Walk among the trees
Guide–
Nat Woods
@nat.woods_
Inspired by John Wolseley’s intimate observation of nature? Step outside into our lush backyard and stroll slowly through the trees. Breathe deeply. Open your eyes to the tiny details and abundant life. Who knows what you might see.
Bar Mountain Circuit, Border Ranges National Park
4km loop, 2-3 hours
Wander beneath the tall canopy of ancient trees, following the sound of the wind rushing through the valley ahead, before emerging at the lookout with trees as far as the eye can see.
Walk On Water, Tweed Heads Historic Site
1km loop, 30-45 minutes
This short wheelchair-accessible walk takes you through beautiful eucalypt forests, woodlands, and out along a boardwalk over the mangroves. The walk starts at the Minjungbal Aboriginal Cultural Centre in South Tweed Heads. Check out the centre and then take a self-guided walk or join a guided tour to learn more about the bush food and cultural significance of this site.
Tallow Creek (pictured), Arakwal National Park
1.7km return, 50 minutes
One of my favourite walks to regularly clear my head before or after work. Start at the end of Scott Street (or if you want a longer walk, start at the beach entrance on Beachcomber Drive). Walk to the beach, keeping an eye out for the Rainbow Bee-eaters and Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoos that call the park home. Once on the beach head south until you reach Tallow Creek, another great spot for wildlife watching. From Tallow Creek you can head back up the beach or take the fire trail behind the dunes back to your starting point.
Christmas Beach, Brunswicks Head Nature Reserve
1km return, 30 minutes
Start from the end of North Head Road and follow the dirt road through the coastal ecosystem, emerging at Christmas Beach and the north breakwall. A great place for a short walk and swim with little ones.
Big Scrub Loop, Nightcap National Park
1.5km loop, 30-60 minutes
One of the last remaining patches of big scrub forest, this short walk takes you deep beneath the tall rainforest canopy. A beautiful spot to escape the noise of the modern world. Head towards Rocky Creek Dam Road, take Gibbergunyah Range Road (small dirt road across the cattle grid), until you find the sign for the walk at the end. Cross the creek causeway and follow the arrows.
** Tread lightly—Remember that these ecosystems are fragile and we all have a role in protecting them. Leave only footprints. Collect any rubbish you find. Don’t remove anything from the parks. And respect others to have their own experience by not playing loud music on these quiet walks.
Originally published in Paradiso Issue 09