Moran's Falls Lookout Brisbane
A breathtaking cascade in Lamington National Park, offering stunning rainforest walks and spectacular sunset views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Perfect for sunset views
Moran's Falls Lookout Brisbane
Best Time
Perfect for sunset views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking cascade in Lamington National Park, offering stunning rainforest walks and spectacular sunset views.
"The drive is hazardous, but the sunset views at Moran's Falls are absolutely insane!"
🚗 Drive with Caution
The road to Moran's Falls is hazardous. Drive slowly and carefully, especially on single-lane sections.
🔦 Bring a Torch
If staying for sunset, a torch is essential for the walk back as it gets very dark.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Moran Falls Cascade
Lamington National Park
Witness a stunning waterfall plunging into Morans Creek, surrounded by lush rainforest. A truly breathtaking sight.
Sunset Views
Moran's Falls Lookout
Experience a magical sunset over the falls and surrounding hinterland. A highly recommended, unforgettable moment.
Rainforest Walking Trails
Lamington National Park
Explore well-maintained rainforest tracks leading to the falls, offering a serene and immersive nature experience.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
The Drive In: A Word of Caution
Sunset Spectacle & Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive with Caution
The road to Moran's Falls is hazardous. Drive slowly and carefully, especially on single-lane sections.
🔦 Bring a Torch
If staying for sunset, a torch is essential for the walk back as it gets very dark.
2 hour drive from Brisbane will get you to this gem of a spot! Moran Falls, Lamington National Park
🐍 Watch for Snakes
Tiger snakes are common. Be mindful of where you step on the walking tracks.
🥾 Easy Walk
The 4.4km return walk is generally easy and suitable for most fitness levels.
My favourite view in Australia, Moran's Falls
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive with Caution
The road to Moran's Falls is hazardous. Drive slowly and carefully, especially on single-lane sections.
🔦 Bring a Torch
If staying for sunset, a torch is essential for the walk back as it gets very dark.
🐍 Watch for Snakes
Tiger snakes are common. Be mindful of where you step on the walking tracks.
🥾 Easy Walk
The 4.4km return walk is generally easy and suitable for most fitness levels.
📸 Sunset is a Must
Many visitors rave about the sunset views here; it's worth the drive and walk.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Moran's Falls for its stunning waterfall and breathtaking sunset views, making it a worthwhile day trip from Brisbane or the Gold Coast. While the walk is generally easy and enjoyable, the hazardous drive in and the presence of wildlife like snakes are significant concerns that require caution.
"Amazing day trip from Gold Coast with stunning waterfalls. If driving yourself - the road in is very hazardous - single lanes on and off for over 30km - drive with extreme care, otherwise you will end up down a 100 metre+ embankment. Road in good condition in some areas and very poor in others. You can almost miss the entrance (trailhead) - about 5 carpark spots here and the sign is covered by trees in the bushes behind. Or you can walk from the nearby private property (O’Reillys) which adds about 1.8km. If going from small capark area (trailhead) it is a leisurely 4.4km trip return to Morans Falls - about 1.5 hours + anytime you’ve taken to stop and admire the scenery. Easy walk. No access to base of waterfall like Springbrook. Viewing platform provides reasonable views. Lookout at top does not allow you to see water fall, only mountain views. Very large tiger snake sunning themselves on the walking track - be very careful where you stand and highly recommend you carry a snake bite kit. Emergency help would be hours away. Definitely recommend!! Visited on a Monday and about 20 people only."
Matt Finn
"Incredible views and the best waterfall I’ve hiked.
Track is well maintained. You don’t need hiking shoes and even the unfit could do this hike, just slower. Do the full route and get a view of the falls from the lookout and also get onto the top of the fall itself ."
Min
"Small hike around 4.5 KM. Loved this place been their twice specially the watching sunset is must if your going their."
Fahim Ahmed Jamil
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Moran's Falls Lookout is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive south of Brisbane, located within Lamington National Park.
The road can be hazardous, with single lanes for over 30km. Visitors strongly advise driving with extreme care due to poor conditions in some areas.
Yes, you can walk from O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat, which adds about 1.8km to your journey.
There is a small car park near the trailhead with about 5 spots. The entrance sign can be easily missed as it's covered by trees.
Duck Creek Road is described as a strictly 4WD road and a nice track, often associated with the history of the Stinson aeroplane.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Moran's Falls Lookout and the surrounding Lamington National Park is generally free.
As it's a natural viewpoint within a national park, there are no official opening or closing hours. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety.
There is no entrance fee for Lamington National Park itself. Parking at specific trailheads is also typically free.
Unlike some other waterfalls, there is no access to the base of Moran's Falls. The viewing platform provides the main perspective.
The free bird feeding at O'Reilly's happens daily at 6:45 PM and doesn't require booking, but it's a separate attraction from the falls.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The walk from the trailhead to Moran's Falls is a leisurely 4.4km return trip, taking about 1.5 hours, not including time spent admiring the scenery.
While the track is well-maintained, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Some reviews suggest hiking shoes aren't strictly necessary, but good grip is advisable.
The walk is considered easy and suitable for most fitness levels. Even those less fit can manage it, though it might take longer.
The main viewing platform offers reasonable views of the waterfall. The lookout at the top provides mountain views but not of the falling water itself.
Yes, large tiger snakes have been spotted sunning themselves on the walking track. It's crucial to be aware of your surroundings and where you step.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Late afternoon leading into sunset is highly recommended for stunning photographic opportunities, capturing the golden hour light.
You can get to the top of the falls, but there's a cliff edge without a fence, so caution is advised. The main viewing platform offers a good perspective.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive rainforest and waterfall. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions during sunset.
The main viewing platform provides a classic shot of the cascade. Exploring slightly off the main path (with caution) might reveal unique angles.
It's strongly advised to bring a torch if you plan to stay after sunset, as the area becomes very dark and potentially hazardous for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting earlier in the day to avoid the potential darkness after sunset, which can be a concern with children.
🚶 Solo Adventurers
Be mindful of the remote location and potential wildlife encounters, such as snakes.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Many photographers aim to capture the dramatic light of sunset, which can create stunning, atmospheric images. Be aware that access to the base of the falls is not permitted. The main viewing platform provides a good perspective, but some adventurous photographers might seek out slightly different angles, exercising extreme caution near cliff edges.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Rainforest Trails
It's important to be aware of your surroundings on these trails. Wildlife, including snakes, can be present. Visitors have reported seeing large tiger snakes on the walking tracks, so caution is advised regarding where you step.
Beyond the direct path to Moran's Falls, Lamington National Park offers other notable circuits. The Toolona Circuit is highly praised for passing Elabana Falls and showcasing spectacular vegetation and numerous falls.
The Allure of Sunset at Moran's Falls
However, enjoying the sunset comes with practical considerations. As darkness descends rapidly after the sun dips below the horizon, it's crucial to be prepared. Visitors strongly advise bringing a torch or headlamp for the walk back to your vehicle to ensure safety.
While the main viewing platform offers a good vantage point, some visitors have explored further to reach the top of the falls. This area involves a cliff edge without a fence, so extreme caution is necessary if you venture close for photos or a different perspective.
Driving and Access Considerations
Finding the trailhead can also be tricky. The entrance sign is often obscured by trees, and the small car park typically has only about five spots.
Given the remote location, emergency assistance can be hours away. This underscores the importance of driving cautiously and being prepared for the conditions. Despite the driving challenges, most visitors agree that the destination's beauty makes the effort worthwhile.
Social
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