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Historic Nightcap Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: B. McLachlan

Natural Attractions

Historic Nightcap Walking Track

Head along Historic Nightcap walking track to experience a World Heritage rainforest with breathtaking escarpment views across Nightcap National Park. This 18 kilometre track is popular with experienced walkers looking for a remote wilderness adventure. With the option to camp overnight at Rummery Park campground, west to east is the easiest way to take this scenic walk, but you can easily start at either end of the track. During the 1800s and 1900s, sections of Historic Nightcap walking track were traversed by travellers and postal workers making their way between Lismore and Murwillumbah. There’s plenty to see along the way, so remember to pack your camera and capture shots of rock orchids brightening the path, and wildlife such as the long-nosed potoroo, brush turkey and Albert’s lyrebird, who call the area home.

Whian Whian NSW

1.8 km away

Whian Whian State Conservation Area

National Parks and Reserves

Whian Whian State Conservation Area

Just to the north of Lismore, Whian Whian State Conservation Area was formed to protect an area that surrounds Nightcap National Park. This charming area and its surrounds are chock-full of fantastic, fun things to do outdoors. It's a great spot from which to enjoy some of the day walks in the area, take a picnic, or go on a mountain bike ride. For longer adventures, you can base yourself at the tranquil forest setting at Rummery Park campground. This small but well-equipped campground is popular with overnight bushwalkers undertaking the Historic Nightcap track from Mount Nardi, some 18km to the west. There are plenty of trails in Whian Whian and Nightcap, where you can hike, cycle, or even horse ride among the ancient towering kauri, bunya and hoop pines. Native Australian animals such as goannas, kookaburras and brushtail possums will accompany your adventures, as well as threatened species such as the spotted-tailed quoll, koalas and Albert's lyrebird.

Jiggi NSW

2.0 km away

Boggy Creek Walk — Image credit: Photo: John Spencer

Natural Attractions

Boggy Creek Walk

Boggy Creek walk is an easy, short walk that allows you to meander through the rainforest at your leisure between Minyon falls and Rummery Park campground in Whian Whian State Conservation Area. The walk is a great one for the kids and is popular throughout the seasons. In the cooler months, it’s much quieter and you might even find you have the area all to yourself. Along the way, you can relax by swimming in the many pools near the creek side section of the walk. This area is lovely; large turpentine trees, water gums and brushbox line the creek, as well as blackbutts and flooded gum. Stop for lunch at Rummery Park campground or head back and take in the breathtaking views at Minyon Falls lookout, where Repentance Creek plunges over 100 metres, flowing down over enormous cliffs that were once part of the Tweek Volcano. If you still feel like walking, Minyon Falls walking track starts from Minyon Falls.

Repentance Creek NSW

2.2 km away

Minyon Loop Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: OEH/Natasha Webb

Natural Attractions

Minyon Loop Walking Track

Minyon Falls walking track offers the opportunity to experience a range of forests, pristine creeks and a spectacular waterfall in Nightcap National Park. Winding through Nightcap escarpment, in northern NSW, this beautiful track will challenge and delight bushwalking fans in equal measure. Leading through dense rainforest, be sure to lookout for the spectacular stand of old-growth brushbox trees on the western side of Repentance Creek. Stop for a tranquil picnic lunch along the fern-lined creeks. Choose to start this track from either of the picnic areas at Minyon Falls. The track links to Boggy Creek walk, which leads north to Rummery Park campground, in neighbouring Whian Whian State Conservation Area. Spark up one of the free gas barbecues at Minyon Grass picnic area. With its picnic tables and beautiful views of cascading falls and the surrounding forest, this low key spot is a little quieter than the popular picnic spot at Minyon Falls lookout.

Whian Whian NSW

2.3 km away

Minyon Falls lookout

Natural Attractions

Minyon Falls lookout

The view from Minyon Falls lookout is the best in the area. From the lookout platform you can admire not only the falls themselves and the valley beneath, on a clear day you might be lucky and see all the way out to the coast. Watch the cascades flow over Minyon Falls to a deep palm-shaded gorge roughly 100m below, and enjoy the sounds of local wildlife, the peaceful ambience and the spectacular natural surroundings. The tops of the cliffs are forested with Australian eucalypts, like blackbutt and scribbly gum, and a beautiful pool at the base of the falls is an ideal place to cool off and relax. Minyon Falls is great for a quick stop, but if you'd like to spend longer at this majestic location there's a picnic area with plenty of shady trees and picnic tables. There are also a couple of bushwalks that leave from the picnic area, including Boggy Creek walk which leads to Rummery Park campground, and Minyon Falls walking track which takes you down to the base of the falls. And while Minyon Falls does offer stunning vistas and beautiful scenery, it's more than just a spot...

Whian Whian NSW

2.3 km away

Minyon Grass picnic area — Image credit: DPIE

Natural Attractions

Minyon Grass picnic area

On the eastern edge of Nightcap National Park, near Lismore, Minyon Grass picnic area has beautiful views of the cascading falls and the surrounding forest. It's a little quieter than popular Minyon Falls lookout, making it ideal for wildlife and birdwatching enthusiasts. Relax at the picnic tables, and enjoy a leisurely lunch on the edge of the rainforest. Look skywards for soaring peregrine falcons, or to the forest floor for brush turkeys and Albert's lyrebird. Male Albert's lyrebirds have long, ribbon-like tail plumes. You might even hear the call of the threatened Fleay's barred frog. If you feel like a walk, head along Minyon Falls walking track and enjoy the invigorating waterfalls close up. The pools at the base of Minyon Falls are a great spot for a refreshing swim on a hot summer day.

Repentance Creek NSW

3.2 km away

Big Scrub Loop Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: B McLachlan

Natural Attractions

Big Scrub Loop Walking Track

Big Scrub loop walking track offers the chance to experience some of the most magnificent subtropical rainforest in NSW. Part of Nightcap National Park, near Lismore, it’s a popular track for community and school groups, with excellent birdwatching opportunities, crystal clear creeks and lush vegetation. From the shallow creek crossing, the track is clearly marked with orange markers so you’ll stay on-path. You’ll see enormous fig trees, giant stinging trees and yellow carabeen towering above, forming part of the rainforest canopy. Beneath the forest giants are lush bangalow palms, black bean and maidens blush, while jackwood and lawyer vine form the understorey. There’s an abundance of birdlife all year round, including Albert’s lyrebirds, brush turkeys and rainforest pigeons.

Whian Whian NSW

4.4 km away

Rocky Creek Dam — Image credit: Lismore City Council

Natural Attractions

Rocky Creek Dam

Patient nature lovers may spot a platypus at Rocky Creek Dam. The dam wall is 27 metres high, 187 metres above sea level and, when full, the dam holds 14,000 mega litres of water. The 29 square kilometres of catchment area include sections of Nightcap National Park, Whian Whian State Forest and revegetated farmland. The dam has a platypus viewing platform, an elevated boardwalk and a pontoon bridge. There are picnic and barbecue facilities with wood supplied, benches, tables and children's play equipment. Four walks are available, ranging from 1.2 kilometres (20 minutes) to six kilometres (two hours) in length. Water Dragon Walk takes you up the hill to the lookout. Platypus Walk goes alongside Rocky Creek and back across the dam wall. Cedar Walk takes you towards the edges of the Rous Water Rainforest Reserve. Scrub Turkey Walk passes through tall a variety of forest environments.

Dunoon NSW

4.4 km away

Protestors Falls walking track — Image credit: Nightcap National Park

Natural Attractions

Protesters Falls Walking Track

Nestled in the rugged ranges of Nightcap National Park, World Heritage-listed Protesters Falls walking track leads through magnificent rainforest to a spectacular waterfall. An ideal short walk for families and nature-lovers, it’s a great stop on a driving tour of the beautiful NSW North Coast hinterland, near Lismore. Named after the Terania Creek protests of the late 1970s that saved this precious patch of pristine rainforest, it’s an important habitat for a range of endangered frogs, including the threatened Fleay’s barred frog and pouched frog. As you walk along this easy track, you’ll notice how subtropical bangalow palms and native tamarind give way to towering rainforest giants of yellow carabeen and strangler figs. Listen out for the call of the rose-crowned fruit dove and the barred cuckoo-shrike. You might even see a pademelon darting through the bush. If you’ve worked up an appetite, enjoy a leisurely lunch at Terania Creek picnic area.

Nightcap NSW

6.8 km away

Terania Creek picnic area

Natural Attractions

Terania Creek picnic area

The grassy Terania Creek picnic area is an ideal place to relax for a picnic or barbecue lunch with family and friends in Nightcap National Park, near Lismore. This special area has a rich history of conservation and was the site of historic protests to save it from further logging. Beyond its natural beauty, Terania Creek holds an incredible story of passionate environmental protection that played a key role in preserving our World-Heritage listed rainforests. Sculptural elements throughout this location bring this history to life. Pause for a moment to take them in and learn about the the protests to protect Terania Creek for future generations. The rainforest setting, home to birds and goannas, is sure to delight children and adults alike, and the secrets of Terania Creek are waiting to be discovered. If you need to work up an appetite before your picnic or feel like stretching your legs after a tasty barbecue, the easy Protesters Falls walking track starts from near the carpark.

Nightcap NSW

7.2 km away

Mt Matheson Loop — Image credit: Lismore and Nimbin Tourism

Natural Attractions

Mt Matheson Loop

Experience the variety of the unique landscape along the Mount Matheson loop. On this short walking track, you’ll hike through the lush rainforest that encircles Mount Matheson, before reaching the dramatic cliff edges that feature eucalypt forests. It’s not a long walk but some might find it challenging, so you’ll need to be reasonably fit, and remember to bring plenty of water. The walk starts and ends at Mount Nardi picnic area, a small grassy area with a couple of barbecues and a picnic table. You may want to use this loop walk to reach the Pholis Gap or historic Nightcap walking tracks. Pholis Gap is a good option to extend the loop into a day walk, and you can take the Nightcap track if you’d like to do some overnight walking and bush camping. Length and Duration: 3 kilometres, 1.5 hours, easy-moderate Location: Mt Nardi, Nightcap National Park Travel Information: For opening times, fees, weather and climate information, maps and up-to-date access and road conditions see the NSW National Parks and Wildlife website.

Nightcap NSW

7.8 km away

Nightcap National Park

National Parks and Reserves

Nightcap National Park

Nightcap National Park, part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, is a dramatically beautiful park full of ancient rainforests, magical waterways and spectacular views. The lush rainforest provides a home for the newly discovered nightcap oak as well as a number of threatened animal species, including Albert's lyrebird and Fleay's barred frog which takes shelter under leaf litter and makes an 'ok-ok-ok-ok-ok' after rain. With easy access from Lismore and Nimbin, you can enjoy a picnic, bushwalk or overnight camping trip amid the park's escarpments, waterfalls and crystal clear creeks and enjoy incredible views of the 20 million year-old Wollumbin shield volcano. Learn more about the special origin of this park and the protests to protect Terania Creek.

Nightcap NSW

7.8 km away

The Crystal Guardians — Image credit: Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens

Natural Attractions

Crystal Castle and Shambhala Gardens

Discover the world's largest collection of giant crystals, set within 10 hectares of private subtropical botanical gardens in the Byron Bay hinterland. Wander through lush rainforest, peaceful gardens and sacred spaces to experience one of Australia's most unique visitor attractions. Stand between the towering Crystal Guardians, the tallest smoky quartz geodes ever found at 5.5 metres tall. Sit inside the Dragon Egg, a 120-million-year-old amethyst crystal cave, and marvel at the spectacular 20-tonne Enchanted Cave, filled with millions of sparkling amethyst crystals. Explore a regenerated rainforest with more than 14,000 native trees, walk the Crystal Labyrinth inspired by the 800-year-old Chartres Cathedral, and visit the Kalachakra World Peace Stupa, personally blessed by His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Your entry pass includes a Guided Tour, Crystal Sound Healing sessions and Crystal Meditation every day. Families will love the seasonal children's treasure hunt and the Rose Quartz Dragon playground. Relax over wholesome meals at the Lotus Café before browsing Castle Jewels for crystals, artisan jewellery and meaningful gifts. A truly unforgettable experience awaits.

Montecollum NSW

9.6 km away

Protesters Falls — Image credit: Lismore City Council

Natural Attractions

Protesters Falls

Located in World Heritage Nightcap National Park, Protesters Falls is a must-see while exploring the Lismore Hinterland. The easy 1.4 kilometre walk from Terania Creek Picnic Area winds its way through the Bangalow palm forest to the base of the falls. Swimming is not permitted in the area as it is home to the endangered Fleay's barred frog. Protesters Falls and Terania Creek is home to the first successful anti-logging protest in 1979.

The Channon NSW

9.7 km away

Mount Matheson Loop — Image credit: Photo: John Spencer

Natural Attractions

Mount Matheson Loop

Experience the variety of the unique landscape along the Mount Matheson loop. On this short walking track you’ll hike through the lush rainforest that encircles Mount Matheson, before reaching the dramatic cliff edges that feature eucalypt forests. It’s not a long walk but some might find it challenging, so you’ll need to be reasonably fit, and remember to bring plenty of water. The walk starts and ends at Mount Nardi picnic area, a small grassy area with a couple of barbecues and a picnic table. You may want to use this loop walk to reach the Pholis Gap or historic Nightcap walking tracks. Pholis Gap is a good option to extend the loop into a day walk, and you can take the Nightcap track if you’d like to do some overnight walking and bush camping.

Nightcap NSW

10 km away

Pholis Gap Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: B. McLachlan

Natural Attractions

Pholis Gap Walking Track

Pholis Gap walking track is perfect if you’re looking for spectacular views across to Wollumbin-Mount Warning and the dramatic mountains of the Nightcap escarpment. Situated in northern NSW, this moderate walking track offers spectacular mountain scenery, and is ideal for families and keen birdwatchers. Starting at Mount Nardi, the track meanders through lush rainforest of yellow carabeen and towering brushbox. You might see Albert’s lyrebirds and brush turkeys darting through the understorey. Descending westwards, look for grass trees and New England blackbutt along the drier ridges. Reaching Pholis Gap, gaze across the surrounding valleys that were once a part of a volcanic crater. Looking to the skies, you might be lucky to see a peregrine falcon surfing on the updrafts.

Nightcap NSW

11 km away

Mount Nardi Picnic Area — Image credit: Photo: John Spencer

Natural Attractions

Mount Nardi Picnic Area

Surrounded by rainforest in Nightcap National Park, Mount Nardi picnic area is a birdwatching haven and the starting point for many exhilarating walking tracks. It’s a long and winding road through lush rainforest to get to Mount Nardi picnic area, but on arrival you’ll know it is well worth it. This picnic area is the highest point in Nightcap National Park, and the view through the clearings of the Northern Rivers district, taking in Lismore and Nimbin, is superb. The cleared, grassy picnic area is surrounded by tall trees, including towering booyong, also known as tulip oak, as well as maiden’s blush, with its cream flowers that appear in October and November. It’s also the starting point for a range of hikes including Mount Matheson loop, Pholis Gap and Nightcap walking tracks. You might see some rainforest locals as you’re having lunch as brightly coloured rainforest pigeons are common, as is the tiny eastern yellow robin. Small marsupials like potoroos and pademelons also live in the surrounding forest.

Nimbin NSW

11 km away

Scarrabelotti's Lookout Tower

Natural Attractions

Scarrabelotti's Lookout Tower

Scarrabelotti's Lookout Tower is a scenic lookout located on Coolamon Scenic Drive in Coorabell, within the Byron hinterland. The tower provides elevated views across the surrounding countryside, taking in rolling green hills, rural landscapes, and distant coastal vistas. It is a popular stop for visitors exploring the hinterland due to its peaceful setting and excellent photo opportunities. The lookout offers a unique perspective of the region's natural beauty and is an ideal place to appreciate the contrast between the lush hinterland and the nearby coastline. Easily accessible by road, Scarrabelotti's Lookout Tower is a memorable destination for sightseers, photographers, and anyone seeking panoramic views of the Byron Shire landscape.

Coorabell NSW

12 km away

Flourish Sanctuary — Image credit: Lismore City Council

Spas and Retreats

Flourish Sanctuary

Flourish Sanctuary is a spiritual retreat centre nestled in the heart of Nimbin, NSW, surrounded by stunning natural beauty and tranquillity. The team are dedicated to providing a space where guests can rejuvenate their mind, body, and spirit through various retreat programs, workshops and activities. They have a variety of different accommodation options available, enquire with their team to book your next stay.

Nimbin NSW

13 km away

Goorgana Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: Kerrie Metzler

Natural Attractions

Goorgana Walking Track

Exhilarating Goorgana walking track will, quite literally, take the most experienced mountain hikers to new levels. Taking in some of the most iconic peaks in the rugged western terrain in Nightcap National Park, this steep, challenging track is definitely not for the faint-hearted. This unmarked track leads from the lookout along Pholis Gap walking track and is best-suited to small groups of highly-skilled bushwalkers who can confidently navigate without directional signage. Taking in Mount Nardi, there are spectacular views to Wollumbin-Mount Warning in the north. Goorgana walking track has overgrown patches, a maze of old logging tracks, and steep slopes which will challenge even the most skilled walkers. This World Heritage rainforest is teeming with wildlife for you to see, including peregrine falcons, long-nosed potoroos and pademelons.

Nightcap NSW

13 km away

St Helena lookout

Natural Attractions

St Helena lookout

Located a short 15-minute drive from Byron Town Centre, St Helena Lookout boasts some of the area's most spectacular views. Overlooking Byron Bay and the beautiful hinterland, you can see everything from the lush greenery to the sparkling sea. This elevated perch is perfect for photographers looking to capture Byron's picturesque landscapes.

Coorabell NSW

14 km away

Nimbin Rainbow Walk — Image credit: Lismore City Council

Natural Attractions

Nimbin Rainbow Walk

Step into a vibrant journey where nature, creativity, and community spirit come together on the Nimbin Rainbow Walk. This 750-metre scenic trail offers locals and visitors a safe, accessible, and inspiring way to explore the lush beauty of Nimbin's natural landscape, while also celebrating its rich cultural and artistic heritage. Follow the gently winding path, thoughtfully designed with formed walkways, charming boardwalks, and small bridges that guide you through shaded greenery, native gardens, and serene viewing points. As you stroll, be inspired by captivating local artworks and interpretive storytelling signage, including pieces by local artist Ross Wallace, sharing stories that connect the land to its people and past. The Nimbin Rainbow Walk links Nimbin Village to the town's vibrant recreation precinct, including the playground, skatepark, swimming pool, and Aquarius Park. Designed with inclusivity in mind, the majority of the trail is accessible for all ages and abilities, so everyone can enjoy the experience at their own pace. Whether you're walking with kids, using a mobility aid, or simply enjoying a peaceful stroll, you'll find the Nimbin Rainbow Walk welcoming and easy to navigate. Additional amenities include bike racks, newly upgraded toilets, and ample parking at the Nimbin Pool entrance. The trail is dog-friendly too—just remember to keep your furry friend on a leash.

Nimbin NSW

14 km away

House of Alwaans

Shopping and Markets

House of Alwaans

House of Alwaans, located on the main street in Clunes, is a boutique store that specialises in a vibrant selection of handmade crafts and art from Arabia. The shops showcases a variety of unique items including Moroccan rugs, home decor and other artisanal products. Their collection is colourful and diverse with their handcrafted goods allowing customers to add a touch of exotic elegance to their homes.

Clunes NSW

14 km away

Nimbin Skatepark — Image credit: Lismore City Council

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Nimbin Skatepark

This park is amazing and features loads of bowls, snake run and lines for miles. There are also some small street style elements to keep everyone happy. This park is a must stop, located close to the Nimbin swimming pool, bowls club and main street. There are plenty of shaded areas to sit, relax and enjoy a picnic.

Nimbin NSW

14 km away

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