Now that I\u2019ve \u201cbeen there, done that\u201d, I can confidently say that the national park lives up to the high expectations I had.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here are the best walks in Girraween National Park and other visitor information for planning your trip.<\/p>\n\n\n
![\"Best](\"https:\/\/australiaobsessed.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Best-Girraween-National-Park-Walks.jpg\")
Summary of the best Girraween National Park walks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n- Overall best walk: <\/strong>The Pyramid Track paired with Granite Arch<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Best long walk: <\/strong>Castle Rock paired with The Sphinx and Turtle Rock<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Best Girraween walk for children: <\/strong>Granite Arch<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Where is Girraween National Park<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Girraween National Park is 3 hours south of Brisbane and the Gold Coast (Google Maps here<\/strong><\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\nIt\u2019s located within the Granite Belt wine region<\/strong><\/a>. The town of Stanthorpe sits in the heart of the wine country and is just a short drive from the park entrance<\/p>\n\n\n\nGirraween National Park map<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"Girraween](\"https:\/\/australiaobsessed.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Girraween-National-Park-Walks-Maps.jpg\")
From the above map, you can see The Pyramid and Granite Arch walk go into the northern side of the park while Castle Rock and The Sphinx and Turtle Rock lead in a southerly direction<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe above image doesn’t include all the walking trails in the area. You can find a downloadable version of the official Girraween National Park map here.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\nThe best walks in Girraween National Park<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
With over 17 Girraween National Park walks, it can be overwhelming to decide which is best for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
All trails start from the visitor’s centre (Google Maps here<\/strong><\/a>), and they branch off into different directions. You can easily combine a few trails to make a longer one. But don’t worry; I’ve covered all of that below.<\/p>\n\n\n\nGranite Arch: The best short walk <\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Granite](\"https:\/\/australiaobsessed.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Granite-Arch-Girraween-National-Park.jpg\")
Granite Arch can easily be paired with your walk to The Pyramid<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n- Distance: <\/strong>1.6 km<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Time needed:<\/strong> 30 minutes<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Difficulty:<\/strong> Grade 2 (easy)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Best for:<\/strong> Families with small children<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Granite Arch is the perfect circuit track for families travelling with kids (or if you\u2019re short on time).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Starting at the Bald Rock Creek day-use area, you\u2019ll cross the creek and veer left toward Granite Arch. The path leads through a beautiful forest before reaching Girraween\u2019s natural stone archway, Granite Arch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
From there, you\u2019ll continue to follow the path until you reach a juncture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Taking the left route will lead you to The Pyramid, while the trail on the right takes you through a forest, past Bald Rock Creek and back to the rest area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re travelling with small kids, you may want to skip The Pyramid. But, if you\u2019re up for the challenge, I highly recommend pairing this short walk to Granite Arch with The Pyramid track.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Pyramid: Overall Best Girraween Hike<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/australiaobsessed.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/The-Pyramid-Girraween-National-Park.jpg\")
The steep section on The Pyramid track<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n- Distance: <\/strong>3.6 km<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Time needed: <\/strong>2 hours<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Difficulty:<\/strong> Grade 4 (challenging)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Best for: <\/strong>Incredible views and a fun yet challenging hike<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
The Pyramid is the most famous Girraween National Park walk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you only have a few hours to explore the park, I highly recommend you choose this one. The iconic Balancing Rock also sits at the top of The Pyramid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This walk was the highlight of my trip to the Granite Belt – don\u2019t underestimate just how steep the final section is.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You\u2019ll need to come prepared with proper trainers or hiking boots. Don\u2019t attempt to climb the final steep section if it\u2019s been raining, as it will be extremely slippery and dangerous.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The trail starts at the same location as the Granite Arch walk and crosses over Bald Rock Creek.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can then either follow the Granite Arch track or continue straight along The Pyramid trail. The Granite Arch detour adds 15 minutes to your total walk time, and I encourage you to add this to your walk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Climbing to The Pyramid<\/h4>\n\n\n\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/australiaobsessed.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/The-best-walks-in-Girraween-National-Park.jpg\")
When you get to this section, be sure to follow the markers on the left<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nAfter admiring the views from the Granite Arch, you\u2019ll follow the trail left to The Pyramid. Shortly thereafter, the climbing begins. A natural stairway winds through the forest, and it\u2019s a steep uphill walk for about 15 minutes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Before you know it, you\u2019re faced with a massive, exposed rock in front of you! Yes, you\u2019ll need to scale these granite boulders and make your way to The Pyramid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This is the point where many people choose to turn back, and I don\u2019t blame them. It\u2019s scary!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Be sure to follow the markers on the left and use the rocks to support you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Reaching the summit<\/h4>\n\n\n\n![\"Views](\"https:\/\/australiaobsessed.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Views-from-Girraween-National-Park-walks.jpg\")
Views of granite rock formations from Balancing Rock <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe views from The Pyramid are spectacular.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can continue climbing higher, where you\u2019ll find many places to sit back and enjoy a well-deserved rest. Don\u2019t miss the Balancing Rock – it\u2019s a fascinating creation of nature!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On your return, you\u2019ll follow the same route, but instead of going back via Granite Arch, you\u2019ll go straight to Bald Rock Creek. If you\u2019re feeling up to it, this is a good place to swim (but you\u2019ll have to brave the cold water).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Other Girraween National Park Walks<\/h2>\n\n\n\nCastle Rock<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Hiking](\"https:\/\/australiaobsessed.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Hiking-trails-in-Queensland.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n- Distance: <\/strong>5.2 km<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Time needed: <\/strong>2 hours<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Difficulty: <\/strong>Grade 4 (challenging)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Best for:<\/strong> If you\u2019ve already done the Pyramid walk and looking for something similar<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
The walk to Castle Rock in Girraween National Park follows a completely different track to The Pyramid and Granite Arch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But it\u2019s equally as impressive (and challenging).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Starting at the Girraween National Park information centre, the track goes south into the park. The rocky trail starts with a gentle incline, but the final stretch to the summit is a steep climb with lots of steps. The sprawling views from the top make it a worthwhile climb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
From Castle Rock, you can continue to The Sphinx and Turtle Rock, which are nearby and add 1 km to your route.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Sphinx & Turtle Rock<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n- Distance:<\/strong> 8.4 km with Castle Rock | 7.4 km without Castle Rock<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Time needed:<\/strong> 4-5 hours<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Difficulty: <\/strong>Grade 4 (challenging)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Best for:<\/strong> Travellers walking to Castle Rock<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Branching off the Castle Rock track is The Sphinx and Turtle Rock trail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As the name suggested, The Turtle is a giant granite monolith that resembles a turtle\u2019s back, while The Sphinx is a granite pinnacle with a large free-standing rock outcrop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
After the Pyramid trail, this is the next best of all Girraween National Park hikes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Short walks in Girraween National Park<\/h2>\n\n\n\nBald Rock Creek Circuit<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Girraween](\"https:\/\/australiaobsessed.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Girraween-National-Park-hiking-trail.jpg\")
Bald Rock Creek in Girraween National Park<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n- Distance: <\/strong>2.2 km without Granite Arch and The Pyramid | 6 km with Granite Arch and The Pyramid<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Time needed: <\/strong>1 – 3 hours (depending on whether you opt for the short or long route)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Difficulty: <\/strong>Grade 4<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Best for:<\/strong> A longer Girraween walk<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re looking for a longer Girraween National Park walk but have your sights set on climbing The Pyramid, then I highly recommend doing the Bald Rock Creek Circuit paired with The Pyramid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Starting at the Bald Rock Creek day-use area, the Bald Rock Creek Circuit passes the Bald Rock Creek campground and takes a loop back to the Day-use area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
About halfway through the walk, you have the option to turn left to Granite Arch and follow The Pyramid trail. This is what I recommend.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Wyberba Walk<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n- Distance: <\/strong>280 m<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Time needed:<\/strong> 15 minutes<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Difficulty: <\/strong>Grade 2 (Easy)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Best for:<\/strong> Children<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Wyberba Walk is a gentle walk in Girraween National Park that starts at the Bald Rock Creek day-use area. It follows a slow-moving stream, which is a great place to cool off if you have your swimmers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This quick walk is best suited for young children and families.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Dr Roberts Waterhole<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n- Distance: <\/strong>1.3 km<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Time needed:<\/strong> 30 minutes<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Difficulty: <\/strong>Grade 2 (Easy)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Best for:<\/strong> Children<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Dr Roberts Waterhole is one of the shorter Girraween walks that has a lot to offer. It’s an easy track that leads to a large waterhole. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
You’ll spot plenty of birdlife along the trail and perhaps even some wallabies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Girraween National Park campsites<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"Things](\"https:\/\/australiaobsessed.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Things-to-do-in-Girraween-National-Park.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nIf you\u2019re planning on doing a few of these walks in Girraween National Park, you may want to consider spending a night or two in the park. Alternatively, you can stay at one of these amazing cabins in Stanthorpe<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nCastle Rock Camping Area: <\/strong>With 25 designated campsites (including camper trailer and caravan sites), Castle Rock camping area is a great place to stay in Girraween National Park. Flushing toilets and showers are available here.<\/p>\n\n\n\nBald Rock Creek Camping Area: <\/strong>This camping area offers more privacy when compared to that of Castle Rock campground. The sites are surrounded by tall trees and flushing toilets and showers are also available.<\/p>\n\n\n\nGirraween National Park FAQ’s<\/h2>\n\n\n\nCan you swim at Girraween National Park?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Can](\"https:\/\/australiaobsessed.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Can-you-swim-at-Girraween-National-Park.jpg\")
If you’re up for an icy swim, you can take a dip in Bald Rock Creek <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nYes! There are lots of swimming holes, so I recommend taking a dip after doing one of the many walks in Girraween National Park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Can you take dogs to Girraween National Park?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
No, dogs and other animals are not allowed on any of the Girraween walking tracks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Other things to know about visiting Girraween National Park<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n- No animals allowed<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- There is plenty of parking at the Information Centre and Bald Rock Creek day-use area<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nAre you planning your trip to the Girraween National Park? Hit me up with any questions in the comments section below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Looking to explore Australia?<\/strong> Check out my other posts<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- 11+ Best Wineries and Cellar Doors in Orange, NSW<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- 8 Best Cradle Mountain Walks in Tasmania<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The Best Places to Stay in Hunter Valley<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- 9 Walks in the Daintree Rainforest worth visiting<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Where to Stay in Montville For A Romantic Getaway<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Where is Girraween National Park<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Girraween National Park is 3 hours south of Brisbane and the Gold Coast (Google Maps here<\/strong><\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s located within the Granite Belt wine region<\/strong><\/a>. The town of Stanthorpe sits in the heart of the wine country and is just a short drive from the park entrance<\/p>\n\n\n\n The above image doesn’t include all the walking trails in the area. You can find a downloadable version of the official Girraween National Park map here.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n With over 17 Girraween National Park walks, it can be overwhelming to decide which is best for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n All trails start from the visitor’s centre (Google Maps here<\/strong><\/a>), and they branch off into different directions. You can easily combine a few trails to make a longer one. But don’t worry; I’ve covered all of that below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Granite Arch is the perfect circuit track for families travelling with kids (or if you\u2019re short on time).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Starting at the Bald Rock Creek day-use area, you\u2019ll cross the creek and veer left toward Granite Arch. The path leads through a beautiful forest before reaching Girraween\u2019s natural stone archway, Granite Arch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n From there, you\u2019ll continue to follow the path until you reach a juncture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Taking the left route will lead you to The Pyramid, while the trail on the right takes you through a forest, past Bald Rock Creek and back to the rest area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re travelling with small kids, you may want to skip The Pyramid. But, if you\u2019re up for the challenge, I highly recommend pairing this short walk to Granite Arch with The Pyramid track.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Pyramid is the most famous Girraween National Park walk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you only have a few hours to explore the park, I highly recommend you choose this one. The iconic Balancing Rock also sits at the top of The Pyramid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This walk was the highlight of my trip to the Granite Belt – don\u2019t underestimate just how steep the final section is.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You\u2019ll need to come prepared with proper trainers or hiking boots. Don\u2019t attempt to climb the final steep section if it\u2019s been raining, as it will be extremely slippery and dangerous.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The trail starts at the same location as the Granite Arch walk and crosses over Bald Rock Creek.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can then either follow the Granite Arch track or continue straight along The Pyramid trail. The Granite Arch detour adds 15 minutes to your total walk time, and I encourage you to add this to your walk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n After admiring the views from the Granite Arch, you\u2019ll follow the trail left to The Pyramid. Shortly thereafter, the climbing begins. A natural stairway winds through the forest, and it\u2019s a steep uphill walk for about 15 minutes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Before you know it, you\u2019re faced with a massive, exposed rock in front of you! Yes, you\u2019ll need to scale these granite boulders and make your way to The Pyramid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This is the point where many people choose to turn back, and I don\u2019t blame them. It\u2019s scary!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Be sure to follow the markers on the left and use the rocks to support you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The views from The Pyramid are spectacular.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can continue climbing higher, where you\u2019ll find many places to sit back and enjoy a well-deserved rest. Don\u2019t miss the Balancing Rock – it\u2019s a fascinating creation of nature!<\/p>\n\n\n\n On your return, you\u2019ll follow the same route, but instead of going back via Granite Arch, you\u2019ll go straight to Bald Rock Creek. If you\u2019re feeling up to it, this is a good place to swim (but you\u2019ll have to brave the cold water).<\/p>\n\n\n\n The walk to Castle Rock in Girraween National Park follows a completely different track to The Pyramid and Granite Arch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But it\u2019s equally as impressive (and challenging).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Starting at the Girraween National Park information centre, the track goes south into the park. The rocky trail starts with a gentle incline, but the final stretch to the summit is a steep climb with lots of steps. The sprawling views from the top make it a worthwhile climb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n From Castle Rock, you can continue to The Sphinx and Turtle Rock, which are nearby and add 1 km to your route.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Branching off the Castle Rock track is The Sphinx and Turtle Rock trail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As the name suggested, The Turtle is a giant granite monolith that resembles a turtle\u2019s back, while The Sphinx is a granite pinnacle with a large free-standing rock outcrop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n After the Pyramid trail, this is the next best of all Girraween National Park hikes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re looking for a longer Girraween National Park walk but have your sights set on climbing The Pyramid, then I highly recommend doing the Bald Rock Creek Circuit paired with The Pyramid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Starting at the Bald Rock Creek day-use area, the Bald Rock Creek Circuit passes the Bald Rock Creek campground and takes a loop back to the Day-use area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n About halfway through the walk, you have the option to turn left to Granite Arch and follow The Pyramid trail. This is what I recommend.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Wyberba Walk is a gentle walk in Girraween National Park that starts at the Bald Rock Creek day-use area. It follows a slow-moving stream, which is a great place to cool off if you have your swimmers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This quick walk is best suited for young children and families.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dr Roberts Waterhole is one of the shorter Girraween walks that has a lot to offer. It’s an easy track that leads to a large waterhole. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You’ll spot plenty of birdlife along the trail and perhaps even some wallabies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re planning on doing a few of these walks in Girraween National Park, you may want to consider spending a night or two in the park. Alternatively, you can stay at one of these amazing cabins in Stanthorpe<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Castle Rock Camping Area: <\/strong>With 25 designated campsites (including camper trailer and caravan sites), Castle Rock camping area is a great place to stay in Girraween National Park. Flushing toilets and showers are available here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bald Rock Creek Camping Area: <\/strong>This camping area offers more privacy when compared to that of Castle Rock campground. The sites are surrounded by tall trees and flushing toilets and showers are also available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Yes! There are lots of swimming holes, so I recommend taking a dip after doing one of the many walks in Girraween National Park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n No, dogs and other animals are not allowed on any of the Girraween walking tracks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Are you planning your trip to the Girraween National Park? Hit me up with any questions in the comments section below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Looking to explore Australia?<\/strong> Check out my other posts<\/p>\n\n\n\nGirraween National Park map<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The best walks in Girraween National Park<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Granite Arch: The best short walk <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
The Pyramid: Overall Best Girraween Hike<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
Climbing to The Pyramid<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Reaching the summit<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Other Girraween National Park Walks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Castle Rock<\/h3>\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
The Sphinx & Turtle Rock<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
Short walks in Girraween National Park<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Bald Rock Creek Circuit<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
Wyberba Walk<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
Dr Roberts Waterhole<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
Girraween National Park campsites<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nGirraween National Park FAQ’s<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Can you swim at Girraween National Park?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Can you take dogs to Girraween National Park?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Other things to know about visiting Girraween National Park<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
\n\n\n\n\n