Wishing Tree & Mick's Tower Track
Scenic Rim
Lamington National Park (Green Mountains)
A short walk that is perfect for families or those with limited time for one of the longer walks in the park – featuring a hollowed-out Strangler Fig and an impressive rainforest observation tower.
The moderately trafficked walk starts in the Green Mountains section of Lamington National Park, behind the O’Reilly’s guest houses via the road to the right of the Stinson plane replica.
It’s worth reading about the history of the Stinson plane crash and the heroic stories of the search and retrieval of the survivors.
The track gradually zig-zags down the hill through lush rainforest. At the first junction, turn right and follow the short side-track to Mick's Tower, an 18 metre high rainforest observation tower. Each deck includes signs informing you of the surrounding flora.
Retrace your steps and continue down the track through hollowed out trees and across a series of suspension bridges until you reach the Wishing Tree, a beautiful hollowed out Strangler Fig, surrounded by seats.
Just prior to the Wishing Tree there is the option to head left to Glow Worm Gully (200m). You can also proceed straight through the Wishing Tree to Morans Falls (5km one-way). Otherwise, return to O'Reilly’s by retracing your steps.
The Tree Top (Booyong) Walk makes a nice additional walk to do before or after this walk.
Track: Graded and well-signed, making it easy to follow.
Difficulty: The track is suitable for all fitness levels. While the return trip is a constant gradual ascent, it is relatively short.
Direction: This is an out-and-back track which returns the way it came. Be sure to choose your return route carefully from the Wishing Tree. Unless you wish to add substantial additional distance onto your walk, it is important not to continue on towards Morans Falls.
getting there
Lamington National Park Road in Canungra, at the location of O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat, 2 hours drive south of Brisbane.
The track starts from behind the O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat accommodation, at the end of the road for guests to get to their rooms (to the right of the Stinson plane replica). The road includes an observation deck on the right with sweeping views into the Lost World Valley. Once past the guesthouses, look for the signed entry point into the forest on the left.
Parking is ample, however the car park can become extremely busy, especially on weekends.
best time to go
The walk can be completed year-round.
Early morning or late afternoon are the best times to complete the walk if wishing to see wildlife (birds, reptiles and pademelons) and makes for great light for photos. The rainforest is also lusher after recent rain.
Always check the Queensland Parks website for updates on track closures.
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.