Fortis Creek National Park is part of the Banyabba Wilderness, on Bundjalung country. This circuit follows old forest trails on two ridge lines around the headwaters of Fortis through sandstone country rich with wildflowers in spring. The pleasant undulating track is good for trail runners, with nice views through open, grassy forest towards Clarence Peak and the coast.
Park at the boundary gate, then head straight across on Fortis Creek Trail, gently climbing the ridge with lovely views into the Fortis Creek valley. After a while, Morgans Camp Trail turns off left, but continue ahead, keeping right at intersections to complete the circuit. At the high points on the ridge you should be able to clearly see Clarence Peak on the distant coast. A rocky outcrop provides a good spot for a morning tea or lunch break. And finally, about 300 metres before the finish, you will need to wade across Fortis Creek if it has been raining, or hop across in dry weather.
Large spotted gums and blackbutt grow here, with many grass trees in the under storey. Wildflowers include Lambertia formosa (mountain devil), grevillea, boronia, mint bush, guinea flower, bush peas, wedding bush, acacia and many others. Best of all, you are likely to have the trail all to yourself, as you stroll along listening to birdsong, cicadas and the wind in the trees. For walkers and trail runners in the Clarence Valley, the loop is a nice contrast to the rainforests of Washpool and the coastal routes in Yuraygir.
Access to Fortis Creek National Park
Fortis Creek Road is an unsealed road, off Coaldale Road. The last kilometre, from the last farmhouse to the Park boundary is a single lane across flat countryside. Four wheel drive is not required, but if the track is not suitable for your vehicle, park and walk. There are no facilities.
Fortis Creek National Park can be easily accessed by parking at the start of Morgans Camp Trail on Coaldale Road, another 5 kilometres beyond the turnoff to Fortis Creek Road. From here, you can walk (or run) a 19km circuit around Rocky Creek, first on Morgans Camp Trail and then back on Fortis Creek Trail.
Dilkoon Trail, off Summerland Way, also gives access to the Park.
