Chaelundi National Park

Chaelundi National Park is located in the Northern Tablelands of New South Wales, Australia, around 80 km northwest of Coffs Harbour and 30 km northeast of Dorrigo. This remote and rugged park, part of the larger Guy Fawkes River National Park, is known for its pristine wilderness, deep gorges, and ancient rainforests. The park was established in 1997 following a successful environmental campaign in the 1990s to protect the area from logging. This conservation effort highlighted Chaelundi’s significance as home to rare and threatened species. Today, the park is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed area. Parking in Chaelundi National Park is limited, reflecting its undeveloped and remote nature. There are no formal parking areas, and most visitors park near trailheads or camping spots along unsealed roads. Entry to the park is free, but access typically requires a 4WD vehicle due to rough terrain. Chaelundi National Park is rich in native wildlife. It is a stronghold for koalas, eastern grey kangaroos, and spotted-tail quolls. The park’s dense forests also provide habitat for the powerful owl and various glider species, including the yellow-bellied and sugar glider. Bird enthusiasts can spot species like the glossy black cockatoo and lyrebird. The park’s flora includes diverse ecosystems, from dry eucalypt forests to lush subtropical rainforests. Tree species such as tallowwood, Sydney blue gum, and New England blackbutt dominate the landscape, with an understorey rich in ferns, vines, and wildflowers. Chaelundi's most notable features are its dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and the Guy Fawkes River, which winds through the park. The remote Escarpment Lookout offers stunning views of the surrounding wilderness. Public transport is not available, so visitors must drive, typically accessing the park via unsealed roads from Dorrigo or Grafton. Photo Credit: A Harber and A Ingarfield