Only an hour away from the CBD of Coffs Harbour, Dorrigo National Park feels like it is in the middle of nowhere, far removed from the noise of modern life. Visit this World Heritage listed rainforest for a day trip, or plan a school excursion! The magnificent scenic waterfall walks, wonderful fresh-air barbecue areas and amazing opportunities for birdwatching make this location idyllic for all walks of life.
Part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, (acknowledging the Gondwana Aboriginal people from whom the land was originally stolen), the Dorrigo National Park offers absolutely stunning scenery that has taken millions of years to develop and establish itself. The Park holds a large range of different trees and bushes within the forest, that are home to (and help to protect) a huge variety of animals and birds. Some of these include the red-necked pademelons, the vibrantly coloured wompoo fruit-dove and the adorable regent bowerbird.
As a fantastic trip for the day from nearby Coffs Harbour, or as a visit during your commute up the coast or across to Armidale,the rainforest is captivating. You can go birdwatching, relax together at a beautiful quiet picnic spot, enjoy the provided barbecue area nearby the entrance, explore secret waterfalls and rainforest walks, and be awed by the incredible views from the fantastic elevated walkway.
The elevated walk through the rainforest shows views all the way from the forest to the sea! It is indeed breathtaking. Don’t forget to first stop in at the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre, who can advise you on the best places to visit, and grab a little something at the Canopy Cafe to keep you going.
Some other interesting things to consider in Dorrigo include :
The Dorrigo Folk and Bluegrass Festival
Friday 26 October to Sunday 28 October in Dorrigo.
As far as festival circuits go. when it comes to folk and bluegrass followers. The Dorrigo Folk and Bluegrass Festival is a highlight. The program features some of the best local talent in both folk and bluegrass genres, home-grown.
The festival is a three day event, so people are able to enjoy all the additional activities that occur. Families and groups of friends can camp out at the showground. This can inspire camp fire singalongs and dancing fun. You can also participate in wonderful workshops operated by talented performers, along with programs especially designed for the children, to enjoy music and perhaps foster their own talent.
Many families and people return for the Festival in Dorrigo every single year for the fantastic atmosphere. They also enjoy the great opportunities to jam with awesome and sometimes famous musicians in a casual, closeup atmosphere, like under the shade of a tree or round a campfire.
Come along and add a little twang to your life in wonderful Dorrigo. You can find out more at the Folk & Bluegrass Festival Website.
The Dorrigo Agricutural Show
The Creative Mountain Art Exhibition
Amateur artists in particular are strongly encouraged to exhibit their artwork, as the show offers them an excellent opportunity to participate in a public exhibition, something that is not always easy to find or fund as a new or struggling artist. The Creative Mountain Art Exhibition tends to attract local professional artists also, who can display and sell their pieces. Amateur artists can network with more experienced ones and gain tips, techniques and contacts for furthering their careers and talent. You can find out more on the Dorrigo Creative Mountain Arts web page.
