Beech Lookout
North Coast NSW
Cunnawarra National Park
A less popular lookout but still very beautiful, with views to the Georges River and surrounding ranges.
This lightly trafficked location is found at the signed car park and picnic area off Styx Forest Way. It is a short stroll across the grass to the lookout.
The lookout offers lovely views over lush rainforest and the headwaters of Georges River to the surrounding ranges, including the Cunnawarra and Botumburra ranges. There are also views further to the Macleay River valley.
Some of New South Wales’ tallest trees – forest ribbon gums – are located just below the lookout and can grow up to 70 metres tall and 3 metres in diameter. There are also ancient Antarctic beech trees scattered among the forest.
Note that the road to the lookout is unsealed and very rutted and bumpy in places. A 4WD or high-clearance vehicle is recommended.
Cunnawarra National Park, which is very clos to New England National Park, can be visited as part of the 185 km Waterfall Way scenic drive from Coffs Harbour to Armidale.
Track: There is no real track, with the lookout just a short stroll across the picnic area from the car park.
Difficulty: The path to the lookout is flat and so is wheelchair accessible (some assistance may be required).
Direction: This is an out-and-back track that returns the way it came.
getting there
The lookout is located approximately 2 kms up Styx Forest Way, off Point Lookout Road, in Ebor – approximately 5.25 hours drive south of Brisbane, 1 hour drive east of Armidale, 2 hours drive west of Coffs Harbour or 6.5 hours drive north of Sydney.
The road to the lookout is unsealed and very rutted and bumpy in places. A 4WD or high-clearance vehicle is recommended.
Parking is limited, but typically sufficient for how trafficked the walk is.
best time to go
The walk can be completed year-round.
Be sure to check the New South Wales Parks and Wildlife Service website for updates regarding flooding and track closures, especially given the state of the unsealed road used to access the lookout.
Note that there are park fees associated with entering many national parks in New South Wales. Check the New South Wales Parks and Wildlife Service website for more information.
Remember, whenever venturing into the outdoors, practice the Leave No Trace principles and be considerate of others. This means: dispose of your waste properly, don't remove things or move things from their natural position and respect all wildlife. Also be sure to plan ahead and adequately prepare for any adventure.
I respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which all activities listed on this website are found, as well as Elders past, present and emerging. I strive to not promote sites where requests have been made for people not to explore due to the cultural significance of the site to Indigenous peoples, or note how to respectfully visit a site. If I have a promoted a site with cultural significance, please send me a message and let me know.