Border Walk
Country NSW
Bald Rock National Park
View from the lookout
Views to Bald Rock from lookout
Typical section of track
View from the lookout
Click to see full image.
A moderately challenging hike for the nature enthusiasts, this longer walk in the park leads to a lookout with spectacular views back towards Bald Rock and Girraween.
This lightly trafficked walk starts from the Bald Rock campground and picnic area at the end of Bald Rock Access Road.
From the car park, start at the northern end of the picnic area, signed for the Border Walk, Carrolls Creek Walk and Little Bald Rock walking track.
The hike begins along a well-defined fire-trail through eucalyptus forest, along the base of Bald Rock, before heading further south into the park along the Queensland-New South Wales border.
The undulating track has a number of well-signed junctions, where it splits with other tracks, such as the Carrolls Creek Walk. Simply follow signs for the Border Walk.
While the track weaves its way through beautiful eucalypt forest and grassland, there are minimal views until the lookout. However, there are some nice views back toward Bald Rock at approximately the 3.7 km mark, after a small steep section.
Keep an eye out for interesting granite boulders and tors among the forest along the trail.
Approximately 7.7 kms into the walk, continue straight at the junction to reach the ‘Northern Viewing Area’.
At the ‘End of Track’ sign, head right for 100 metres to Bookookoorara Lookout, situated on top of a large collection of boulders. Take care on this section as there are exposed edges and crevasses.
From the lookout, you are treated to fantastic views across the park to the northern face of Bald Rock, as well as views to Little Bald Rock. There are also views to Mount Norman in Girraween National Park.
To complete the loop, back-track to the junction signed for the ‘Northern Viewing Area’ and turn left, following the fire trail back to the Bald Rock Picnic Area.
On the return, you pass through a swampy section, crossing Bookookoorara Creek. Shortly after, continue straight at the junction, following signs back to the picnic area (left is the Fairy Valley Fire Trail).
The picnic area includes toilets, BBQs and picnic tables (covered and uncovered), all nestled within beautiful forest.
Track: The track involves a series of well-defined undulating fire-trails, before a short scramble across some large boulders at Bookookoorara Lookout. The walk is well-signed and relatively easy-to follow.
Difficulty: This is a moderately challenging walk, suitable for those with moderate fitness levels. The fire-trails are undulating. The lookout is exposed, with sheer drops and crevasses between the boulders, so caution must be exercised.
Direction: This is a loop track. While it can be done in either direction, it is recommended to complete the walk in a clockwise direction.
getting there
This trail starts from the Bald Rock campground and picnic area at the end of Bald Rock Access Road in Carrolls Creek, 3.5 hours drive south-west of Brisbane.
The car park is typically ample 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 track closures.
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.