The Caves Circuit offers a rewarding 5km grade 4 loop hike within Lamington National Park, Queensland. This scenic adventure, taking roughly 2.5 hours to complete, commences at the Binna Burra lower day-use area.
The initial leg winds its way up through open eucalypt forest. As you ascend, be sure to cast your gaze upwards – you might be lucky enough to spot a koala nestled amongst the branches. Keep an ear out for the distinctive calls of white-throated treecreepers, fascinating members of one of the world's oldest songbird groups.
A designated rest stop provides a welcome opportunity to relax and appreciate the breathtaking views. Take a moment to admire the stunning panorama encompassing the Coomera Valley, the Darlington Range, and the distinctive rhyolite cliff line. The Darlington Range itself boasts a natural marvel – possibly the largest intact stand of hoop pine in all of Australia.
Beyond Kweebani Cave, the landscape transforms into lush rainforest. The track then ascends the slope via a series of steps. Important safety information: due to the presence of loose rock, both on the track and within Kweebani Cave itself, visitors are advised to avoid lingering near the cave and to admire it from a safe distance as they continue along the track.
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.
Total distance: 4512 m
Max elevation: 787 m
Min elevation: 608 m
Total climbing: 416 m
Total descent: -413 m
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Accessing the Caves Circuit offers a choice of starting points within Lamington National Park's Binna Burra section, roughly 110 kilometers south of Brisbane. The first option is the Binna Burra lower day-use area, conveniently located 1.7 kilometers from the park entrance along Binna Burra Road. Alternatively, you can begin your hike at the track entry situated opposite the Saddle trailhead, not far from the road entrance to Binna Burra Lodge. This trailhead is slightly further from the park entrance, at approximately 2 kilometers.
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.
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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 vistas 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 things to do in Lamington National Park? Try these hikes or bushwalks.
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While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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