Bower Camp Co Girraween to Gondwana Walking Tour - Twin Share

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Ten days that join Bower Camp Co.'s two guided walking tours: four nights in canvas tents among the granite domes of Girraween, two nights in a heritage pub in Murwillumbah with a day on the rail trail by e-bike, then three nights in the World Heritage rainforest of the Border Ranges. Guides carry lunch and the group gear, chefs cook every camp meal, and every transfer from Brisbane and back is included.

Days

10 days, 9 nights

Group size

Max 16

Start / finish

Brisbane / Girraween / Murwillumbah / Border Ranges / Brisbane
Brisbane, mid-to-late afternoon

Return

Brisbane, mid-to-late afternoon

Accommodation

7 nights in canvas tents with real beds at two national park camps, 2 nights at The Imperial Hotel, Murwillumbah

Transport

All transfers by road from Brisbane and back, plus a full day on an e-bike

Meals

7 breakfasts, 7 picnic lunches and 7 campfire dinners at camp; Murwillumbah meals your own

Route

Map of Bower Camp Co Girraween to Gondwana Walking Tour - Twin Share

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Included experiences

Terrawambella (The Pyramid) — guided summit walk and the Granite Arch
Castle Rock, the Sphinx and Turtle Rock — 10 km granite day in Girraween
Northern Rivers Rail Trail — self-guided e-bike day through the glow-worm tunnel
Brindle Creek Track — Antarctic beech forest to Evans and Selva Falls
Booyong Track and Rosewood Loop — rainforest, waterfalls and a stargazing walk
Pinnacle Lookout — view over Wollumbin and the Tweed Valley

Bower Camp Co Girraween to Gondwana Walking Tour - Twin Share

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Itinerary

Map

DAY 1: BRISBANE TO GIRRAWEEN

Pick-up is at Brisbane Airport around 11am or the city around 11:30am. The road runs south-west through the Scenic Rim to Main Range National Park, where lunch is a picnic and a short walk in rainforest that is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area. Then it's up over the Great Dividing Range to the Granite Belt, about two and a half hours from Brisbane. You reach the private campground in Girraween National Park in the late afternoon, tents up and afternoon tea waiting. After a camp briefing there's a short walk to the creek for your first look at the granite, then dinner around the campfire.

Overnight: Girraween National Park (canvas tent camp)

DAY 2: TERRAWAMBELLA AND THE GRANITE ARCH

After breakfast your guide leads the climb of Terrawambella, also known as The Pyramid, a bare granite dome you walk straight up on grippy rock. The steep section is optional, and the guides brief you before it. From the top the view runs across a sea of boulders to the hills of the New England in New South Wales, since the park sits right on the state border. On the way back you pass the Granite Arch, a natural archway of balanced boulders. The day is 6 to 10 km over 4 to 6 hours, with a picnic lunch the guides carry. Back at camp there's time for a swim in the creek.

Overnight: Girraween National Park (canvas tent camp)

DAY 3: THE JUNCTION

A gentler day of about 8 km and 4 to 6 hours follows Bald Rock Creek through red gum woodland to The Junction, where two creeks meet among granite slabs. Lunch is laid out beside the water, and the granite pools are good for a swim before the walk back. Girraween means 'place of flowers' in the language of the Kambuwal people, and from late winter into spring the woodland lights up with wildflowers, from yellow wattle to heath and bright pea flowers. Eastern grey kangaroos graze around camp in the late afternoon, and the birdlife is busy all day.

Overnight: Girraween National Park (canvas tent camp)

DAY 4: CASTLE ROCK, THE SPHINX AND TURTLE ROCK

The last full walking day covers about 10 km in 4 to 6 hours. From the top of Castle Rock the view runs all the way round, over domes and tors to the far ranges. The route then passes the Sphinx, a tall stack of balanced boulders, and Turtle Rock, from where the Sphinx stands out in full profile. These shapes are granite that cooled deep underground, then weathered along its cracks into rounded blocks once the softer rock above wore away. In the evening the group gathers for the final campfire dinner, and the stars here are bright, with very little town light.

Overnight: Girraween National Park (canvas tent camp)

DAY 5: GIRRAWEEN TO MURWILLUMBAH

After breakfast the group leaves camp around 9:30am and drives east to Murwillumbah, a river town on the Tweed at the foot of Wollumbin (Mount Warning). You check in to The Imperial Hotel, the town's pink pub, in the early afternoon. The rest of the day is yours. The Tweed Regional Gallery, on a hill just out of town, holds a re-creation of the painter Margaret Olley's Sydney home studio and looks straight across the cane fields to Wollumbin. Dinner is your own choice tonight, in the hotel or at a café or restaurant in town.

Overnight: Murwillumbah (The Imperial Hotel)

DAY 6: THE NORTHERN RIVERS RAIL TRAIL BY E-BIKE

Today is a self-guided day on two wheels. Better By Bike supplies an e-bike, helmet and safety gear for the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, which follows the old railway line 24 km between Murwillumbah and Crabbes Creek. Because it was built for trains, the grades are long and gentle, and the pedal assist does the rest. The trail runs through rainforest and farmland, past the old station at Stokers Siding and over heritage rail bridges, then through the Burringbar Range Tunnel, 524 metres long, unlit and cut through solid rock in 1894, where glow worms and microbats live. A shuttle brings you back. Meals today are your own.

Overnight: Murwillumbah (The Imperial Hotel)

DAY 7: MURWILLUMBAH TO THE BORDER RANGES

A late-morning transfer takes you up to Sheepstation Creek in Border Ranges National Park, on the northern rim of the ancient Tweed volcano, which erupted about 23 million years ago. You arrive in the early afternoon, with tents up and afternoon tea ready. After a camp briefing there's a short walk to Brushbox Falls, then the first campfire dinner of this second camp. At dusk, red-necked pademelons, small rainforest wallabies, come out to graze around the tents, and the forest is busy with birds: more than 180 species have been recorded in the park.

Overnight: Sheepstation Creek, Border Ranges National Park (canvas tent camp)

DAY 8: BOOYONG TRACK TO THE ROSEWOOD LOOP

The 9 km walk follows the Booyong Track to the Rosewood Loop, past clear creeks, old volcanic rock and small waterfalls, with a packed lunch in the forest beside the water. These are the largest areas of subtropical rainforest left on earth, full of strangler figs and buttressed trunks. Look for regent and satin bowerbirds, and listen for Albert's lyrebird, which lives only in this small corner of the border ranges and mimics almost anything it hears. After dinner a short evening walk leads out of the trees to a clear patch of sky for stargazing.

Overnight: Sheepstation Creek, Border Ranges National Park (canvas tent camp)

DAY 9: BRINDLE CREEK TO EVANS FALLS

After a short drive to the trailhead, the 10 km Brindle Creek Track runs under tall hoop pines and through cool temperate forest of Antarctic beech. These mossy trees are relatives of beeches that grew across Gondwana when Australia, Antarctica and South America were joined, and some clumps here are thought to be thousands of years old. Helmholtzia lilies line the creek. The track reaches Evans Falls and Selva Falls, with a picnic and a swim in the pool below the falls if you're brave enough for rainforest water. The last night in camp is around the fire.

Overnight: Sheepstation Creek, Border Ranges National Park (canvas tent camp)

DAY 10: THE PINNACLE AND BACK TO BRISBANE

After a last camp breakfast, a short drive and walk lead to The Pinnacle, a narrow ridge on the rim of the old volcano. Below you the cliffs fall away into the caldera, and across the Tweed Valley stands Wollumbin (Mount Warning), 1,156 metres high, the volcano's old central plug and a place of deep cultural importance to the Bundjalung people. It's a fitting last view after ten days that started among the granite domes. Then it's the transfer back north, arriving in Brisbane in the mid-to-late afternoon.

Map

Good to know

Meeting point: Brisbane Airport around 11am, or the Brisbane CBD (Roma Street area) around 11:30am. Exact times are confirmed when you book.
Finishes: Brisbane, in the mid-to-late afternoon of day 10.
Fitness: Moderate. Walks are up to 10 km a day on mostly smooth tracks, with some rocky, steep granite and volcanic sections that are optional. The rail trail has long gentle grades and pedal assist; you need to be comfortable on a bike for several hours.
Suits: Walkers of moderate fitness who like good food and a proper bed. Not suited to anyone with significant mobility limits or who can't manage uneven ground for long periods.
Dietary needs: All dietary needs are catered for at camp; tell us when you book.
Accommodation note: With the twin share option, tents can be set up as twin or king-size double. With the single option you have your own tent at both camps and your own room at the hotel. Girraween camp has a national park amenities block with flush toilets and private washrooms; the Border Ranges camp has compost toilets and a hot-water wash cubicle. Hot water for washing is available on request at both. Imperial Hotel rooms have air conditioning, ensuite, kitchenette and mini-bar.
Please note: Phone reception is patchy in both parks. Winter days at Girraween run around 12 to 18°C with cold nights and frosts; spring brings the wildflowers. Groups are capped at 16.

What to bring

Hiking boots with ankle support and a heavy-duty grip (required for the walking days)
A day pack of about 5 to 7 kg: water, sun hat, camera, waterproof jacket and warm layers
A power bank, as camp charging is solar USB only
Warm clothes for frosty winter nights at Girraween

What is included

Transfer from Brisbane Airport or CBD to Girraween National Park, with a rainforest lunch stop at Main Range National Park
4 nights camping in Girraween National Park, with afternoon tea on arrival, 4 breakfasts, 4 picnic lunches and 4 campfire dinners
Transfer from Girraween to Murwillumbah
2 nights at The Imperial Hotel, Murwillumbah (room only)
Full-day e-bike hire and return shuttle on the Northern Rivers Rail Trail with Better By Bike, with helmet and safety gear
Transfer from Murwillumbah to Border Ranges National Park
3 nights camping in Border Ranges National Park, with afternoon tea on arrival, 3 breakfasts, 3 picnic lunches and 3 campfire dinners
Transfer from Border Ranges National Park back to Brisbane
Experienced walking guides, support staff and onsite chefs at both camps
Premium canvas tents with real mattress beds, organic cotton sheets, pillows and season-appropriate quilts
Trail snacks on walking days
National park fees (Girraween and Border Ranges)
Emergency communications and 24-hour back-up
Group first aid kit
Pre-departure information kit, packing list and weather briefing

Not included

Meals during the two Murwillumbah days
Travel insurance
Personal spending money

FAQ

Preparing for the trip

Do I need to take any medical supplies?

It is not necessary to bring any medical supplies other than any personal items you may require. Each tour carries a first aid box, and the tour guides are all certified in First Aid.

Do I need travel insurance?

Insurance is important in protecting visitors from loss or damange of goods, medical problems, cancelation by passengers or other casualties. Its highly recommended. Some tours on this website require you to have travel insurance. If you are Australian then it is not necessary.

Where can I get more information about this trip?

If you find that this tour page doesn't answer all your questions, then please get in contact with us! Our passionate team are always available to answer any queries you may have.

What immunisations do I need?

For the latest information on immunisations, we strongly recommend you or contact the Travellers Medical and Vaccination Centre (www.traveldoctor.com.au) to discuss health requirements for your trip. They will advise you about appropriate inoculations.

Will I be able to use my mobile whilst on tour?

You can use your mobile while touring in Australia or New Zealand, but coverage may be limited in remote areas. For best connectivity, consider purchasing a local SIM card or an international roaming plan.

How fit do I need to be?

These tours are designed to be fun, informative and active, and can be enjoyed by anyone with a moderate degree of fitness and agility. Travellers should be comfortable with hiking or walking up to 5km each day.

What should I pack?

Depending on where in Australia or New Zealand you decide to visit, your luggage will vary. For exact information please visit the "What to bring" section of each tour page.

Private tours and families

Is it possible to travel in a private group?

If you are looking for a private tour based on one of these trips, please contact us directly and we may be able to help. Over the years we have worked with families, groups of friends, schools, clubs and charities to put together the perfect trip.

Booking the trip

Does the tour price include flights?

No. Tour prices do not include any travel arrangements other than for the duration of the tour itself. If you need assistance with booking flights or buses our travel team and certainly help - Just ask!

How far in advance do I need to book my tour?

As a rule of thumb, try to book at least 2 weeks prior to departure, this will usually get you a seat on the date you want. That being said, we cannot guarantee that spaces will be available at the time of your booking so, if you can, book as soon as possible. Bookings can still be made right up until the departure date of the tour if seats are available. If you know when you'd like to travel, please contact us and we will let you know if you need to book soon or if you have time.

Do I have to book this tour online?

Definitely not. Our website is designed to make is easy and convenient for you to schedule your tour. However we understand sometimes its nice to talk to someone directly. So by all means give us a call and we can organise your trip over the phone.

If I book more than one tour can I get a discount?

Absolutely! If you are booking multiple tours then we may be able to offer you a discount. Send us an email at info@lostinaustralia.org and let us know what you thinking of doing and we can put together a price for you.Also, be sure to look out for monthly specials on tours. We often have some great bargains.

How do I know when a tour is available?

You can check the departure dates of tours by using our calendar on the top right hand corner of the tour page. This will tell you what days the tour departs. For availability of seats please contact us directly at info@lostinaustralia.org or call us.

If I make a deposit only, when will I need to pay the balance?

Balance on tours need to be paid at least 30 days prior to departure. Failure to do so could result is the cancellation of your seat with a fee charged. If you need more time to clear your balance then let us know ASAP and arrangements can be made.

Who travels with us

Is it ok to travel alone on one of these tours?

Plenty of travellers book these tours on their own. Solo travellers are very much welcomed and encouraged. During your outback adventure you'll meet new and interesting people and forge relationships that last a lifetime.Solo travellers will usually share a room with a travelling companion of the same sex, but even if you do get your own room you won't be charged extra. On camping tours there are generally enough tents available that you can have your own if you choose to.For more information please contact us directly.

Cost and Fees

Do I need to tip the guide?

If you had an amazing time on tour and wish to tip your guide, that is completely up to you. Tipping is not customary in Australia and is not at all expected.

Will I need additional money?

Travellers are advised to bring some cash, as ATMs and banks can be few and far between in the remote parts of the trip. It is handy to have some extra cash, as the tour does stop by local shops and cafes.

Are there any hidden fees I need to know about?

Our tour prices are completely transparent. There are no additional fees involved that are not included in the overall tour price shown. If you wish to do optional activities such as helicopter rides or wildlife safaris, then an extra cost may be needed. However, this will always be made clear at the time of your booking.

What does Paid Locally mean?

Some tours require you to pay national park fees directly, in cash, to the tour guide on the morning of departure. Rest assured this will be subtracted from the tour price when reserving your tour.

Whilst on tour

Can I book extra accommodation for the start and end of the tour?

We know our country inside and out and would be happy to give you good recommodations. Please contact us for recommendations.

Where do I meet the tour?

For pick-up times and locations, please check the "Start/Finish" section directly under the itinerary, which lists every pick-up point and its time.There is a lot of information there to help you plan your flights and arrival.Please review it carefully, as pick-ups can vary from tour to tour.