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Orara Escarpment 4WD touring route

North Coast

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Overview

Orara Escarpment 4WD touring route goes from Coffs Harbour through pristine forest, with spectacular waterfalls and idyllic picnic and swimming spots along the way.

Distance
80km
Time suggested
3hrs
Grade
Medium
What to
bring
Drinking water, hat, sunscreen
Please note

Check the weather before you set out as Orara Escarpment 4WD touring route relies on dry weather-only roads

Orara Escarpment 4WD touring route is a great day trip for the whole family. The 80km round-trip from Coffs Harbour travels through remote eucalypt forests and subtropical rainforests, with plenty of picnic and swimming spots along the way.

Climb over 600m as you make your way up the Orara Escarpment, then drive through rainforest and eucalypt forest to the spectacular Bangalore Falls. Stand on the lookout, listen to the waterfall, and take in the dramatic views.

Stop for a picnic here, or continue through subtropical rainforest to Urumbilum picnic area. Make sure you take a short walk downstream to discover Urumbilum Falls.

Head back through tree ferns, hoop pine and cabbage tree palms on Range Road and see magnificent old-growth forest along Langleys Road. If you enjoy birdwatching, keep your eyes out for lyrebirds, bush turkeys and glossy black-cockatoos along the way.

For directions, safety and practical information, see visitor info

Also see

  • Urumbilum River, Bindarri National Park. Photo: Shane Ruming

    Plateau Circuit loop trail

    Cycle through lush subtropical rainforest and eucalypt forest. See spectacular waterfalls and enjoy beautiful picnic and swimming spots, close to Coffs Harbour.

  • Urumbilum River, Bindarri National Park. Photo: Shane Ruming

    Bindarray picnic area

    Escape the crowds and head to Bindarray picnic area. Enjoy 4WD touring, birdwatching, wildlife watching, swimming, liloing, paddling and picnicking by Urumbilum River.

 

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A family walk a boardwalk section of Bouddi coastal walk, Bouddi National Park. Photo: John Spencer/OEH.

 

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Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) in a tree. Photo: Courtesy of Taronga Zoo/OEH