Border Loop lookout and picnic area

Attraction
Visitor enjoying valley views from Border Loop lookout. Credit: John Spencer © DPE
Aerial view of Border Loop lookout in Border Ranges National Park. Credit: John Spencer © DPE
Picnic tables at Border Loop lookout and picnic area. Credit: John Spencer © DPE
Sheltered picnic table at Border Loop lookout and picnic area. Credit: John Spencer © DPE
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Park alerts

Border Ranges National Park

Checked 14 Oct 2026, 3:05 am

No current alerts or closures are published for Border Ranges National Park.

About

Border Loop lookout and picnic area provides a bird's-eye view south down Gradys Creek, with the historic spiral loop about 400m below the lookout. Scenic views of Border Ranges National Park and McPherson Range can be seen to the east and west.

Border Loop, also known as Spiral Loop, was the first standard gauge railway linking two capital cities in Australia. At the time, it was a significant nation-building project. Construction of the line between Sydney and Brisbane began after World War I, when there was a need to create employment as well as prepare the country for future conflict.

The lookout offers an easily accessible peek into this superb World Heritage national park, which you can explore further along its hiking tracks, or just relish the view. Enjoy a barbecue with friends and family at the picnic area beside the lookout, and the trailhead for Border Loop walk is also nearby.

Border Ranges National Park · North Coast

Border Loop lookout and picnic area is a great picnic spot offering scenic views of Gradys Creek Valley within Border Ranges National Park, a World Heritage Area.

Accessibility
Easy
Entry
Park entry fees apply

What to bring

  • Drinking water
  • Hat
  • Sunscreen

Plan your visit

Access, facilities and practical details.

Frequently asked questions

8 questions

Where you'll be

Cougal NSW 2474

Hours

Open 24 hours