Lyrebird Link
North Coast NSW
Dorrigo National Park
A short family-friendly walk to an interesting art installation suspended in the trees of the rainforest.
This heavily trafficked walk starts from behind the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre in Dorrigo (near the Dorrigo Skywalk), located at the junction of Dome Road and Lyrebird Lane.
The walk takes you down a steep ramp to a constructed viewing platform, where you can look up at the large, metallic Lyrebird art installation suspended in the trees.
At the viewing platform, wording on the stonework in the local Gumbayngirr language (as well as an English translation) extends a ‘balaminda’ (invitation) for you to slow down and take it all in – so take a seat and ‘muyawa’ (breath), ‘maabu-giingana’ (relax) and ‘ngarraahga’ (listen).
After relaxing at the viewing platform, simply return the way you came.
Be sure not to miss the Dorrigo Skywalk Lookout, located near the trailhead, for spectacular views over the park, including the Never Never section, as well as to the Bellinger Valley and beyond to the coast and Pacific Ocean.
Those wishing to stretch their legs further can continue to Crystal Shower Falls and beyond, via the Wonga Walk.
There are toilets, picnic tables and a café and gift store at the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre.
Dorrigo National Park can be visited as part of the 185 km Waterfall Way scenic drive from Coffs Harbour to Armidale.
Track: The track includes a constructed ramp and paved paths. It is well-signed and easy to follow.
Difficulty: The track is suitable for all fitness levels. While the ramp is quite steep, there are hand rails for assistance.
Direction: This is an out-and-back track that returns the way you came.
getting there
The trail starts from behind the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre in Dorrigo, located at the junction of Dome Road and Lyrebird Lane, approximately 5 hours drive south of Brisbane, 1.5 hours drive east of Armidale, 1 hour drive west of Coffs Harbour or 6 hours drive north of Sydney.
Parking is ample, however can become busy during peak times.
best time to go
The walk can be completed year-round.
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.