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Dorrigo National Park

National Park in New South Wales

National ParkUNESCO
Claire AshworthWritten by Claire Ashworth· Updated Apr 2026

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World Heritage Status

Status
UNESCO World Heritage Site

About Dorrigo National Park

Dorrigo National Park protects an outstanding area of subtropical and warm temperate rainforest on the Dorrigo Plateau, forming part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area. The park contains some of the most accessible and impressive rainforest in NSW, with an elevated Sky Walk boardwalk providing views over the rainforest canopy. The park is exceptionally rich in bird life and contains several spectacular waterfalls.

About

Dorrigo National Park protects an outstanding area of subtropical and warm temperate rainforest on the Dorrigo Plateau, forming part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area. The park contains some of the most accessible and impressive rainforest in NSW, with an elevated Sky Walk boardwalk providing views over the rainforest canopy. The park is exceptionally rich in bird life and contains several spectacular waterfalls.

History & Significance

Dorrigo National Park protects part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, a UNESCO World Heritage Area recognised for its outstanding subtropical and warm temperate rainforest ecosystems. The park sits on the Dorrigo Plateau and represents a significant surviving example of ancient rainforest that once covered much of eastern Australia. The Sky Walk boardwalk was developed to provide accessible canopy-level views whilst minimising impact on the forest floor.

Sources & References

Warnings

Some Tracks Become Very Slippery After RainLeeches Year-RoundLimited Phone Coverage On Longer Tracks

Getting There

Map of Dorrigo National Park

Drive 580 km north of Sydney via Pacific Highway to Coffs Harbour, then Waterfall Way inland 25 km to Dorrigo. Alternatively drive east from Armidale.

Parking

Parking available at Dorrigo Rainforest Centre with standard capacity. Some parking areas have fees; check signage on arrival. Accessible parking available near the Centre for visitors with mobility requirements.

Visitor Tips

  • The Rainforest Centre has free entry and excellent displays. The Sky Walk is the best quick introduction to the rainforest for time-poor visitors.

Cultural Significance

Dorrigo National Park protects part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, a UNESCO World Heritage Area recognised for its outstanding subtropical and warm temperate rainforest ecosystems. The park sits on the Dorrigo Plateau and represents a significant surviving example of ancient rainforest that once covered much of eastern Australia. The Sky Walk boardwalk was developed to provide accessible canopy-level views whilst minimising impact on the forest floor.

Sources & References

Quick Facts

At a Glance

The Place

UNESCO
World Heritage Site
Significance
World Heritage

Plan Your Visit

Entry
Paid
Duration
Half day to full day
Best Time
Year-round; Spring (September–November) for bird activity
Hours
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Location

Region
Coffs Harbour / New England
State
New South Wales

Good to Know

Wheelchair AccessibleAll ages — Sky Walk boardwalk is wheelchair accessible; shorter walks suit families with young children, whilst longer tracks like Wonga Walk (6.6 km) suit older kids and adults.

Highlights

Crystal Shower Falls (Walk-Behind)Tristania FallsWonga Walk Circuit (6.6 Km)Sky Walk Elevated BoardwalkGondwana World Heritage Rainforest

Activities

WalkingBirdwatchingPhotographyWaterfall ViewingRainforest Interpretation

Family & Visitor Info

Ages
All ages — Sky Walk boardwalk is wheelchair accessible; shorter walks suit families with young children, whilst longer tracks like Wonga Walk (6.6 km) suit older kids and adults.
Shade/Cover
Good shade/cover
Pram Friendly
Yes

Food & Drink

CafePicnic AreaBYO Food OK

Cafe at Dorrigo Rainforest Centre; picnic areas throughout park for BYO meals.

Features

Available:Wheelchair Accessible
Not available:Dog Friendly
Available:Pram/Stroller Friendly
Not available:Camping Available
Not available:Tours Available
Not available:Guided Walks
Not available:Swimming Allowed
Not available:Lockers Available

Facilities

Dorrigo Rainforest CentreCafeToiletsParkingSky Walk BoardwalkMultiple Walking Tracks

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