Things to See and Do in Dorrigo
Here are some suggestions on the Dorrigo Plateau with approximate times and distances from Gracemere Grange.
2km – 3 minute drive. This is our World Heritage National Park with a 6km circular track (Wonga Walk) to 2 waterfalls, Crystal Showers (you may walk behind the this waterfall) and Tristrania Falls. The Skywalk is 75 metres long and 21 metres high, taking you out into the tree canopy and providing a grandstand view over the mountains to the Pacific Ocean, 40km away. The Rainforest Centre has an information desk, gift shop, cafe, display area and cinema. There are also 2 picnic areas, one with gas BBQs and picnic shelter. At the Glade picnic area, you can access the Walk with the Birds boardwalk (200 metres), which links with the Wonga Walk. The Glade also has free electric BBQs, picnic shelter, toilets and viewing platform. Lights in the picnic shelter are provided for evening use. For further information you may wish to visit the National Park website.
2. Never Never Picnic Area.8km – 15 minutes drive, mostly on gravel road. This spectactular drive past the doorstep of Gracemere Grange, winds through a rural landscape of lush pastures, then through a tunnel of rainforest trees, arriving at a picnic ground with both covered and open air BBQ facilities with firewood provided. There are picnic tables and toilets for your convenience. Enjoy a variety of walks including the Rosewood Creek track, Casurina Falls track, Blackbutt Track and to Cedar Falls. Full details are available in the National Park brochure.
3. Dangar Falls.8km – 12 minute drive. Drive into town and turn right at the monument. Follow the road for 2km. The falls are 30 metres high and 15 metres wide. There is a walking track to the base of the falls where you can swim in summer. A viewing platform just 10 metres from the car park provides a box seat view of the falls and an ideal position to take that award-winning photograph. Picnic tables, toilets and a childrens' play area make this a popular must-see location.
4. Griffiths Lookout.10km – 15 minute drive. From Gracemere Grange, follow Dome Road to the Waterfall Way then turn left. Turn right at Maynards Plains Road and then left into Mountain Top Road. Drive to the end of the road. Here you are looking south and west over spurs of the Great Dividing Range stretching to Kempsey and Pt. Lookout. Picnic tables are provided for dramatic views all day, but especially at sunset.
5. Dorrigo Steam Railway collection.6km – 10 minute drive. Said to be the largest collection of steam railway rolling stock in the southern hemisphere and perhaps even the world. Located at the edge of town, you can drive along the road and view the engines and carriges of yesteryear. For more information, you may like to visit their web site.
