Trail Running in Lamington National Park
Lamington National Park protects one of the largest remaining areas of subtropical rainforest in Australia, sitting on the rim of an ancient volcano on Githabul and Kombumerri Country. The Border Track, running 54 km along the McPherson Range to New South Wales, is one of the great long-distance trail running challenges in the country. Shorter options through the Binna Burra and Green Mountains sections reward runners with tree-root singletrack, creek crossings, suspension bridges, and constant canopy cover. Bird life is extraordinary, with up to 193 species recorded in the park.
Region
Gold Coast Hinterland, QLD
Difficulty
Moderate to Challenging
Best Seasons
Autumn, Winter, Spring
Trails
4 featured
Terrain
Dense rainforest singletrack with exposed roots, creek crossings, suspension bridges, and volcanic rim ridge trails. Surfaces become very slippery when wet and require attentive footwork.
Best Trails
Border Track
ChallengingThe classic Queensland ultra route from Green Mountains (O'Reilly's) to Binna Burra along the volcanic rim.
Rainforest singletrack with roots and creek crossings
Python Rock and Morans Falls Circuit
ModerateCombines two of the best lookouts and the park's most photogenic waterfall in a single loop.
Rainforest singletrack
Caves Circuit
ModeratePasses through carved-out cave formations and delivers ridge views toward the coast.
Rooted rainforest track and open ridge
Albert River Circuit
ChallengingA remote lower gorge loop with significant creek crossings and almost no other runners on weekdays.
Rooted singletrack and creek crossings
Gear Recommendations
Trail shoes with aggressive lugs for wet roots and muddy creek banks
The rainforest is humid year-round, carry more water than you think you need
Leech socks or gaiters are recommended during and after wet weather
The Border Track requires navigation skills and an overnight kit if splitting over two days
Safety Tips
Wet roots in the rainforest are extremely slippery, reduce pace after rain
Creek levels can rise rapidly during storms, check conditions before runs with creek crossings
The Border Track is remote and sections have no mobile coverage, a PLB is strongly recommended
Register your planned route with O'Reilly's or Binna Burra staff when attempting the Border Track
Getting There
O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat at Green Mountains (1.5 hrs from Gold Coast, 2 hrs from Brisbane) and Binna Burra Lodge are the two main access points. The Binna Burra Lodge was rebuilt after fires and has resumed operations.
Post-Run Refuel
O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat has a restaurant and bar open to day visitors. In Canungra, Flying Tiger Coffee is excellent and the Canungra Hotel does solid pub meals.
Local Trail Events
Scenic Rim Trail Run
50K and 25KTakes in the Lamington hinterland and Scenic Rim ridgelines, with the subtropical rainforest providing a dramatic backdrop for the 50K option.
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MoteraFrequently Asked Questions
How hard is the Border Track in Lamington National Park?
The Border Track is 54 km with over 2100m of cumulative elevation on rooted, often slippery rainforest singletrack. It is suitable for experienced trail runners with strong navigation. Allow 7-12 hours or split over two days.
What are shorter trail options in Lamington for beginners?
The Python Rock and Morans Falls Circuit (9 km) and Caves Circuit (10 km) are excellent moderate options for runners new to the park.
When is the best time to run in Lamington National Park?
Autumn to spring (April to October) is best. Summer brings heavy rainfall and high humidity. The rainforest is beautiful year-round but trails can be very muddy in wet season.
Are leeches a problem in Lamington?
Yes, especially during and after wet weather. Leech socks or gaiters are recommended. They are harmless but persistent. DEET on shoes and socks helps deter them.
How do I access Lamington National Park for trail running?
The two main access points are O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat (Green Mountains) and Binna Burra Lodge, both about 1.5-2 hours from the Gold Coast or Brisbane.
