrepid type, bring a headlamp and complete the hike at sunrise or sunset. The view is spectacular so be sure to pack a camera alongside your raincoat, warm clothes and flasks full of a hot beverage of your choice.

Return to Lookout Mountain Retreat for your evening relaxation.

Resources:

https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/cathedral-rock-track

https://weareexplorers.co/cathedral-rock-national-park-nsw/https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/-/media/visitor/files/pdf/brochures/dorrigo-walks.pdf